Learning how to ask the right questions is at the heart of the research process. The information on this page might help you think about what questions you need to ask to find the information you need for your research.
no simple or single right answer
addressed through reason rather than opinion/belief
unique, often counterintuitive or controversial
answers through problem solving (not found, but invented)
generate new questions
addresses fundamental issues
addresses interdisciplinary concepts, central to greater understanding
Developing an essential question.... |
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Who? |
Substitution |
Who else…? Who might…? |
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What? |
Predict (hypothesis posed) Modify/Magnify/Minimize Eliminate/Reverse/Alternative |
What if…? |
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When? |
Compare and Contrast |
Which one…? |
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Why? |
Cause and Effect |
Why do things happen the way they do? |
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How? |
Propose Solution |
How would things be different if ... ? |
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Which? |
Evidence-based Decision |
Which decision will have the most impact? |
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Should? |
Moral/Ethical/Practical Reasoning |
Making this change will impact society in this way. |
* Special thanks to Lora Cowell for permission to use these terrific graphics.