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Ekstrom Library

Critical Thinking and Academic Research: Questions

This guide explains the fundamental role of critical thinking in the academic research process.

State the Question(s)

Research is about critical inquiry—asking questions and developing answers. Thus, it is important to think about the questions you're asking and the kind of answers you might be interested in developing.

Research questions often evolve and change throughout the research process. Nevertheless, clear questions help you stay focused and determine where to look for information and how to interpret it.

Critical Questions

  • What question(s) am I trying to answer or investigate?

  • What other questions should I ask?

  • What questions have other people failed to ask?