Have a language expert improve your writing
Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.
- Knowledge Base
- Starting the research process
- How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples
![](http://earnmoneybangla.online/777/templates/cheerup1/res/banner1.gif)
How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples
Published on November 6, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 20, 2023.
A problem statement is a concise and concrete summary of the research problem you seek to address. It should:
- Contextualize the problem. What do we already know?
- Describe the exact issue your research will address. What do we still need to know?
- Show the relevance of the problem. Why do we need to know more about this?
- Set the objectives of the research. What will you do to find out more?
Table of contents
When should you write a problem statement, step 1: contextualize the problem, step 2: show why it matters, step 3: set your aims and objectives.
Problem statement example
Other interesting articles
Frequently asked questions about problem statements.
There are various situations in which you might have to write a problem statement.
In the business world, writing a problem statement is often the first step in kicking off an improvement project. In this case, the problem statement is usually a stand-alone document.
In academic research, writing a problem statement can help you contextualize and understand the significance of your research problem. It is often several paragraphs long, and serves as the basis for your research proposal . Alternatively, it can be condensed into just a few sentences in your introduction .
A problem statement looks different depending on whether you’re dealing with a practical, real-world problem or a theoretical issue. Regardless, all problem statements follow a similar process.
Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting
Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:
- Academic style
- Vague sentences
- Style consistency
See an example
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/dissertation-proofreading-service.png)
The problem statement should frame your research problem, giving some background on what is already known.
Practical research problems
For practical research, focus on the concrete details of the situation:
- Where and when does the problem arise?
- Who does the problem affect?
- What attempts have been made to solve the problem?
Theoretical research problems
For theoretical research, think about the scientific, social, geographical and/or historical background:
- What is already known about the problem?
- Is the problem limited to a certain time period or geographical area?
- How has the problem been defined and debated in the scholarly literature?
The problem statement should also address the relevance of the research. Why is it important that the problem is addressed?
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you have to do something groundbreaking or world-changing. It’s more important that the problem is researchable, feasible, and clearly addresses a relevant issue in your field.
Practical research is directly relevant to a specific problem that affects an organization, institution, social group, or society more broadly. To make it clear why your research problem matters, you can ask yourself:
- What will happen if the problem is not solved?
- Who will feel the consequences?
- Does the problem have wider relevance? Are similar issues found in other contexts?
Sometimes theoretical issues have clear practical consequences, but sometimes their relevance is less immediately obvious. To identify why the problem matters, ask:
- How will resolving the problem advance understanding of the topic?
- What benefits will it have for future research?
- Does the problem have direct or indirect consequences for society?
Finally, the problem statement should frame how you intend to address the problem. Your goal here should not be to find a conclusive solution, but rather to propose more effective approaches to tackling or understanding it.
The research aim is the overall purpose of your research. It is generally written in the infinitive form:
- The aim of this study is to determine …
- This project aims to explore …
- This research aims to investigate …
The research objectives are the concrete steps you will take to achieve the aim:
- Qualitative methods will be used to identify …
- This work will use surveys to collect …
- Using statistical analysis, the research will measure …
The aims and objectives should lead directly to your research questions.
Learn how to formulate research questions
Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services
Discover proofreading & editing
You can use these steps to write your own problem statement, like the example below.
Step 1: Contextualize the problem A family-owned shoe manufacturer has been in business in New England for several generations, employing thousands of local workers in a variety of roles, from assembly to supply-chain to customer service and retail. Employee tenure in the past always had an upward trend, with the average employee staying at the company for 10+ years. However, in the past decade, the trend has reversed, with some employees lasting only a few months, and others leaving abruptly after many years.
Step 2: Show why it matters As the perceived loyalty of their employees has long been a source of pride for the company, they employed an outside consultant firm to see why there was so much turnover. The firm focused on the new hires, concluding that a rival shoe company located in the next town offered higher hourly wages and better “perks”, such as pizza parties. They claimed this was what was leading employees to switch. However, to gain a fuller understanding of why the turnover persists even after the consultant study, in-depth qualitative research focused on long-term employees is also needed. Focusing on why established workers leave can help develop a more telling reason why turnover is so high, rather than just due to salaries. It can also potentially identify points of change or conflict in the company’s culture that may cause workers to leave.
Step 3: Set your aims and objectives This project aims to better understand why established workers choose to leave the company. Qualitative methods such as surveys and interviews will be conducted comparing the views of those who have worked 10+ years at the company and chose to stay, compared with those who chose to leave.
