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If you look at the docs, you will usually find example usage. In this case use `pulumi.output(aws.ec2.getAmi())` to get the value of Input type

I did find that in an example, thanks. I've also seen references to needing to use the `.apply` method and an arrow function in order to access the `.id` property of the Output. Can you provide a high-level explanation of whether this is indeed required and why?

mostly Input type is used to reference other resources. 
In some cases (e.g. when you need JSON / string construction) you may need access to raw value. That is where you will want to use `.apply` 
<https://pulumi.io/reference/programming-model.html#outputs> 

if you need some more examples of apply let us know

Yes, some examples of times when you need to use `.apply` would be helpful, thanks!