Research Questions

Start with a research question

Begin with Research question, a mind map that outlines how to develop a question. It starts with choosing an interesting general topic, then moves to preliminary research, considering the audience and asking questions. Follow those points in order and note how each might help you narrow a topic you want to explore.

For another starting point, look at the map on moving from questions to problems. It considers the significance of a research question and the move from discovering and understanding things to showing and explaining them to others. Use it to think about why a question matters, as well as what it asks.

Compare focus and development

Next, look at Research Question Evolution. It presents possible topics and a question about social media and the self-esteem of teenage girls. Compare its example with the steps in Research question: notice the broad topic, then consider the more specific question.

The map on choosing a research question or review focus offers another way to examine an idea. It lists qualities such as being researchable, practical, ethical, viable and relevant. You can use these points as prompts when looking back at a question you have drafted. The map that begins with brainstorming also includes background, boundaries and objectives to consider alongside it.

Use the maps across the unit

The Research Inquiry brings together formulating a question, restrictions, types of research, justification and viability. Read it alongside the other maps to see how the question is presented within an inquiry. This page is one section of The Research Process, Problem and Proposal unit in Research methods and academic skills, so the maps give you a place to focus on questions within that wider unit.

There are no quizzes on this page. Instead, compare the mind maps with one another and use their prompts to discuss or develop an idea. Choose a map to explore and trace its points in your own words.