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
- Sampling methods
- Simple random sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Cluster sampling
- Likert scales
- Reproducibility
Statistics
- Null hypothesis
- Statistical power
- Probability distribution
- Effect size
- Poisson distribution
Research bias
- Optimism bias
- Cognitive bias
- Implicit bias
- Hawthorne effect
- Anchoring bias
- Explicit bias
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
All research questions should be:
- Focused on a single problem or issue
- Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
- Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
- Specific enough to answer thoroughly
- Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
- Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Writing Strong Research Questions](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Characteristics-of-a-strong-research-question-Scribbr-small-1.webp)
Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.
They summarize the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.
Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .
Your research objectives indicate how you’ll try to address your research problem and should be specific:
Cite this Scribbr article
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, November 20). How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved July 22, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/problem-statement/
Is this article helpful?
Shona McCombes
Other students also liked, how to choose a dissertation topic | 8 steps to follow, how to define a research problem | ideas & examples, writing strong research questions | criteria & examples, get unlimited documents corrected.
✔ Free APA citation check included ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts
- How it works
![how to construct statement of the problem in research researchprospect post subheader](https://www.researchprospect.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/3-3.webp)
How to Write a Statement of a Problem in Research with Steps
Published by Grace Graffin at August 11th, 2021 , Revised On October 3, 2023
Research is a systematic investigation to find new techniques, products or processes to solve problems. Apart from being systematic, research is empirical in nature: it’s based on observations and measurement of those observations.
It’s what comes before the development. Impacts and policies that are born in society are borne out of the research.
The most important step to perform any research is to identify a problem that needs to be solved. Therefore, it is necessary to define a research problem before starting the actual research process. Once a research problem has been identified, the next step is to write a problem statement.
Philosopher Kaoru Ishikawa said: “You will have a problem half-solved by defining it correctly on the first day.”
This quote perfectly reflects the importance of a problem statement in research. Before writing a problem statement, it is essential to pinpoint a specific problem, the difficulties you can expect to face as you try to solve it and the research gaps you aim to fill with your research.
The last part—how your research aims to fill a gap in the existing literature—will act as a springboard to the solution(s) that policy makers, for instance, might eventually take to solve that problem.
Filling a gap, therefore, is very important towards solving an existing problem.
What is a Problem Statement?
A problem statement is a clear and concise description of an issue or challenge that needs to be addressed. It typically outlines the existing gap between the current state (what currently is) and the desired state (what should be). Crafting a well-defined problem statement is critical for problem-solving, research, or project planning, as it serves as a guidepost and sets the direction for the subsequent steps.
Research Problem and Research Method – A Cyclical Process
The type of research strategy used in research determines whether you will be analysing theoretical problems to add value to existing knowledge, discussing practical issues to become an agent of change for an organisation or industry or looking at both aspects in relation to any given problem.
However, the kind of problem you aim to tackle with your research, to begin with, will also help you narrow down which research design , method or strategy to opt for.
This is therefore a cyclical process. Your research aim guides your research design can help you focus on a specific kind of research gap/problem.
However, generally, your research will focus on one or the other.
Here is all you need to know about how to write a statement of the problem in research, also called problem statement by some research writers .
Why do you Need a Statement of the Problem, to Begin with?
You need a statement of the problem to transform a generalised problem into a well-defined, brief, targeted statement to perform research in the decision-making process. The problem statement helps the researcher to identify the purpose of the ongoing research.
The problem statement in the dissertation is the pillar of the introduction chapter through which the reader can understand the research questions and scope of the project. If you do not define the problem statement properly, the results might become unmanageable.
Writing Problem Statement for a Business or Organisation
In the business world, problem statements provide the basis for the enhancement and refinement of projects. Without identifying and understanding the problem, it will be hard to find and effectively implement solutions.
A stand-alone document that solely provides an in-depth and detailed problem statement is usually the answer for organisations and businesses when it becomes imperative to find the solution to a problem.
Writing Problem Statement for Academic Research
![how to construct statement of the problem in research statement of research problem](https://www.researchprospect.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/problem-statement-in-research-_1_.webp)
Hire an Expert Writer
Proposal and dissertation orders completed by our expert writers are
- Formally drafted in an academic style
- Plagiarism free
- 100% Confidential
- Never Resold
- Include unlimited free revisions
- Completed to match exact client requirements
Problem Statement – How to Write it
Ask yourself the following questions before writing the problem statement:
- What is wrong in the research area/subarea XYZ?
- Where did it happen?
- When did it happen?
- To what extent (how much)?
- I know that because…(evidence)
‘What’ always defines the defect of the problem at hand and explains why it matters? ‘Where’ defines the geological location of the problem. ‘When’ defines the history and the pattern of the problem, the goal of the stated problem and the scope of research.
‘How much’ defines the trend of the problem as to how many objects are facing the same defect and to what extent. The last part, ‘I know this because…’, will help the researcher identify the standard(s) that he must meet.
Step 1: Understanding the Problem
The problem statement should provide a clear and concise background to the research problem you are investigating. Before starting your research , review the literature about the specific problem and find a gap to fill with your own research.
