Developing Research Questions

Starting Your Research Right

A well-crafted research question is the foundation of any research project. It guides your entire investigation and determines the scope of your work.

Characteristics of Good Research Questions

• Focused: Narrow enough to answer thoroughly


• Researchable: Can be investigated with available resources


• Complex: Can't be answered with a simple yes/no


• Relevant: Contributes to existing knowledge or solves a practical problem

Narrowing Your Topic

Start broad and narrow down. "Climate change" → "Climate change effects on agriculture" → "How rising temperatures affect wheat yields in the Midwest United States" → "The impact of heat stress on winter wheat production in Kansas, 2015-2025."

Types of Research Questions

• Descriptive: "What are the symptoms of..." (describes a phenomenon)


• Comparative: "How does X differ from Y?" (compares two things)


• Causal: "What is the effect of X on Y?" (examines relationships)