You can refine your research question by calling attention to assumptions that have been made by the community of writers and readers who are addressing your subject, or by referring to existing conditions relevant to your subject. Note the difference among these three versions of featured writer Ali Bizzul’s research question about the health risks associated with weight gain among football players.
Original Question:
Why would football players risk their health — and even their lives — by putting on extra weight?
Alternative 1:
Given the widespread belief among coaches that extra bulk might reduce performance on the field, why would football players risk their health — and even their lives — by putting on extra weight?
Alternative 2:
In the face of recent high-profile deaths among college and professional football players, why would football players risk their health — and even their lives — by putting on extra weight?
As you refine your research question, experiment with using qualifying words and phrases such as the following:
| Mix . . . | and Match |
| Although | we know that . . . |
| Because | it is uncertain . . . |
| Even though | it is clear that . . . |
| Given that | studies indicate . . . |
| If | recent events . . . |
| Now that | it has been shown . . . |
| Since | the lack of . . . |
| While | we cannot . . . |