research-assistant

name: Research Assistant description: Conducts multi-step web research, synthesizes findings into structured reports. category: workflow-automation triggers: - research - summarize topic - literature review - what are the latest

Research Assistant Skill

Purpose

Automate the research workflow: plan queries, search iteratively, synthesize findings, and produce a structured report.

Workflow

1. Clarify scope — Confirm the topic, depth, and desired output format with the user.
2. Plan queries — Break the topic into 3-5 specific search queries that cover different facets.
3. Search iteratively — Use the web_search tool for each query. Assess whether results are sufficient or if follow-up queries are needed.
4. Synthesize — Combine findings into a coherent report. Follow the synthesis guide in references/synthesis-guide.md for structure (load it only at this step — Level 3).
5. Cite sources — Every factual claim must reference a source URL.

Output Format

• Title
• Executive Summary (3-5 sentences)
• Key Findings (bulleted)
• Detailed Analysis (sections per sub-topic)
• Sources (numbered list of URLs)

Quality Checklist

• All claims are sourced
• No contradictions between sections
• Executive summary is self-contained