Elements of a Good Research Question

1. Specific: Not a “fishing expedition”
2. Measurable: Testable (statistically)
3. Attainable: Something that “you” can do
1. You have the expertise
2. You have the equipment and resources
4. Realistic:
1. Based on some sort of rational physics
2. Can be done in a reasonable time frame
5. Timely:
1. Novel
2. Preferably based in new technologies (has a past).
3. Important to current concerns (has a present).
4. Can lead to new directions – i.e. is not an endpoint in itself (has a future).
6. Important
7. Meaningful whether the answer is “Yes” or “No.”

Louisiana Tech Research Experiences for Undergradautes in Micro/Nano Engineering

Steven A. Jones