Developing a research question or thesis statement
The next step is to ask a question (or questions) that you’d like to answer through your research and writing. Research questions and thesis statements help guide your research and writing. You may eventually want to rewrite your research question. That’s OK!
Research Questions
Research questions commonly have the following parts. You’d fill in the blanks based on your topic.
- What effect does ___________ have on __________________?
- How does _________________ impact ______________?
Thesis statements
Thesis statements are highly emphasized in many courses. Good research will help inform a strong thesis statement. Read more about what they are and how they are used from Writing Tutorial Services, Indiana University.
Your turn! In a new browser window or tab, open the online research worksheet.
- Enter your name and email.
- Answer question 1 about your topic idea.
- Keep it open. You’ll be prompted to fill out more information as this lesson continues.
You’ve successfully explored a topic and written a working or draft research question or thesis statement. Next up is searching.