The three components of a good research question are:
Researchers in most fields are looking for one of two things:
Using limiters will help you narrow your search and focus your topic.
You can narrow and limit by:
geographical area:
Example: What environmental issues are most important in the Southwestern United States?
culture:
Example: How does the environment fit into the Navajo world view?
time frame:
Example: What are the most prominent environmental issues of the last 10 years?
discipline:
Example: How does environmental awareness affect business practices today?
population group:
Example: What are the effects of air pollution on senior citizens?
Too Broad
Too Narrow
Just right
What is a thesis statement?
What makes a good thesis statement?
Three Examples:
- Taking a Position -
Poor (doesn't take a position):
Improved (takes a position):
- Specificity -
Poor (very general):
Improved (more specific):
- Arguable -
Poor (not much here to argue with):
Improved (specific position that can be argued):