Final answer:
The optimal research question is open-ended, debatable, answerable with evidence, and consequential to ensure a thorough and meaningful exploration of the subject.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best research question is one that is open-ended, sparking a reasonable debate with multiple possible answers. It should be sufficiently complex to require you to consult various sources, synthesize information, and provide an insightful analysis, rather than being answerable with a simple yes or no or a short response. The question should lead to consequential outcomes and be framed in a way that allows for the pursuit of evidence in existing source material and expert opinions.
A good research question is one that prompts you to ask more questions and requires thorough evaluation of sources. It's not just about summarizing information, but also about analyzing and interpreting evidence to develop a well-supported argument or conclusion. This ensures that your research is meaningful, impactful, and contributes to a broader discussion or field of study.