Practical Research Problem Statement
If you are doing experimental research , you can identify problems by talking to people working in a relevant field, studying research reports, and reviewing previous research. Here are some examples of practical research problems:
- A problem that hinders the efficiency of a company
- An institutional process that needs interventions
- An area of concern in your field/sub-field of interest
- Members of a society facing a specific difficulty
The problem statement should focus on the details related to the problem, such as:
- When and where was the problem observed?
- Who is/are affected by it?
- What research has been conducted and what practical steps have been taken to resolve the problem?
Example of Practical Research Problem Statement
The production of a company is low for the months of July and August every year. Initial research has been conducted by the company, which revealed poor production in July and August is due to the unavailability of local raw material.
The company has made some effective attempts at engaging the local suppliers to ensure an uninterrupted supply of the raw material, but these efforts are yet to have any significant impact on the production levels.
Theoretical Research Problem Statement
According to USC Libraries, “A theoretical framework consists of concepts and, together with their definitions and reference to relevant scholarly literature, existing theory that is used for your particular study…theoretical framework must demonstrate an understanding of theories and concepts…relevant to the topic of your research paper and that relate to the broader areas of knowledge being considered.”
The theoretical research indirectly contributes to the change by identifying the problem, expanding knowledge and improving understanding. The researcher can find a specific problem by brainstorming the topic and reviewing already published theories and research.
When writing a problem statement based on a theoretical research problem , it is important to recognise the historical, geographical, social and scientific background. Here are the elements of the theoretical problem statement framework that you should consider:
- What are the facts about the problem?
- Does the problem relate to a certain geographical area or time period?
- How is the problem discussed and explained in the existing literature?
Example of Theoretical Research Problem Statement
The production of a company is low for July and August every year. Initial research has been conducted by the company, which revealed poor production in July and August is due to the unavailability of local raw material. The company has made some effective attempts to engage the local suppliers to ensure an uninterrupted raw material supply. Still, these efforts are yet to have any significant impact on the production levels.
Looking for Dissertation Help?
Researchprospect to the rescue then.
We have expert writers on our team who are skilled at helping students with dissertations across a variety of STEM disciplines. Guaranteeing 100% satisfaction!
![how to construct statement of the problem in research quantitative dissertation](https://www.researchprospect.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/quantitative_dissertation_help-removebg-preview.webp)
Step 2 – Show why it’s Important and Relevant
By discussing the importance of the problem under investigation, you are demonstrating the relevance of your research. However, this does not mean that you will end up discovering something unimaginable or extraordinary.
The objective here is to clearly state how and why your research problem is relevant in your chosen area of study and why it requires further research.
As indicated previously, practical research deals with a problem affecting society, social group, firm or organisation on a broader scale. To elaborate on why it is important to solve this problem and why your research is significant, you could consider the following questions:
- What will be the consequences if the problem remains unsolved?
- Who do these consequences have the most implications for?
- What is the wider relevance of the problem being investigated?
Low production in July and August negatively affects the company’s marketing capital, thereby becoming an area of deep concern for the directors and stakeholders. The marketing budget cut in July and August is hindering its ability to promote its products uninterruptedly.
Addressing this problem will have practical benefits for the company and help establish the reasons for disruption in raw material supply.
The relevance of all theoretical issues may not be too obvious, even though most theoretical problems do have practical implications. Here are some questions for you to ponder to establish the importance of your research problem:
- Will your research help to advance understanding of the topic under investigation?
- Are there any benefits of you resolving the problem for other researchers who wish to explore this topic further in the future?
- What are the direct or indirect implications (s) of the problem you are trying to solving?
The new forms of employment such as freelance, contract-based work and zero-hour work arrangements are recognised as either a manipulative last option or a flexible active choice. It is necessary to conduct comprehensive qualitative research to uncover why fresh graduates take up these types of employment in the gig economy. There is a need to advance more vigorous concepts relating to instability and flexibility in modern forms of employment from employees’ perspectives, which will also help shape future policies.
Also see: How to Write the Abstract for Dissertation
Step 3 – Declaring the Problem
Before you jump on to state your research’s problem statements, it’s important to devote a sentence or two to let your readers know the precise, narrowed-down research problem you will be discussing about.
For language clarity purposes, here are some strong opening statements to achieve this step:
- Recently, there has been growing interest in …
- The possibility of…has generated wide interest in …
- The development of…is a classic problem in…
- The development of…has led to the hope that …
- The…has become a favourite topic for analysis …
- Knowledge of…has great importance for …
- The study of…has become an important aspect of …
- A central issue in…is…
- The…has been extensively studied in recent years.
- Many investigators have recently turned to …
- The relationship between…has been investigated by many researchers.
