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A focus question is a precisely formulated question that guides the entire scope of the investigation. It identifies the central issue or decision to be analyzed and serves as the foundational inquiry from which all experimental activities, observations, and data collection efforts are derived. The focus question is crucial because it ensures that the study remains directed and cohesive, providing a clear objective that aligns with the experimental goals.

The focus question should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) to effectively address the complexities of decision-making processes. It helps in narrowing down the broader research questions into more manageable, targeted inquiries that can be examined through detailed empirical study. This approach allows researchers to dissect and understand the nuanced factors influencing decision outcomes and the efficacy of different decision-making strategies under various conditions.