Transforming a general research idea into a well-formulated research question is the foundational step in the statistical analysis journey and study design.
If the research question or purpose is not clear, the subsequent data collection and statistical analyses will be incorrect and meaningless.
A properly defined research question directly dictates the choice of study design, the variables to be measured, and the appropriate statistical methods required to test the hypothesis.
To yield scientifically valid and reliable results, a research question must possess several specific characteristics.
Core Characteristics
Question Format: The research idea must be explicitly phrased as a question that the study sets out to resolve.
Specific: The question must be highly focused and clearly define the parameters of the study, which includes specifying the time frame, the geographical place or setting, the exact subjects or population being studied, and the specific condition or intervention under investigation.
Answerable: The question must be practical and feasible to answer through scientific methods, data collection, and statistical hypothesis testing.
Novel: The proposed question should seek to add new information, insights, or value to the current medical literature rather than simply duplicating already established facts.
Relevant: The question must be directly pertinent to medical knowledge, meaning the answer should have the potential to influence clinical practice, public health, or future scientific inquiries.
Research Question Characteristics
SANER Approach
Characteristic
Definition and Importance
Specific
Must explicitly detail the time, place, subjects, and condition to avoid ambiguity.
Answerable
Must be capable of being investigated using available data and statistical tests.
Novel
Must contribute original findings to the existing body of literature.
Evaluative
Must be structured as a clear, direct question.
Relevant
Must hold practical significance and applicability to medical knowledge.
