# Research Documentation - Format Selection Guide

Choose the right format for your research output based on scope, complexity, and intended audience.

## Quick Brief

**Best for:** Initial findings, quick summaries, stakeholder updates

**Length:** 1-2 pages
**Structure:**
- Question/Topic
- Key Findings (3-5 bullet points)
- Sources Used
- Next Steps

**Example Use:**
"Should we adopt React or Vue?"
→ Quick Brief comparing both with recommendation

---

## Comparison Matrix

**Best for:** Evaluating multiple options against criteria

**Structure:**
```
| Criteria | Option A | Option B | Option C |
|----------|----------|----------|----------|
| Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Medium | Hard |
| ... | | | |
```

**Example Use:**
Technology evaluation, vendor comparison, feature analysis

---

## Research Summary

**Best for:** Balanced overview of a topic with findings and recommendations

**Length:** 2-4 pages
**Structure:**
- Overview
- Key Findings
- Analysis & Synthesis
- Recommendations
- Sources & Citations

**Example Use:**
Market trends, industry analysis, competitive landscape

---

## Comprehensive Report

**Best for:** Deep dives, detailed analysis, archival

**Length:** 5-20 pages
**Structure:**
- Executive Summary
- Introduction & Context
- Methodology
- Findings (organized by theme)
- Analysis & Implications
- Recommendations
- Appendices
- References

**Example Use:**
Product research, technical investigation, business analysis

---

## Decision Memo

**Best for:** Research that informs a specific decision

**Structure:**
- Decision Required
- Background
- Research Findings
- Options with Trade-offs
- Recommendation
- Implementation Steps

**Example Use:**
Technology selection, resource allocation, strategic direction

---

## Selection Flowchart

```
What are you researching?

├─ Quick answer needed?
│  └─ Quick Brief
│
├─ Comparing options?
│  └─ Comparison Matrix
│
├─ Balanced overview?
│  └─ Research Summary
│
├─ Supporting a decision?
│  └─ Decision Memo
│
└─ Comprehensive documentation?
   └─ Comprehensive Report
```

---

## Format Standards

**Citation Style**
- APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard
- Include author, date, source
- Use consistent format throughout

**Sourcing**
- Link to actual sources
- Note access date for web content
- Mark primary vs. secondary sources
- Include direct quotes with attribution

**Structure**
- Clear headings (H2, H3, etc.)
- Short paragraphs (2-4 sentences)
- Bullet points for lists
- Tables for comparisons

**Visual Elements**
- Include relevant charts/graphs
- Use consistent formatting
- Add images/screenshots with captions
- Label tables and figures clearly

---

## Examples by Format

### Example 1: Quick Brief
**Topic:** Headless CMS Options
**Sources:** 2 tools evaluated
**Decision Time:** 2 hours research
**Outcome:** Recommendation selected in 1 day

### Example 2: Comparison Matrix
**Topic:** Email Service Providers
**Sources:** 4 vendors evaluated
**Decision Time:** 4 hours research
**Outcome:** Feature matrix drives selection

### Example 3: Research Summary
**Topic:** AI Model Options for Product
**Sources:** 10+ sources reviewed
**Decision Time:** 8 hours research
**Outcome:** Technical team briefed, approach chosen

### Example 4: Comprehensive Report
**Topic:** Market Analysis for New Product
**Sources:** 20+ sources, interviews
**Decision Time:** 40+ hours research
**Outcome:** Business case developed, investment approved