Start broad, then narrow aggressively
“The Cold War” is a subject, not an EPQ question. Narrow by period, place, actor, concept or controversy until the project can be handled within the available word count and time.
A good question signals what will be evaluated: significance, responsibility, change, interpretation or causation.
Test whether the evidence exists
Before committing, find several credible secondary sources and, where appropriate, accessible primary material. If the entire argument depends on sources you cannot access, refine the question.
Look for disagreement among historians or evidence that supports more than one interpretation. This creates intellectual space for your own judgement.
Research-question check
- Is the question narrow enough to answer well?
- Can you find contrasting evidence or interpretations?
- Does it invite argument rather than description?
- Can you explain why the question matters?
Check manageability
Ask whether key terms are defined and whether the timeframe is realistic. A question covering centuries may become superficial unless the project is explicitly comparative or thematic.
Discuss the proposed scope with your supervisor early. Changing a question after preliminary research is a normal part of good project design.
- Interest.
- Focused question.
- Manageable period.
- Available sources.
- Genuine debate.
- Clear method for reaching a judgement.
Keep a record of question development
The process of refining the question is part of independent research. Record why alternatives were rejected and how early reading changed the scope.
This demonstrates reflection and helps prevent the project from drifting later.
Frequently asked questions
Can my EPQ be on the same History I study at A Level?
Check your awarding-body and school guidance on overlap. Your project should have sufficient independence from assessed course content.
Does an EPQ title need to be a question?
A question often helps create an evaluative structure, but follow your school and awarding-body requirements.
How narrow should an EPQ topic be?
Narrow enough to research and evaluate in depth within the project constraints rather than merely survey a huge subject.