- Many recent studies have found out…
Step 4 – Establishing Aim and Objectives
The last step in writing a problem statement is to provide a framework for solving the problem. This will help you, the researcher, stay focused on your research aims and not stray; it will also help you readers keep in mind the reason as to why you conducted this study, to begin with.
A good problem statement does not provide the exact solution to any problem. Rather, it focuses more on how to effectively understand or tackle a problem by establishing the possible causes.
The aim of a research study is its end goal or overall purpose. Following are some examples of how you can craft your research aim statements:
- This research study aims to investigate…
- This paper is aimed at exploring…
- This research aims to identify…
On the other hand, objectives are the smaller steps that a researcher must take to address the aim of the research. Once you have laid out the research problem your research will deal with, it’s important to next mention the how behind that. Objectives are mostly imperative statements, often beginning with transitive verbs like ‘to analyse,’ ‘to investigate,’ etc.
Some more examples are:
- Statistical analysis will be conducted to determine…
- Both quantitative and qualitative research methods will be employed to probe…
- Face-to-face interviews will be carried out with the participants to establish…
Practical Research Aim and Objectives
This project aims to identify the causes of disturbed supply of raw material in the region, which resulted in low production for the company in July and August. This will be achieved by conducting interviews and surveys with the suppliers to understand why the supply is unpredictable in those two months and what can be done to ensure orderliness. Practical experiments will also be conducted to observe the effectiveness of proposed solutions.
Theoretical Research Aim and Objectives
This study aims to understand and unearth the experiences of fresh graduates in the modern economy. The sample population will participate in this study through qualitative research methods, which are expected to provide a deeper insight into the perceptions and motives of these fresh graduates working as freelancers and contract-based employees. The data collected from this exercise and the existing literature on the topic will be analysed in statistical analysis software.
TIP: Search the common themes of the problem statement in your field of research before writing a problem statement.
Also see: Argumentative Essay Writing Service
Problem Statement versus Significance of the Study
Even though both may sound similar, the statement of the problem and the significance of your study are going to be different. The latter does develop upon and from the former, though.
The problem statement tells your readers what’s wrong, whereas the significance of the study will tell them how your research contributed to that problem. You can’t have a significance of a study without mentioning the problem statement first.
Furthermore, signifying your study implies mentioning 4 key points related to it:
- How your study will further develop the theory behind the existing problem
- Practical solutions that might be implemented to solve the problem (especially in field research work)
- Whether your study or research will pave way for innovative methods to solve the existing problem.
- How your study can help in policy making and implementation, impact studies, etc.
Problem statement in research is the description of an existing issue that needs to be addressed. The problem statement is a focal point of any research and a bridge between the literature review and the research methodology .
Problem statement often has three elements; the problem itself, the method of solving the problem, and the purpose. There are five aspects of every problem: What, Where, When, to what extent, and what defects you know about the topic. Here is an example of a problem statement in a research proposal for your better understanding.
If you wish to know more about how to start your research process, then you might want to take a look at the “ Starting the Research Process ” section on our website, which has several articles relating to a research problem , problem statement, research aim and objectives, and research proposal .
ResearchProspect is a UK-registered business that offers academic support and assistance to students across the globe. Our writers can help you with individual chapters of your dissertation or the full dissertation writing service , no matter how urgent or complex your requirements might be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to write a problem statement.
Yes, the most important step to perform any research is to identify a problem that needs to be solved. Therefore, it is necessary to define a research problem before starting the actual research process .
How is a problem statement different from a problem statement written for an organisation?
In the business world, problem statements provide the basis for the enhancement and refinement of projects. Whereas, in academic research, A problem statement helps researchers understand and realise organised the significance of a research problem .
What is a practical research problem?
Doing experimental research can identify problems by talking to people working in a relevant field, studying research reports, and reviewing previous research.
What is a theoretical research problem?
A theoretical research problem is when the researcher finds a specific problem by brainstorming and reviewing already published theories and research.
You May Also Like
When writing your dissertation, an abstract serves as a deal maker or breaker. It can either motivate your readers to continue reading or discourage them.
Appendices or Appendixes are used to provide additional date related to your dissertation research project. Here we explain what is appendix in dissertation
Do dissertations scare you? Struggling with writing a flawless dissertation? Well, congratulations, you have landed in the perfect place. In this blog, we will take you through the detailed process of writing a dissertation. Sounds fun? We thought so!
