A third map can be used to gain even further focus on the topic area you select. Defining an Approach Even if you have been assigned a topic to research, you must still decide on the approach you will take. And while a good research paper usually includes all three, most have an overriding theme which guides the approach. So, topic and purpose determine your overriding approach. The first thing formulating a research question will do for you is help you focus your topic.
Many topics are much too broad to handle under the scope of a typical research paper.
For instance, a topic such as Alternative Medicine would be impossible to research. The second thing that a research question helps you decide is the type of approach you will take in your research. The above question suggests that you will ultimately present an argument to your audience persuading that herbal remedies either can or cannot help menopausal women. However, you might also decide after researching the topic that herbal remedies, combined with traditional medications, are the best path for those entering menopause. So, while the research question helps focus your research, do not let it limit your research to the point that you don't view the entire picture.