Develop your research question
Start the process by:
Bear in mind that your supervisors will be looking for the following elements in your research question proposal:
See the Library's post graduate research information skills modules (PRISM) guide for more information on developing research questions.
"A research question can set boundaries to help you figure out where to go next. A research question defines which data you need to collect and which methods you will use to access and analyze your documents" (York University, 2013).
"The answer to your research question should be your thesis statement. Keep in mind that you will most likely continue to refine your thesis statement as you conduct and write about your research. A good research question, however, puts you well on your way to writing a strong research paper." Adapted from Duke Writing studio (Duke University Thompson Writing Program, 2015).
The next step is to undertake a preliminary investigation on your research topic, to ensure that there is not already a wealth of information in the area and that a gap exists for the research you wish to conduct. The preliminary investigation will help you to refine your topic area.
If your preliminary investigation into the literature is inconclusive or you cannot make headway then it is time to re-evaluate your research question. Try to answer the following questions:
To continue with this idea, use this checklist to evaluate your question:
Adapted from Duke Writing Studio (Duke University Thompson Writing Program, 2015)