Final answer:
Formulating a research question in health sciences, like cancer, involves asking basic and applied research questions that are open-ended, specific, and consequential. The process involves refining questions from general to specific as knowledge increases.
Step-by-step explanation:
To develop a working thesis or to formulate effective research questions for clinical or academic research, a structured approach is necessary. Specifically in the realm of health sciences, an example using cancer as a subject could be to first create a basic science question such as 'What are the genetic mutations that lead to the development of melanoma?' Then, an applied science question could address practical applications, for example, 'What are the most effective treatments for melanoma in patients with a specific genetic profile?'
When formulating a research question, you should aim to address various aspects of the topic, such as the problem's scope, its effects, and potential solutions. It is important that the research question you pose is open-ended, specific, and of significant consequence. This approach helps to narrow down the focus and gives direction to the subsequent data collection and hypothesis formulation.
Remember, a good research question in the health sciences, and indeed any scientific field, usually evolves from general to more specific as you gain more knowledge, and it should invite multiple answers or perspectives that can be investigated in your research.