# How Microsoft Word Suggests Research Content While You Write

> A system that automatically fetches and suggests relevant research data and outlines directly inside word processors or note-taking apps based on what you are currently writing.

- **Patent:** US 10210146
- **Original title:** Productivity tools for content authoring
- **Owner:** Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC
- **Granted:** 2019
- **Status:** Active
- **Times cited:** 1
- **Field:** software, ai_ml, consumer_electronics

## What it does

This patent describes a smart assistant integrated into word processors like Microsoft Word or OneNote. When you type a query or a topic, the software identifies your intent and pulls structured information from external data sources. If you want to dig deeper, the system uses your previous search results as context to perform a more refined, recursive search. You can then insert these research findings—such as headings or outlines—directly into your document without leaving the app.

## What it does NOT cover

- Does not cover general web search engines that operate outside of a content authoring application.
- Does not cover manual copy-pasting of information from a web browser into a document.
- Does not cover systems that lack a specific 'explore command' to refine searches using previous results as context.

## The clever bit

The system uses the results of your previous searches as 'context' for the next search, creating a recursive loop that narrows down information quality without the user having to re-type their intent.

## Real-world examples

1. Microsoft Word Researcher pane
2. OneNote research integration
3. Modern AI-powered sidebars in document editors

## Why it matters

This technology is a precursor to modern AI-assisted writing tools. It automates the tedious process of switching between a browser and a document editor to find facts, citations, or document structures, keeping the user in a 'flow state' while writing.

## Frequently asked questions

### What does How Microsoft Word Suggests Research Content While You Write cover?

A system that automatically fetches and suggests relevant research data and outlines directly inside word processors or note-taking apps based on what you are currently writing.

### Who owns patent US 10210146?

Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC owns this patent, granted in 2019.

### When does this patent expire?

This patent is expected to expire on February 19, 2039, when the invention enters the public domain.

### What is patent US 10210146 cited by?

This patent has been cited by 1 later patents that build on its ideas.

### What problem does this patent solve?

This technology is a precursor to modern AI-assisted writing tools. It automates the tedious process of switching between a browser and a document editor to find facts, citations, or document structures, keeping the user in a 'flow state' while writing.

### What does this patent NOT cover?

Does not cover general web search engines that operate outside of a content authoring application.

**Full plain-English explainer:** https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/10210146/fluent-design-system

**Original patent:** https://patents.google.com/patent/US10210146

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_Source: PatentBrief — https://patentbrief.org. Patent facts are from public records; the plain-English explanation is PatentBrief's._