Research

Research

When you need information that is not already in context, conduct structured research using available tools.

Process

1. Define the question. State precisely what information you need and why.

2. Choose sources. Decide where to look:

   • Local files — Use filesystem to read project files, configs, READMEs.
   • Web search — Use wiki-search to find encyclopaedic articles, background information, and definitions.
   • HTTP fetch — Use http to retrieve specific URLs (docs pages, APIs, raw files).
   • Project inspection — Use project-inspector to understand a codebase's structure.

3. Execute searches. Run the appropriate tool(s). Use specific, targeted queries:

   • Prefer exact terms over vague phrases.
   • Include language, framework, or library names when relevant.
   • Use multiple queries if the first does not return useful results.

4. Evaluate results. For each result:

   • Is it relevant to the question?
   • Is it current and trustworthy?
   • Does it apply to the specific version or platform in use?

5. Synthesize findings. Combine information from multiple sources into a coherent answer:

   • Resolve contradictions by preferring official documentation.
   • Note the source of each key finding.
   • Distinguish facts from opinions.

6. Summarize. Use the summarization skill to distill findings before acting on them.

Output Format

Question: <what you need to know>

Sources consulted:
1. <source> — <finding>
2. <source> — <finding>

Synthesis:
<combined answer>

Confidence: high | medium | low
Gaps: <anything still unknown>

Guidelines

• Exhaust local sources before searching the web.
• Limit web searches to 2–3 queries. If you cannot find the answer in 3 queries, reassess the question.
• Always verify critical information from at least two sources.
• Do not present search snippets as complete answers — read the full context.
• Attribute information to its source.