USEFUL LINKS
LEARNING RESOURCES
![how to construct statement of the problem in research researchprospect-reviews-trust-site](https://www.researchprospect.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/researchprospect-reviews-trust-site.webp)
COMPANY DETAILS
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Research-Prospect-Writing-Service](https://www.researchprospect.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Research-Prospect-Writing-Service.webp)
- How It Works
- Affiliate Program
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Wordvice](https://pstatic.wordvice.com/wv-us/image/biglogo2.png)
- UNITED STATES
- 台灣 (TAIWAN)
- TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)
- Academic Editing Services
- - Research Paper
- - Journal Manuscript
- - Dissertation
- - College & University Assignments
- Admissions Editing Services
- - Application Essay
- - Personal Statement
- - Recommendation Letter
- - Cover Letter
- - CV/Resume
- Business Editing Services
- - Business Documents
- - Report & Brochure
- - Website & Blog
- Writer Editing Services
- - Script & Screenplay
- Our Editors
- Client Reviews
- Editing & Proofreading Prices
- Wordvice Points
- Partner Discount
- Plagiarism Checker
- APA Citation Generator
- MLA Citation Generator
- Chicago Citation Generator
- Vancouver Citation Generator
- - APA Style
- - MLA Style
- - Chicago Style
- - Vancouver Style
- Writing & Editing Guide
- Academic Resources
- Admissions Resources
How to Write a Problem Statement in Research with Examples
What is a Research Problem Statement?
A research problem statement is a concise statement describing the problem or issue addressed by the research study. The research problem should be composed in a way that both experts and non-experts in the field can understand.
Every research paper describes the investigation of a problem: by adding knowledge to the existing literature, revisiting known observations, or finding concrete solutions. What contribution your publication makes to your field or the scientific community at large depends on whether your research is “basic” (i.e., mainly interested in providing further knowledge that researchers can later apply to specific problems) or “applied” (i.e., developing new techniques, processes, and products).
In any case, a research proposal or research paper must clearly identify and describe the “problem” that is being investigated, so that the reader understands where the research comes from, why the study is relevant, if the applied methods are appropriate, and if the presented results are valid and answer the stated questions. This is known as the “statement of the problem.”
Table of Contents:
- What is a Research Problem?
How to Write a Problem Statement in a Research Paper
- Statement of the Problem Example
- Where Does the Problem Statement Go in Your Paper?
Consider Using Professional Editing Services
Understanding how to write a research problem.
Your research problem defines the gap in existing knowledge you want to address (e.g., global warming causes), an issue with a certain process (e.g., voter registration) or practices (e.g., patient treatment) that is known and well documented and needs a solution, or some surprising phenomena or earlier findings that point to the need for further investigation. Your approach can be theoretical or practical, and the specific type of problem you choose to address depends on the type of research you want to do.
In any case, your paper should not repeat what other studies have already said. It also should not ask a question that is too broad in scope to be answered within your study, nor should it be so vague that your reader cannot grasp your motivation or focus. To avoid such problems, you need to clearly define your research question, put it into context, and emphasize its significance for your field of research, the wider research community, or even the general public.
When including your statement of the research problem, several key factors must be considered in order to make a statement that is clear, concise, relevant, and convincing to readers. Think about the following elements not as “steps” to writing your problem statement, but as necessary conditions on which your statement can be firmly grounded and stand out.
Provide context for your study
Putting your research problem in context means providing the reader with the background information they need to understand why you want to study or solve this particular problem and why it is relevant. If there have been earlier attempts at solving the problem or solutions that are available but seem imperfect and need improvement, include that information here.
If you are doing applied research, this part of the problem statement (or “research statement”) should tell the reader where a certain problem arises and who is affected by it. In basic or theoretical research, you make a review of relevant literature on the topic that forms the basis for the current work and tells the reader where your study fits in and what gap in existing knowledge you are addressing.
Establish the relevance of this research
The problem statement also needs to clearly state why the current research matters, or why future work matters if you are writing a research proposal. Ask yourself (and tell your readers) what will happen if the problem continues and who will feel the consequences the most. If the solution you search for or propose in your study has wider relevance outside the context of the subjects you have studied, then this also needs to be included here. In basic research, the advancement of knowledge does not always have clear practical consequences—but you should clearly explain to the reader how the insights your study offers fit into the bigger picture, and what potential future research they could inspire.
Define specific aims and Objectives
Now that the reader knows the context of your research and why it matters, briefly introduce the design and the methods you used or are planning to use. While describing these, you should also formulate your precise aims more clearly, and thereby bring every element in your paper together so that the reader can judge for themselves if they (a) understand the rationale behind your study and (b) are convinced by your approach.
This last part could maybe be considered the actual “statement of the problem” of your study, but you need to prepare the reader by providing all the necessary details before you state it explicitly. If the background literature you cite is too broad and the problem you introduced earlier seems a bit vague, then the reader will have trouble understanding how you came up with the specific experiments you suddenly describe here. Make sure your readers can follow the logical structure of your presentation and that no important details are left out.
