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Research Aims, Objectives & Questions

By: David Phair (PhD) and Alexandra Shaeffer (PhD) | June 2022

T he research aims , objectives and research questions (collectively called the “golden thread”) are arguably the most important thing you need to get right when you’re crafting a research proposal , dissertation or thesis . We receive questions almost every day about this “holy trinity” of research and there’s certainly a lot of confusion out there, so we’ve crafted this post to help you navigate your way through the fog.

Overview: The Golden Thread

What is the golden thread
What are research aims ( examples )
What are research objectives ( examples )
What are research questions ( examples )
The importance of alignment in the golden thread

What is the “golden thread”?

The golden thread simply refers to the collective research aims , research objectives , and research questions for any given project (i.e., a dissertation, thesis, or research paper ). These three elements are bundled together because it’s extremely important that they align with each other, and that the entire research project aligns with them.

Importantly, the golden thread needs to weave its way through the entirety of any research project , from start to end. In other words, it needs to be very clearly defined right at the beginning of the project (the topic ideation and proposal stage) and it needs to inform almost every decision throughout the rest of the project. For example, your research design and methodology will be heavily influenced by the golden thread (we’ll explain this in more detail later), as well as your literature review.

The research aims, objectives and research questions (the golden thread) define the focus and scope ( the delimitations ) of your research project. In other words, they help ringfence your dissertation or thesis to a relatively narrow domain, so that you can “go deep” and really dig into a specific problem or opportunity. They also help keep you on track , as they act as a litmus test for relevance. In other words, if you’re ever unsure whether to include something in your document, simply ask yourself the question, “does this contribute toward my research aims, objectives or questions?”. If it doesn’t, chances are you can drop it.

Alright, enough of the fluffy, conceptual stuff. Let’s get down to business and look at what exactly the research aims, objectives and questions are and outline a few examples to bring these concepts to life.

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Research Aims: What are they?

Simply put, the research aim(s) is a statement that reflects the broad overarching goal (s) of the research project. Research aims are fairly high-level (low resolution) as they outline the general direction of the research and what it’s trying to achieve .

Research Aims: Examples

True to the name, research aims usually start with the wording “this research aims to…”, “this research seeks to…”, and so on. For example:

“This research aims to explore employee experiences of digital transformation in retail HR.” “This study sets out to assess the interaction between student support and self-care on well-being in engineering graduate students”

As you can see, these research aims provide a high-level description of what the study is about and what it seeks to achieve. They’re not hyper-specific or action-oriented, but they’re clear about what the study’s focus is and what is being investigated.

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Research Objectives: What are they?

The research objectives take the research aims and make them more practical and actionable . In other words, the research objectives showcase the steps that the researcher will take to achieve the research aims.

The research objectives need to be far more specific (higher resolution) and actionable than the research aims. In fact, it’s always a good idea to craft your research objectives using the “SMART” criteria. In other words, they should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound”.

Research Objectives: Examples

Let’s look at two examples of research objectives. We’ll stick with the topic and research aims we mentioned previously.

For the digital transformation topic:

To observe the retail HR employees throughout the digital transformation. To assess employee perceptions of digital transformation in retail HR. To identify the barriers and facilitators of digital transformation in retail HR.

And for the student wellness topic:

To determine whether student self-care predicts the well-being score of engineering graduate students. To determine whether student support predicts the well-being score of engineering students. To assess the interaction between student self-care and student support when predicting well-being in engineering graduate students.

As you can see, these research objectives clearly align with the previously mentioned research aims and effectively translate the low-resolution aims into (comparatively) higher-resolution objectives and action points . They give the research project a clear focus and present something that resembles a research-based “to-do” list.

The research objectives detail the specific steps that you, as the researcher, will take to achieve the research aims you laid out.

Research Questions: What are they?

Finally, we arrive at the all-important research questions. The research questions are, as the name suggests, the key questions that your study will seek to answer . Simply put, they are the core purpose of your dissertation, thesis, or research project. You’ll present them at the beginning of your document (either in the introduction chapter or literature review chapter) and you’ll answer them at the end of your document (typically in the discussion and conclusion chapters).

