| name | framework-guided-formulation |
| description | Strategy: Select an RQ framework (PICO/SPIDER/SPICE/ECLIPSE) and apply it systematically |
| version | 1.0.0 |
| category | hypothesis-formation |
| type | strategy |
| campaign | research-question |
| tactics | ["framework-selection-and-application","question-refinement-loop"] |
| sops | ["framework-matching","pico-application","spider-application","spice-application","eclipse-application","finer-criteria-check"] |
| dependencies | {"tactics":["framework-selection-and-application","question-refinement-loop"]} |
Framework-Guided Formulation
Select the most suitable RQ framework and apply it systematically — when the research type is clear, use a standard framework to structure the question.
When to Use
- The research type is clear (quantitative/qualitative/mixed/evaluation)
- A corresponding standard framework is available
- You need to ensure all components of the question are complete
Thinking Framework
Core logic: Different research types have different standards for a "good question." A framework is a checklist, distilled by predecessors, of "what components a good question should contain." Pick the right framework → fill in each component → naturally arrive at a structured question.
Framework Selection Guide
| Research type | Recommended framework | Core components |
|---|
| Quantitative/intervention research | PICO/PICOTS | Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (+Time, Setting) |
| Qualitative research | SPIDER | Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, Research type |
| Evaluation research | SPICE | Setting, Perspective, Intervention, Comparison, Evaluation |
| Mixed methods | ECLIPSE | Expectation, Client group, Location, Impact, Professionals, Service |
Framework Application Principles
- Every component must be explicitly filled in (no blanks)
- Filled content must be specific (not "relevant population" but "type 2 diabetes patients aged 18–65")
- If a component is not applicable, explicitly state why it is not applicable
Budget Gate
| Tier | Framework candidates | Framework application | FINER check | Output |
|---|
| S | ≥2 frameworks compared | Selected framework, all components filled | All 5 items pass | ≥1 RQ |
| M | ≥3 frameworks compared | Selected framework, all components + alternative framework comparison | 5 items + success criteria | ≥2 RQ |
| L | ≥4 frameworks compared | Multiple frameworks applied in parallel + optimal selection | 5 items + criteria + sensitivity | ≥3 RQ |
Default Reference Flow
