CS Research Methodology

Framework for investigating problems by identifying assumptions and proposing alternatives.

Core Concept: The Bit Flip

Every research contribution follows this pattern:

1. The Bit: What does everyone assume?
2. The Flip: What’s the alternative?
3. The Proof: Why does the alternative work better?

Investigation Process

Step 1: Identify the Bit

What do existing approaches take for granted?

• What do all solutions have in common?
• What’s implicit in how the problem is framed?

→ See references/framing.md for process and examples.

Step 2: Find Where It Fails

When does the assumption break down?

• Edge cases, new capabilities, adjacent fields solving it differently

→ See references/landscape.md for mapping approaches.

Step 3: Propose the Flip

“Current approaches assume X. Instead, Y.”

• Must be specific and testable
• Explain the mechanism

→ See references/prioritization.md for focusing investigation.

Step 4: Design the Proof

What evidence would be convincing?

• Match evaluation to claim type

→ See references/validation.md for evaluation design.