Research Problem Statement Example
The following is a sample statement of the problem for a practical research study on the challenges of online learning. Note that your statement might be much longer (especially the context section where you need to explain the background of the study) and that you will need to provide sources for all the claims you make and the earlier literature you cite. You will also not include the headers “context”, “relevance” and “aims and objectives” but simply present these parts as different paragraphs. But if your problem statement follows this structure, you should have no problem convincing the reader of the significance of your work.
Providing context: Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, most educational institutions around the world have transitioned to a fully online study model, at least during peak times of infections and social distancing measures. This transition has not been easy and even two years into the pandemic, problems with online teaching and studying persist (reference needed) . While the increasing gap between those with access to technology and equipment and those without access has been determined to be one of the main challenges (reference needed) , others claim that online learning offers more opportunities for many students by breaking down barriers of location and distance (reference needed) .
Establishing relevance: Since teachers and students cannot wait for circumstances to go back to normal, the measures that schools and universities have implemented during the last two years, their advantages and disadvantages, and the impact of those measures on students’ progress, satisfaction, and well-being need to be understood so that improvements can be made and demographics that have been left behind can receive the support they need as soon as possible.
Defining aims and objectives: To identify what changes in the learning environment were considered the most challenging and how those changes relate to a variety of student outcome measures, we conducted surveys and interviews among teachers and students at ten institutions of higher education in four different major cities, two in the US (New York and Chicago), one in South Korea (Seoul), and one in the UK (London). Responses were analyzed with a focus on different student demographics and how they might have been affected differently by the current situation.
Where Does the Problem Statement Go in Your Paper?
If you write a statement of the problem for a research proposal, then you could include it as a separate section at the very beginning of the main text (unless you are given a specific different structure or different headings, however, then you will have to adapt to that). If your problem statement is part of a research paper manuscript for publication in an academic journal, then it more or less constitutes your introduction section , with the context/background being the literature review that you need to provide here.
If you write the introduction section after the other parts of your paper, then make sure that the specific research question and approach you describe here are in line with the information provided in the research paper abstract , and that all questions you raise here are answered at the end of the discussion section —as always, consistency is key. Knowing where to put the research question can depend on several important contextual factors.
Receive instant editing with Wordvice AI, our automated AI Grammar Checker . Then hand over your manuscript or paper to a professional English editing service for paper editing , thesis editing , or other academic editing services .
And if you need advice on how to write the other parts of your research paper , on how to make a research paper outline if you are struggling with putting everything you did together, or on how to come up with a good research question in case you are not even sure where to start, then head over to the Wordvice academic resources website where we have a lot more articles and videos for you.
How to Write a Statement of the Problem for Your Research Proposal
Defining your research problem is essential when conducting an experiment. In this article, you will learn how to write a statement of the problem for your research proposal. Learn about the characteristics of a good statement of the problem and examples of research questions.
Updated on May 17, 2022
![how to construct statement of the problem in research A researcher working on a problem statement for a new article](https://images.prismic.io/aje-cms-production/How-to-write-a-statement-of-the-problem_AJEScholar.jpg?auto=compress,format&rect=0,2,7360,4907&w=60)
You are a great researcher. You are full of ideas and questions as to where to go next with your work. You would not be in this position if you were not good at coming up with interesting questions within your area.
One problem, though, is knowing where to spend your time, energy, and money. Which ideas, questions, and problems are worthwhile?
You need to be able to define a good research problem. A research problem addresses an existing gap in knowledge in your field and leads to further investigations by you and other researchers. Inspiring others with your research problem will lead to citations, enhancing your and your institution's impact.
In order to write a clear and useful problem statement, you need to describe a question and its consequences.
One key way to assess the ‘usefulness' of your research ideas is to learn how to express them as clear problems.
In this article, we will talk about how to write a statement of the problem for your next research proposal. This is important not just for assessing the ‘usefulness' of research ideas, but also for formulating a grant application or proposal. We'll talk about how to explain your research ideas to others in the form of a problem statement in your proposal.
What is a statement of the problem in research?
All research projects should start with a clear problem statement. A problem statement is a formulation of an issue which is usually a ‘gap' within your area. A research gap is an unanswered question, an issue, controversy, or untested hypothesis that has not yet been addressed.
The trick with research problems is working out whether they are actually worth investing the time, energy, and money to figure out. This comes with experience, or you could just read on!
Since a clear problem statement is going to form the basis of your next research project, the question is: How can I write one?
How is this done? The first step is to become familiar with the basic elements of a problem statement in effective research.
Characteristics of a problem statement
A research problem statement has two key attributes:
- The problem must be challenging and original, but also potentially achievable by your team.
- The problem must not be incremental. In other words, don't try to address a small change or advance on an existing study that leads to no new scientific insight. This could be damaging to your and your team's reputation, and will likely not lead to a meaningful publication.
