What Makes a Good Research Question
Making Your Research Question Arguable
One important aspect to consider when you are creating your research question is whether it is open for debate. Put more simply, it's important that your research question has more than one answer! If there is only one answer to your question, you are most likely not asking a question that is suitable for research--instead, it's more likely that you are stating a fact.
For example, "Was George Washington America's first president?" is not a good research question because there is only one answer--George Washington WAS America's first president, and you will not find anyone to disagree with you! This means your research and your paper will be very one-sided, and you will not have to create an argument in your paper. Your professor would be likely to give you a very poor grade if your research question looked like this.
To create a good research question, make sure there are 2 or more answers to your research question!
Developing a Thesis Statement
Thesis Statement=your answer to your essential(research) question; your position on the topic; the main idea of the paper
A well-written thesis statement has two parts:
1.The answer to your essential (research) question (your position).
2.Your reasons (supporting arguments).
EXAMPLE:
My essential (research) question= Should smoking be banned in public places?
Forming a Research Question
Credit: Wilfrid Laurier University Library)
Research Questions: Do's & Don'ts
Credit: William Badke