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415 Research Question Examples Across 15 Disciplines

A research question is a clearly formulated query that delineates the scope and direction of an investigation. It serves as the guiding light for scholars, helping them to dissect, analyze, and comprehend complex phenomena. Beyond merely seeking answers, a well-crafted research question ensures that the exploration remains focused and goal-oriented.

The significance of framing a clear, concise, and researchable question cannot be overstated. A well-defined question not only clarifies the objective of the research but also determines the methodologies and tools a researcher will employ. A concise question ensures precision, eliminating the potential for ambiguity or misinterpretation. Furthermore, the question must be researchable—posing a question that is too broad, too subjective, or unanswerable can lead to inconclusive results or an endless loop of investigation. In essence, the foundation of any meaningful academic endeavor rests on the articulation of a compelling and achievable research question.

Research questions can be categorized based on their intent and the nature of the information they seek. Recognizing the different types is essential for crafting an effective inquiry and guiding the research process. Let's delve into the various categories:

• Descriptive Research Questions: These types of questions aim to outline and characterize specific phenomena or attributes. They seek to provide a clear picture of a situation or context without necessarily diving into causal relationships. For instance, a question like "What are the main symptoms of the flu?" is descriptive as it seeks to list the symptoms.
• Explanatory (or Causal) Research Questions: Explanatory questions delve deeper, trying to uncover the reasons or causes behind certain phenomena. They are particularly common in experimental research where researchers are attempting to establish cause-and-effect relationships. An example might be, "Does smoking increase the risk of lung cancer?"
• Exploratory Research Questions: As the name suggests, these questions are used when researchers are entering uncharted territories. They are designed to gather preliminary information on topics that haven't been studied extensively. A question like "How do emerging technologies impact remote tribal communities?" can be seen as exploratory if there's limited existing research on the topic.
• Comparative Research Questions: These questions are formulated when the objective is to compare two or more groups, conditions, or variables. Comparative questions might look like "How do test scores differ between students who study regularly and those who cram?"
• Predictive Research Questions: The goal here is to forecast or predict potential outcomes based on certain variables or conditions. Predictive research might pose questions such as "Based on current climate trends, how will average global temperatures change by 2050?"

Here are examples of research questions across various disciplines, shedding light on queries that stimulate intellectual curiosity and advancement. In this post, we will delve into disciplines ranging from the Natural Sciences, such as Physics and Biology, to the Social Sciences, including Sociology and Anthropology, as well as the Humanities, like Literature and Philosophy. We'll also explore questions from fields as varied as Health Sciences, Engineering, Business, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Education, Law, Agriculture, Arts, Computer Science, Architecture, and Languages. This comprehensive overview aims to illustrate the breadth and depth of inquiries that shape our world of knowledge.

Agriculture and forestry examples

Architecture and planning examples, arts and design examples, business and finance examples, computer science and informatics examples, education examples, engineering and technology examples, environmental sciences examples, health sciences examples, humanities examples, languages and linguistics examples, law examples, mathematics and statistics examples, natural sciences examples, social sciences examples.

• Descriptive: What are the primary factors that influence crop yield in temperate climates?
• Explanatory: Why do certain soil types yield higher grain production than others?
• Exploratory: How might new organic farming techniques influence soil health over a decade?
• Comparative: How do the growth rates differ between genetically modified and traditional corn crops?
• Predictive: Based on current climate models, how will changing rain patterns impact wheat production in the next 20 years?

Animal science

• Descriptive: What are the common behavioral traits of domesticated cattle in grass-fed conditions?
• Explanatory: Why do certain breeds of chickens have a higher egg production rate?
• Exploratory: What potential benefits could arise from integrating tech wearables in livestock management?
• Comparative: How does the milk yield differ between Holstein and Jersey cows when given the same diet?
• Predictive: How might increasing global temperatures influence the reproductive cycles of swine?

Aquaculture

• Descriptive: What are the most commonly farmed fish species in Southeast Asia?
• Explanatory: Why do shrimp farms have a higher disease outbreak rate compared to fish farms?
• Exploratory: How might innovative recirculating aquaculture systems revolutionize the industry's environmental impact?
• Comparative: How do growth rates of salmon differ between open-net pens and land-based tanks?
• Predictive: What will be the impact of ocean acidification on mollusk farming over the next three decades?
• Descriptive: What tree species dominate the temperate rainforests of North America?
• Explanatory: Why are certain tree species more resistant to pest infestations?
• Exploratory: What are the potential benefits of integrating drone technology in forest health monitoring?
• Comparative: How do deforestation rates compare between legally protected and unprotected areas in the Amazon?
• Predictive: Given increasing global demand for timber, how might tree populations in Siberia change in the next half-century?

Horticulture

• Descriptive: What are the common characteristics of plants suitable for urban vertical farming?
• Explanatory: Why do roses require specific pH levels in the soil for optimal growth?
• Exploratory: What potential methods might promote year-round vegetable farming in colder regions?
• Comparative: How does fruit yield differ between traditionally planted orchards and high-density planting systems?
• Predictive: How might changing global temperatures affect wine grape production in traditional regions?

Soil science

• Descriptive: What are the main components of loamy soil?
• Explanatory: Why does clay-rich soil retain more water compared to sandy soil?
• Exploratory: How might biochar applications transform nutrient availability in degraded soils?
• Comparative: How do nutrient levels vary between soils managed with organic versus inorganic fertilizers?
• Predictive: Based on current farming practices, how will soil quality in the Midwest U.S. evolve over the next 30 years?

Architectural design

• Descriptive: What are the dominant architectural styles of public buildings constructed in the 21st century?
• Explanatory: Why do certain architectural elements from classical periods continue to influence modern designs?
• Exploratory: How might sustainable materials revolutionize the future of architectural design?
• Comparative: How do energy consumption levels differ between buildings with passive design elements and those without?
• Predictive: Based on urbanization trends, how will the design of residential buildings evolve in the next two decades?

Landscape architecture

• Descriptive: What are the primary components of a successful urban park design?
• Explanatory: Why do certain types of vegetation promote greater biodiversity in urban settings?
• Exploratory: What innovative techniques can be employed to restore and integrate wetlands into urban landscapes?
• Comparative: How does visitor satisfaction vary between nature-inspired landscapes and more structured, geometric designs?
• Predictive: With the effects of climate change, how might coastal landscape architecture adapt to rising sea levels over the coming century?

Urban planning

• Descriptive: What are the main components of a pedestrian-friendly city center?
• Explanatory: Why do certain urban layouts promote more efficient traffic flow than others?
• Exploratory: How might the integration of vertical farming impact urban food security and cityscape aesthetics?
• Comparative: How do the air quality levels differ between cities with green belts and those without?
• Predictive: Based on increasing telecommuting trends, how will urban planning strategies adjust to potentially reduced daily commutes in the future?

Graphic design

• Descriptive: What are the prevailing typography trends in modern branding?
• Explanatory: Why do certain color schemes evoke specific emotions or perceptions in consumers?
• Exploratory: How is augmented reality reshaping the landscape of interactive graphic design?
• Comparative: How do print and digital designs differ in terms of elements and principles when targeting a young adult audience?
• Predictive: Based on evolving digital platforms, what are potential future trends in web design aesthetics?

Industrial design

• Descriptive: What characterizes the ergonomic features of leading office chairs in the market?
• Explanatory: Why have minimalist designs become more prevalent in consumer electronics over the past decade?
• Exploratory: How might bio-inspired design influence the future of transportation vehicles?
• Comparative: How does user satisfaction differ between traditional versus modular product designs?
• Predictive: Given the push towards sustainability, how will material selection evolve in the next decade of product design?

Multimedia arts

• Descriptive: What techniques define the most popular virtual reality (VR) experiences currently available?
• Explanatory: Why do certain sound designs enhance immersion in video games more effectively than others?
• Exploratory: How might holographic technologies revolutionize stage performances or public installations in the future?
• Comparative: How do user engagement levels differ between 2D animations and 3D animations in educational platforms?
• Predictive: With the rise of augmented reality (AR) wearables, what might be the next frontier in multimedia art installations?

Performing arts

• Descriptive: What styles of dance are currently predominant in global theater productions?
• Explanatory: Why do certain rhythms or beats universally resonate with audiences across cultures?
• Exploratory: How might digital avatars or AI entities play roles in future theatrical performances?
• Comparative: How does audience reception differ between traditional plays and experimental, interactive performances?
• Predictive: Considering global digitalization, how might virtual theaters redefine the experience of live performances in the future?

Visual arts

• Descriptive: What themes are prevalent in contemporary art exhibitions worldwide?
• Explanatory: Why have mixed media installations gained prominence in the 21st-century art scene?
• Exploratory: How is the intersection of technology and art opening new mediums or platforms for artists?
• Comparative: How do traditional painting techniques, such as oil and watercolor, contrast in terms of texture and luminosity?
• Predictive: With the evolution of digital art platforms, how might the definition and appreciation of "original" artworks change in the coming years?

