In general, however, a good research question should be: Clear and focused. In other words, the question should clearly state what the writer needs to do. Not too broad and not too narrow.

Why does an effective research question need to be specific?

Research questions help writers focus their research by providing a path through the research and writing process. The specificity of a well-developed research question helps writers avoid the “all-about” paper and work toward supporting a specific, arguable thesis.

Should a research question be original?

The goal for new research should generally be to address something that is lacking in the existing literature. Often this means addressing an unanswered question. For research to be of PhD standard, all institutional regulations require it be 'original' and significant.