Hovedspørsmålene

Hovedspørsmålene is a term used in Norwegian and Danish academic contexts to describe the central set of questions that guide a research project, debate, or inquiry. The plural form signals multiple key questions, typically organized around one overarching question and several sub-questions.

They are usually developed after selecting a topic and before collecting data. Effective hovedspørsmålene are clear, focused, and answerable, helping determine suitable methods and sources, and they frame what counts as evidence.

The concept is closely linked to the problemstilling (problem statement) and the aims of the work. The hovedspørsmålene express what the project intends to answer, while sub-questions break the problem into manageable parts. In practice, researchers often present 2–5 main questions, each aligned with specific aspects of the topic.

Example: for a study of city parks and health, hovedspørsmålene might include: 1) What is the relationship between proximity to parks and self-reported well-being? 2) How do park size and amenities influence physical activity? 3) What policies improve equitable access to green spaces? In humanities, they may address interpretation, causes, or implications, depending on the field and topic.

In education, hovedspørsmålene guide the writing process and assessment; they are often revised as the project develops to maintain focus and coherence with aims and methods.