I am what you would call a newbie to research. I have completed a basic introductory research methods course and have just entered a graduate studies program – a direct pathway to further develop my research skills. However, even a newbie can become obsessed with the idea of creating an exciting, compelling and potentially transformational research question within her field of study. So, when it comes to developing a great research question, what are the guidelines? What should we consider? Where do we begin? Easy there newbie… it’s a process! Research is a marathon, not a sprint.

Let’s look at what we know:

• Your research question should be concise.
  • Be specific, really specific. Ask Who, What, Where, When and How in order to hone in on the idea. Your question will guide your research. Invest the time to make it great.
• Your research question should relate to something you are passionate about, or at the very least strongly interested in.
  • We are all passionate about something, so even if you have to create a research question for a course that you are taking, try to infuse your research question with a twist of you and your interests.
• Your research question should be be unique and present a fresh new twist on old research data within the field, .
  • Find a specific focus in an area of interest that no one has investigated before. Be brave, and don’t forget …
• Your research question will require you to do some secondary research.
  • Yes, it’s true. You will need to do some research before your research. Make sure you understand how to ensure your sources are valid, appropriate, relevant and reputable.

Part of my list was based on the work of Duke University Writing Studio.

Need help with your research methods? Check out Sage Research Methods online resources for research method resources.

Still totally lost? Start with Royal Roads University Writing Centre‘s process that guides you step by step through the journey of beginning your research. I particularly love the advice about using a citation manager and my world became a whole lot more organized when I started using Mendeley. Zotero looks equally amazing and can help to keep your literature search organized  and ready for you to start jotting down those citations.

So, if you were pondering a research question considering the effects of films on young children, ask instead… What are the effects of violent films on the sleep behaviour of young children between the ages of 3 and 10. Don’t bother asking how simulation training increases the skills of healthcare providers. That question is neither specific or unique. Instead, use your research to explore how routine simulation training and debriefing can affect the communication of Respiratory Therapists in code pink situations. Why did the chicken cross the road? Even better to ask: What time of day do male adolescent chickens prefer to cross the road in a rural farming community in Southern B.C.?

Happy writing.

Christy Boyce