The Difference Between Hypothesis and Research Question in Quantitative Research

Research Question vs. Hypothesis: Understanding the Key Differences

When embarking on a research project, especially in academic settings, two terms frequently arise: research question and hypothesis. Both are integral parts of the research process, but they serve different roles. Understanding the distinction between a research question and a hypothesis is crucial for designing a structured and effective study.

At IvyResearchWriters.com, we understand the importance of clarity in academic research. This blog post will explore the differences between a research question and a hypothesis, outline their respective purposes, and guide you through when and how to use each in your own research projects.

What is a Research Question?

A research question is the foundation of any research project. It defines the scope of the study and guides the direction of your research. Essentially, a research question is an inquiry that you seek to answer through your study. It is often open-ended and framed in a way that allows for exploration, investigation, and data collection.

Characteristics of a Research Question

• Open-Ended: Research questions are broad and are designed to generate discussion and exploration.
• Focused: A research question should be specific enough to be manageable, but broad enough to allow for comprehensive investigation.
• Purpose-Driven: The question is formulated to address a gap in knowledge or explore an unresolved issue in the field.

Example of a Research Question

• How does social media usage affect the mental health of teenagers?

In this case, the question sets the stage for a detailed investigation into the relationship between social media and mental health, without presuming any specific outcome.

What is a Hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction that can be measured. It is often formulated after developing a research question and serves as a potential answer or explanation for the problem you’re investigating. A hypothesis is used to provide direction for data collection and analysis, and it helps to establish the parameters of the study.

Characteristics of a Hypothesis

• Testable: Unlike a research question, a hypothesis is a statement that can be tested through experiments, surveys, or other forms of data collection.
• Clear and Specific: A hypothesis is usually more focused than a research question and predicts the relationship between variables.
• Directional or Non-Directional: A hypothesis can predict a specific relationship (directional) or simply suggest a relationship without specifying its nature (non-directional).

Example of a Hypothesis

• Teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on social media will exhibit higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who use social media less frequently.

In this case, the hypothesis predicts a specific relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes, and it is designed to be tested with measurable data.

Key Differences Between a Research Question and a Hypothesis

While both research questions and hypotheses guide the research process, they differ in their purpose, structure, and usage. Below are the key differences:

1. Purpose

• A research question is meant to explore and define the focus of your study.
• A hypothesis provides a specific prediction or proposed explanation that can be tested.

2. Structure

• A research question is phrased as an inquiry (e.g., “How does X affect Y?”).
• A hypothesis is a declarative statement (e.g., “X will affect Y in a specific way.”).

3. Flexibility

• A research question is often more flexible and broad, allowing for exploration of various factors.
• A hypothesis is narrower and focuses on predicting an outcome based on existing knowledge or theory.

4. Testing and Measurement

• A research question does not always predict an outcome but seeks to understand a phenomenon.
• A hypothesis is specifically designed to be testable and is used to draw conclusions through research methods.

5. Role in the Research Process

• A research question typically comes first in the research process and helps shape the focus of the study.
• A hypothesis is often developed after the research question has been identified, and it directs the methodology for testing.

When to Use a Research Question vs. Hypothesis

Both the research question and hypothesis are essential for guiding your study, but knowing when to use each one can make a significant difference in your research approach.

Using a Research Question

A research question is typically used in the following scenarios:

• Exploratory Research: If your study aims to explore an area with little prior knowledge or if you’re interested in understanding a phenomenon.
• Qualitative Research: In qualitative research, where the focus is on exploring experiences, perceptions, or social phenomena, a research question guides the investigation without the need for a direct prediction.
• Descriptive Studies: When the goal is to describe the relationship between two variables or identify patterns without making a prediction.

Using a Hypothesis

A hypothesis is used in the following scenarios:

• Experimental Research: If you’re conducting an experiment and need to test the cause-and-effect relationship between two variables.
• Quantitative Research: In quantitative studies, where you need measurable data to confirm or refute your hypothesis.
• Theory Testing: If you are testing a specific theory and need to predict the outcome of a relationship or intervention.

Examples of Research Question vs. Hypothesis in Different Types of Research

1. Exploratory Research:

• Research Question: What are the factors contributing to the rise in mental health issues among college students?
• Hypothesis: College students who experience high levels of academic pressure are more likely to develop anxiety and depression.