Entrepreneurship

• Descriptive: What are the main challenges faced by startups in the tech industry?
• Explanatory: Why do some entrepreneurial ventures succeed while others fail within their first five years?
• Exploratory: How are emerging digital platforms reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape?
• Comparative: How do funding opportunities for entrepreneurs differ between North America and Europe?
• Predictive: What sectors are predicted to see the most startup growth in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the primary sources of external funding for large corporations?
• Explanatory: Why did the stock market experience a significant drop in Q4 2022?
• Exploratory: How might blockchain technology revolutionize the future of banking?
• Comparative: How do the financial markets in developing countries compare to those in developed countries?
• Predictive: Based on current economic indicators, what is the forecasted health of the global economy for the next five years?

Human resources

• Descriptive: What are the most sought-after employee benefits in the tech industry?
• Explanatory: Why is there a high turnover rate in the retail sector?
• Exploratory: How might the rise of remote work affect HR practices in the next decade?
• Comparative: How do HR practices in multinational corporations differ from those in local companies?
• Predictive: What skills will be in highest demand in the workforce by 2030?
• Descriptive: What are the core responsibilities of middle management in large manufacturing firms?
• Explanatory: Why do some management strategies fail in diverse cultural environments?
• Exploratory: How are companies adapting their management structures in response to the gig economy?
• Comparative: How does management style in Eastern companies compare with Western businesses?
• Predictive: How might artificial intelligence reshape management practices in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the most effective digital marketing channels for e-commerce businesses?
• Explanatory: Why did a particular viral marketing campaign succeed in reaching a global audience?
• Exploratory: How might virtual reality change the landscape of product advertising?
• Comparative: How do marketing strategies differ between B2B and B2C sectors?
• Predictive: What consumer behaviors are forecasted to dominate online shopping trends in the next five years?

Operations research

• Descriptive: What are the primary optimization techniques used in supply chain management?
• Explanatory: Why do certain optimization algorithms perform better in specific industries?
• Exploratory: How can quantum computing impact the future of operations research?
• Comparative: How does operations strategy differ between service and manufacturing industries?
• Predictive: Based on current technological advancements, how might automation reshape supply chain strategies by 2035?

Artificial intelligence

• Descriptive: What are the primary algorithms used in deep learning?
• Explanatory: Why do certain neural network architectures outperform others in image recognition tasks?
• Exploratory: How might quantum computing influence the development of AI models?
• Comparative: How do reinforcement learning methods compare to supervised learning in game playing scenarios?
• Predictive: Based on current trends, how will AI impact the job market over the next decade?

Cybersecurity

• Descriptive: What are the most common types of cyberattacks reported in 2022?
• Explanatory: Why are certain industries more vulnerable to ransomware attacks?
• Exploratory: How might advances in quantum computing challenge existing encryption methods?
• Comparative: How do open-source software vulnerabilities compare to those in proprietary systems?
• Predictive: Given emerging technologies, what types of cyber threats will likely dominate in the next five years?

Data science

• Descriptive: What are the main tools used by data scientists in large-scale data analysis?
• Explanatory: Why does algorithm X yield more accurate predictions than algorithm Y for certain datasets?
• Exploratory: How can machine learning models improve real-time data processing in IoT devices?
• Comparative: How does the performance of traditional statistical models compare to machine learning models in predicting stock prices?
• Predictive: Based on current data trends, what industries will likely benefit the most from data analytics advancements in the coming decade?

Information systems

• Descriptive: What are the core components of a modern enterprise resource planning (ERP) system?
• Explanatory: Why have cloud-based information systems seen a rapid adoption rate in recent years?
• Exploratory: How might the integration of blockchain technology revolutionize supply chain information systems?
• Comparative: How do information system strategies differ between e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retailers?
• Predictive: Given the rise of remote work, how will information systems evolve to support decentralized teams in the future?

Software engineering

• Descriptive: What are the standard practices in agile software development?
• Explanatory: Why do some software projects face significant delays despite rigorous planning?
• Exploratory: How are emerging programming languages shaping the future of software development?
• Comparative: How does the software development lifecycle in startup environments compare to that in large corporations?
• Predictive: Based on current development trends, which software platforms are forecasted to dominate market share by 2030?

Adult education

• Descriptive: What are the primary motivations behind adults seeking further education later in life?
• Explanatory: Why do some adult education programs have a higher success rate compared to others?
• Exploratory: How might online learning platforms revolutionize adult education in the next decade?
• Comparative: How do adult education methodologies differ from traditional collegiate teaching techniques?
• Predictive: Given current trends, how will the demand for adult education courses change in the upcoming years?

Curriculum studies

• Descriptive: What are the core components of a modern high school curriculum in the United States?
• Explanatory: Why have certain subjects, like financial literacy, become more emphasized in recent curriculum updates?
• Exploratory: How can interdisciplinary studies be better incorporated into traditional curricula?
• Comparative: How does the math curriculum in the US compare to that in other developed countries?
• Predictive: Based on pedagogical research, what subjects are forecasted to gain prominence in curricula over the next decade?

Educational administration

• Descriptive: What are the main responsibilities of a school principal in large urban schools?
• Explanatory: Why do some schools consistently perform better in standardized testing than others, despite similar resources?
• Exploratory: How might emerging technologies shape the administrative tasks of educational institutions in the future?
• Comparative: How does school administration differ between private and public educational institutions?
• Predictive: Given the rise of online education, how will the role of educational administrators evolve in the coming years?

Educational psychology

• Descriptive: What cognitive strategies are commonly used by students to enhance memory retention during studies?
• Explanatory: Why do certain teaching methodologies resonate better with students having specific learning styles?
• Exploratory: How can insights from behavioral psychology improve student engagement in virtual classrooms?
• Comparative: How does the motivation level of students differ between self-paced versus instructor-led courses?
• Predictive: With the increasing integration of technology in education, how will student learning behaviors change in the next decade?

Special education

• Descriptive: What interventions are commonly used to support students with autism spectrum disorders in inclusive classrooms?
• Explanatory: Why do some special education programs yield better academic outcomes for students with specific learning disabilities?
• Exploratory: How can augmented reality technologies be utilized to enhance learning for students with visual impairments?
• Comparative: How does special education support differ between urban and rural school districts?
• Predictive: Based on advancements in assistive technologies, how will the landscape of special education transform in the near future?

Aerospace engineering

• Descriptive: What are the key materials and technologies utilized in modern spacecraft design?
• Explanatory: Why are certain alloys preferred in high-temperature aerospace applications?
• Exploratory: How might advances in propulsion technologies revolutionize space travel in the next decade?
• Comparative: How do commercial aircraft designs differ from military aircraft designs in terms of aerodynamics?
• Predictive: Given current research trends, how will the efficiency of jet engines change in the upcoming years?

Biomedical engineering

• Descriptive: What are the foundational principles behind the design of modern prosthetic limbs?
• Explanatory: Why have bio-compatible materials like titanium become crucial in implantable medical devices?
• Exploratory: How can nanotechnology be leveraged to improve drug delivery systems in the future?
• Comparative: How do MRI machines differ from CT scanners in terms of their underlying technology and application?
• Predictive: Based on emerging trends, how will wearable health monitors evolve in the next decade?

Chemical engineering

• Descriptive: What processes are involved in the large-scale production of ethylene?
• Explanatory: Why is distillation the most common separation method in the petroleum industry?
• Exploratory: How might green chemistry principles transform traditional chemical manufacturing processes?
• Comparative: How does the production of biofuels compare to traditional fossil fuels in terms of yield and environmental impact?
• Predictive: Given global sustainability goals, how will the chemical industry's reliance on fossil resources shift in the future?

Civil engineering

• Descriptive: What are the primary considerations in the structural design of skyscrapers in earthquake-prone regions?
• Explanatory: Why are steel-reinforced concrete beams commonly used in bridge construction?
• Exploratory: How can smart city concepts influence the infrastructure planning of urban centers in the future?
• Comparative: How do tunneling methods differ between soft soil and hard rock terrains?
• Predictive: With the increasing threat of climate change, how will coastal infrastructure design criteria change to account for rising sea levels?

Computer engineering

• Descriptive: What are the main components of a modern central processing unit (CPU) and their functions?
• Explanatory: Why is silicon predominantly used in semiconductor manufacturing?
• Exploratory: How might quantum computing redefine the landscape of traditional computing architectures?
• Comparative: How do solid-state drives (SSDs) compare to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) in terms of performance and longevity?
• Predictive: Given advancements in chip miniaturization, how will the form factor of consumer electronics evolve in the coming years?

Electrical engineering

• Descriptive: What are the standard stages involved in the transmission and distribution of electrical power?
• Explanatory: Why are transformers essential in the power distribution network?
• Exploratory: How can emerging smart grid technologies improve the efficiency and reliability of electrical distribution systems?
• Comparative: How do AC and DC transmission methods differ in terms of efficiency and infrastructure requirements?
• Predictive: With the rise of renewable energy sources, how will power grid management complexities change in the next decade?

