Answer: The correct answer is D. focused.
Explanation:
An effective research question should be focused, meaning it is specific, clear, and well-defined. A focused research question helps to:
1. Clearly identify the topic or issue that the research aims to address.
2. Provide a specific direction for the research process.
3. Ensure that the research remains on track and does not become too broad or unfocused.
4. Facilitate the collection of relevant and meaningful data.
5. Enable the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions from the findings.
In contrast, the other options are not characteristics of an effective research question:
A. Broad - A broad research question is too general and may be difficult to answer effectively within the scope of the study.
B. Lengthy - A research question should be concise and to the point, not lengthy or overly complicated.
C. Simple - While a research question should be clear and easy to understand, it should also be specific enough to guide the research process effectively.
Therefore, the most important characteristic of an effective research question is that it is focused, allowing the researcher to conduct a targeted and meaningful investigation.