The research questions will be the driving force throughout the research process. For example, in the literature review chapter, you’ll assess the relevance of any given resource based on whether it helps you move towards answering your research questions. Similarly, your methodology and research design will be heavily influenced by the nature of your research questions. For instance, research questions that are exploratory in nature will usually make use of a qualitative approach, whereas questions that relate to measurement or relationship testing will make use of a quantitative approach.

Let’s look at some examples of research questions to make this more tangible.

Research Questions: Examples

Again, we’ll stick with the research aims and research objectives we mentioned previously.

For the digital transformation topic (which would be qualitative in nature):

How do employees perceive digital transformation in retail HR? What are the barriers and facilitators of digital transformation in retail HR?

And for the student wellness topic (which would be quantitative in nature):

Does student self-care predict the well-being scores of engineering graduate students? Does student support predict the well-being scores of engineering students? Do student self-care and student support interact when predicting well-being in engineering graduate students?

You’ll probably notice that there’s quite a formulaic approach to this. In other words, the research questions are basically the research objectives “converted” into question format. While that is true most of the time, it’s not always the case. For example, the first research objective for the digital transformation topic was more or less a step on the path toward the other objectives, and as such, it didn’t warrant its own research question.

So, don’t rush your research questions and sloppily reword your objectives as questions. Carefully think about what exactly you’re trying to achieve (i.e. your research aim) and the objectives you’ve set out, then craft a set of well-aligned research questions . Also, keep in mind that this can be a somewhat iterative process , where you go back and tweak research objectives and aims to ensure tight alignment throughout the golden thread.

The importance of strong alignment

Alignment is the keyword here and we have to stress its importance . Simply put, you need to make sure that there is a very tight alignment between all three pieces of the golden thread. If your research aims and research questions don’t align, for example, your project will be pulling in different directions and will lack focus . This is a common problem students face and can cause many headaches (and tears), so be warned.

Take the time to carefully craft your research aims, objectives and research questions before you run off down the research path. Ideally, get your research supervisor/advisor to review and comment on your golden thread before you invest significant time into your project, and certainly before you start collecting data .

Recap: The golden thread

In this post, we unpacked the golden thread of research, consisting of the research aims , research objectives and research questions . You can jump back to any section using the links below.

As always, feel free to leave a comment below – we always love to hear from you. Also, if you’re interested in 1-on-1 support, take a look at our private coaching service here.

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41 Comments

Thank you very much for your great effort put. As an Undergraduate taking Demographic Research & Methodology, I’ve been trying so hard to understand clearly what is a Research Question, Research Aim and the Objectives in a research and the relationship between them etc. But as for now I’m thankful that you’ve solved my problem.

Well appreciated. This has helped me greatly in doing my dissertation.

An so delighted with this wonderful information thank you a lot.

so impressive i have benefited a lot looking forward to learn more on research.

I am very happy to have carefully gone through this well researched article.

Infact,I used to be phobia about anything research, because of my poor understanding of the concepts.

Now,I get to know that my research question is the same as my research objective(s) rephrased in question format.

I please I would need a follow up on the subject,as I intends to join the team of researchers. Thanks once again.

Thanks so much. This was really helpful.

I know you pepole have tried to break things into more understandable and easy format. And God bless you. Keep it up

i found this document so useful towards my study in research methods. thanks so much.

This is my 2nd read topic in your course and I should commend the simplified explanations of each part. I’m beginning to understand and absorb the use of each part of a dissertation/thesis. I’ll keep on reading your free course and might be able to avail the training course! Kudos!

Thank you! Better put that my lecture and helped to easily understand the basics which I feel often get brushed over when beginning dissertation work.

This is quite helpful. I like how the Golden thread has been explained and the needed alignment.

This is quite helpful. I really appreciate!

The article made it simple for researcher students to differentiate between three concepts.

Very innovative and educational in approach to conducting research.

I am very impressed with all these terminology, as I am a fresh student for post graduate, I am highly guided and I promised to continue making consultation when the need arise. Thanks a lot.

A very helpful piece. thanks, I really appreciate it .

Very well explained, and it might be helpful to many people like me.

Wish i had found this (and other) resource(s) at the beginning of my PhD journey… not in my writing up year… 😩 Anyways… just a quick question as i’m having some issues ordering my “golden thread”…. does it matter in what order you mention them? i.e., is it always first aims, then objectives, and finally the questions? or can you first mention the research questions and then the aims and objectives?

