---

name: research-questions description: "Formulate research questions using FINER criteria (Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, Relevant). Use when: (1) Starting new research projects, (2) Refining study scope, (3) Grant proposal development, (4) Ensuring research question quality." allowed-tools: Read, Write version: 1.0.0

Research Question Formulation Skill

Purpose

Develop high-quality research questions using FINER criteria.

FINER Criteria

F - Feasible

• Adequate participants available
• Sufficient technical expertise
• Affordable in time and money
• Manageable in scope

I - Interesting

• Interesting to investigator and community
• Relevant to scientific knowledge
• Relevant to clinical/policy importance

N - Novel

• Confirms/refutes previous findings
• Extends previous findings
• Provides new findings

E - Ethical

• IRB approvable
• Benefits outweigh risks
• Equipoise exists

R - Relevant

• Advances scientific knowledge
• Influences clinical practice or policy
• Informs future research

Examples

Poor Question: "Does stress affect health?"

• Too broad, not specific

Better Question: "Does chronic work-related stress increase cardiovascular disease risk in middle-aged adults?"

• Specific population, exposure, outcome

Best Question: "Among adults aged 40-60 with high job strain (Karasek Job Content Questionnaire score >24), does a 12-week mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention reduce systolic blood pressure compared to usual care?"

• PICO format: Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome
• Measurable variables
• Specific timeframe

---

Version: 1.0.0