Mechanical engineering

• Descriptive: What are the fundamental principles behind the operation of a four-stroke internal combustion engine?
• Explanatory: Why are certain polymers used as vibration dampeners in machinery?
• Exploratory: How might advancements in materials science impact the design of future automotive systems?
• Comparative: How do hydraulic systems compare to pneumatic systems in terms of energy efficiency and application?
• Predictive: With the push towards sustainability, how will traditional manufacturing methods evolve to reduce their carbon footprint?

Climatology

• Descriptive: What are the primary factors that influence the El Niño and La Niña phenomena?
• Explanatory: Why have certain regions experienced more intense and frequent heatwaves in the past decade?
• Exploratory: How might changing atmospheric CO2 concentrations impact global wind patterns in the future?
• Comparative: How do urban areas differ from rural areas in terms of microclimate conditions?
• Predictive: Given current greenhouse gas emission trends, what will be the average global temperature increase by the end of the century?

Conservation science

• Descriptive: What are the primary threats faced by tropical rainforests around the world?
• Explanatory: Why are certain species more vulnerable to habitat fragmentation than others?
• Exploratory: How can community involvement enhance conservation efforts in protected areas?
• Comparative: How does the effectiveness of in-situ conservation compare to ex-situ conservation for endangered species?
• Predictive: If current deforestation rates continue, how many species are predicted to go extinct in the next 50 years?
• Descriptive: What are the dominant flora and fauna in a temperate deciduous forest biome?
• Explanatory: Why do certain ecosystems, like wetlands, have higher biodiversity than others?
• Exploratory: How might the spread of invasive species alter nutrient cycling in freshwater lakes?
• Comparative: How do the trophic dynamics of grassland ecosystems differ from those of desert ecosystems?
• Predictive: How will global ecosystems change if bee populations continue to decline at current rates?

Environmental health

• Descriptive: What are the major pollutants found in urban air?
• Explanatory: Why do certain pollutants cause respiratory diseases in humans?
• Exploratory: How might green building designs reduce the health risks associated with indoor air pollutants?
• Comparative: How do the health impacts of living near coal-fired power plants compare to living near nuclear power plants?
• Predictive: Given increasing urbanization trends, how will air quality in major cities change over the next two decades?

Marine biology

• Descriptive: What are the primary species that comprise a coral reef ecosystem?
• Explanatory: Why are coral reefs particularly sensitive to changes in sea temperature?
• Exploratory: How might deep-sea exploration reveal unknown marine species and their adaptations?
• Comparative: How do the feeding strategies of pelagic fish differ from benthic fish in oceanic ecosystems?
• Predictive: If ocean acidification trends continue, what will be the impact on shell-forming marine organisms in the next 30 years?
• Descriptive: What are the most common oral health issues faced by elderly individuals?
• Explanatory: Why do sugary foods lead to a higher prevalence of cavities?
• Exploratory: How might emerging technologies revolutionize dental procedures in the coming decade?
• Comparative: How do the effects of electric toothbrushes compare to manual ones in reducing plaque?
• Predictive: Given current trends, how might the prevalence of gum diseases change in populations with increased sugar consumption over the next decade?

Kinesiology

• Descriptive: What are the primary physiological changes that occur during aerobic exercise?
• Explanatory: Why do some athletes experience muscle cramps during extensive physical activity?
• Exploratory: How might different stretching routines impact athletic performance?
• Comparative: How do the biomechanics of running on a treadmill differ from running outdoors?
• Predictive: If sedentary lifestyles continue to rise, what could be the potential impact on musculoskeletal health in the next 20 years?
• Descriptive: What are the main symptoms associated with the early stages of Parkinson's disease?
• Explanatory: Why are some viruses, like the flu, more prevalent in colder months?
• Exploratory: How might genetic editing technologies, like CRISPR, be utilized to treat hereditary diseases in the future?
• Comparative: How does the efficacy of traditional chemotherapy compare to targeted therapy in treating certain cancers?
• Predictive: Given advances in telemedicine, how might patient-doctor interactions evolve over the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the primary responsibilities of nurses in intensive care units?
• Explanatory: Why is there a higher burnout rate among nurses compared to other healthcare professionals?
• Exploratory: How can training programs be improved to better equip nurses for challenges in emergency situations?
• Comparative: How does the patient recovery rate differ when cared for by specialized nurses versus general ward nurses?
• Predictive: How will the role of nurses change with the integration of more AI-based diagnostic tools in hospitals?
• Descriptive: What are the main nutritional components of a Mediterranean diet?
• Explanatory: Why does a diet high in processed sugars lead to increased risks of type 2 diabetes?
• Exploratory: How might gut microbiota be influenced by various diets and what are the potential health implications?
• Comparative: How does the nutritional profile of plant-based proteins compare to animal-based proteins?
• Predictive: If global meat consumption trends continue, what could be the implications for population-wide nutritional health in 30 years?
• Descriptive: What are the primary active ingredients in over-the-counter pain relievers?
• Explanatory: Why do certain medications cause drowsiness as a side effect?
• Exploratory: How might nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems enhance the efficacy of certain treatments?
• Comparative: How do the effects of generic drugs compare to their brand-name counterparts?
• Predictive: Given the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, how might pharmaceutical approaches to bacterial infections change in the future?

Public health

• Descriptive: What are the main factors contributing to public health disparities in urban vs rural areas?
• Explanatory: Why did certain regions have higher transmission rates during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Exploratory: How can community engagement strategies be optimized for more effective health campaigns?
• Comparative: How do vaccination rates and outcomes differ between countries with public vs private healthcare systems?
• Predictive: Based on current trends, how will global public health challenges evolve over the next 50 years?

Art history

• Descriptive: What are the primary artistic styles observed in the Renaissance era?
• Explanatory: Why did the Baroque art movement emerge after the Renaissance?
• Exploratory: How might newly discovered ancient art pieces reshape our understanding of prehistoric artistic practices?
• Comparative: How does European Romantic art differ from Asian Romantic art of the same period?
• Predictive: Given current trends, how might digital art impact traditional art gallery setups in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the primary themes in Homer's "Odyssey"?
• Explanatory: Why did Greek tragedies place a strong emphasis on the concept of fate?
• Exploratory: Are there undiscovered works that might provide more insight into daily life in ancient Rome?
• Comparative: How do Roman epics compare to their Greek counterparts in terms of character development?
• Predictive: How will emerging technologies like virtual reality affect the study of ancient ruins?

Cultural studies

• Descriptive: How is the concept of family portrayed in contemporary American media?
• Explanatory: Why has the influence of Western culture grown in certain Eastern countries over the last century?
• Exploratory: What are the emerging subcultures in the digital age and how do they communicate?
• Comparative: How does the representation of masculinity vary between Eastern and Western films?
• Predictive: In what ways might globalization affect cultural identities in the next two decades?
• Descriptive: What events led to the fall of the Berlin Wall?
• Explanatory: Why did the Industrial Revolution begin in Britain?
• Exploratory: Are there undocumented civilizational interactions in ancient times that new archaeological findings might reveal?
• Comparative: How did the responses to the Black Plague differ between European and Asian nations?
• Predictive: Given historical patterns, how might major global powers react to dwindling natural resources in the future?
• Descriptive: What are the main narrative techniques used in James Joyce's "Ulysses"?
• Explanatory: Why did the Gothic novel become popular in 19th-century England?
• Exploratory: How might translations of ancient texts reveal different interpretations based on the translator's cultural background?
• Comparative: How does the portrayal of war differ between post-WWII American and French literature?
• Predictive: How might the rise of AI-authored literature change the publishing industry?
• Descriptive: What are the core principles of existentialism as described by Jean-Paul Sartre?
• Explanatory: Why did the philosophy of existentialism gain prominence post-WWII?
• Exploratory: How might ancient Eastern philosophies provide insights into modern ethical dilemmas surrounding technology?
• Comparative: How does Nietzsche's concept of the "Ubermensch" compare to Aristotle's "virtuous person"?
• Predictive: As AI becomes more prevalent, how might philosophical discussions around consciousness evolve?

Religious studies

• Descriptive: What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
• Explanatory: Why did Protestantism emerge within Christianity during the 16th century?
• Exploratory: Are there common motifs in creation myths across various religions?
• Comparative: How do concepts of the afterlife compare between Christianity, Buddhism, and Ancient Egyptian beliefs?
• Predictive: How might interfaith dialogue shape religious practices in multi-faith societies over the next decade?

Classic languages

• Descriptive: What are the primary grammatical structures in Ancient Greek?
• Explanatory: Why did Latin play a foundational role in the development of many modern European languages?
• Exploratory: Are there yet-to-be-deciphered scripts from ancient civilizations that might provide insight into lost languages?
• Comparative: How do the verb conjugation patterns in Latin compare to those in Sanskrit?
• Predictive: Given the ongoing research in classical studies, how might our understanding of certain ancient texts change in the next decade?

