Research Question
Introduction
The IB suggest following these 5 steps to formulate a research question:
Choose a subject and topic that is of interest
Carry out preliminary reading
Consider the emerging questions
Evaluate the question
Consider research outcomes
More information about these steps is available on the IB website.
Clear, Focused, Arguable
The IB provides this guidance on developing a clear, focused and arguable RQ:
Clear: Will the reader understand the nature of my research? Will it direct the research being undertaken?
Focused: Will the research question be specific enough to allow for exploration within the scope of the task (that is, the number of words and time available)?
Arguable: Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned argument?
Your RQ should also use key words connected with your title, topic or subject, and you should try include relevant IB command terms for your subject too.
Need help formulating your research question?
Complete this worksheet to help formulate your research question.
Sample Research Questions
Your RQ needs to be clear and focused. These sample research questions show how you can improve the clarity and focus of a research question.
Narrowing your topic
Use limiting factors to narrow down your topic. Here are some examples:
Historical period or period of time.
Person or book
Age group
Gender
Political Ideology
Case Study
School of thought
Country or geographic area.
Do I need to prove my research question?
Your research question may imply a thesis, but you don't have to prove this thesis. As your research progresses, and you critically evaluate evidence related to your argument, you may end up affirming or disproving your thesis.
Can I change my research question?
It is not uncommon for researchers to modify or refine their research question as they conduct research and find new sources.
However, you should always speak with your supervisor if you want to change your research question, and agree a deadline after which you can no longer make any major changes.
Your research question should accurately reflect the scope of your essay and must be addressed in your conclusion. This may mean that you need to adjust your research question at the end of essay writing process so that it addresses the scope of your essay.
Note that if you change your research question you should document this in your second reflection on the Reflections on planning and progress form.
Research Question Starters
To what extent ...
What is the impact of ...
What is the impact of [variable] on [outcome]?
What are the factors that contribute to [phenomenon]?
What is the relationship between [variable] and [variable]?
How does [variable] differ across [population/group]?
How has [phenomenon] evolved over time?
What are the cultural factors that influence [behaviour]?
How does [variable] affect [industry/field]?
How does [variable] impact [field/industry] innovation?
Your research question may change over the course of your research, but you should aim to avoid making any significant changes too late in the process.
You may adjust your research question to match what you end up writing about in your final submission.
It is perfectly acceptable to end up disproving aspects of your thesis as long as you discuss why and provide evidence.