> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.r3al.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Test your connected model

> Make your first request after serving has been configured for your project.

This guide is for a project whose model connection has been set up. If you are starting with an empty workspace, begin with [Set up your first project](/quickstart). If your project says **Not connected**, follow [Set up your model](/platform/releases).

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check your project's model">
    Open your project, then **Chat & API**. Check the model name and connection status. You can use models connected to your own team's projects.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Bring the model online">
    If demo controls are available, an admin or developer can choose **15, 30, or 60 minutes**, then **Start demo**. Loading time is included. If the model already shows **Ready**, continue to the next step.

    Wait for **Ready** before sending a request. A cold start can take several minutes; capacity and model size affect the wait. Use **Refresh status** to check progress. If you have no session controls, ask your project admin about the agreed serving schedule.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Try a representative question">
    Choose **Open chat**. Send a short example that matches your project's task, then check the answer against the result you expect. Try a follow-up question to test the conversation.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Use the API when needed">
    Copy the request example from **Chat & API** and supply an account-linked key from **API keys**. Use your own project ID. See [Chat completions](/api/inference).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Finish your session">
    For a timed demo, choose **End demo** and wait for **Demo is off**. The deadline also stops compute automatically. Closing the browser alone does not end a session immediately.
  </Step>
</Steps>

[Evaluate the responses](/platform/evaluation) · [Troubleshoot a connection](/platform/troubleshooting)


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