Comparative literature

• Descriptive: What are the main themes in Japanese Haiku and English Sonnets?
• Explanatory: Why do certain folklore tales appear with variations across different cultures?
• Exploratory: How might newly translated works from lesser-known languages reshape the world literature canon?
• Comparative: How does the role of the tragic hero in French literature differ from its portrayal in Russian literature?
• Predictive: As global communication becomes more interconnected, how might the study of world literature evolve in universities?

Modern languages

• Descriptive: What are the primary tonal patterns observed in Mandarin Chinese?
• Explanatory: Why has English become a dominant lingua franca in international business and diplomacy?
• Exploratory: Which lesser-studied languages might become more prominent due to socio-political changes in their regions?
• Comparative: How do the grammatical complexities of Russian compare to those of German?
• Predictive: Given current global trends, which languages are predicted to become more widely spoken in the next two decades?
• Descriptive: What are the primary articulatory features of plosive sounds?
• Explanatory: Why do certain accents develop specific pitch fluctuations and intonations?
• Exploratory: How do various environmental factors affect vocal cord vibrations and sound production?
• Comparative: How does the pronunciation of fricatives differ between Spanish and Portuguese speakers?
• Predictive: How might advancements in voice recognition technology influence phonetics research in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the primary signs and symbols used in American road signage?
• Explanatory: Why do red roses universally symbolize love or passion in many cultures?
• Exploratory: Are there emerging symbols in digital communication that could become universally recognized signs in the future?
• Comparative: How do the semiotic structures in print advertisements differ between Western and Eastern cultures?
• Predictive: As emoji usage becomes more widespread, how might they impact written language semantics in the coming years?
• Descriptive: What are the key statutes governing tenant rights in residential leases?
• Explanatory: Why do personal injury claims vary significantly in settlement amounts even under similar circumstances?
• Exploratory: How might alternative dispute resolution mechanisms evolve in civil law contexts over the next decade?
• Comparative: How do defamation laws differ between jurisdictions that adopt the British common law system versus the Napoleonic code?
• Predictive: How might the rise of online transactions affect the volume and nature of civil law cases related to contract disputes?

Constitutional law

• Descriptive: What are the main principles enshrined in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution?
• Explanatory: Why have some constitutional rights been subject to varying interpretations over time?
• Exploratory: Are there emerging debates around digital rights and freedoms that might reshape constitutional interpretations in the future?
• Comparative: How does the protection of freedom of speech differ between the U.S. Constitution and the German Basic Law?
• Predictive: Given global socio-political trends, how might constitutional democracies adjust their foundational texts in the next two decades?

Corporate law

• Descriptive: What are the primary duties and liabilities of a board of directors in a publicly traded company?
• Explanatory: Why do mergers and acquisitions often involve extensive due diligence processes?
• Exploratory: How might the rise of digital currencies impact the regulatory landscape for corporations in the finance sector?
• Comparative: How does the legal framework for shareholder rights in the U.S. compare to that of Japan?
• Predictive: How might changing global trade dynamics influence corporate structuring and international partnerships?

Criminal law

• Descriptive: What constitutes first-degree murder in the majority of jurisdictions?
• Explanatory: Why are certain offenses classified as misdemeanors while others are felonies?
• Exploratory: Are there emerging patterns in cybercrime that suggest new areas of legal vulnerability?
• Comparative: How does the treatment of juvenile offenders differ between Scandinavian countries and the U.S.?
• Predictive: Given advancements in technology, how might criminal law evolve to address potential misuses of artificial intelligence?

International law

• Descriptive: What are the foundational principles of the Geneva Conventions?
• Explanatory: Why have some nations refused to recognize or be bound by certain international treaties?
• Exploratory: How might global climate change reshape international agreements and treaties in the coming years?
• Comparative: How do regional trade agreements in Africa compare to those in Southeast Asia in terms of provisions and enforcement mechanisms?
• Predictive: How might geopolitical shifts influence the role and effectiveness of international courts in resolving state disputes?

Applied mathematics

• Descriptive: What are the primary mathematical models used to predict the spread of infectious diseases?
• Explanatory: Why does the Navier–Stokes equation play a pivotal role in fluid dynamics?
• Exploratory: How might new computational methods enhance the efficiency of existing algorithms in applied mathematics?
• Comparative: How do optimization techniques in operations research differ from those in machine learning applications?
• Predictive: Given the rapid growth of quantum computing, how might it reshape the landscape of applied mathematical problems in the next decade?

Applied statistics

• Descriptive: What are the standard procedures for handling missing data in a large-scale survey?
• Explanatory: Why do statisticians use bootstrapping techniques in hypothesis testing?
• Exploratory: How might emerging data sources, like wearables and IoT devices, introduce new challenges and opportunities in applied statistics?
• Comparative: How does the performance of Bayesian methods compare to frequentist methods in complex hierarchical models?
• Predictive: With the increasing availability of big data, how might the role of applied statisticians evolve in the next five years?

Pure mathematics

• Descriptive: What are the axioms underpinning Euclidean geometry?
• Explanatory: Why is Gödel's incompleteness theorem considered a foundational result in the philosophy of mathematics?
• Exploratory: Are there newly emerging areas of study within number theory due to advancements in computational mathematics?
• Comparative: How do algebraic structures differ between rings and fields?
• Predictive: Considering current research trends, what areas of pure mathematics are poised for significant breakthroughs in the next decade?

Theoretical statistics

• Descriptive: What foundational principles underlie the Central Limit Theorem?
• Explanatory: Why is the concept of sufficiency crucial in the design of statistical tests?
• Exploratory: How might advances in artificial intelligence influence theoretical developments in statistical inference?
• Comparative: How do likelihood-based inference methods compare to Bayesian methods in terms of theoretical underpinnings?
• Predictive: As data generation mechanisms evolve, how might the theoretical foundations of statistics need to adapt in the future?
• Descriptive: What are the key features and behaviors of black holes?
• Explanatory: Why does the expansion of the universe appear to be accelerating?
• Exploratory: What potential insights might the study of exoplanets provide about the conditions necessary for life?
• Comparative: How do the properties of spiral galaxies differ from those of elliptical galaxies?
• Predictive: Based on current data, what are the projected future behaviors of our sun as it ages?
• Descriptive: What are the primary functions and structures of ribosomes in a cell?
• Explanatory: Why does DNA replication occur semi-conservatively?
• Exploratory: How might emerging technologies like CRISPR redefine our understanding of genetic engineering?
• Comparative: How do the metabolic processes of prokaryotic cells differ from those of eukaryotic cells?
• Predictive: Given the current trajectory of climate change, how might the biodiversity in tropical rainforests be affected over the next century?
• Descriptive: What are the key properties and uses of the noble gases?
• Explanatory: Why do exothermic reactions release heat?
• Exploratory: How might advances in nanochemistry influence drug delivery systems?
• Comparative: How do ionic bonds differ in strength and characteristics from covalent bonds?
• Predictive: Considering the rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, how might the field of medicinal chemistry adapt to produce effective treatments in the future?

Earth science

• Descriptive: What are the primary layers of Earth's atmosphere and their respective characteristics?
• Explanatory: Why do certain regions experience more seismic activity than others?
• Exploratory: How might the study of ancient ice cores provide insights into past climate conditions?
• Comparative: How do the processes of weathering differ between arid and humid climates?
• Predictive: Given current data on deforestation, what could be its impact on global soil quality and erosion patterns over the next 50 years?
• Descriptive: What are the fundamental principles underlying quantum mechanics?
• Explanatory: Why does the speed of light in a vacuum remain constant regardless of the observer's frame of reference?
• Exploratory: How might studies in string theory reshape our understanding of the universe at the smallest scales?
• Comparative: How do the effects of general relativity contrast with predictions from Newtonian physics under extreme gravitational conditions?
• Predictive: With advancements in particle physics, what potential new particles or phenomena might be discovered in the next decade?

Anthropology

• Descriptive: What are the primary rituals and customs of the indigenous tribes of the Amazon?
• Explanatory: Why did the ancient Mayan civilization collapse?
• Exploratory: How might modern urbanization impact the preservation of ancient burial sites?
• Comparative: How do hunter-gatherer societies differ from agricultural societies in terms of social structures?
• Predictive: Given global trends, how might indigenous cultures evolve over the next century?

Communication

• Descriptive: What are the main modes of communication used by millennials compared to baby boomers?
• Explanatory: Why has the usage of social media platforms surged in the last two decades?
• Exploratory: How might advancements in virtual reality reshape interpersonal communication in the future?
• Comparative: How do written communication skills differ between those educated in traditional schools versus online schools?
• Predictive: How might the nature of journalism change with the rise of automated content generation?
• Descriptive: What are the primary components of a nation's gross domestic product (GDP)?
• Explanatory: Why did the economic recession of 2008 occur?
• Exploratory: How might the concept of universal basic income impact labor market dynamics?
• Comparative: How do free market economies differ from command economies in terms of resource allocation?
• Predictive: Based on current global economic trends, which industries are predicted to boom in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the geographical features of the Himalayan mountain range?
• Explanatory: Why do desert regions exist on the western coasts of continents, such as the Atacama in South America?
• Exploratory: How might rising sea levels reshape the world's coastlines over the next century?
• Comparative: How does urban planning in European cities differ from that in American cities?
• Predictive: Given current urbanization rates, which cities are poised to become megacities by 2050?

