1. Using one to two word answers, think through:

☑ your topic

☑ the context for your research

☑ what you want to achieve

☑ the nature of your question – who, what, where, when, why, and how

☑ any potential relationships you want to explore

2. Using the answers from step 1, and starting with the nature of the question, string together one or more research questions.

3. If you have more than one question, decide on the main question based on interests, practicalities, and advice.

4. Narrow and clarify until your question is as concise and well-articulated as possible.