When considering your research topic, you may begin with a general idea or problem to be solved. For example:
- effects of climate change
- mental health issues
- labour shortage
This is a great starting point to identify the general area of your topic, but it is important to develop a research question to better define the scope of your research. Ask yourself, "what do I want to know more about my topic?" Create a concept map of related concepts and sub-topics to explore different areas you can focus on. Frame your topic as open-ended research questions using the related concepts and sub-topics.
Example: labour shortage
Related concepts include: skilled trades, Canada or Ontario, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic
Research question: how did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the skilled trades job market in Ontario?
Example: mental health issues
Related concepts include: teenagers, social media
Research question: how has the use of social media impacted mental health issues for teenagers?