Political science

• Descriptive: What are the foundational principles of a parliamentary democracy?
• Explanatory: Why do certain nations adopt federal systems while others prefer unitary systems?
• Exploratory: How might the rise of populism influence global diplomatic relations in the 21st century?
• Comparative: How do the rights of citizens in liberal democracies differ from those in authoritarian regimes?
• Predictive: Based on current political trends, which nations might see significant shifts in governance models over the next two decades?
• Descriptive: What are the primary stages of cognitive development in children according to Piaget?
• Explanatory: Why do certain individuals develop phobias?
• Exploratory: How might emerging neuroscientific tools, like fMRI, alter our understanding of human emotions?
• Comparative: How do coping mechanisms differ between individuals with high resilience versus those with low resilience?
• Predictive: Given the rise in digital communication, how might human attention spans evolve in future generations?

Social work

• Descriptive: What are the core principles and practices in child protective services?
• Explanatory: Why do certain communities have higher rates of child neglect and abuse?
• Exploratory: How might the integration of artificial intelligence in social work affect decision-making in child welfare cases?
• Comparative: How do intervention strategies for substance abuse differ between urban and rural settings?
• Predictive: Based on current societal trends, what challenges might social workers face in the next decade?
• Descriptive: What are the defining characteristics of Generation Z as a social cohort?
• Explanatory: Why have nuclear families become less prevalent in Western societies?
• Exploratory: How might the widespread adoption of virtual realities impact social interactions and community structures in the future?
• Comparative: How do the roles and perceptions of elderly individuals differ between Eastern and Western societies?
• Predictive: Given the rise in remote work, how might urban and suburban living patterns change over the next three decades?

In synthesizing the vast range of research questions posed across diverse disciplines, it becomes clear that every academic field, from the humanities to the social sciences, offers unique perspectives and methodologies to uncover and understand various facets of our world. These questions, whether descriptive, explanatory, exploratory, comparative, or predictive, serve as guiding lights, driving scholarship and innovation. As academia continues to evolve and adapt, these inquiries not only define the boundaries of current knowledge but also pave the way for future discoveries and insights, emphasizing the invaluable role of continuous inquiry in the ever-evolving tapestry of human understanding.

Header image by Zetong Li .

How to Write a Research Question: Types and Examples 

The first step in any research project is framing the research question. It can be considered the core of any systematic investigation as the research outcomes are tied to asking the right questions. Thus, this primary interrogation point sets the pace for your research as it helps collect relevant and insightful information that ultimately influences your work.   

Typically, the research question guides the stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting. Depending on the use of quantifiable or quantitative data, research questions are broadly categorized into quantitative or qualitative research questions. Both types of research questions can be used independently or together, considering the overall focus and objectives of your research.  

What is a research question?

A research question is a clear, focused, concise, and arguable question on which your research and writing are centered. 1 It states various aspects of the study, including the population and variables to be studied and the problem the study addresses. These questions also set the boundaries of the study, ensuring cohesion. 

Designing the research question is a dynamic process where the researcher can change or refine the research question as they review related literature and develop a framework for the study. Depending on the scale of your research, the study can include single or multiple research questions. 

A good research question has the following features: 

• It is relevant to the chosen field of study. 
• The question posed is arguable and open for debate, requiring synthesizing and analysis of ideas. 
• It is focused and concisely framed. 
• A feasible solution is possible within the given practical constraint and timeframe. 

A poorly formulated research question poses several risks. 1   

• Researchers can adopt an erroneous design. 
• It can create confusion and hinder the thought process, including developing a clear protocol.  
• It can jeopardize publication efforts.  
• It causes difficulty in determining the relevance of the study findings.  
• It causes difficulty in whether the study fulfils the inclusion criteria for systematic review and meta-analysis. This creates challenges in determining whether additional studies or data collection is needed to answer the question.  
• Readers may fail to understand the objective of the study. This reduces the likelihood of the study being cited by others. 

Now that you know “What is a research question?”, let’s look at the different types of research questions. 

Types of research questions

Depending on the type of research to be done, research questions can be classified broadly into quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies. Knowing the type of research helps determine the best type of research question that reflects the direction and epistemological underpinnings of your research. 

The structure and wording of quantitative 2 and qualitative research 3 questions differ significantly. The quantitative study looks at causal relationships, whereas the qualitative study aims at exploring a phenomenon. 

• Quantitative research questions:  
• Seeks to investigate social, familial, or educational experiences or processes in a particular context and/or location.  
• Answers ‘how,’ ‘what,’ or ‘why’ questions. 
• Investigates connections, relations, or comparisons between independent and dependent variables. 

Quantitative research questions can be further categorized into descriptive, comparative, and relationship, as explained in the Table below. 

• Qualitative research questions  

Qualitative research questions are adaptable, non-directional, and more flexible. It concerns broad areas of research or more specific areas of study to discover, explain, or explore a phenomenon. These are further classified as follows: 

• Mixed-methods studies  

Mixed-methods studies use both quantitative and qualitative research questions to answer your research question. Mixed methods provide a complete picture than standalone quantitative or qualitative research, as it integrates the benefits of both methods. Mixed methods research is often used in multidisciplinary settings and complex situational or societal research, especially in the behavioral, health, and social science fields. 

What makes a good research question

A good research question should be clear and focused to guide your research. It should synthesize multiple sources to present your unique argument, and should ideally be something that you are interested in. But avoid questions that can be answered in a few factual statements. The following are the main attributes of a good research question. 

• Specific: The research question should not be a fishing expedition performed in the hopes that some new information will be found that will benefit the researcher. The central research question should work with your research problem to keep your work focused. If using multiple questions, they should all tie back to the central aim. 
• Measurable: The research question must be answerable using quantitative and/or qualitative data or from scholarly sources to develop your research question. If such data is impossible to access, it is better to rethink your question. 
• Attainable: Ensure you have enough time and resources to do all research required to answer your question. If it seems you will not be able to gain access to the data you need, consider narrowing down your question to be more specific. 
• You have the expertise 
• You have the equipment and resources 
• Realistic: Developing your research question should be based on initial reading about your topic. It should focus on addressing a problem or gap in the existing knowledge in your field or discipline. 
• Based on some sort of rational physics 
• Can be done in a reasonable time frame 
• Timely: The research question should contribute to an existing and current debate in your field or in society at large. It should produce knowledge that future researchers or practitioners can later build on. 
• Novel 
• Based on current technologies. 
• Important to answer current problems or concerns. 
• Lead to new directions. 
• Important: Your question should have some aspect of originality. Incremental research is as important as exploring disruptive technologies. For example, you can focus on a specific location or explore a new angle. 
• Meaningful whether the answer is “Yes” or “No.” Closed-ended, yes/no questions are too simple to work as good research questions. Such questions do not provide enough scope for robust investigation and discussion. A good research question requires original data, synthesis of multiple sources, and original interpretation and argumentation before providing an answer. 

Steps for developing a good research question

The importance of research questions cannot be understated. When drafting a research question, use the following frameworks to guide the components of your question to ease the process. 4  

• Determine the requirements: Before constructing a good research question, set your research requirements. What is the purpose? Is it descriptive, comparative, or explorative research? Determining the research aim will help you choose the most appropriate topic and word your question appropriately. 
• Select a broad research topic: Identify a broader subject area of interest that requires investigation. Techniques such as brainstorming or concept mapping can help identify relevant connections and themes within a broad research topic. For example, how to learn and help students learn. 
• Perform preliminary investigation: Preliminary research is needed to obtain up-to-date and relevant knowledge on your topic. It also helps identify issues currently being discussed from which information gaps can be identified. 
• Narrow your focus: Narrow the scope and focus of your research to a specific niche. This involves focusing on gaps in existing knowledge or recent literature or extending or complementing the findings of existing literature. Another approach involves constructing strong research questions that challenge your views or knowledge of the area of study (Example: Is learning consistent with the existing learning theory and research). 
• Identify the research problem: Once the research question has been framed, one should evaluate it. This is to realize the importance of the research questions and if there is a need for more revising (Example: How do your beliefs on learning theory and research impact your instructional practices). 

How to write a research question

Those struggling to understand how to write a research question, these simple steps can help you simplify the process of writing a research question. 

