> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex-agentix/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/get-started-with-xql-queries.md).

# Get started with XQL queries

Get started with XQL queries in Cortex AgentiX.

Before you begin running XQL queries, do the following:

* Use the interface to help you build queries

  Cortex AgentiX offers features in the XQL search interface to help you build queries.
* Mitigate long-running queries

  Querying the XDM enables searching of Cortex AgentiX's extensive data. We recommend that you use filters to streamline your queries.
* Understand query defaults and limitations

  Before you run a query, review this list to better understand query behavior and results.
* Translate Splunk queries to XQL

  If you have existing Splunk queries, you can translate them to XQL.

{% hint style="info" %}

### Tip

If you are new to creating queries, you can also try our simple search templates, which can help you get started in understanding how queries work. See [Get started with Query Builder templates](/cortex-agentix/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/query-builder-templates/get-started-with-query-builder-templates.md).\
\
For more information, see [How to build XQL queries](/cortex-agentix/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries.md).
{% endhint %}


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters:

```
GET https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex-agentix/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/get-started-with-xql-queries.md?ask=<question>&goal=<user_goal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.