Strengthening Research Engagements in Dentistry

1. WHY? (The purpose) Why are you conducting this research? Why focus on this particular problem, when there, maybe, are a million others out there? 2. WHAT? (The problem) What exactly is the problem or issue here? What do you hope to gain from addressing this particular problem? 3. WHERE? (The environment) Where do you see this research leading to in light of everything that's around you? Your location and context do matter. What works in the US/UK need not work just as well in India/Malaysia. Where in the broad spectrum of things happening within your field do you see your research helping things get better? 4. WHEN? (The timeframe) When do you propose to do this research and when do you expect it to bear fruit or give you actionable results? When would be an ideal time to get into this research and why? Why propose to address this issue now, when there are many other issues that also need to be addressed? 5. WHO? (The proponents and targets) 5. A. Who should be involved in this ...

Before you begin... By general estimates, it is no secret that more than 50% - 90% of all scientific research projects fail to reach their primary goal or do not yield publishable results. While these percentages may vary from field to field, the fact is that failure rates are still high, making scientific research unpredictable and untenable for many looking to get into their respective fields. It is also true, however, that there are many ways to battle the odds and turn things in your favour. While not everything is in your hands, there is no denying that there are some simple steps you can take to ensure you go in fully prepared and with your eyes wide open. Before beginning any research project, it is crucial that you take the time to address the 6 Ws: Why, What, Where, When, Who and How. (Hey! There is a W in How as well. Don't come for my head just because it's not at the beginning. 😋) (End of part 1) Details to follow in the next post...