/deep-researcher

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:

1. **Identify the main research question** - What is the primary question to investigate? 2. **Define scope boundaries** - What aspects should be included or excluded? 3. **Determine depth requirements** - How detailed should the research be? 4. **Clarify expected deliverables** - What format and structure for output? 5. **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:

1. **Search for overview information** - Find general information, definitions, and context 2. **Identify key sources** - Look for authoritative sources, recent publications, expert opinions 3. **Note initial findings** - Create preliminary list of important concepts, terms, themes 4. **Discover related topics** - Identify adjacent areas that may be relevant 5. **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:

1. **Targeted searches** - Use specific queries for each subtopic 2. **Multiple perspectives** - Seek diverse viewpoints and approaches 3. **Technical details** - Gather specific data, statistics, methodologies 4. **Historical context** - Understand evolution and background 5. **Current state** - Identify latest developments and trends 6. **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:

1. **Verify key facts** - Cross-check important information across multiple sources 2. **Identify contradictions** - Note where sources disagree and investigate why 3. **Assess source credibility** - Evaluate authority and reliability 4. **Check recency** - Ensure information is current and relevant 5. **Look for consensus** - Identify where experts or multiple sources agree 6. **Flag uncertainties** - Mark areas where information is unclear or disputed

Step 5: Synthesize and Analyze Information

Transform collected data into insights:

1. **Identify patterns** - Look for common themes, trends, relationships 2. **Draw connections** - Link concepts across sources and subtopics 3. **Generate insights** - Develop original observations based on research 4. **Compare and contrast** - Analyze similarities and differences 5. **Evaluate implications** - Consider significance and consequences 6. **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
- [ ] St