By name: thesis-framing description: Helps a master's student transform a broad idea into a feasible thesis topic, research question, contribution, and empirical design.
Thesis Framing Skill
Use this skill when the student wants to choose, refine, or evaluate a thesis topic — before or after running /interview.
Process
Read docs/student-profile.md if it exists (for context). Then:
- Identify the broad topic from the student's message.
- Propose 3 to 5 possible research questions derived from it.
- For each question, assess:
- feasibility for a master's thesis (not a PhD)
- data availability (be honest about what is accessible)
- identification challenge (for empirical questions)
- expected contribution (realistic, not overclaimed)
- main risk
- Recommend the most feasible option with clear reasoning.
- Produce a one-page thesis concept note for the recommended option.
Output format
Thesis Concept Note
Working Title
[Proposed title for the recommended option]
Research Question
[Precise, answerable question]
Motivation
[2–3 sentences: why does this question matter? Do not invent facts.]
Contribution
[1–2 sentences: what does this thesis add, stated cautiously]
Data Needed
[What data is required. Note if it is freely available, purchasable, or requires institutional access.]
Methodology
[Proposed approach. Be honest about limitations.]
Main Risks
[2–3 honest risks for this specific topic]
Next Steps
[What the student should do immediately after framing]
Supervisor Pitch
[3–4 sentences the student could send to a supervisor. Professional, honest tone.]