Introduction:   

Give a brief outline (200 words)  of the research problem/issue and why you are interested in it. Variables to be examined, described, or explored should be introduced.

Research Question or Hypothesis

State the question(s) that needs to be answered. Identify the independent and dependent variables if relevant. For example; does an exercise prevention program improve outcomes for patients with chronic stable angina?   The research questions should be interrogative i.e. posed as a question, not as a statement.

For example; what are women’s experiences of midwifery-led care?  What are nurses’ attitudes towards patients with mental health problems?  The question should be researchable, and relevant to Irish nursing/midwifery.