---
name: structured-research-workflow
description: Use this skill when conducting research on a topic from scratch — literature review, competitive analysis, technical due diligence, or fact-finding. Apply before starting any open-ended research task.
category: research
---

# Structured Research Workflow

1. **Define scope** — Write the specific question you are trying to answer. Avoid scope creep.
2. **Search broadly first** — Use multiple search strategies and keywords.
3. **Filter ruthlessly** — Keep only sources that directly address the question.
4. **Read deeply** — Skim abstracts/intros; read in full only when clearly relevant.
5. **Synthesize, don't transcribe** — Group findings by theme; note agreements and conflicts.
6. **Cite** — Record source URL/DOI at time of reading; don't reconstruct later.
7. **Flag uncertainty** — Clearly separate what is established vs. contested vs. unknown.

**Anti-pattern:** Reporting the first search result without checking alternatives.