Goal
In this tutorial, you will answer one practical question with the public API:Who is working on housing in Kansas City, and what sources back the results?You do not need an account for this tutorial.
1. Check that Atlas is reachable
/api base path. The data endpoints below
use:
2. Search from the place
Start with the place because the question is local.3. Pick one result and inspect its sources
Copy one entity id from the search response, then ask for its sources.- Does the source actually say what you plan to repeat?
- Is the source recent enough for your use?
- Is the record backed by more than one independent source?
- Is the actor type right for your workflow?
4. Add place context
Coverage endpoints help you decide whether your result set is broad enough.5. Decide whether you need authentication
You can browse public directory data without credentials. You need credentials when your workflow does one of these:- Starts or syncs discovery runs.
- Writes, updates, or imports records.
- Uses workspace briefs, lists, watches, private review, or usage proof.
- Needs higher API limits.
6. Keep the generated reference nearby
This tutorial shows the model and the workflow. Use the generated reference for exact parameters and response shapes.API reference
Search exact endpoints, parameters, and schemas.
Authentication
Choose API keys or OAuth for protected workflows.
Find source-backed actors
Learn the safe search and evidence pattern.
Connect an AI assistant
Use the same data through Claude, Copilot, Gemini, or Codex.