# Search Strategy and Source Evaluation

## Query Crafting (Phase 2)

Map each sub-question to one or more targeted search queries:

- Keep queries short (3–6 words). Specific nouns beat vague phrases.
- Vary query framing: try the direct question, a "site:domain" form, and a comparison form where relevant.
- For competitive intelligence: always search the target company directly AND search for independent reviews/comparisons.
- For literature/academic queries: search for primary papers, then for secondary summaries.
- For fast-changing topics (pricing, funding, personnel): append the current year to queries.
- Never repeat the same query twice. If a search returns poor results, rephrase — don't retry identical terms.

## Source Fetching and Extraction (Phase 3)

For each source returned:

1. Fetch the full page content where possible, not just the snippet.
2. Extract only what is relevant to the sub-question that drove this search.
3. Note the publication date if visible.
4. Flag sources older than 18 months as `[possibly outdated]`.
5. Prefer: official docs, primary research, reputable press. Deprioritise: forums, SEO farms, undated pages.

Do not quote large blocks verbatim. Paraphrase and extract the key claim or data point.
