What is the first step in determining the focus of a research project?

Formulating the research question is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire research project. This initial step determines the specific aim or focus of the investigation, guiding the direction of the study and framing the issues to be explored. A well-defined research question not only clarifies what the researcher intends to discover but also informs the choice of methodology, data collection, and analysis strategies.

Once the research question is established, it becomes easier to identify relevant literature, form hypotheses, and subsequently select participants. Without a clear research question, the entire process can become unfocused and lead to ambiguous or irrelevant results. Thus, this step is the cornerstone of effective research design, ensuring that the study remains aligned with its intended purpose and objectives.