DeepSeek R1 Tutorial: From Beginner to Pro — Master the Power of Chinese AI

Recently, the hottest topic in the AI community has undoubtedly been DeepSeek's R1 model. This domestically developed AI model can rival some of the world’s top models. Its reasoning ability and deep understanding of Chinese are truly impressive.

However, many users may find their DeepSeek R1 experience less than ideal. After spending some time experimenting with it, I’ve gathered a series of practical tips to help you master DeepSeek R1 and make it a truly powerful assistant.

1. Getting Started: A Beginner’s Quick Guide

If you’re new to DeepSeek R1, it might feel a bit overwhelming at first. Don’t worry — let’s start with the basics.

1.1 Access DeepSeek: Web or App, Your Choice

DeepSeek currently offers both a web version and a mobile app.

• If you prefer using a computer, visit the official website.
• If you prefer mobile, search “DeepSeek” in your app store and look for the blue whale icon to download it.

1.2 Enable “Deep Thinking” and “Web Search”

Inside DeepSeek’s chat interface, you’ll find two important toggles:

• Deep Thinking: Enables the R1 model. Without it, you’ll only use the older V3 model.
• Web Search: Allows R1 to reference up-to-date online information, avoiding outdated responses.

1.3 Ask Naturally — Like Talking to a Friend

One of DeepSeek R1’s biggest strengths is reasoning. You don’t need complicated prompts — just speak naturally.

For example: “I’m planning a short trip around Guangzhou this weekend. Any recommendations?”

1.4 Don’t Understand? Ask It to “Speak Human”

If R1’s response sounds too technical, simply say “Explain in plain language” or “Make it easier to understand.”

You can also use this more specific prompt:
Please use simple, straightforward language. Avoid jargon, over-interpretation, or self-invented terms.

2. Advanced Tips: Get the Most Out of DeepSeek R1

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to level up with these advanced tricks to make R1 work smarter for you.

2.1 The Universal Prompt Formula

Even though DeepSeek R1 can understand natural language, a clear and structured question helps it respond more accurately.

Formula: Background + Request + Constraints (optional)

• Background: Who are you? What’s your situation?
• Request: What do you want DeepSeek R1 to do?
• Constraints: Any special requirements for the output?

Example: “I’m a college student preparing for finals (background). I want to review key calculus topics (request). Please help me make a concise outline focusing on common question types and problem-solving methods (constraints).”

2.2 Style Imitation

DeepSeek R1 can mimic different writing styles or tones — from Jin Yong’s martial arts prose to Lu Xun’s sharp commentary.

For example: “Write an answer in the style of a Zen kōan — does AI really improve productivity?”

2.3 Deep Thinking Boost: Make It Think Harder

Because of high user demand, R1’s “thinking time” is sometimes shortened. Add this phrase to make its reasoning deeper:

“Please think step by step, reason carefully, and show your full chain of thought.”

With this, R1 often produces longer and more thoughtful responses.

3. Know the Limits: R1’s Weaknesses and Workarounds

3.1 Long Text Limitations

DeepSeek R1 currently supports up to 128k tokens of context and 8k tokens of output. When processing very long texts (over 4000 words), it may lose coherence. For long documents, try models like Claude 3.5 Sonnet or Gemini 2.0 Flash.

3.2 Best for Technical Tasks

R1 is primarily a reasoning-focused model — great for technical or logical tasks, but less ideal for creative writing. Think of it as a “creativity enhancer” to spark new ideas rather than a fully automated writer.