3.4 KiB
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