Thank you for a very simple explanation that builds upon the concepts in a very logical manner. Just prior to this, I read the research hypothesis article, which was equally very good. This met my primary objective.

My secondary objective was to understand the difference between research questions and research hypothesis, and in which context to use which one. However, I am still not clear on this. Can you kindly please guide?

In research, a research question is a clear and specific inquiry that the researcher wants to answer, while a research hypothesis is a tentative statement or prediction about the relationship between variables or the expected outcome of the study. Research questions are broader and guide the overall study, while hypotheses are specific and testable statements used in quantitative research. Research questions identify the problem, while hypotheses provide a focus for testing in the study.

Exactly what I need in this research journey, I look forward to more of your coaching videos.

This helped a lot. Thanks so much for the effort put into explaining it.

What data source in writing dissertation/Thesis requires?

What is data source covers when writing dessertation/thesis

This is quite useful thanks

I’m excited and thankful. I got so much value which will help me progress in my thesis.

where are the locations of the reserch statement, research objective and research question in a reserach paper? Can you write an ouline that defines their places in the researh paper?

Very helpful and important tips on Aims, Objectives and Questions.

Thank you so much for making research aim, research objectives and research question so clear. This will be helpful to me as i continue with my thesis.

Thanks much for this content. I learned a lot. And I am inspired to learn more. I am still struggling with my preparation for dissertation outline/proposal. But I consistently follow contents and tutorials and the new FB of GRAD Coach. Hope to really become confident in writing my dissertation and successfully defend it.

As a researcher and lecturer, I find splitting research goals into research aims, objectives, and questions is unnecessarily bureaucratic and confusing for students. For most biomedical research projects, including ‘real research’, 1-3 research questions will suffice (numbers may differ by discipline).

Awesome! Very important resources and presented in an informative way to easily understand the golden thread. Indeed, thank you so much.

Well explained

The blog article on research aims, objectives, and questions by Grad Coach is a clear and insightful guide that aligns with my experiences in academic research. The article effectively breaks down the often complex concepts of research aims and objectives, providing a straightforward and accessible explanation. Drawing from my own research endeavors, I appreciate the practical tips offered, such as the need for specificity and clarity when formulating research questions. The article serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers, offering a concise roadmap for crafting well-defined research goals and objectives. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced researcher, this article provides practical insights that contribute to the foundational aspects of a successful research endeavor.

A great thanks for you. it is really amazing explanation. I grasp a lot and one step up to research knowledge.

I really found these tips helpful. Thank you very much Grad Coach.

I found this article helpful. Thanks for sharing this.

thank you so much, the explanation and examples are really helpful

This is a well researched and superbly written article for learners of research methods at all levels in the research topic from conceptualization to research findings and conclusions. I highly recommend this material to university graduate students. As an instructor of advanced research methods for PhD students, I have confirmed that I was giving the right guidelines for the degree they are undertaking.

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Home » Purpose of Research – Objectives and Applications

Purpose of Research – Objectives and Applications

Table of Contents

Research is a systematic investigation that aims to expand knowledge, answer questions, and address specific problems. Whether conducted in science, social studies, business, or other fields, research provides essential insights that shape our understanding of the world. This guide explores the purpose of research, highlighting its objectives and various applications.

Purpose of Research

The purpose of research can vary depending on the field, the questions being asked, and the goals of the researcher. Broadly, the purpose of research includes:

Advancing Knowledge : Research contributes to the accumulation of knowledge in a particular field, helping to explain concepts, validate theories, and expand understanding.
Problem-Solving : Research addresses real-world problems, providing solutions that can improve practices, processes, or outcomes in various domains.
Informed Decision-Making : By generating evidence-based insights, research guides policymakers, business leaders, and healthcare providers in making informed decisions.
Innovation and Development : Research fuels innovation, leading to the development of new products, technologies, or methods that drive economic and social progress.
Evaluating Practices : Research assesses the effectiveness of policies, programs, and interventions, identifying areas for improvement.

Research Objectives

Research objectives are specific goals or questions that guide the research process. They are typically set during the initial stages of a study and shape how the researcher collects, analyzes, and interprets data.

