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The Research Paper Process

This guide will help you throughout the process of writing a research paper, from brainstorming ideas to the finished paper.

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Step 3. Formulate a Research Question

  • This focuses the topic.
  • What do you want to know about the topic?

Example:

Topic:  Social Media and teens
Want to know: More about how social media influences/affects teens
Question:  How does social media affect teenagers?

This question is very broad.  Perhaps we should focus on a certain area in a teenager's life that is affected by social media.

New Question:  How does social media affect teenagers' relationships?

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