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social media bad for mental health?" is reasonably arguable.
Researchable: The research question should be accessible
Relevant, using scientific research methodology like surveys,
complex, experiments, etc. For example, "What factors contribute to
arguable childhood obesity?" can be researched empirically. Focused:

The research question should be narrowed to a specific
topic, population, time period, location, etc. For example,
"How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect unemployment
rates in Kerala in 2020?" is focused. All these features are
summarised in the figure 1.1.4

Fig 1.1.4 Characteristics of strong research questions

The mode of questioning also matters. Open-ended
questions allow expansive understanding to emerge, while
Impact of closed questions limit the field of inquiry. Generative
Questioning modes questions stimulate new thinking and challenge assumptions.

Questions targeted at experts versus lived experiences
produce different insights.

Answers represent the fruits of inquiry. But not all
questions yield definitive answers. Partial, tentative answers
Value of answers that reveal the complexity of issues are equally valuable.
in inquiry The significance lies in constructing meaning, not arriving
at absolute truths. Answers in turn spark further questions in
successive spirals of understanding.

While rigorous inquiry is often equated with firm
answers, its real worth lies in evolving superior questions
and cultivating the ongoing spirit of questioning. The

SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing 17