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Use Sources and Files

Attach one-off files in Chat, or place reusable knowledge in a collection so an agent can retrieve it consistently.

See Data for collection behavior and Choose a Data Source for the supported source types.

The Dictionary explains data collections and RAG, the retrieval approach used to ground answers in sources.

Before You Start​

  • Use a Chat attachment for one file in one conversation.
  • Use a Data collection when the source should serve more conversations or agents.
  • Confirm that you are allowed to upload or connect the content.

Follow The Steps​

  1. Choose Attachment Or Collection

    For reusable knowledge, open Data and choose an existing collection with the right purpose and audience. Create a focused collection only when no suitable one exists.

    Data collections list with search and a Create collection button
    Collections hold reusable sources; a Chat attachment stays with one conversation.
    Platform guide: Data

  2. Create A Focused Collection

    Give the collection one purpose. Record its owner and scope in the description, then choose the intended visibility.

    Create collection dialog with name, description, and visibility controls
    Name the knowledge set and keep visibility as narrow as the work allows.
    Platform guide: Collections

  3. Add The Source

    Choose Manual Upload for a controlled snapshot or a prepared connected source for changing content. Provider-specific settings belong in the Platform documentation.

    Add data source dialog with Manual Upload and Google Drive choices
    Select the source that already owns the latest approved content.
    Platform guide: Choose a Data Source

  4. Add Files Or A Source Location

    Add the file or exact connected location, name the source clearly, and save it. Never include passwords, private keys, or credential exports.

    Manual Upload configuration with name, description, upload area, retriever, and processing sections
    Upload approved files and keep advanced processing defaults unless the collection owner requires a tested change.
    Platform guide: Manual Upload

  5. Wait And Verify

    Wait for processing, open Files, and check that the expected documents are present and readable. Then ask a known-answer question through the assigned agent.

    Data source Files tab with document rows and processing information
    A source is ready only after representative files are processed and readable.
    Platform guide: Processing and Sync

Try It​

Answer only from the Customer Onboarding collection. Cite the source document
for every recommendation. If the answer is missing, write “not found”.

Check The Result​

Test one fact you know is present and one you know is absent. The present fact should have the correct source; the absent fact should not be invented.

If It Does Not Work​

The most common problem is using a source before processing finishes or before it is assigned to the agent. Check the source status and agent access. For provider credentials and technical fields, use Connections and the source-specific Platform guide. Next, learn Use Connected Tools Safely.

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