A good research question is clear, focused, and complex. There is a difference between a research topic (like music and healing) and a research question, which seeks to find out the whether, how, or why of something specific.
The following worksheet is very helpful for turning a topic into a question.
Start by writing out your topic as a question. Ask yourself:
Is My Question Clear?
Your research question needs to be as clear as possible to effectively direct your research.
Too Unclear: Why are social networking sites harmful?
Better: How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on such social networking sites as MySpace and Facebook?
Is My Question Focused?
Your research question must have a specific focus so that you can cover the topic well in the length allowed for your project.
Too Unfocused: What effect does global warming have on the environment?
Better: How is glacial melting affecting penguins in the Arctic Circle?
Is My Question Complex?
Your research question should not be answerable with easily-found facts. Your question should require research and analysis.
Too Simple: How are doctors addressing diabetes in the U.S.?
Better: What are common traits of those suffering from diabetes in America, and how can these commonalities be used to aid the medical community in prevention of the disease?
