How to Use ChatGPT for Researching a 10-K Report

Question 

Title and Description 

Prompt Example 

1 

Define Your Research Goals 

Clearly outline what you want to achieve with your research. Are you looking to understand the company's financial performance, risks, or management discussions? 

"I want to research a 10-K report to understand a company's financial performance and potential risks." 

2 

Start with General Information 

Begin by asking for a general overview of the 10-K report and its sections. 

"What is a 10-K report and what are its main sections?" 

3 

Identify the Company 

Specify the company whose 10-K report you want to research. 

"I want to research the 10-K report of Apple Inc. for the fiscal year 2023." 

4 

Request an Overview of the Company's Business 

Start with an overview of the company's business operations, including its products, services, and market position. 

"Can you provide an overview of Apple Inc.'s business operations as described in their 2023 10-K report?" 

5 

Analyze Financial Statements 

Dive into the financial statements, including the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. Ask for key figures and trends. 

"What are the key financial figures in Apple Inc.'s income statement for 2023?" 

"Can you summarize the balance sheet for Apple Inc. for 2023?" 

6 

Review Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) 

The MD&A section provides insights into the company's performance from the management's perspective. 

"What does the management discussion and analysis section say about Apple Inc.'s financial performance in 2023?" 

7 

Evaluate Risk Factors 

Identify and understand the risk factors mentioned in the 10-K report. 

"What are the main risk factors highlighted in Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report?" 

8 

Look at Legal Proceedings 

Check if the company is involved in any significant legal proceedings that could impact its financial health. 

"Does Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report mention any significant legal proceedings?" 

9 

Examine Notes to Financial Statements 

The notes provide detailed explanations of the financial statements. 

"What are the key notes to the financial statements in Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report?" 

10 

Understand Market and Competitive Position 

Analyze the company's market position and competitive landscape as described in the 10-K report. 

"How does Apple Inc. describe its market and competitive position in the 2023 10-K report?" 

11 

Assess Executive Compensation 

Review the executive compensation section to understand how the company compensates its top executives. 

"What information is provided about executive compensation in Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report?" 

12 

Review Subsequent Events 

Check for any subsequent events that occurred after the fiscal year-end, which could affect the company's future performance. 

"Are there any significant subsequent events mentioned in Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report?" 

13 

Synthesize Information for Decision Making 

Combine all the gathered information to make informed decisions about the company. 

"Based on the information from Apple Inc.'s 2023 10-K report, what are the potential investment opportunities and risks?" 

14 

Continuously Monitor and Update 

The financial health of a company can change over time. Regularly update your research with new 10-K reports and other financial documents. 

"Can you provide a summary of any updates or changes in Apple Inc.'s latest financial reports?"