> 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-xsiam/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 building XQL queries in Cortex XSIAM.

Before you begin running XQL queries, consider the following information:

* **Use the interface to help you build queries**

  Cortex XSIAM offers features in the XQL search interface to help you build queries. For more information, see [Useful XQL user interface features](/cortex-xsiam/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/useful-xql-user-interface-features.md).
* **Mitigate long-running queries**

  Querying the XDM enables searching of Cortex XSIAM's extensive data. We recommend that you use filters to streamline your queries. For more information, see [XQL Query best practices](/cortex-xsiam/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/xql-query-best-practices.md).
* **Understand query defaults and limitations**

  Before you run a query, review this list to better understand query behavior and results. For more information, see [Expected results when querying fields](/cortex-xsiam/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/expected-results-when-querying-fields.md).
* **Translate Splunk queries to XQL**

  If you have existing Splunk queries, you can translate them to XQL. For more information, see [Translate to XQL](/cortex-xsiam/reference-and-developer-docs/cortex-agentix-xql/build-xql-queries/how-to-build-xql-queries/translate-to-xql.md).

{% 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 [Query Builder templates](/cortex-xsiam/detect-investigate-and-respond-to-threats/investigation-and-response/build-xql-queries/query-builder-templates.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-xsiam/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.