Subject Guides: Library Research 101: Start Your Research: How do I write a research question?

Research questions

Choose a topic of interest to you
Think about the many things related to your topic
- Try creating a concept map
Now list several possible questions
Choose one to pursue
Make this one question more, but not too, specific
- Think focused, clear and complex; again, a concept map can be helpful

A concept map, which shows related ideas in bubbles with lines connecting them

(Concept map made using https://bubbl.us/)

Topic - climate change and its effect on birds
Related things - Weather, Habitat, Food, Raising Young, Migration
Possible questions -
- How is climate change affecting existing habitat for birds?
- Is climate change a factor in the dwindling population of some bird species?
Pick one question that interests you -
- How is climate change affecting existing habitat for birds?
Focus the question to be more complex (i.e. for this topic add geography or species). Make sure your words are clear and precise -
- How is climate change affecting existing habitat for birds in New England?