Research question

What is a research question?

A research question is a statement that identifies the phenomenon or issue to be investigated or what the researcher will attempt to answer. It will be:

• Clear and unambiguous
• A focused rather than broad topic
• Concise - specifics are defined in the question
• Complex
• Arguable

Why is a research question essential to research process?

• Drives the research design (data collection and analysis)
• Assists in coding the literature into themes
• Helps writers focus their research by providing a path through the research and writing process
• Specifies and helps researchers work toward supporting a specific, arguable thesis

What is the expected outcome of a well-formed research question?

• Passes the "so what" test by explaining: what will be achieved; the impact and benefit(s) of the research in terms of knowledge for the discipline and the contexts of future applications; and any potentially new solutions to the problem
• Has the capacity to surprise