Updated learning guide: This article has been refreshed for the current Paper Per Hour study platform.
A strong research question is focused enough to investigate, open enough to require analysis, and answerable with available evidence.
Start with a broad problem
Write what interests you, why it matters, and which people, place, period, or system it affects.
Narrow with boundaries
- Population or case
- Time period
- Location
- Key concept or relationship
Test the question
- Is it clear?
- Can evidence answer it?
- Does it require analysis rather than a yes/no response?
- Can it fit the assignment scope?
Revise after preliminary research
Early sources often reveal better terminology, practical constraints, and a more defensible focus.
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