Research Idea Brainstorming

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)

Core Ideation Frameworks

1. Problem-First vs. Solution-First Thinking

Research ideas originate from two distinct modes. Knowing which mode you are in prevents a common failure: building solutions that lack real problems, or chasing problems without feasible approaches.

Problem-First (pain point → method):

• Start with a concrete failure, bottleneck, or unmet need
• Naturally yields impactful work because the motivation is intrinsic
• Risk: may converge on incremental fixes rather than paradigm shifts

Solution-First (new capability → application):

• Start with a new tool, insight, or technique seeking application
• Often drives breakthroughs by unlocking previously impossible approaches
• Risk: "hammer looking for a nail"—solution may lack genuine demand

Workflow:

1. Write down your idea in one sentence
2. Classify it: Is this problem-first or solution-first?
3. If problem-first → verify the problem matters (who suffers? how much?)