What is a research question? :
What is a research question? Simple questions about the research topic
Help to set goals
Help to organize and guide the research process
Writing challenging questions :
Writing challenging questions The more specific the question, the more focused the research
If questions can be answered with yes or no answers, the questions are not challenging and should be redesigned
Make the questions ones of personal interest. (This strategy will keep you interested in the project)
Let the questions guide your research
Three steps in writing :
Three steps in writing Identify the research area
Define/narrow the topic
Articulate the research question
Generating ideas for research :
Conduct focused brainstorming: listing as many “angles” as possible regarding your topic
Skim current publications, radio and TV news programs
Combine various key words in Library databases
Examine personal experiences/problems
Talk with professor and other students
Choose the topic you’re most interested in and/or perhaps have prior knowledge about Generating ideas for research
Question vs. Topic :
Question vs. Topic A research question differs from a research TOPIC in that it is focused, not broad
What does the writer want to know about a particular topic?
What interests the writer about the topic?
What problems or issues does the writer encounter while researching the topic?
The research thesis :
The research thesis Makes your point
Persuades someone of something
Research thesis answers a research question