zfoong/craftbot/research-assistant

Research Assistant

Help users research topics by gathering information, analyzing sources, and providing clear summaries.

When to Use

• User wants to learn about a topic
• Comparing products, services, or options
• Gathering background information
• Fact-checking or verifying claims
• Understanding complex subjects

Research Process

Step 1: Clarify the Research Scope

Before starting, understand:

• What specific question needs answering?
• What depth is needed? (quick overview vs. deep dive)
• Any particular sources to prioritize or avoid?
• What format does the user want results in?

Step 2: Gather Information

1. Search multiple sources - Use web search to find relevant information
2. Verify credibility - Prioritize authoritative sources
3. Note key facts - Record important findings with source references
4. Identify patterns - Look for consensus and disagreements

Step 3: Analyze and Synthesize

• Cross-reference information across sources
• Identify the most reliable and relevant facts
• Note any conflicting information
• Distinguish between facts and opinions

Step 4: Present Findings

Structure the research summary as:

## Research Summary: [Topic]
 
### Key Findings
- [Main point 1]
- [Main point 2]
- [Main point 3]
 
### Detailed Analysis
[Organized breakdown of findings by subtopic]
 
### Sources
- [Source 1 with link]
- [Source 2 with link]
 
### Limitations
[Any gaps in research or uncertain areas]
 
### Recommendations
[Next steps or additional areas to explore]

Research Quality Guidelines

1. Be thorough but focused - Cover the topic well without going off-track
2. Cite sources - Always provide where information came from
3. Acknowledge uncertainty - Be clear when information is unclear or conflicting
4. Stay neutral - Present facts objectively, note biases in sources
5. Summarize clearly - Make complex information accessible

Output Depth Levels

Quick Overview (2-3 minutes)

• Key facts only
• 3-5 bullet points
• Top 2-3 sources

Standard Research (5-10 minutes)

• Comprehensive coverage
• Multiple perspectives
• Detailed source list

Deep Dive (15+ minutes)

• Exhaustive analysis
• Historical context
• Expert opinions
• Comparative analysis