Before we dig deep into understanding the difference and application of Hypothesis and Research Question, it is more important to define the exact nature of scientific inquiry. Fundamentally, scientific inquiry is a structured, formal and systematic approach to the exploration and discovery with its roots established in empirical evidence and guided by the principles of logical reasoning and critical analysis. Scientific inquiry rests on the grounds of an unbiased approach in observation and commitment towards a rigorous assessment of information. It is a formal process that seeks to generate knowledge that is verifiable and has its base in well founded theories and methodological robustness.
A very critical facet of scientific investigation is the right framing of research and the pivotal element in the framing of research are two very distinct but at the same time interrelated elements, which is the research question and the hypothesis. The research question articulates the initial inquiry or the set of inquiries that will be addressed in the study bring undertaken. The research question in other words is the “Focal point of Exploration”. Hypotheses comes next and it in fundamental terms, it is the testable prediction regarding the expected outcome of the research. The basis for creating the hypothesis is the review of the existing literature and the theoretical framework. To understand better, a hypothesis the provisional answer to the research question which is available for empirical verification.
Essentially, research question tries to identify and go in depth of potential relationships as well as patterns or trends that foster a very deep understanding of the phenomenon underlying it. In contrast to that, a hypotheses endeavors to validate the assumptions that have been already predefined by the means of testing and validation.
Knowing what is research question:
A research question is the critical first step in the research endeavor and it expects from the researcher a thorough as well as in-depth understanding of both, the topic in hand as well as the literary landscape that encapsulates it. It is a torch bearer which guides the trajectory of the investigation, giving a focal point around which the research activities pertaining to the study can be weaved.
Because of the critical value of the research question, researchers have to ensure that it is not just meaningful but also fruitful. A good research question should be not just characterized by clarity, succinctness but at the same time should be realistically aligned with the existing research. This would assist in building established foundations to develop new insights within the identified domain.
Knowing what is research question:
Crafting well defined hypothesis is an equally significant step in scholarly research. To be in a position to draft correct hypothesis, the researcher must have a very profound grasp of the subject matter and at the same time a strong awareness about the existing scholarly dialogues and theories that are relevant to the topic.
During the formulation of hypothesis, some important principles must be adhered to, so that the statements are verifiable. Hypothesis that is robust in nature comprises several attributes, including preciseness, the ability to test and at the same time alignment with established research and theories.
