Formulating and

Clarifying the Research

Topic
Dr. Hina Fatima
Formulating the Research Topic
• It involves selecting a specific area of interest

• It serves as the foundation for the entire research process, guiding the
study's scope and focus.

• Suppose a student is interested in Management Sciences and wants

to explore the impact of remote work on employee productivity in the
post-pandemic era. This can serve as an example of a well-formulated
research topic.
Clarifying the Research Topic
• This process involves making sure the chosen research topic is well-
defined, specific, and focused.
• How clarity ensures that the research problem and research
objectives are clear and can be effectively addressed.
• Examples:
• Use a vague research topic such as "Employee Motivation" and
demonstrate how it can be clarified by narrowing it down to "The
Impact of Financial Incentives on Employee Motivation in the IT
Industry."
Class Activity
• "Sustainability in Business"
• Work together to clarify the research topic by identifying a specific
research problem
• (e.g., "The Role of Green Initiatives in Reducing Operational Costs in
the Manufacturing Sector") and research objectives.
• Have each group share their results with the class.
Attributes of a Good Research Topic
• Good research topics possess specific attributes that enhance the
quality and relevance of the research.

• Relevance is a crucial attribute: Research topics should address

current issues, gaps, or practical challenges in Management
Sciences.

• Example:
• "The Impact of E-commerce on Brick-and-Mortar Retail Stores in
a Post-Pandemic Environment."
 Feasibility
• Research topics should be realistic and achievable given the available time, resources,
and constraints.
• Example:
"Analyzing the Effect of Leadership Training Programs on Employee Performance in a
Medium-Sized Organization."
Clarity
How clarity ensures that the research problem and objectives are well-defined and can be
effectively investigated.
• Example:
• Use a well-clarified research topic such as "The Relationship Between Leadership Style
and Employee Job Satisfaction in the Healthcare Sector."
• Originality

• Research topics should bring a fresh perspective or unique angle to

existing knowledge.
• Examples:
"Exploring the Influence of Mindfulness Practices on Managerial
Decision-Making in High-Stress Environments."
Significance

• Explore the practical and theoretical significance of research topics:

Discuss how research should contribute to the broader understanding
of Management Sciences.
• Examples:
• The Impact of Sustainable Business Practices on Customer Loyalty and
Market Share."
• Interest
• How a genuine interest in the topic can enhance motivation and
commitment.
• Examples:
• Research interests align with their passions.