Types of Research Objectives :

Example : “To describe the demographics of social media users in a specific age range.”
Example : “To explore customer preferences for mobile banking features.”
Example : “To examine the relationship between physical activity and mental health.”
Example : “To predict changes in consumer spending based on economic indicators.”
Example : “To evaluate the impact of a new teaching method on student performance.”

Applications of Research

Research has applications across nearly every sector and plays a crucial role in advancing fields, addressing challenges, and driving innovation. Here are some key applications of research across different fields:

1. Healthcare and Medicine

Application : Research in healthcare focuses on understanding diseases, developing treatments, and improving patient care. Medical research ranges from discovering new medications to understanding mental health.
Example : Clinical trials for a new drug assess its safety and effectiveness, guiding healthcare providers in treatment options.

2. Business and Marketing

Application : Research in business helps companies understand consumer behavior, market trends, and competitor strategies. It informs decisions related to product development, branding, and marketing.
Example : Market research surveys help companies identify customer needs, allowing them to tailor products to meet demand.

3. Education

Application : Educational research examines teaching methods, learning outcomes, and curriculum effectiveness. It helps improve educational practices and policies.
Example : Studies on different instructional approaches provide insights into how students learn best, guiding curriculum development.

4. Environmental Science

Application : Environmental research focuses on understanding ecological processes, assessing human impacts, and finding ways to protect natural resources.
Example : Research on climate change provides data on temperature trends, informing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Social Sciences

Application : Social science research explores human behavior, societal trends, and cultural phenomena. It helps address social issues, such as inequality, mental health, and community development.
Example : Surveys on income inequality provide data that can influence policies aimed at reducing economic disparities.

6. Public Policy

Application : Research in public policy analyzes the impact of government programs, laws, and regulations. It helps policymakers create effective strategies to address issues like healthcare, education, and housing.
Example : Studies evaluating the effectiveness of public health campaigns guide future initiatives to improve community health.

7. Technology and Engineering

Application : Research in technology drives innovation, leading to the development of new devices, software, and solutions that address modern challenges.
Example : Research in artificial intelligence (AI) explores applications in healthcare, finance, and logistics, creating new opportunities and efficiencies.

Guide to Conducting Research

Conducting effective research requires careful planning, a structured approach, and clear objectives. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Define the Research Problem

Clearly identify the issue, question, or problem you wish to address. A well-defined problem sets the direction and scope of the research.

Step 2: Develop Research Objectives and Questions

Set specific objectives and questions that will guide your data collection and analysis. These should be achievable, measurable, and aligned with your research purpose.

Step 3: Review the Literature

Conduct a literature review to understand existing knowledge and identify gaps. This helps to position your research within the broader field and refine your objectives.

Step 4: Choose a Research Methodology

Select an appropriate methodology based on your objectives. Common approaches include qualitative methods (e.g., interviews, case studies) and quantitative methods (e.g., surveys, experiments).

Step 5: Collect Data

Gather data using techniques like surveys, interviews, or experiments, ensuring the data is reliable and relevant to your objectives.

Step 6: Analyze and Interpret Data

Use statistical or thematic analysis methods to interpret your findings, answering your research questions and drawing conclusions.

Step 7: Report Findings

Present your findings in a clear and organized way, discussing how they address the research problem and contribute to the field.

Examples of Research in Action

Healthcare Example : A study investigates the effects of a new diabetes medication. The objectives include assessing the drug’s impact on blood sugar levels and patient quality of life.
Education Example : Researchers evaluate the effects of online learning on student engagement. Objectives include comparing engagement levels between online and in-person classes and identifying factors that enhance virtual learning.
Environmental Science Example : A research project examines deforestation rates in the Amazon, with objectives focused on identifying drivers of deforestation and assessing the effectiveness of conservation policies.

Research is fundamental for advancing knowledge, solving real-world problems, and making informed decisions across multiple domains. By setting clear objectives and choosing appropriate methodologies, researchers can contribute valuable insights that shape society, technology, healthcare, and more. Whether you’re exploring new ideas or evaluating existing practices, understanding the purpose, objectives, and applications of research will enhance the impact and relevance of your work.

Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Sage Publications.
Neuman, W. L. (2014). Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches . Pearson.
Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morrison, K. (2018). Research Methods in Education . Routledge.
Babbie, E. (2020). The Practice of Social Research . Cengage Learning.
Punch, K. F. (2014). Introduction to Social Research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches . Sage Publications.