PICO Research Question Worksheet

This printable PDF worksheet takes you step by step from a clinical problem to a one-sentence PICO question, with a feasibility check and a design match.

What is inside

• Problem statement lines
• PICO table with space for each element
• One-sentence question template
• Feasibility and quality check table, and a design guide

How to use it

1. Print it or fill it in on a tablet.
2. Write the problem in your own words, then split it into P, I, C and O.
3. Draft the question three times; narrow it each time.
4. Check PubMed to see whether it has already been answered.

Example (illustrative)

In adults with type 2 diabetes (P), does a structured walking programme (I) compared with usual care (C) reduce HbA1c at 12 weeks (O)? (Illustrative.)

Limitations and cautions

The worksheet helps frame a question but does not check whether the question is original or feasible. Search the literature and talk to a mentor before you start a project. The file is free to use and edit, and the footer credits MedResearch Ninja.

MRN templates are original, editable starting points. Reporting standards (PRISMA, CARE, ICMJE and others) belong to their authors: use the official versions linked above for formal submissions.