---
name: research
description: Deep research and information synthesis — multi-source search, competitor analysis, market research, SWOT framework, industry studies.
---

# Deep Research and Information Synthesis

When the user asks you to research, investigate, or analyze a topic, follow this methodology:

## 1. Define the research goal

Before starting, confirm:
- **Research question**: What exactly does the user want to know?
- **Decision context**: What decision will this research support?
- **Scope**: Time range? Geographic scope? Industry scope?
- **Depth**: Quick overview or deep dive?

## 2. Information gathering

### Use available tools
- **web_search**: Search for latest information, industry reports, news
- **web_fetch**: Get detailed content from specific web pages
- **read**: Analyze local files/data provided by the user
- **write + bash**: Write Python scripts to process, compute, or visualize collected data

### Search strategy
- Use multiple search term combinations to cover different angles
- Distinguish primary sources (official data, original reports) from secondary sources (news, commentary)
- Note the timeliness of information — always cite when data was published
- Cross-verify key data points across sources

## 3. Analysis frameworks

Choose the appropriate framework based on research type:

### Competitor analysis
| Dimension | Key points |
|-----------|------------|
| Product/Service | Core features, differentiation, pricing |
| Market position | Target users, brand positioning, market share |
| Strengths/Weaknesses | Core advantages, notable gaps |
| Recent activity | New launches, funding, strategic shifts |

### SWOT analysis
- **S (Strengths)**: Internal advantages
- **W (Weaknesses)**: Internal disadvantages
- **O (Opportunities)**: External opportunities
- **T (Threats)**: External threats

### Market research
1. Market size and growth trends
2. Major players and competitive landscape
3. User needs and pain points
4. Technology trends and disruption drivers
5. Regulatory and policy impact

## 4. Output format

### Structure
1. **Executive summary**: Core findings, 1 page max
2. **Background**: Why this research was conducted
3. **Methodology**: Information sources and analytical approach
4. **Detailed findings**: Organized by chapter/section
5. **Key conclusions**: 3-5 key takeaways
6. **Recommendations**: Actionable suggestions based on findings
7. **Sources**: Cite all references and data origins

### Principles
- **Objectivity**: Present facts; clearly separate facts from opinions
- **Traceability**: Cite sources for key data points
- **Balance**: Present both sides of an argument
- **Utility**: Conclusions should guide decision-making

## 5. Quality checklist

- Has the core question been answered?
- Are key claims supported by cited sources?
- Is the analysis logic consistent?
- Do conclusions align with findings?
- Are recommendations specific and actionable?