Sample Research Questions

The following are some bad and good research question examples 

• Example 1 
• Example 2 

References:  

• Thabane, L., Thomas, T., Ye, C., & Paul, J. (2009). Posing the research question: not so simple.  Canadian Journal of Anesthesia/Journal canadien d’anesthésie ,  56 (1), 71-79. 
• Rutberg, S., & Bouikidis, C. D. (2018). Focusing on the fundamentals: A simplistic differentiation between qualitative and quantitative research.  Nephrology Nursing Journal ,  45 (2), 209-213. 
• Kyngäs, H. (2020). Qualitative research and content analysis.  The application of content analysis in nursing science research , 3-11. 
• Mattick, K., Johnston, J., & de la Croix, A. (2018). How to… write a good research question.  The clinical teacher ,  15 (2), 104-108. 
• Fandino, W. (2019). Formulating a good research question: Pearls and pitfalls.  Indian Journal of Anaesthesia ,  63 (8), 611. 
• Richardson, W. S., Wilson, M. C., Nishikawa, J., & Hayward, R. S. (1995). The well-built clinical question: a key to evidence-based decisions.  ACP journal club ,  123 (3), A12-A13 

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Think Like a Researcher: Instruction Resources: #6 Developing Successful Research Questions

• Guide Organization
• Overall Summary
• #1 Think Like a Researcher!
• #2 How to Read a Scholarly Article
• #3 Reading for Keywords (CREDO)
• #4 Using Google for Academic Research
• #4 Using Google for Academic Research (Alternate)
• #5 Integrating Sources
• Research Question Discussion
• #7 Avoiding Researcher Bias
• #8 Understanding the Information Cycle
• #9 Exploring Databases
• #10 Library Session
• #11 Post Library Session Activities
• Summary - Readings
• Summary - Research Journal Prompts
• Summary - Key Assignments
• Jigsaw Readings
• Permission Form

Course Learning Outcome:   Develop ability to synthesize and express complex ideas; demonstrate information literacy and be able to work with evidence

Goal:  Develop students’ ability to recognize and create successful research questions

Specifically, students will be able to

• identify the components of a successful research question.
• create a viable research question.

What Makes a Good Research Topic Handout

These handouts are intended to be used as a discussion generator that will help students develop a solid research topic or question. Many students start with topics that are poorly articulated, too broad, unarguable, or are socially insignificant. Each of these problems may result in a topic that is virtually un-researchable. Starting with a researchable topic is critical to writing an effective paper.

Research shows that students are much more invested in writing when they are able to choose their own topics. However, there is also research to support the notion that students are completely overwhelmed and frustrated when they are given complete freedom to write about whatever they choose. Providing some structure or topic themes that allow students to make bounded choices may be a way mitigate these competing realities.

These handouts can be modified or edited for your purposes.  One can be used as a handout for students while the other can serve as a sample answer key.  The document is best used as part of a process.  For instance, perhaps starting with discussing the issues and potential research questions, moving on to problems and social significance but returning to proposals/solutions at a later date.

• Research Questions - Handout Key (2 pgs) This document is a condensed version of "What Makes a Good Research Topic". It serves as a key.
• Research Questions - Handout for Students (2 pgs) This document could be used with a class to discuss sample research questions (are they suitable?) and to have them start thinking about problems, social significance, and solutions for additional sample research questions.
• Research Question Discussion This tab includes materials for introduction students to research question criteria for a problem/solution essay.

Additional Resources

These documents have similarities to those above.  They represent original documents and conversations about research questions from previous TRAIL trainings.

• What Makes a Good Research Topic? - Original Handout (4 pgs)
• What Makes a Good Research Topic? Revised Jan. 2016 (4 pgs)
• What Makes a Good Research Topic? Revised Jan 2016 with comments

Topic Selection (NCSU Libraries)

Howard, Rebecca Moore, Tricia Serviss, and Tanya K. Rodrigues. " Writing from sources, writing from sentences ." Writing & Pedagogy 2.2 (2010): 177-192.

Research Journal

Assign after students have participated in the Developing Successful Research Topics/Questions Lesson OR have drafted a Research Proposal.

Think about your potential research question.

• What is the problem that underlies your question?
• Is the problem of social significance? Explain.
• Is your proposed solution to the problem feasible? Explain.
• Do you think there is evidence to support your solution?

Keys for Writers - Additional Resource

Keys for Writers (Raimes and Miller-Cochran) includes a section to guide students in the formation of an arguable claim (thesis).  The authors advise students to avoid the following since they are not debatable. 

• "a neutral statement, which gives no hint of the writer's position"
• "an announcement of the paper's broad subject"
• "a fact, which is not arguable"
• "a truism (statement that is obviously true)"
• "a personal or religious conviction that cannot be logically debated"
• "an opinion based only on your feelings"
• "a sweeping generalization" (Section 4C, pg. 52)

The book also provides examples and key points (pg. 53) for a good working thesis.

• << Previous: #5 Integrating Sources
• Next: Research Question Discussion >>
• Last Updated: Oct 24, 2024 11:15 AM
• URL: https://libguides.ucmerced.edu/think_like_a_researcher

Research Aims, Objectives & Questions

By: David Phair (PhD) and Alexandra Shaeffer (PhD) | June 2022

T he research aims , objectives and research questions (collectively called the “golden thread”) are arguably the most important thing you need to get right when you’re crafting a research proposal , dissertation or thesis . We receive questions almost every day about this “holy trinity” of research and there’s certainly a lot of confusion out there, so we’ve crafted this post to help you navigate your way through the fog.

Overview: The Golden Thread

• What is the golden thread
• What are research aims ( examples )
• What are research objectives ( examples )
• What are research questions ( examples )
• The importance of alignment in the golden thread

What is the “golden thread”?

The golden thread simply refers to the collective research aims , research objectives , and research questions for any given project (i.e., a dissertation, thesis, or research paper ). These three elements are bundled together because it’s extremely important that they align with each other, and that the entire research project aligns with them.

Importantly, the golden thread needs to weave its way through the entirety of any research project , from start to end. In other words, it needs to be very clearly defined right at the beginning of the project (the topic ideation and proposal stage) and it needs to inform almost every decision throughout the rest of the project. For example, your research design and methodology will be heavily influenced by the golden thread (we’ll explain this in more detail later), as well as your literature review.

The research aims, objectives and research questions (the golden thread) define the focus and scope ( the delimitations ) of your research project. In other words, they help ringfence your dissertation or thesis to a relatively narrow domain, so that you can “go deep” and really dig into a specific problem or opportunity. They also help keep you on track , as they act as a litmus test for relevance. In other words, if you’re ever unsure whether to include something in your document, simply ask yourself the question, “does this contribute toward my research aims, objectives or questions?”. If it doesn’t, chances are you can drop it.

Alright, enough of the fluffy, conceptual stuff. Let’s get down to business and look at what exactly the research aims, objectives and questions are and outline a few examples to bring these concepts to life.

Research Aims: What are they?

Simply put, the research aim(s) is a statement that reflects the broad overarching goal (s) of the research project. Research aims are fairly high-level (low resolution) as they outline the general direction of the research and what it’s trying to achieve .

Research Aims: Examples

True to the name, research aims usually start with the wording “this research aims to…”, “this research seeks to…”, and so on. For example:

“This research aims to explore employee experiences of digital transformation in retail HR.”   “This study sets out to assess the interaction between student support and self-care on well-being in engineering graduate students”  

As you can see, these research aims provide a high-level description of what the study is about and what it seeks to achieve. They’re not hyper-specific or action-oriented, but they’re clear about what the study’s focus is and what is being investigated.

Need a helping hand?

Research Objectives: What are they?

The research objectives take the research aims and make them more practical and actionable . In other words, the research objectives showcase the steps that the researcher will take to achieve the research aims.

The research objectives need to be far more specific (higher resolution) and actionable than the research aims. In fact, it’s always a good idea to craft your research objectives using the “SMART” criteria. In other words, they should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound”.

Research Objectives: Examples

Let’s look at two examples of research objectives. We’ll stick with the topic and research aims we mentioned previously.  

For the digital transformation topic:

To observe the retail HR employees throughout the digital transformation. To assess employee perceptions of digital transformation in retail HR. To identify the barriers and facilitators of digital transformation in retail HR.

And for the student wellness topic:

To determine whether student self-care predicts the well-being score of engineering graduate students. To determine whether student support predicts the well-being score of engineering students. To assess the interaction between student self-care and student support when predicting well-being in engineering graduate students.

  As you can see, these research objectives clearly align with the previously mentioned research aims and effectively translate the low-resolution aims into (comparatively) higher-resolution objectives and action points . They give the research project a clear focus and present something that resembles a research-based “to-do” list.

Research Questions: What are they?

Finally, we arrive at the all-important research questions. The research questions are, as the name suggests, the key questions that your study will seek to answer . Simply put, they are the core purpose of your dissertation, thesis, or research project. You’ll present them at the beginning of your document (either in the introduction chapter or literature review chapter) and you’ll answer them at the end of your document (typically in the discussion and conclusion chapters).

The research questions will be the driving force throughout the research process. For example, in the literature review chapter, you’ll assess the relevance of any given resource based on whether it helps you move towards answering your research questions. Similarly, your methodology and research design will be heavily influenced by the nature of your research questions. For instance, research questions that are exploratory in nature will usually make use of a qualitative approach, whereas questions that relate to measurement or relationship testing will make use of a quantitative approach.  

