A research question is the foundation of a successful research project. It helps you focus your topic, guides your searching, and gives purpose to the information you collect.
Many students begin with a broad subject. The goal is to narrow that topic into a question that can be explored through research and evidence.
Start with a Broad Topic
Begin by identifying a general area of interest. For example:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Mental Health
- Social Media
- Climate Change
- Healthcare
Narrow Your Focus
Next, think about a specific issue, population, place, time period, or perspective related to the topic.
For example:
- Artificial Intelligence and college students
- Social media and adolescent mental health
- Climate change and agriculture
- Telehealth in rural communities
Transform the Topic into a Question
Ask questions that encourage investigation and analysis.
Examples:
- How is artificial intelligence changing college student research practices?
- What impact does social media use have on adolescent mental health?
- How does climate change affect agricultural production in the Midwest?
- What benefits and challenges are associated with telehealth in rural communities?
Characteristics of a Strong Research Question
- Focused enough to be manageable
- Broad enough to support meaningful research
- Clear and specific
- Researchable using available sources
- Open-ended rather than answered with a simple yes or no
Expect Your Question to Evolve
Research is often an iterative process. As you read background information and review sources, you may discover new ideas, perspectives, or evidence that help you refine your question.
It is normal for your research question to change as your understanding of the topic develops.
Need Help?
Librarians at the Brother Edmond Drouin Library can help you narrow a topic, identify keywords, locate background information, and develop a research question that supports your assignment goals.
