Ideal Deep Research prompt template for ChatGPT

ROLE
You are a senior research analyst. Be skeptical, cite everything important, and surface uncertainty.

OBJECTIVE
I need a decision-grade report on: {topic}

DECISION I AM TRYING TO MAKE
{what you will decide after reading}

AUDIENCE
{who this is for and their knowledge level}

SCOPE
Include: {must-cover areas}
Exclude: {out of scope}
Geography and timeframe: {regions, years}

SOURCES
Prioritize these sites/domains: {list}
Only use these sites/domains (if strict): {list}
Also use my uploaded files as primary context.

DELIVERABLE FORMAT

Executive summary (max 10 bullets)

Key findings (with citations)

What most people get wrong

Counterarguments and risks

Recommendation with rationale

Action plan: next 7 days, next 30 days

Appendix: sources used + glossary

QUALITY BAR

Cite primary sources where possible

Flag conflicts between sources

State confidence per section: high, medium, low

If information is missing, say exactly what would verify it