2. Experimental Research:

• Research Question: How does cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) affect the anxiety levels of patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
• Hypothesis: Patients who undergo CBT for eight weeks will report lower anxiety levels compared to those who receive no therapy.

3. Correlational Research:

• Research Question: Is there a correlation between social media usage and self-esteem among teenagers?
• Hypothesis: Teenagers who spend more than four hours a day on social media will have lower self-esteem scores compared to those who spend less time online.

How to Formulate a Research Question and Hypothesis

Formulating a Research Question

1. Identify a broad topic of interest that aligns with your field of study.
2. Narrow the focus of your topic to a specific issue or phenomenon.
3. Frame the question in an open-ended way that allows for exploration and investigation.
4. Ensure the question is feasible based on available resources and time constraints.

Formulating a Hypothesis

1. Understand the theory or prior research that informs your study.
2. Identify the variables you want to study and define the expected relationship between them.
3. Develop a clear, testable statement that predicts the outcome based on the variables.
4. Ensure that your hypothesis is measurable and can be tested through data collection and analysis.

A Hypothesis Can Be Defined As

A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction that suggests a possible outcome or relationship between variables. It is a foundational element in scientific research and acts as the driving force for experiments, guiding the investigation into whether a proposed relationship holds true in real-world conditions. A hypothesis is typically framed based on existing theories or observations, and it is designed to be testable through data collection and analysis.

For example, in a study about the effects of caffeine on memory, a hypothesis might be: “Caffeine improves short-term memory in adults aged 18-30.”

According to Research in Support of the Two-Culture Hypothesis

The two-culture hypothesis posits that there are two distinct cultures in academia: one centered on the humanities and social sciences (which are interpretive and qualitative) and another on the natural sciences (which rely on empirical, quantitative methods). Research supporting this hypothesis suggests that researchers in these fields approach problems with fundamentally different methodologies, philosophies, and objectives.

For example, while scientists in the natural sciences might rely heavily on experiments and hypothesis testing, those in the humanities may prioritize interpretative analysis, such as textual analysis or historical inquiry.

Address if Your Hypothesis Is Supported or Not Supported

In any study, it is important to evaluate whether your hypothesis is supported by the data. After performing the necessary analysis (such as statistical tests), you would compare your results with the expected outcome:

• Supported Hypothesis: If your data aligns with the prediction made in your hypothesis, you can conclude that the hypothesis is supported.
• Not Supported Hypothesis: If the data does not support your prediction, you conclude that the hypothesis is not supported and may require revision or rejection.

It is important to note that a hypothesis being not supported does not mean it is wrong. It simply means that the data did not show evidence to prove the proposed relationship or effect.

Alternative Null Hypothesis Examples

The null hypothesis (H₀) typically asserts that there is no effect or no relationship between variables. The alternative hypothesis (H₁), on the other hand, suggests that there is an effect or relationship. Here are examples:

• Null Hypothesis (H₀): There is no significant difference in test scores between students who study with music and those who study in silence.
  • Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): There is a significant difference in test scores between students who study with music and those who study in silence.

In hypothesis testing, rejecting the null hypothesis typically suggests that the data provides sufficient evidence for the alternative hypothesis.

Check if the Ratio is 1 Hypothesis Testing

In hypothesis testing, particularly in proportional tests, you might examine whether a ratio or proportion is equal to 1. For example:

• Null Hypothesis: The ratio of successful outcomes to total attempts is 1.
• Alternative Hypothesis: The ratio of successful outcomes to total attempts is not equal to 1.

This type of testing is common in binomial distribution or proportion tests, where the goal is to determine if the observed ratio differs significantly from an expected value of 1.

Creative Hypothesis Generating in Psychology: Some Useful Heuristics

In psychology, generating creative and testable hypotheses is essential for advancing the field. Some helpful heuristics include:

• Observational Insights: Based on patterns observed in human behavior or psychological phenomena.
• Existing Theories: Building upon established psychological theories or modifying them in light of new findings.
• Contradictions in Literature: If existing research contradicts, new hypotheses can be generated to explore these inconsistencies.
• Simplification: A good hypothesis often simplifies complex psychological phenomena into a testable prediction.

