| name | deep-researcher |
| description | Performs comprehensive, multi-layered research on any topic with structured analysis and synthesis of information from multiple sources. Use when the user needs thorough investigation, market research, technical deep-dives, due diligence, or comprehensive analysis on any subject. |
| license | MIT |
| metadata | {"author":"ksd","version":"1.0"} |
Deep Researcher
A comprehensive research workflow skill that guides Claude through systematic, multi-layered research on any topic.
When to use this skill
Use this skill when the user:
- Asks for "deep research" or "comprehensive research" on a topic
- Needs thorough investigation or due diligence
- Requests market research or competitive analysis
- Wants technical deep-dives or architecture reviews
- Needs literature reviews or trend analysis
- Asks for detailed reports with multiple perspectives
Research Workflow
Step 1: Define Research Scope and Objectives
Start by clearly establishing research parameters:
- Identify the main research question - What is the primary question to investigate?
- Define scope boundaries - What aspects should be included or excluded?
- Determine depth requirements - How detailed should the research be?
- Clarify expected deliverables - What format and structure for output?
- List key areas of focus - What specific subtopics to explore?
Document these parameters before proceeding.
Step 2: Conduct Initial Exploratory Research
Begin with broad reconnaissance to map the landscape:
- Search for overview information - Find general information, definitions, and context
- Identify key sources - Look for authoritative sources, recent publications, expert opinions
- Note initial findings - Create preliminary list of important concepts, terms, themes
- Discover related topics - Identify adjacent areas that may be relevant
- Assess information gaps - Note what's available vs. what needs deeper investigation
Create an initial research map with main themes and subtopics.
Step 3: Deep Dive into Key Areas
For each identified key area, conduct detailed investigation:
- Targeted searches - Use specific queries for each subtopic
- Multiple perspectives - Seek diverse viewpoints and approaches
- Technical details - Gather specific data, statistics, methodologies
- Historical context - Understand evolution and background
- Current state - Identify latest developments and trends
- Future outlook - Look for predictions, projections, emerging patterns
Document findings systematically, noting sources and credibility.
Step 4: Cross-Reference and Validate Findings
Ensure accuracy and reliability:
- Verify key facts - Cross-check important information across multiple sources
- Identify contradictions - Note where sources disagree and investigate why
- Assess source credibility - Evaluate authority and reliability
- Check recency - Ensure information is current and relevant
- Look for consensus - Identify where experts or multiple sources agree
- Flag uncertainties - Mark areas where information is unclear or disputed
Step 5: Synthesize and Analyze Information
Transform collected data into insights:
- Identify patterns - Look for common themes, trends, relationships
- Draw connections - Link concepts across sources and subtopics
- Generate insights - Develop original observations based on research
- Compare and contrast - Analyze similarities and differences
- Evaluate implications - Consider significance and consequences
- Address the research question - Directly answer original question with evidence
Step 6: Generate Structured Research Report
Create comprehensive, well-organized final report:
## Report Structure
1. **Executive Summary**
- Brief overview of research question
- Key findings (3-5 main points)
- Main conclusions
2. **Introduction**
- Research scope and objectives
- Methodology overview
- Key areas explored
3. **Main Body** (organized by themes)
- Detailed findings for each key area
- Supporting evidence and examples
- Multiple perspectives where relevant
- Data and statistics
4. **Analysis & Synthesis**
- Patterns and connections identified
- Cross-cutting themes
- Insights and interpretations
5. **Conclusions**
- Direct answers to research questions
- Summary of most significant findings
- Limitations of the research
6. **Sources & References**
- List of key sources consulted
- Credibility notes where relevant
Research Strategies
Information Quality Standards
- Prefer primary sources - Go to original sources when possible
- Recent is better - Prioritize current information for fast-moving topics
- Multiple sources - Don't rely on single source for important facts
- Expert opinion - Seek recognized authorities in the field
- Data over anecdotes - Prefer statistical evidence to individual stories
Analysis Techniques
Use these frameworks as appropriate:
- SWOT analysis - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
- Compare/Contrast - Systematic comparison of approaches
- Timeline analysis - Historical development and trends
- Stakeholder analysis - Different perspectives and interests
- Gap analysis - What's missing or needs further research
Pitfalls to Avoid
- Confirmation bias - Look for information that challenges assumptions
- Information overload - Know when enough research has been done
- Outdated information - Always check dates and currency
- Single-source dependence - Diversify sources
- Analysis paralysis - Balance thoroughness with timely completion
- Losing focus - Stay aligned with original objectives
Progress Tracking
Copy and update this checklist as you work:
Research Progress:
- [ ] Step 1: Define scope and objectives
- [ ] Step 2: Initial exploratory research
- [ ] Step 3: Deep dive into key areas
- [ ] Step 4: Cross-reference and validate
- [ ] Step 5: Synthesize and analyze
- [ ] Step 6: Generate structured report
