Automate a Multi-Step Research Task with Manus

10. Automation, Agents & Advanced Projects ⏱ 30 minutes min 📊 Intermediate

Objective

Experience how an AI agent tool completes a multi-step task independently, unlike a single-answer chatbot.

1

Pick a multi-step task, such as 'research 5 local competitors and summarize their prices and services in a table.'
2

Enter the task into Manus.ai with as much detail as possible (location, what to compare, desired output format).
3

Watch as Manus plans and works through the task in multiple steps, unlike a single chatbot reply.
4

Review the final output document Manus produces and ask follow-up questions to refine it.
5

Discuss as a class: when is an 'agent' tool like Manus worth using over a simple chatbot?

Instructor TipSet expectations about free-tier daily credit limits so students aren't surprised if the task pauses partway through.

TakeawayAgent tools like Manus shine on tasks with multiple steps and research, saving hours compared to doing it manually.