The R.I.D.E. Deep Research Prompt Framework

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A Deep Research Prompt Framework – R.I.D.E.™

You likely know I am a huge proponent of the Perfect Prompt Framework™ for creating amazing prompts that get incredible AI responses. There are more complex frameworks although I believe that the Perfect Prompt Framework balances ease of use and quality of responses better than any other.

Now, I’m happy to release my Deep Research Prompt Framework.

Deep Research takes AI responses to a whole new level and like an ai prompt framework – allows you to stop searching for the best prompts and instead create amazing deep research prompts when you need them – in just moments.

Introducing my RIDE™ Deep Research Prompt framework:

There are four phases of the R.I.D.E. framework, and I’ve incorporated a simple checklist for each phase to make it easy to follow.

1. R – Research: Establish the Foundation

Goal: To ground the AI in the specific context, scope, and objective of your inquiry. This phase ensures the AI understands what you’re asking and why it matters.

  • Define the Research Expert Role: Specify the type of researcher needed (e.g., market analyst, academic researcher, investigative journalist) and their relevant expertise and methodological approach.
  • Establish Research Context & Scope: Provide background on why the research matters, define the intended audience, set boundaries (time period, geographic scope), and specify the desired depth (overview vs. comprehensive analysis).
  • Frame the Core Research Question(s): Clearly state your primary research objective, include any sub-questions, and mention if you need comparative analysis, trend identification, or predictive insights.

2. I – Instruct: Direct the AI’s Action

Goal: To give the AI explicit commands on how to conduct its research and what sources to use. This is where you leverage the specific capabilities of your chosen research tool.

  • Specify Research Parameters:
  • Indicate preferred source types (academic papers, industry reports, news, government data).
  • Note any sources to prioritize or avoid.
  • Mention if you need current information (e.g., last 24 months) vs. historical analysis.
  • Specify any geographic, demographic, or sector focus.

3. D – Define: Shape the Output

Goal: To control the final deliverable, ensuring the AI provides the information in a structured, usable format that meets your exact needs.

  • Define Output Requirements:
  • Specify the format (executive summary, detailed report, bullet points, table with specific columns).
  • Indicate the desired length and structure (e.g., include an introduction, methodology, findings, and conclusion).
  • Note if you require direct citations, data visualizations, or other specific elements.

4. E – Engage: Iterate and Refine

Goal: To transform the research process from a single query into an intelligent dialogue. This phase starts with an invitation for clarification and continues as you refine the results.

  • Close with a Research Refinement Request: End your initial prompt with a clear call for interaction. The classic closing is: “Before beginning your research, ask me any clarifying questions you have about the scope, methodology, sources, or output format to ensure the most valuable results.”
  • Iterate: Use the AI’s response and questions to ask follow-ups, dig deeper into interesting data points, and steer the research toward the most valuable insights.

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