---
title: ToolRouter — Agent Use Case Guide
description: Step-by-step guide for completing a task with a specific AI agent using ToolRouter.
url: https://toolrouter.com/tools/academic-research/use-cases/track-research-trends/openclaw
---
# How to Track Research Trends with OpenClaw

OpenClaw runs time-series research queries programmatically, processing searches across multiple time windows and returning structured data for trend visualization and analysis. Build research trend dashboards, automate field-monitoring pipelines, and generate publication volume reports across any set of topics.

## Setup

openclaw mcp add toolrouter -- npx -y toolrouter-mcp

## Steps

1. Connect ToolRouter: openclaw mcp add toolrouter -- npx -y toolrouter-mcp
2. Ask OpenClaw: "Search for papers on bioinformatics across different years"
3. OpenClaw returns results showing publication trends
4. Analyze which subtopics are growing
5. Make informed decisions about research directions

## Example Prompt

```
How has research on AI ethics changed over the last five years? Show me the trend.
```

## Tips

- Growing publication volume indicates increasing field maturity
- New terminology in recent papers signals emerging subfields
- Compare trends across related fields to find interdisciplinary opportunities
