our-claude-skills/official-skills/notion-research-documentation/reference/format-selection-guide.md

Format Selection Guide

Choose the right output format for your research needs.

Decision Tree

Is this comparing multiple options?
  ├─ YES → Use Comparison Format
  └─ NO ↓

Is this time-sensitive or simple?
  ├─ YES → Use Quick Brief
  └─ NO ↓

Does this require formal/extensive documentation?
  ├─ YES → Use Comprehensive Report
  └─ NO → Use Research Summary (default)

Format Overview

Format	Length	When to Use	Template
Research Summary	500-1000 words	Most research requests (default)	Template
Comprehensive Report	1500+ words	Formal docs, strategic decisions	Template
Quick Brief	200-400 words	Time-sensitive, simple topics	Template
Comparison	800-1200 words	Evaluating options	Template

Formatting Guidelines

Headings

• Use # for title
• Use ## for major sections
• Use ### for subsections
• Keep heading hierarchy consistent

Lists

• Use - for bullet points
• Use 1. for numbered lists
• Keep list items parallel in structure

Emphasis

• Use **bold** for key terms and section labels
• Use *italic* for emphasis
• Use sparingly for maximum impact

Citations

• Always use <mention-page url="...">Page Title</mention-page> for source pages
• Include citation immediately after referenced information
• Group all sources in a "Sources" section at the end

Tables

• Use for structured data comparison
• Keep columns to 3-5 for readability
• Include header row
• Align content appropriately

Code Blocks

Use when including:

• Technical specifications
• Configuration examples
• Command examples

Example code or configuration here

Content Guidelines

Executive Summaries

• Lead with the most important finding
• Include 1-2 key implications
• Make it standalone (reader gets value without reading further)
• Target 2-3 sentences for summaries, 1 paragraph for reports

Key Findings

• Start with a clear headline
• Support with specific evidence
• Include relevant data points or quotes
• Cite source immediately
• Focus on actionable insights

Recommendations

• Make them specific and actionable
• Explain the "why" behind each recommendation
• Prioritize clearly (Priority 1, 2, 3 or High/Medium/Low)
• Include implementation hints when relevant

Source Citations

• Link to original pages using mentions
• Note if information is outdated (check last-edited dates)
• Credit specific sections when quoting
• Group related sources together