Research Question Basics
Defines the specific issue your research focuses on
RQ
In a study about sleep and academic performance, one variable changes and the other responds.
👉 Identify the role of the responding variable
Dependent variable
A question invites a “yes” or “no” answer.
👉 What limitation does this create?
It prevents analysis / is too simplistic
A title begins with “Evaluating” or “Analysing.”
👉 What is the purpose of this opening word?
To show the research action/purpose
The 3 elements of a strong research question
Variables, relationship, and context
A researcher measures how diet influences energy levels.
👉 Which part represents the cause?
Diet (independent variable)
A question includes a specific population and time frame.
👉 How does this improve the question?
It makes it more focused and researchable
A title includes topic and variables but feels incomplete.
👉 What element is likely missing?
Context
A student includes variables but their question is still weak.
👉 What might still be missing?
Context or a clear relationship
A student writes:
“How does technology affect people?”
👉 Identify ONE issue related to variables
Variables are too vague / not clearly defined
Compare:
Clear variables / relationship / context
A title mirrors its research question but is not written as a question.
👉 What has been added?
An action word
“Social media and students.”
👉 Identify what is missing to make this a research question
A clear relationship and context (and proper question form)
A strong research question clearly separates what is changed and what is measured.
👉 Why is this distinction important?
It allows analysis of cause and effect
A research question is described as “too general.”
👉 What is the likely consequence for the research?
It becomes unfocused and difficult to answer
A topic: “Online learning”
👉 Suggest ONE way to make it researchable
Add variables and context