If your initial question is too broad, given the length of the paper you plan to write, look for ways to restrict your focus. Here, for example, is how two students narrowed their initial questions.
| TOO BROAD | NARROWER |
|---|---|
| What causes depression? | How has the widespread use of antidepressant drugs affected teenage suicide rates? |
| What are the benefits of stricter auto emissions standards? | How will stricter auto emissions standards create new auto industry jobs and make US carmakers more competitive in the world market? |
Challenging research questions
Grounded research questions
Entry points to research
Revising a thesis that is too broad