Before you can begin writing your research, you must first develop a thesis or research question.The research question defines the focus and scope of the research. The structure of the research question depends on the researcher’s field of study and the common practices within that field. Similarly, your question will drive the methodology of your research -- it is the "how" of how you will answer the question.
Step 1: Choose a Research Topic
When you start, you don't need to have a specific research question in mind at this point - just a general topic that you want to explore. An idea like "I want to learn more about problems of censorship" is fine for a starting point, but you must add focus and context.
Step 2: Find Background Information
Refining your topic can be difficult if you are not deeply familiar with your general area of interest. In order to help you focus your topic, it is important that you gather background information early on in your research.
Iterative searching not only helps you get familiar with the literature, it also helps you narrow your topic. If the first time you start searching is after you have a research question, you may become frustrated with the lack or resources, or find studies that have already addressed your areas of interest.
Subject dictionaries and encyclopedias can also be valuable tools at this stage of your research. They can give you an overview of the topic as a whole and introduce you to the specialized vocabulary related to the topic. Used cautiously, Wikipedia or organizational websites can be a place to familiarize yourself with terminology.
Step 3: Translate Your Interest into a Research Question
After gathering background information, frame it as a question. There are a number of ways to focus this.
- Who is involved, what goals are being advanced, and how?
- Are there interesting comparisons you can make based on changes or differences observed across different population groups, circumstances or viewpoints?
- Is there a particular theoretical framework that offers a unique or compelling way to analyze the phenomena you wish to study?
- When stuck, basic questions like who, what where and how can be helpful.
Step 4: Further Modifying Your Topic
You will often need to narrow or broaden your question scope. Also, your methodology will effect your scope. Are you planning a comprehensive scoping review that casts the net wide? Are you doing original research? Check in with librarians, teaching assistants, or your faculty member for advice.
This content is modified from Godwin University
