Skip to Main Content
It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results.
Banner Image

Library Research 101: How to Get Started

Research Questions

What is a research question?

  • A question you ask yourself about your research topic

 

Why do I need a research question?

  • It can help you focus your research, and your writing

 

How do I write a research question?

  • Choose a topic of interest to you
  • Think about the many things related to your topic
  • 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

 

 

 

 

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

Examples

Here's an example:

 

  • 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?

5729 Fogler Library · University of Maine · Orono, ME 04469-5729 ; (207) 581-1673

Chat is offline. Contact the library.