Developing a Research Question

General Topic ---> Specialized Topic ---> Literal Questions about the Topic ---> Possible Research Questions about the Topic --->  Choose the Question that Interests You Most

(general topic) working mothers --->  (specialized topic) maternity leave ---> (Literal Questions about the Topic) What is maternity leave?; Do all companies provide maternity leave?; How long is the average maternity leave?

(Possible Research Questions about the Topic) How does maternity leave in the US compare to maternity leave in Europe?; Do companies allow men to take paternity leave? If so, do they get the same amount of time as women do for maternity leave, what is the policy?; What is the policy regarding whether or not a woman's position will be available when she returns from maternity leave? --->

(Research Question) How does the maternity leave policy in the US compare to maternity leave in Europe?

Unclear: Why are social networking sites harmful?
Clear: How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on such social networking sites as Twitter and Facebook?

Unfocused: What is the effect on the environment from global warming?
Focused: How is glacial melting affecting penguins in Antarctica?

Too simple: How are doctors addressing diabetes in the U.S.?
Appropriately Complex:  What are common traits of those suffering from diabetes in America, and how can these commonalities be used to aid the medical community in prevention of the disease?