Research Process: A Step-By-Step Guide: Develop Research Questions

Once you have selected a topic, the next step is to develop research questions.

• Write down what you already know or don't know about the topic.
• Use that information to develop questions.
  • Use probing questions. (why? what if?)
  • Avoid "yes" and "no" questions. 

What do or don't I know about Caffeine?

I know:

• caffeine is a naturally-occurring substance found in the leaves, seeds, and/or fruit of more than 60 plants.
• coffee and cocoa beans, kola nuts, and tea leaves are used to make beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
• caffeine is a drug that stimulates the brain and nervous system

I don't know:

• what the short-term and long-term effects of caffeine are on the body.
• what amount of caffeine is deemed safe to consume per day.
• what factors affect the amount of caffeine in a product. 

Research Questions

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of caffeine?
• What are the effects of caffeine on cognitive functions?
• Is caffeine more detrimental than beneficial to children's health?
• Can caffeine enhance an athlete's performance?
• What are the most common expectations for caffeine use?
• How is caffeine used and regulated in food and beverages?

"Research Question - Library Research Tutorial" was produced by the University of Maryland Global Campus Library, University of Maryland Global Campus, Largo, Maryland.