These heuristics help generate hypotheses that are not only original but also grounded in existing psychological frameworks.

Difference Between Discovery and Hypothesis-Driven Science

Discovery-driven science and hypothesis-driven science represent two distinct approaches to scientific inquiry:

• Discovery-Driven Science: This approach is more exploratory, focusing on gathering data without a specific hypothesis in mind. It is often used when scientists are unfamiliar with a topic and seek to uncover new patterns or phenomena. For example, a study of newly discovered species might lead to unexpected insights into biodiversity.
• Hypothesis-Driven Science: This approach involves testing specific predictions based on existing knowledge or theories. It is highly structured and uses controlled experiments or statistical analyses to confirm or reject hypotheses. For example, testing whether a specific drug affects blood pressure in patients.

Both methods are essential, but they are used in different stages of scientific exploration.

Difference Between Research Question and Hypothesis

A research question and a hypothesis are closely related but serve different purposes:

• A research question seeks to explore a phenomenon and is often open-ended. It aims to define what you want to study and sets the direction of your investigation.
  • Example: “How does caffeine consumption affect sleep patterns?”
• A hypothesis provides a testable prediction about the relationship between variables. It is a statement you aim to prove or disprove through your research.
  • Example: “Caffeine consumption negatively affects sleep quality in adults.”

In summary, the research question is the broad inquiry, while the hypothesis offers a specific prediction that can be tested.

Directional Hypothesis

A directional hypothesis predicts the specific direction of the relationship between variables. It specifies whether one variable will increase or decrease in relation to another.

• Example: “Increased screen time will lead to higher levels of anxiety in teenagers.”

Here, the hypothesis suggests a negative relationship between screen time and anxiety, with a clear expectation of what the outcome will be.

Discovery-Driven vs Hypothesis-Driven Biology

In biology, the distinction between discovery-driven and hypothesis-driven research is significant:

• Discovery-Driven Biology: Often employed in genomics or ecology, where scientists gather vast amounts of data without a predefined hypothesis. For example, discovering new species or studying genetic markers without knowing their function.
• Hypothesis-Driven Biology: This approach is used to test specific predictions about biological processes. For example, testing the effects of a gene mutation on an organism’s development.

Both approaches play an essential role in expanding our understanding of the biological world.

Does the Size of the Parachute Matter Hypothesis

This famous example of a scientific hypothesis came from a study attempting to determine whether parachute size affects the safety of skydivers. The hypothesis in this case was:

• Null Hypothesis (H₀): Parachute size does not affect the safety of skydivers.
• Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): Parachute size affects the safety of skydivers.

This example humorously points out that even obvious or intuitive questions can be formulated as testable hypotheses in scientific studies.

Examples of Hypothesis-Driven Science in Biology

Hypothesis-driven science in biology involves developing specific predictions about the relationship between variables and then testing them through controlled experiments or observational studies. Some examples include:

• Testing whether genetic mutations lead to increased risk of diseases such as cancer.
• Investigating the effect of temperature on the growth rate of plants.
• Exploring the relationship between dietary habits and the development of heart disease.

Excel Hypothesis Testing Graph

In Excel, hypothesis testing can be conducted using various functions such as T-tests or ANOVA to compare groups. A hypothesis testing graph can visually display the comparison of groups and the significance of the results, often including p-values to determine statistical significance.

Expectations Hypothesis

The expectations hypothesis is a theory in economics that explains the relationship between short-term and long-term interest rates. It posits that long-term interest rates are essentially the average of expected future short-term interest rates. This hypothesis is often used in the bond market to predict future interest rate changes based on current data.

Explain How the New Data Supports Your Hypothesis

When you conduct an experiment or collect data, it’s essential to explain how the new data supports (or contradicts) your hypothesis. If your results align with the predicted outcomes of your hypothesis, you can argue that the hypothesis is supported. However, if the data does not match, the hypothesis may need to be revised or rejected.

False Hypothesis, Truths, and Proofs

A false hypothesis does not mean the research is invalid; it simply means the prediction was inaccurate. Science is a process of trial and error, and rejecting a hypothesis is just as important as confirming one. In some cases, false hypotheses can lead to unexpected findings and new directions for research.

This overview covers various aspects of hypothesis testing, scientific reasoning, and the distinctions between different types of hypotheses. Let me know if you’d like additional details on any specific topic!

