Coming up with a Research Question

Students should not work with a research question that is too broad or too vague, too narrow, too difficult or inappropriate

A note on topic, title and research question

It is important that students understand the distinction between the terms topic, title and research question.

• The topic of the extended essay is the subject, issue or theme that you are investigating within a specific DP subject or world studies area of study. The topic, which develops during the initial thinking about the EE, should later be reflected in the wording of the title.

• The title of the EE is a clear, summative statement that specifically focuses the topic being researched. It appears on the title page. A title should:

  • be short, descriptive and succinct

  • not be phrased as a question

  • use keywords that connect with the topic and the DP subject or world studies area of study

  • attract the interest of the reader.

• The research question derives from the title and is expressed as a question that is intended to be answered through researching and writing the EE. It appears on the title page and could also be visible as a header throughout the essay. It should:

  • be clear and focused

  • provide a path through which you can undertake achievable research

  • use keywords that connect with the topic, the title, and the DP subject or world studies area of study

  • support the development of an argument.