Let’s look at some examples of research questions to make this more tangible.

Research Questions: Examples

Again, we’ll stick with the research aims and research objectives we mentioned previously.  

For the digital transformation topic (which would be qualitative in nature):

How do employees perceive digital transformation in retail HR? What are the barriers and facilitators of digital transformation in retail HR?  

And for the student wellness topic (which would be quantitative in nature):

Does student self-care predict the well-being scores of engineering graduate students? Does student support predict the well-being scores of engineering students? Do student self-care and student support interact when predicting well-being in engineering graduate students?  

You’ll probably notice that there’s quite a formulaic approach to this. In other words, the research questions are basically the research objectives “converted” into question format. While that is true most of the time, it’s not always the case. For example, the first research objective for the digital transformation topic was more or less a step on the path toward the other objectives, and as such, it didn’t warrant its own research question.

So, don’t rush your research questions and sloppily reword your objectives as questions. Carefully think about what exactly you’re trying to achieve (i.e. your research aim) and the objectives you’ve set out, then craft a set of well-aligned research questions . Also, keep in mind that this can be a somewhat iterative process , where you go back and tweak research objectives and aims to ensure tight alignment throughout the golden thread.

The importance of strong alignment

Alignment is the keyword here and we have to stress its importance . Simply put, you need to make sure that there is a very tight alignment between all three pieces of the golden thread. If your research aims and research questions don’t align, for example, your project will be pulling in different directions and will lack focus . This is a common problem students face and can cause many headaches (and tears), so be warned.

Take the time to carefully craft your research aims, objectives and research questions before you run off down the research path. Ideally, get your research supervisor/advisor to review and comment on your golden thread before you invest significant time into your project, and certainly before you start collecting data .  

Recap: The golden thread

In this post, we unpacked the golden thread of research, consisting of the research aims , research objectives and research questions . You can jump back to any section using the links below.

As always, feel free to leave a comment below – we always love to hear from you. Also, if you’re interested in 1-on-1 support, take a look at our private coaching service here.

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41 Comments

Thank you very much for your great effort put. As an Undergraduate taking Demographic Research & Methodology, I’ve been trying so hard to understand clearly what is a Research Question, Research Aim and the Objectives in a research and the relationship between them etc. But as for now I’m thankful that you’ve solved my problem.

Well appreciated. This has helped me greatly in doing my dissertation.

An so delighted with this wonderful information thank you a lot.

so impressive i have benefited a lot looking forward to learn more on research.

I am very happy to have carefully gone through this well researched article.

Infact,I used to be phobia about anything research, because of my poor understanding of the concepts.

Now,I get to know that my research question is the same as my research objective(s) rephrased in question format.

I please I would need a follow up on the subject,as I intends to join the team of researchers. Thanks once again.

Thanks so much. This was really helpful.

I know you pepole have tried to break things into more understandable and easy format. And God bless you. Keep it up

i found this document so useful towards my study in research methods. thanks so much.

This is my 2nd read topic in your course and I should commend the simplified explanations of each part. I’m beginning to understand and absorb the use of each part of a dissertation/thesis. I’ll keep on reading your free course and might be able to avail the training course! Kudos!

Thank you! Better put that my lecture and helped to easily understand the basics which I feel often get brushed over when beginning dissertation work.

This is quite helpful. I like how the Golden thread has been explained and the needed alignment.

This is quite helpful. I really appreciate!

The article made it simple for researcher students to differentiate between three concepts.

Very innovative and educational in approach to conducting research.

I am very impressed with all these terminology, as I am a fresh student for post graduate, I am highly guided and I promised to continue making consultation when the need arise. Thanks a lot.

A very helpful piece. thanks, I really appreciate it .

Very well explained, and it might be helpful to many people like me.

Wish i had found this (and other) resource(s) at the beginning of my PhD journey… not in my writing up year… 😩 Anyways… just a quick question as i’m having some issues ordering my “golden thread”…. does it matter in what order you mention them? i.e., is it always first aims, then objectives, and finally the questions? or can you first mention the research questions and then the aims and objectives?

Thank you for a very simple explanation that builds upon the concepts in a very logical manner. Just prior to this, I read the research hypothesis article, which was equally very good. This met my primary objective.

My secondary objective was to understand the difference between research questions and research hypothesis, and in which context to use which one. However, I am still not clear on this. Can you kindly please guide?

In research, a research question is a clear and specific inquiry that the researcher wants to answer, while a research hypothesis is a tentative statement or prediction about the relationship between variables or the expected outcome of the study. Research questions are broader and guide the overall study, while hypotheses are specific and testable statements used in quantitative research. Research questions identify the problem, while hypotheses provide a focus for testing in the study.

Exactly what I need in this research journey, I look forward to more of your coaching videos.

This helped a lot. Thanks so much for the effort put into explaining it.

What data source in writing dissertation/Thesis requires?

What is data source covers when writing dessertation/thesis

This is quite useful thanks

I’m excited and thankful. I got so much value which will help me progress in my thesis.

where are the locations of the reserch statement, research objective and research question in a reserach paper? Can you write an ouline that defines their places in the researh paper?

Very helpful and important tips on Aims, Objectives and Questions.

Thank you so much for making research aim, research objectives and research question so clear. This will be helpful to me as i continue with my thesis.

Thanks much for this content. I learned a lot. And I am inspired to learn more. I am still struggling with my preparation for dissertation outline/proposal. But I consistently follow contents and tutorials and the new FB of GRAD Coach. Hope to really become confident in writing my dissertation and successfully defend it.

As a researcher and lecturer, I find splitting research goals into research aims, objectives, and questions is unnecessarily bureaucratic and confusing for students. For most biomedical research projects, including ‘real research’, 1-3 research questions will suffice (numbers may differ by discipline).

Awesome! Very important resources and presented in an informative way to easily understand the golden thread. Indeed, thank you so much.

Well explained

The blog article on research aims, objectives, and questions by Grad Coach is a clear and insightful guide that aligns with my experiences in academic research. The article effectively breaks down the often complex concepts of research aims and objectives, providing a straightforward and accessible explanation. Drawing from my own research endeavors, I appreciate the practical tips offered, such as the need for specificity and clarity when formulating research questions. The article serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers, offering a concise roadmap for crafting well-defined research goals and objectives. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced researcher, this article provides practical insights that contribute to the foundational aspects of a successful research endeavor.

A great thanks for you. it is really amazing explanation. I grasp a lot and one step up to research knowledge.

I really found these tips helpful. Thank you very much Grad Coach.

I found this article helpful. Thanks for sharing this.

thank you so much, the explanation and examples are really helpful

This is a well researched and superbly written article for learners of research methods at all levels in the research topic from conceptualization to research findings and conclusions. I highly recommend this material to university graduate students. As an instructor of advanced research methods for PhD students, I have confirmed that I was giving the right guidelines for the degree they are undertaking.

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Home » Research Questions – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Research Questions – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Research Questions

Definition:

Research questions are the specific questions that guide a research study or inquiry. These questions help to define the scope of the research and provide a clear focus for the study. Research questions are usually developed at the beginning of a research project and are designed to address a particular research problem or objective.

Types of Research Questions

Types of Research Questions are as follows:

Descriptive Research Questions

These aim to describe a particular phenomenon, group, or situation. For example:

• What are the characteristics of the target population?
• What is the prevalence of a particular disease in a specific region?

Exploratory Research Questions

These aim to explore a new area of research or generate new ideas or hypotheses. For example:

• What are the potential causes of a particular phenomenon?
• What are the possible outcomes of a specific intervention?

Explanatory Research Questions

These aim to understand the relationship between two or more variables or to explain why a particular phenomenon occurs. For example:

• What is the effect of a specific drug on the symptoms of a particular disease?
• What are the factors that contribute to employee turnover in a particular industry?

Predictive Research Questions

These aim to predict a future outcome or trend based on existing data or trends. For example :

• What will be the future demand for a particular product or service?
• What will be the future prevalence of a particular disease?

Evaluative Research Questions

These aim to evaluate the effectiveness of a particular intervention or program. For example:

• What is the impact of a specific educational program on student learning outcomes?
• What is the effectiveness of a particular policy or program in achieving its intended goals?

How to Choose Research Questions

Choosing research questions is an essential part of the research process and involves careful consideration of the research problem, objectives, and design. Here are some steps to consider when choosing research questions:

• Identify the research problem: Start by identifying the problem or issue that you want to study. This could be a gap in the literature, a social or economic issue, or a practical problem that needs to be addressed.
• Conduct a literature review: Conducting a literature review can help you identify existing research in your area of interest and can help you formulate research questions that address gaps or limitations in the existing literature.
• Define the research objectives : Clearly define the objectives of your research. What do you want to achieve with your study? What specific questions do you want to answer?
• Consider the research design : Consider the research design that you plan to use. This will help you determine the appropriate types of research questions to ask. For example, if you plan to use a qualitative approach, you may want to focus on exploratory or descriptive research questions.
• Ensure that the research questions are clear and answerable: Your research questions should be clear and specific, and should be answerable with the data that you plan to collect. Avoid asking questions that are too broad or vague.
• Get feedback : Get feedback from your supervisor, colleagues, or peers to ensure that your research questions are relevant, feasible, and meaningful.