How to Choose Between a Hypothesis and a Research Question

Choosing between a research question and a hypothesis depends on the nature of your research, the goals of the study, and the methodology you plan to use. Here’s how to decide which to use:

1. Nature of the Study:
   • Research Question: If your study is exploratory, seeking to investigate a phenomenon or area without a predetermined outcome, a research question is the best fit. For example, in qualitative research or descriptive studies, where you’re looking to understand experiences or behaviors, a research question helps to guide the investigation.
   • Hypothesis: If your study is more focused on testing a theory or a predictive relationship between variables, then a hypothesis is the appropriate choice. Hypotheses are used in quantitative research and experimental studies, where you aim to confirm or reject a specific prediction.
2. Existing Knowledge:
   • Research Question: Use a research question when there’s limited knowledge about the topic and no established theory or previous findings to base predictions on. The aim is to explore and uncover new insights.
   • Hypothesis: A hypothesis is used when you already have a theoretical framework or background research that leads you to expect a particular outcome. It’s often based on existing literature or knowledge and is testable through data collection.
3. Testing vs Exploration:
   • Research Question: If the aim of your research is to explore relationships or understand a phenomenon without making a specific prediction, go with a research question.
   • Hypothesis: If you have aclear prediction about the relationship between variables and want to test it, a hypothesis is the way to go.

Justification of Research Problems and Hypotheses

Justifying your research problem and hypothesis is a crucial part of the research process, as it provides the rationale for why the study is important and how the hypothesis fits within existing knowledge.

1. Justifying the Research Problem:

• Relevance: The research problem should be relevant to current trends, gaps in knowledge, or societal issues. Justifying the problem means explaining why it’s important and how it contributes to the field.
• Literature Support: You can justify the research problem by reviewing existing literature and identifying gaps, contradictions, or areas in need of further exploration. This helps establish the need for your study.
• Practical Implications: If applicable, discuss how solving the research problem will have practical applications, such as improving policies, interventions, or clinical practices.

2. Justifying the Hypothesis:

• Theoretical Basis: Justify your hypothesis by connecting it to existing theories or previous research findings. The hypothesis should arise from an established understanding of the topic, guiding the research with a clear prediction.
• Empirical Evidence: Cite previous studies that have examined similar phenomena. Your hypothesis should be built upon this body of knowledge, showing a logical progression from theory to prediction.
• Feasibility: Ensure that the hypothesis istestable using available methods, data, and resources. A hypothesis must be something that can be measured and observed in a practical setting.

Justifying your research problem and hypothesis ensures the study has a clear foundation and demonstrates that the investigation is based on sound reasoning and existing knowledge.

How to Write Clear Research Questions and Hypotheses

Writing clear and effective research questions and hypotheses is essential for guiding the study and ensuring that it is focused and actionable. Below are key tips for crafting clear and concise research questions and hypotheses:

Writing Clear Research Questions:

1. Be Specific: A research question should be focused and not too broad. It should address a specific problem or issue that can be explored through your study.
   • Example: Instead of asking, “How do social factors affect mental health?”, you could ask, “How does social support affect the mental health of teenagers living in urban areas?”
2. Be Open-Ended: Research questions should be framed to allow for exploration and discussion. Avoid yes/no questions and instead ask questions that require detailed investigation.
   • Example: “What are the effects of social media use on adolescent mental health?” is open-ended and allows for multiple possible findings.
3. Align with Methodology: Ensure the question aligns with the type of research you plan to conduct. Qualitative studies often have broader questions, while quantitative studies have more focused, specific questions.

Writing Clear Hypotheses:

1. State a Clear Prediction: A hypothesis should predict a relationship between variables. It needs to be precise and indicate the expected outcome.
   • Example: “Increased social media usage leads to higher levels of anxiety in teenagers.”
2. Ensure Testability: The hypothesis must be testable using available methods and data. Ensure that you can measure the variables and that the hypothesis is not too vague or abstract.
3. Define Variables: Clearly define the variables you are testing, making it clear what you will be measuring.
   • Example: Define what “social media usage” means (hours per day) and what “anxiety” refers to (using a standardized anxiety scale).
4. Avoid Bias: Ensure that the hypothesis is objective and does not assume a particular outcome based on personal beliefs or preferences.

