Getting started
Overview
How Avera is organized and what you need before diving in.
Avera is a desktop app for systematic research: one place for your Research Library, Notebook, Systematic Reviews, and Research Writer.
Main ribbon
Use the left ribbon to switch workspaces:
| Ribbon item | What it is |
|---|---|
| Research Library | Papers, collections, teams, and publications feeds |
| Notebook | Markdown notes and file-backed attachments |
| Writer | Manuscript editor (Pro) |
| Settings | Connector, open access, and app preferences |
| Account | Profile, billing, and connections |
Systematic reviews open from the library sidebar when you select a team and open a review project.
Tabs and panels
- Document tabs — Open PDFs, notes, manuscripts, and review dashboards in tabs along the top. Close a tab with × or ⌘W / Ctrl+W (macOS / Windows & Linux).
- Left sidebar — Filters, collections, folders, or manuscript list depending on the workspace. Toggle visibility from the global chrome; the choice is remembered.
- Right panel — Optional AI and Friends panels. Toggle from the global chrome.
Global search
Click the search bar or press ⌘K / Ctrl+K (also ⇧⌘F / Shift+Ctrl+F) to find papers and notes. Recent searches appear when the field is empty.
Theme
Use the theme control at the bottom of the ribbon to switch light and dark mode. Your choice persists across sessions.
Next steps
- Install Avera
- Sign-in and plans
- Work offline and your data
- Research Library — add your first papers