RESOURCES
Research Question Design
After you have worked out your broad research focus, you need to create a few specific research questions. Before you do this, spend some time exploring your broad topic to find out what really interests you about it (mind map).
The key to a successful Research Project is developing a workable and interesting research question that is neither too large nor too narrow.
As a general rule, if entire books have been written on the subject, your question is too broad; there is no way you'll be able to address it adequately within the limits of the Research Project. If your question is too narrow, you will find it difficult to find good, credible information. This is why it is important to investigate possible sources of information before you start.
For example, if you choose juvenile delinquency as your broad topic, you might ask the following questions:
The best research question is #3. Question #1 is too narrow; it can be answered by a simple statistic. Question #2 is too broad; it implies that the researcher will cover many tactics for reducing juvenile delinquency that could be used across the country. Question #3, on the other hand, is focused enough to research in some depth.
For example, if you choose juvenile delinquency as your broad topic, you might ask the following questions:
- What is the 2021 rate of juvenile delinquency in Australia?
- What can we do to reduce juvenile delinquency in Australia?
- Does education play a role in reducing juvenile delinquents' return to crime?
The best research question is #3. Question #1 is too narrow; it can be answered by a simple statistic. Question #2 is too broad; it implies that the researcher will cover many tactics for reducing juvenile delinquency that could be used across the country. Question #3, on the other hand, is focused enough to research in some depth.