It was written by Sean, Grande, Dacoury Natchel, Michael Carson, and Leland Wayne, and was produced by DJ Dahi and Metro Boomin.
The track was initially set to be sent to radio as the fourth official single from Dark Sky Paradise, however, it was later revealed that "One Man Can Change the World" would serve in its place instead.
"Research" received mixed reviews from music critics, who appreciated the production and beat but were ambivalent towards the lyrical content, especially the use of derogatory words for women.
"[1] Sean's verses discuss his girlfriend being distrustful, as he raps, "'These hoes be doing research/I swear she like, 'This piece of hair off in the sink...'” [2] He also adds, “Okay I know you did some research, well shit I did too/I saw you wearin’ Drake’s chain like you were part of his crew/I saw you chillin’ with Meek Mill up at the summer jam oooh/I hope my eyes the one that’s lying to me girl and not you.” In the chorus, meanwhile, Grande sings, “I still have to hide/Now you're next to me at night/You test me all the time/Say I know what you like, like I did the last time/Do you remember?
John Mychal Feraren of FDRMX gave the song 2.7 stars out of 5 and criticized the use of "derogatory words as metaphor to women", but also added that "he [Sean] makes up for it by not completely objectifying them.