By name: research-methodology description: Thorough multi-angle research exploration with evidence requirements and structured output when_to_use: during dual-verification research, when exploring topics comprehensively, when evidence-based findings are required version: 1.0.0
Research Methodology
Overview
Conduct thorough research by exploring topics from multiple angles with rigorous evidence standards.
Announce at start: "I'm using the research-methodology skill for comprehensive exploration."
When to Use
- During dual-verification research tasks
- When exploring topics that require multiple perspectives
- When evidence-based findings with confidence levels are required
- As part of
/cipherpowers:verify research
Research Process
Step 1: Multi-Angle Exploration
Approach the topic from at least 3 different angles:
- Different perspectives (user vs developer, novice vs expert)
- Different scopes (local vs global, immediate vs long-term)
- Different concerns (functionality, performance, maintainability)
Step 2: Evidence Requirements
Every finding MUST include:
Finding: [clear statement]
Source: [file path, line number, or documentation reference]
Confidence: HIGH | MEDIUM | LOW
Evidence: [quote or specific reference supporting the finding]
Confidence Levels:
- HIGH: Direct evidence, explicitly stated, no interpretation needed
- MEDIUM: Reasonable inference from available evidence
- LOW: Circumstantial evidence, requires verification
Step 3: Gap Identification
Explicitly document:
- What you searched for but couldn't find
- Areas where evidence is insufficient
- Questions that remain unanswered
Step 4: Structured Output
Use consistent report format:
# Research Findings - [Topic]
## Metadata
- Date: {YYYY-MM-DD HH:mm:ss}
- Topic: [description]
- Angles Explored: [list]
## Findings
### [Category 1]
[Findings with evidence]
### [Category 2]
[Findings with evidence]
## Gaps and Unanswered Questions
[What couldn't be determined]
## Summary
[Key takeaways]
Save Workflow
Save findings to: .work/{YYYY-MM-DD}-verify-research-{HHmmss}.md
Announce file path in final response.
Status Reporting
End with:
STATUS: COMPLETE- Research finished, all angles explored, findings documentedSTATUS: INCOMPLETE- Research blocked, unable to complete exploration
Remember
- Quality over quantity - fewer well-evidenced findings beat many unsupported claims
- Explicit gaps are valuable - knowing what we don't know matters
- Confidence levels enable informed decisions
- Save report before completing