Developing a ‘good' research problem statement, therefore, involves systematic planning and setting time-based, realistic objectives. Your problem has to be achievable.
You'll also need to apply feasible research methods based on an approach that best suits the research question. Your methods have to make sense. They must be usable. In other words, you must be able to acquire statistically sufficient and relevant data that is reproducible.
Finally, the problem you define means you'll need to train team members in this particular research area and methods.
Writing a statement of the problem
Stating a research problem is done by defining it within the general area of your research. This depends on your previous work and experience. It may be an area you want to move into or a topic related to what you have already worked on as a researcher. Examples could include a question in astrophysics within physics, robotics within engineering, nutrition within medicine, or marine biology within ocean and Earth science.
Once you've determined your overall area (and you'll know this already of course), it's time to drill down, decide, and define a research problem within that field.
First , your statement should identify a problem that needs to be addressed within your selected sub-area.
This will almost certainly require literature work, but the idea may arise from:
- Discussions you've had with colleagues;
- Discussions at a conference;
- A paper you've read.
Second , your problem statement should be a “good research problem.” This will require further investigation and reading as you consider “what has been done?” and “what needs to be done?”
Third , search for more information, perhaps by:
- Locating relevant books, papers and other materials;
- Evaluating the quality and authority of the information collected;
- Maintaining a regular literature review throughout the project;
- Making regular notes on background material;
- Deciding how this literature search will be carried out within the research group;
- Deciding how information gained will be disseminated to the group (e.g., via each researcher carrying out a regular literature review in their sub-area and information disseminated at group meetings or via email at regular intervals).
This process may well change or modify how your research problem is stated or formulated.
Once your research problem has been identified, research questions within the problem need to be specified.
How long should your statement of the problem be?
Not too long. One page is more than enough for a clear and effective problem statement.
Research questions within your problem
The first stage of writing your research problem statement involves formulating your questions in a meaningful way. In the context of important questions, we are looking for things that many readers across different disciplines find to be interesting. But at the same time, set your question within your field.
Thus, once a research problem has been established, several questions can be written down. These questions should specify exactly what needs to be determined to address the problem.
These questions should also be specific enough that they can be answered using appropriate available research methods - or methods that could be made available to the research group (e.g. by buying or borrowing equipment).
These questions should require complex in-depth investigation, analysis, and argument. They should not be simple enough that they can be answered easily with well-established facts or yes/no answers.
All research questions should be focused, specific, appropriately complex, and relevant to the overall aims of the project.
Examples of questions and next steps
- How do government regulations prevent companies from polluting water systems?
- What factors have influenced population growth in the fastest growing countries?
- How can a bespoke thermal desorption unit be designed and built for use in detection of trace particulate matter in a polluted environment (e.g., a busy city street)?
- What methods and procedures can be used to understand, and hence control, fundamental chemical processes that occur in flames?
- How can measurement protocols used in mass spectrometry in a university research laboratory be developed and standardized to enable direct comparison with related measurements in a government laboratory?
Once the problem and questions have been identified, the resources required to carry out the research will need to be assessed. This will involve:
- Identifying the equipment needed. Find out what is available and what needs to be purchased.
- Assessing which consumables (e.g., chemicals) are needed for the project, and determining if they can be obtained on a regular basis (i.e., in the right quantities at the appropriate times).
- Identifying the software, data-analyses and other computer support needed. Assess what needs to be purchased.
- Assessing what laboratory and office space is needed. And if more is required, discuss this with the relevant laboratory manager.
- Identifying what support for travel is needed for the group, as well as what resources are required for the group to attend relevant conferences and training of group personnel.
Final thoughts
Defining and writing a clear statement of a problem as the basis of a project is the first - and most important - step in any research. The tips and ideas in this article will help you clearly identify the purpose of the research you are developing.
A clear research problem statement will likely form the skeleton of the Introduction of your final article. If you are able to clearly direct your reader (the most important person in the publishing process) to an important and interesting question, they will likely stay engaged, and use and cite your article in the future.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research The AJE Team](https://images.prismic.io/aje-cms-production/7a3dfd43-56b5-4b0e-972f-506f390a1ef2_American_Journal_Experts_author_image.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=48)
The AJE Team
See our "Privacy Policy"
Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey
![how to construct statement of the problem in research What is a Problem Statement in Research?](https://blog.researcher.life/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pexels-andrea-piacquadio-3973059-1.jpg)
What is a Problem Statement in Research? How to Write It with Examples
The question, “What is a research problem statement?” is usually followed by “Why should I care about problem statements, and how can it affect my research?” In this article, we will try to simplify the concept so that you not only grasp its meaning but internalize its importance and learn how to craft a problem statement.
