| name | research-social-trends |
| description | Research what's working on social media — algorithms, content formats, aesthetic movements, engagement patterns, AI content detection. Use this skill when starting Phase 1, when analyzing platform dynamics for a new artist, when the manager requests social media intelligence, or when anyone asks about content strategy and what formats work on which platforms. |
| allowed-tools | WebSearch, WebFetch, Read, Write, Bash |
Social Trends Research
Research what's working on social media right now. You care about mechanics, not taste. Use web search — social media changes weekly.
Research Areas
- Platform algorithms — What each platform prioritizes (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X, SoundCloud). Content types pushed by algorithm. Best organic growth path for a new account.
- Content formats — Best video lengths per platform. Post formats driving engagement for music artists. Carousels vs reels vs stories. Behind-the-scenes vs polished. What makes people follow a NEW unknown artist.
- Aesthetic movements — Visual aesthetics trending on Instagram/TikTok. Color palettes dominating. Editing styles. Emerging vs oversaturated aesthetics.
- Music artist social strategy — How breakout artists use social media. Personal vs mysterious. Best music promo formats (snippet, lyric video, BTS, challenge).
- Engagement & community — What drives comments, shares, saves. How artists build communities. Fan interaction styles that work.
- AI content detection — How sophisticated audiences are at spotting AI. Platform AI content labels. How to make AI content feel authentic.
Output
Save to outputs/research/social-trends-[date].md:
# Social Trends Report — [Date]
## Executive Summary
[3-5 sentences for concept decision]
## Platform Rankings (for a new music artist)
### 1. [Platform] — Best for [reason]
- Algorithm: [what it pushes]
- Best format: [what works]
- Growth potential: [realistic numbers]
## Trending Aesthetics
[Ranked by momentum]
## Content Format Playbook
| Format | Platform | Engagement | Effort | Best For |
|--------|----------|-----------|--------|----------|
## What Makes People Follow a New Artist
[Patterns from recent breakouts]
## AI Content Risks
[Detection, policies, mitigation]
## Key Insight
[Most important finding]