The Interrelation Between Hypotheses and Research Questions

The interrelation between research questions and hypotheses is key to the research process, as both work together to guide and shape the study. Here’s how they are connected:

1. Research Question Defines the Scope of Investigation:

• The research question sets the framework and defines the area you will explore. It is often broad and designed to guide the direction of your study. For instance, you may ask, “How does sleep deprivation affect cognitive performance?”

2. Hypothesis Provides a Testable Prediction:

• The hypothesis is derived from the research question but goes a step further. It proposes a specific outcome that can be tested. Based on the previous question, a hypothesis might be: “Sleep deprivation significantly reduces cognitive performance in adults.”

3. The Role of Hypothesis in Testing the Question:

• A hypothesis helps break down the research question into a testable statement. It allows the researcher to collect and analyze data to answer the larger question in a specific, measurable way.

4. Refinement of Questions Through Hypotheses:

• Through testing and experimentation, the hypothesis can sometimes refine the research question. If the results support or reject the hypothesis, the researcher may adjust or narrow the research question to explore more specific aspects.

In summary, both research questions and hypotheses are essential for conducting research, but they serve distinct roles. The research question sets the direction of the investigation, while the hypothesis offers a testable prediction that provides specific focus. Together, they form the foundation for a well-structured and impactful study.

At IvyResearchWriters.com, we specialize in helping students and researchers craft clear, effective research questions and hypotheses. Whether you’re starting a new project or revising your research design, we can help ensure your study is guided by solid foundations and a clear research framework.

Need help with crafting your research question or hypothesis? Contact IvyResearchWriters today for expert support!

Checklist: Good research questions for social science projects by IvyResearchWriters.com

When developing a good research question for social science projects, it is essential to focus on validity and the overall research design. A primary research question should clearly define the dependent variable and the independent variable involved. Conducting a thorough literature review can help refine your research question, ensuring that it aligns with existing research studies and addresses relevant research objectives.

A specific research question may lead to applied research, enabling researchers to test a hypothesis with several hypotheses formulated from the primary question. By utilizing hypotheses for research, one can establish a framework to explore research findings. Ultimately, research questions and hypotheses serve as crucial components in shaping the inquiry, guiding the research towards meaningful outcomes.

Tips for writing a good hypothesis or research question

Developing a strong research question is the first step in any research project. A well-crafted hypothesis or a research question should guide the study design and clarify the objectives. For example, when formulating hypotheses, consider both research hypotheses and alternate hypothesis to ensure a nuanced exploration of the research. Engaging collaborators to refine your research can aid in developing the research question and enhance the overall depth of your study.

When writing a successful research project, it is essential to refine research objectives based on the existing research literature. This helps in ensuring the generalizability of the research findings and addressing the problem or issue the research targets. Utilize both descriptive research and promising research methodologies to format your question and guide the research effectively. Ultimately, well-defined hypotheses will determine how the hypothesis is tested and influence your study’s outcomes.

Key differences between a hypothesis and a research question

Key differences between a hypothesis and a research question lie in their roles within the research framework. A hypothesis proposes a specific relationship or outcome, often framed as a 1-sided hypothesis, while a research question serves to guide the exploration of the research topic. For instance, the Canadian Institute for Health Research emphasizes that using research questions can aid in identifying inclusion and exclusion criteria at the start of the study.

Research questions help define the objectives of the study, leading to the formulation of hypotheses that address potential differences in outcomes. In designing clinical research, researchers often focus on multiple research hypotheses rather than solely on research questions. This approach aligns with national research standards to improve the overall quality of the study and enhance the research community’s understanding of the subject.

Ultimately, both research questions and hypotheses are crucial for advancing knowledge about a subject, yet they serve distinct purposes. A well-crafted research question can guide the research study, while hypotheses provide testable statements that researchers can investigate. This symbiotic relationship fosters a deeper exploration of the research topic, leading to more robust findings in the field.

Situations where a hypothesis is more Appropriate 

In various research contexts, it is often more appropriate to use hypotheses rather than research questions. For example, when addressing a specific appropriate research question, formulating hypotheses allows researchers to predict outcomes and test their validity. This approach can include both research and clinical hypotheses, which help clarify the objectives of the study.

