Decomposing Complex Research

When a research question is too large for one prompt, break it into phases. Each phase feeds the next, creating a research funnel that progressively narrows from broad discovery to specific analysis.

Phase 1 — Landscape: Cast a wide net. "What are the major categories and players in this space?" This gives you the map.

Phase 2 — Shortlist: Filter based on criteria. "Of these 20 players, which 5 are most relevant based on [criteria]?" This gives you focus.

Phase 3 — Deep Dive: Analyze each shortlisted item. "For each of these 5, analyze [specific dimensions]." This gives you depth.

Phase 4 — Synthesis: Cross-compare and recommend. "Compare these 5 across [dimensions] and rank them." This gives you actionable output.

1. Phase 1: Landscape Broad discovery scan — identify the universe of options, categories, and players. Prioritize coverage over depth.
2. Phase 2: Shortlist Apply your criteria to filter to 3-7 candidates. Explicitly state why each made the cut and what was excluded.
3. Phase 3: Deep Dive Analyze each shortlisted item against your specific dimensions. This is where the research brief's quality criteria matter most.
4. Phase 4: Synthesis Cross-compare, rank, and produce your final deliverable. Highlight trade-offs and confidence levels.