A good research question should be clear and focused. A good question should also provide opportunities to discuss and analyse multiple sources of information to offer a unique understanding of a significant program, issue, or phenomenon (Virginia Commonwealth University, n.d; Royal Roads University, n.d.). Virginia Commonwealth University (n.d.) suggested the following checklist to guide the development of a research question;
“Is the research question something I/others care about? Is it arguable?
Is the research question a new spin on an old idea, or does it solve a problem?
Is it too broad or too narrow?
Is the research question researchable within the given time frame and location?
What information is needed?”.
Additionally, George Mason University (n.d.) recommended that a good research question should be clear, focused, concise, complex (not answerable by a simple yes or no), and arguable (open to debate rather than accepted facts).
After developing a research question, a thesis statement is designed to answer the question (Virginia Commonwealth University, n.d.). Most likely, the thesis will be refined through the research and writing process (Virginia Commonwealth University, n.d.). In summary, a good research question will guide the writing of a valuable research paper (Virginia Commonwealth University, n.d.).
References
Virginia Commonwealth University. (n.d.). What Makes a Good Research Question? [Handout]. Thompson Writing Program. Retrieved June 30, 2022, from https://healthdisparities.vcu.edu/media/health-disparities-new-site/docs/Research-Questions_WS-handout.pdf
George Mason University. (n.d.). How to Write a Research Question. The Writing Centre. Retrieved June 30, 2022, from https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/how-to-write-a-research-question
Royal Road University. (n.d.). Master’s thesis process. Retrieved June 30, 2022, from https://www.royalroads.ca/current-students/learning-resources/thesis-dissertation-information/masters-thesis-process