Question

Identifying Characteristics of Research Questions: Which characteristics do research questions need to have? Check all that apply.

A) Must be long
B) Must be answerable
C) Must be specific
D) Must be relevant
E) Must be focused

Answer 1

Research questions should be answerable, specific, relevant, and focused. They guide your study and provide direction, and it is often necessary to revise them to ensure they meet these criteria.

Step-by-step explanation:

Research questions are essential in guiding the direction and focus of your study. They need to have the following characteristics:

• Must be answerable: You should be able to answer your research question by using the evidence you gather and by consulting existing source materials on the topic.
• Must be specific: The question should be clear and precise, making the intended research path and objectives evident.
• Must be relevant: The question should relate directly to the field of study or subject area and contribute meaningful insight or knowledge.
• Must be focused: A good research question targets a specific issue or problem and isn't too broad, allowing for a comprehensive investigation within the scope of the study.

Note that while a research question does not necessarily have to be long, it often undergoes revision to meet these criteria and ensure it is open-ended enough to prompt debate, yet focused enough to be practicable and of consequence.