Research Idea Brainstorming

Structured frameworks for discovering the next research idea. This skill provides ten complementary ideation lenses that help researchers move from vague curiosity to concrete, defensible research proposals. Each framework targets a different cognitive mode—use them individually or combine them for comprehensive exploration.

When to Use This Skill

• Starting a new research direction and need structured exploration
• Feeling stuck on a current project and want fresh angles
• Evaluating whether a half-formed idea has real potential
• Preparing for a brainstorming session with collaborators
• Transitioning between research areas and seeking high-leverage entry points
• Reviewing a field and looking for underexplored gaps

Do NOT use this skill when:

• You already have a well-defined research question and need execution guidance
• You need help with experimental design or methodology (use domain-specific skills)
• You want a literature review (use scientific-skills:literature-review)