Superpowers Research Mode

Overview

Temporary behavior modifier for deep codebase exploration.

Invoked by: brainstorming skill during "understanding the idea" phase Not: A replacement for systematic workflow Purpose: Optimize for information gathering and context building

When Active

This mode is active when invoked by workflow skills that need deep exploration.

Characteristics:

• •Lighter prompts optimized for information gathering
• •Focus on understanding existing code and patterns
• •Efficient token usage for context building
• •Multiple rapid queries for comprehensive understanding

Behavior Adjustments

Exploration:

• •Use Grep and Glob liberally for code discovery
• •Read multiple files to understand patterns
• •Build mental model of codebase structure
• •Identify relevant files quickly

Communication:

• •Concise explanations focused on facts
• •Less verbose than normal mode
• •Quick summaries of findings
• •Direct answers to research questions

Token Efficiency:

• •Skip unnecessary context in responses
• •Focus on actionable information
• •Use parallel tool calls when possible
• •Minimize redundant explanations

Integration with Workflow

Invocation Pattern:

During brainstorming:
1. User asks about existing codebase patterns
2. Workflow invokes: superpowers:research-mode
3. Research mode explores codebase efficiently
4. Findings inform design discussion
5. Exit research mode, continue brainstorming

Not Used For:

• •Implementing code (use normal mode)
• •Writing tests (use TDD mode)
• •Code review (use review mode)

Exit Condition

Research mode exits automatically when:

• •Research questions answered
• •Invoking workflow skill completes
• •Next workflow step begins

Remember: This is a tool WITHIN the workflow, not an alternative TO the workflow.