The title serves as the first point of contact for readers, signaling the focus and intent of the study. Traditionally, research titles have been crafted as declarative statements, summarizing the main objective of the investigation. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend in using questions as research titles. This shift prompts us to ponder whether a title of research can indeed be a question. In this discourse, we delve into the intricacies of this practice, examining its merits and limitations, and ultimately arriving at a nuanced perspective on the matter.

To begin with, let us address the fundamental purpose of a research title. At its core, a research title is meant to provide readers with a concise understanding of the research's subject matter and its key focus. Traditionally, this has been achieved through declarative titles that state the research's primary objective. For example, a title like "The Impact of Climate Change on Coral Reefs" clearly conveys the research's scope. In contrast, titles framed as questions, such as "What is the Impact of Climate Change on Coral Reefs?" introduce an element of inquiry right from the start.

One of the merits of using a question as a research title lies in its ability to engage the reader's curiosity. Questions are inherently thought-provoking and invite readers to contemplate the issue at hand. They encourage active participation, nudging the reader to seek answers within the research itself. This engagement can be particularly beneficial when the research seeks to address complex or contentious topics. By posing a question in the title, the researcher immediately invites the reader into the realm of inquiry.

Furthermore, research titles framed as questions often align seamlessly with qualitative and exploratory studies. These types of research often have open-ended objectives, making the use of questions in titles an apt choice. For instance, a qualitative study seeking to understand the experiences of first-generation college students might adopt the title, "How Do First-Generation College Students Navigate Higher Education?" The question title here reflects the exploratory nature of the research.

However, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of using questions in research titles. Firstly, not all research questions are suitable as titles. Some questions may be overly complex or convoluted, making them unsuitable for concise titles. Additionally, not all research can be framed as a question without sacrificing clarity or precision. Research titles must strike a balance between being engaging and informative, and this can be challenging when using questions.

Moreover, the choice of a question title should align with the research's overall methodology and objectives. If the research primarily seeks to answer a specific question, framing it as such in the title is logical. However, if the study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of a topic, a declarative title may be more appropriate.

The use of a question as a research title is a practice that carries both merits and limitations. While it can engage readers' curiosity and align with certain types of research, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Researchers must carefully consider the nature of their study, the complexity of the research question, and the need for clarity when deciding whether a title of research can be a question. Ultimately, the appropriateness of this approach depends on the specific context and goals of the research at hand.