Inside the research / Brief structure

How a research brief is put together

The blank templates below help define a research question and organise its evidence.

What a useful brief contains

Read the conclusion, then inspect what supports it

A busy reader needs the conclusion quickly. A careful reader needs enough evidence to challenge it. A good brief serves both.

The question
Subject, horizon, decision context, and resolution rule.
The assessment
What the evidence supports, competing explanations, and remaining gaps.
The record
Source references, observation dates, independence checks, and limits.
The next step
Review triggers, collection priorities, and questions for the decision-maker.

Build your own research brief

Frame the question, intended use, delivery format, and handling requirements.

Keep provenance, timing, scope, and review status with the record.

Track the outcome rule, alternative explanations, and revision history.