Formulating Research Questions

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A comprehensive literature review is compulsory in research.

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It helps in selecting an appropriate primary study question and addressing methodological difficulties.

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Effective ways to convey a research question include using acronyms.

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Acronyms like PICOT (population, intervention, comparator, outcome, and time frame) and FINER (feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant) are useful.

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Multiple research questions can be tempting but are often not feasible.

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Each question requires a different research design and statistical power, making it challenging to manage.

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Editors and reviewers ensure authors clearly identify the primary research question.

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This is crucial for the suitability of studies for publication.

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Time frame in research

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Defines the duration over which the study will be conducted and outcomes measured.

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Target population

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The specific group of individuals that the research is focused on.

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Time frame for data collection

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The period during which data will be gathered for the study.

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Example of underpowered study

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A study evaluating two supraglottic devices in 50 infants could not draw conclusions due to small sample size.

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A recent survey found that only a third of respondents read the most recent papers thoroughly.

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At least half of those manuscripts remained unread.

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The formulation of a clinical problem usually requires compliance with the PICOT framework.

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It should be in conjunction with FINER criteria to translate a clinical dilemma into a researchable question.