What should Christopher do next after defining his research question and conducting general background research on animal shelter overcrowding?

After defining the research question and conducting general background research, the next logical step for Christopher is to develop a research strategy. This involves outlining a plan that specifies how he will gather the information needed to address his research question effectively. A well-formed research strategy includes identifying sources for data collection, determining the methods to employ, and setting a timeline for the research process.

This approach ensures that Christopher remains organized and focused as he progresses in his research, helping him to collect relevant data more efficiently, analyze that data, and ultimately draw informed conclusions. By laying out a clear strategy, he can also anticipate potential challenges and plan how to address them.

The other options, while potentially helpful later on, do not logically follow from the initial research question and background research. For instance, conducting a survey of local residents would be part of the data collection phase that follows after developing a strategy, not immediately thereafter. Similarly, preparing a presentation would come after some findings are gathered, and contacting local animal shelters may be part of his research strategy, but it is also a step that occurs later. Thus, focusing on developing a comprehensive research strategy is essential to ensure a structured approach moving forward.