How to Write Research Questions

Guide for Writing Research Questions:

• Start with a clear statement of the research problem: Begin by stating the problem or issue that your research aims to address. This will help you to formulate focused research questions.
• Use clear language : Write your research questions in clear and concise language that is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to your readers.
• Be specific: Your research questions should be specific and focused. Avoid broad questions that are difficult to answer. For example, instead of asking “What is the impact of climate change on the environment?” ask “What are the effects of rising sea levels on coastal ecosystems?”
• Use appropriate question types: Choose the appropriate question types based on the research design and objectives. For example, if you are conducting a qualitative study, you may want to use open-ended questions that allow participants to provide detailed responses.
• Consider the feasibility of your questions : Ensure that your research questions are feasible and can be answered with the resources available. Consider the data sources and methods of data collection when writing your questions.
• Seek feedback: Get feedback from your supervisor, colleagues, or peers to ensure that your research questions are relevant, appropriate, and meaningful.

Examples of Research Questions

Some Examples of Research Questions with Research Titles:

Research Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

• Research Question : What is the relationship between social media use and mental health, and how does this impact individuals’ well-being?

Research Title: Factors Influencing Academic Success in High School

• Research Question: What are the primary factors that influence academic success in high school, and how do they contribute to student achievement?

Research Title: The Effects of Exercise on Physical and Mental Health

• Research Question: What is the relationship between exercise and physical and mental health, and how can exercise be used as a tool to improve overall well-being?

Research Title: Understanding the Factors that Influence Consumer Purchasing Decisions

• Research Question : What are the key factors that influence consumer purchasing decisions, and how do these factors vary across different demographics and products?

Research Title: The Impact of Technology on Communication

• Research Question : How has technology impacted communication patterns, and what are the effects of these changes on interpersonal relationships and society as a whole?

Research Title: Investigating the Relationship between Parenting Styles and Child Development

• Research Question: What is the relationship between different parenting styles and child development outcomes, and how do these outcomes vary across different ages and developmental stages?

Research Title: The Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Treating Anxiety Disorders

• Research Question: How effective is cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders, and what factors contribute to its success or failure in different patients?

Research Title: The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity

• Research Question : How is climate change affecting global biodiversity, and what can be done to mitigate the negative effects on natural ecosystems?

Research Title: Exploring the Relationship between Cultural Diversity and Workplace Productivity

• Research Question : How does cultural diversity impact workplace productivity, and what strategies can be employed to maximize the benefits of a diverse workforce?

Research Title: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

• Research Question: How can artificial intelligence be leveraged to improve healthcare outcomes, and what are the potential risks and ethical concerns associated with its use?

Applications of Research Questions

Here are some of the key applications of research questions:

• Defining the scope of the study : Research questions help researchers to narrow down the scope of their study and identify the specific issues they want to investigate.
• Developing hypotheses: Research questions often lead to the development of hypotheses, which are testable predictions about the relationship between variables. Hypotheses provide a clear and focused direction for the study.
• Designing the study : Research questions guide the design of the study, including the selection of participants, the collection of data, and the analysis of results.
• Collecting data : Research questions inform the selection of appropriate methods for collecting data, such as surveys, interviews, or experiments.
• Analyzing data : Research questions guide the analysis of data, including the selection of appropriate statistical tests and the interpretation of results.
• Communicating results : Research questions help researchers to communicate the results of their study in a clear and concise manner. The research questions provide a framework for discussing the findings and drawing conclusions.

Characteristics of Research Questions

Characteristics of Research Questions are as follows:

• Clear and Specific : A good research question should be clear and specific. It should clearly state what the research is trying to investigate and what kind of data is required.
• Relevant : The research question should be relevant to the study and should address a current issue or problem in the field of research.
• Testable : The research question should be testable through empirical evidence. It should be possible to collect data to answer the research question.
• Concise : The research question should be concise and focused. It should not be too broad or too narrow.
• Feasible : The research question should be feasible to answer within the constraints of the research design, time frame, and available resources.
• Original : The research question should be original and should contribute to the existing knowledge in the field of research.
• Significant : The research question should have significance and importance to the field of research. It should have the potential to provide new insights and knowledge to the field.
• Ethical : The research question should be ethical and should not cause harm to any individuals or groups involved in the study.

Purpose of Research Questions

Research questions are the foundation of any research study as they guide the research process and provide a clear direction to the researcher. The purpose of research questions is to identify the scope and boundaries of the study, and to establish the goals and objectives of the research.

The main purpose of research questions is to help the researcher to focus on the specific area or problem that needs to be investigated. They enable the researcher to develop a research design, select the appropriate methods and tools for data collection and analysis, and to organize the results in a meaningful way.

Research questions also help to establish the relevance and significance of the study. They define the research problem, and determine the research methodology that will be used to address the problem. Research questions also help to determine the type of data that will be collected, and how it will be analyzed and interpreted.

Finally, research questions provide a framework for evaluating the results of the research. They help to establish the validity and reliability of the data, and provide a basis for drawing conclusions and making recommendations based on the findings of the study.

Advantages of Research Questions

There are several advantages of research questions in the research process, including:

• Focus : Research questions help to focus the research by providing a clear direction for the study. They define the specific area of investigation and provide a framework for the research design.
• Clarity : Research questions help to clarify the purpose and objectives of the study, which can make it easier for the researcher to communicate the research aims to others.
• Relevance : Research questions help to ensure that the study is relevant and meaningful. By asking relevant and important questions, the researcher can ensure that the study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge and address important issues.
• Consistency : Research questions help to ensure consistency in the research process by providing a framework for the development of the research design, data collection, and analysis.
• Measurability : Research questions help to ensure that the study is measurable by defining the specific variables and outcomes that will be measured.
• Replication : Research questions help to ensure that the study can be replicated by providing a clear and detailed description of the research aims, methods, and outcomes. This makes it easier for other researchers to replicate the study and verify the results.

Limitations of Research Questions

Limitations of Research Questions are as follows:

• Subjectivity : Research questions are often subjective and can be influenced by personal biases and perspectives of the researcher. This can lead to a limited understanding of the research problem and may affect the validity and reliability of the study.
• Inadequate scope : Research questions that are too narrow in scope may limit the breadth of the study, while questions that are too broad may make it difficult to focus on specific research objectives.
• Unanswerable questions : Some research questions may not be answerable due to the lack of available data or limitations in research methods. In such cases, the research question may need to be rephrased or modified to make it more answerable.
• Lack of clarity : Research questions that are poorly worded or ambiguous can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. This can result in incomplete or inaccurate data, which may compromise the validity of the study.
• Difficulty in measuring variables : Some research questions may involve variables that are difficult to measure or quantify, making it challenging to draw meaningful conclusions from the data.
• Lack of generalizability: Research questions that are too specific or limited in scope may not be generalizable to other contexts or populations. This can limit the applicability of the study’s findings and restrict its broader implications.

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Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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• Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Published on 30 October 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on 12 December 2023.

A research question pinpoints exactly what you want to find out in your work. A good research question is essential to guide your research paper , dissertation , or thesis .

All research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

Table of contents

How to write a research question, what makes a strong research question, research questions quiz, frequently asked questions.

You can follow these steps to develop a strong research question:

• Choose your topic
• Do some preliminary reading about the current state of the field
• Narrow your focus to a specific niche
• Identify the research problem that you will address

The way you frame your question depends on what your research aims to achieve. The table below shows some examples of how you might formulate questions for different purposes.

Using your research problem to develop your research question

Note that while most research questions can be answered with various types of research , the way you frame your question should help determine your choices.

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them. The criteria below can help you evaluate the strength of your research question.

Focused and researchable

Feasible and specific, complex and arguable, relevant and original.

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis – a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

As you cannot possibly read every source related to your topic, it’s important to evaluate sources to assess their relevance. Use preliminary evaluation to determine whether a source is worth examining in more depth.

This involves:

• Reading abstracts , prefaces, introductions , and conclusions
• Looking at the table of contents to determine the scope of the work
• Consulting the index for key terms or the names of important scholars

An essay isn’t just a loose collection of facts and ideas. Instead, it should be centered on an overarching argument (summarised in your thesis statement ) that every part of the essay relates to.

The way you structure your essay is crucial to presenting your argument coherently. A well-structured essay helps your reader follow the logic of your ideas and understand your overall point.

A research hypothesis is your proposed answer to your research question. The research hypothesis usually includes an explanation (‘ x affects y because …’).

A statistical hypothesis, on the other hand, is a mathematical statement about a population parameter. Statistical hypotheses always come in pairs: the null and alternative hypotheses. In a well-designed study , the statistical hypotheses correspond logically to the research hypothesis.

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McCombes, S. (2023, December 12). Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 21 October 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/the-research-process/research-question/

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