Writing research question

Writing a research question or a thesis statement helps you further define what type of information you need to locate for your assignment.

What is a research question?

It should state the main concepts you have identified for your topic
Be debatable and neutral
Be clear and specific

What is a thesis statement?

Take a stance on a topic that you will defend
Outline the purpose of your assignment
Be clear, specific, and well-written

Example

Here are a few examples of research questions:

Does education in correctional facilities play a role in reducing recidivism
What role did women play in the abolitionist movement in the United States?
Do environmental protection groups succeed in influencing the public policy agenda in Canada?
Should additional regulations be placed on genetically modified foods?

Here are a few examples of thesis statements:

Educational opportunities for inmates in correctional facilities reduce recidivism. Female abolitionists were instrumental partners in the eventual success of national anti-slavery associations in the United States.

Greenpeace has not influenced the Canadian government to take significant action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Health Canada should not regulate the genetically modified foods industry, as long as the products are identified as such.