PromptPilot Guide
How to Use AI to Improve Research Questions
A weak research question often produces a weak research process. AI can be useful for testing whether a question is too broad, too vague or based on an unstated assumption.
Start with the problem
Describe the decision or question you are trying to understand before asking for a polished research question.
Ask for alternatives
Request several versions: broad, narrow, comparative and exploratory. This helps you see what each wording would actually require.
Identify assumptions
Ask the assistant to list assumptions hidden inside your original question. Some of these may need to be verified before research begins.
Define evidence
A good question should make it possible to identify what information would count as useful evidence.
A practical prompt:
Here is my research problem: [problem]. Give me five research questions ranging from broad to narrow. For each, list the key assumptions, evidence needed and likely limitations.
Use the AI output as a research-planning aid, then validate the underlying facts with appropriate sources.