Utilizing hypotheses rather than simple research questions can significantly enhance the clarity of the research design. A well-structured research question and guide the investigation towards specific outcomes, ultimately benefiting the research community.

Situations where a research question  is more Appropriate 

In many research scenarios, formulating a research question is more appropriate than a clinical hypothesis, particularly when exploring complex phenomena. For instance, when aiming to understand patient experiences, a well-defined research question can guide the investigation more effectively than rigid hypotheses and objectives. This will aid in capturing nuanced responses and adapting the research approach as necessary, ensuring that findings are relevant and informative.

Moreover, using a research question allows for flexibility in data collection methods, facilitating a comprehensive analysis. In exploratory studies, a research question serves as a foundation for inquiry, driving the investigation’s direction. Overall, choosing a research question enhances the depth and breadth of understanding in various research contexts.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a hypothesis vs a research question?

When embarking on an academic research project, a research question for your research often serves as a broad research question, guiding the investigation. In contrast, opt for a hypothesis may be preferable for those seeking clarity in their study’s direction. A scientist-kmfri i sustainable aquaculture scientist may argue that while a hypothesis can help focus the research, the research question depends on the context and existing literature.

For senior research scientists at kmfri i sustainable initiatives, choosing between a research or clinical hypothesis or a research question for your research project can determine success or failure. Hypotheses offer clarity and allow for structured testing, especially in fields like psychology. Conversely, many aquatic food systems specialists may prefer to use broad questions as this will aid in exploring similar research available within the domain.

 Tips for writing a good hypothesis or research question

To write a strong hypothesis or research question, a senior research scientist-kmfri i sustainable aquaculture emphasizes the importance of clarity. At the end of the introduction of your written research paper, you should choose a hypothesis that is specific and focused. This is crucial since action research often requires an applied research focus that addresses real-world issues, including those in psychology.

It’s advisable to formulate a single, clear hypothesis rather than hypotheses that can lead to confusion. This approach not only strengthens your argument but also guides your research effectively. In this way, your inquiry can contribute to sustainable practices in aquaculture, aligning with the goals of research scientists-kmfri i sustainable initiatives.

Conclusion: Research Question vs. Hypothesis – Both Are Crucial

Both research questions and hypotheses play critical roles in the research process. A research question guides the overall focus of the study, while a hypothesis offers a specific, testable prediction. Understanding when and how to use each will make your research more structured, focused, and effective.

At IvyResearchWriters.com, we specialize in helping students and researchers develop strong research questions and hypotheses. Whether you’re working on an exploratory study or an experimental design, our team can provide you with the support needed to structure your research effectively.

Need help crafting your research question or hypothesis? Contact IvyResearchWriters.com for expert guidance and assistance in your academic research journey!

FAQs about Research Question vs Hypothesis in Quantitative Research by Ivy Research Writers

What is a research question in the context of quantitative research?

A research question is a clear, focused question that guides a research project. It defines what the researcher aims to investigate and is crucial for setting the direction of the study. In quantitative research, the research question often seeks to find relationships between variables, determine patterns, or evaluate differences. For example, a research question may ask, “What is the impact of social media usage on academic performance among college students?” This question sets the stage for developing a hypothesis and outlines the research design needed to explore the topic.

How does a hypothesis differ from a research question?

A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement that predicts the relationship between variables, while a research question seeks to explore or understand a phenomenon. For instance, if the research question is, “What is the effect of sleep on test scores?” the corresponding hypothesis might be, “Students who sleep at least 8 hours before a test will score higher than those who sleep less than 6 hours.” The hypothesis is a more concise and focused assertion derived from the broader research question.

What is the role of the null hypothesis in quantitative research?

The null hypothesis, often denoted as H0, is a statement that there is no effect or no relationship between the variables being studied. It serves as a baseline for statistical testing in quantitative research. Researchers aim to either reject or fail to reject the null hypothesis based on the evidence gathered during the study. For example, if the research question is about the effect of a new teaching method on student performance, the null hypothesis would state that there is no difference in performance between students taught with the new method and those taught with traditional methods.

How can one effectively formulate a research question and hypothesis?

To effectively formulate a research question and hypothesis, researchers should begin with a broad area of interest, conduct a literature review to identify gaps in existing research, and refine their focus into specific aspects. A good research question should be clear.