Research Question

Definition

A research question is a clear, focused, concise, complex and arguable question around which you center your research. It's the question to which you want to find an answer through your study.

Analogy

Think of a research question as the destination in your GPS. You don't start driving without knowing where you're going; similarly, you don't start researching without having a specific question in mind.

Related terms

Hypothesis: This is an educated guess or prediction that can be tested. It's like the route plan to reach your destination (research question).

Variable: This is any factor or attribute that can be measured or counted. It's like different landmarks on your route.

Operational Definition: This defines exactly what a researcher will measure in a study. It's like defining what constitutes 'reaching the destination' in our GPS analogy.