To put it simply, a “problem statement” as the name implies is any statement that describes a problem in research. When you conduct a study, your aim as a researcher is to answer a query or resolve a problem. This learned information is then typically disseminated by writing a research paper that details the entire process for readers (both for experts and the general public). To better grasp this concept, we’ll try to explain what a research problem statement is from the viewpoint of a reader. For the purpose of clarity and brevity the topic is divided into subsections.
Table of Contents
What is a research problem?
A research problem is a clearly defined issue in a particular field of study that requires additional investigation and study to resolve. Once identified, the problem can be succinctly stated to highlight existing knowledge gaps, the importance of solving the research problem, and the difference between a current situation and an improved state.
But why is it important to have a research problem ready? Keep in mind that a good research problem helps you define the main concepts and terms of research that not only guide your study but help you add to or update existing literature. A research problem statement should ideally be clear, precise, and tangible enough to assist you in developing a framework for establishing the objectives, techniques, and analysis of the research project. Hence, any research project, if it is to be completed successfully, must start with a well-defined research problem.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://blog.researcher.life/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AAP-Banner-2-1024x410.png)
What is research problem statement?
A research problem statement in research writing is the most crucial component of any study, which the researcher must perfect for a variety of reasons, including to get funding and boost readership. We’ve already established that a research article’s “research problem” is a sentence that expresses the specific problem that the research is addressing. But first, let’s discuss the significance of the problem statement in research and how to formulate one, using a few examples.
Do you recall the thoughts that went through your head the last time you read a study article? Have you ever tried to quickly scan the introduction or background of the research article to get a sense of the context and the exact issue the authors were attempting to address through the study? Were you stuck attempting to pinpoint the key sentence(s) that encapsulates the background and context of the study, the motivation behind its initial conduct, and its goals? A research problem statement is the descriptive statement which conveys the issue a researcher is trying to address through the study with the aim of informing the reader the context and significance of performing the study at hand . The research problem statement is crucial for researchers to focus on a particular component of a vast field of study, and for readers to comprehend the significance of the research. A well-defined problem allows you to create a framework to develop research objectives or hypotheses.
Now that we are aware of the significance of a problem statement in research, we can concentrate on creating one that is compelling. Writing a problem statement is a fairly simple process; first, you select a broad topic or research area based on your expertise and the resources at your disposal. Then, you narrow it down to a specific research question or problem relevant to that area of research while keeping the gaps in existing knowledge in mind. To give you a step-by-step instruction on how to write a problem statement for research proposal we’ve broken the process down into sections discussing individual aspects.
When to write a problem statement?
The placement of the research problem in the research project is another crucial component when developing a problem statement. Since the research problem statement is fundamental to writing any research project, it is best to write it at the start of the research process, before experimental setup, data collection, and analysis. Without identifying a specific research problem, you don’t know what exactly you are trying to address through the research so it would not be possible for you to set up the right conditions and foundation for the research project.
It is important to describe the research problem statement at the beginning of the research process to guide the research design and methodology. Another benefit of having a clear and defined research problem early on is that it helps researchers stay on track and focus on the problem at hand without deviating into other trajectories. Writing down the research problem statement also ensures that the current study is relevant, fitting, and fills a knowledge gap. However, note that a research statement can be refined or modified as the research advances and new information becomes available. This could be anything from further deconstructing a specific query to posing a fresh query related to the selected topic area. In fact, it is common practice to revise the problem statement in research to maintain specificity and clarity and to allow room to reflect advancement in the research field.
Bonus point:
A well-defined research problem statement that is referenced in the proper position in the research proposal/article is crucial to effectively communicate the goal and significance of the study to all stakeholders concerned with the research. It piques the reader’s interest in the research area, which can advance the work in several ways and open up future partnerships and even employment opportunities for authors.
What does a research problem statement include?
If you have to create a problem statement from scratch, follow the steps/important aspects listed below to create a well-defined research problem statement.
- Describe the wide-ranging research topics
To put things in perspective, it is important to first describe the background of the research issue, which derives from a broad area of study or interest that the research project is concerned with.
- Talk about the research problem/issue
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to state the problem or issues that the research project seeks to address in a clear, succinct manner, preferably in a sentence or two to set the premise of the entire study.
- Emphasize the importance of the issue
After defining the problem your research will try to solve, explain why it’s significant in the larger context and how your study aims to close the knowledge gap between the current state of knowledge and the ideal scenario.
- Outline research questions to address the issue
Give a brief description of the list of research questions your study will use to solve the problem at hand and explain how these will address various components of the problem statement.
- Specify the key goals of the research project
Next, carefully define a set of specific and measurable research objectives that the research project aims to address.
- Describe the experimental setup
Be sure to include a description of the experimental design, including the intended sample (population/size), setting, or context in the problem statement.
- Discuss the theoretical framework
Mention the numerous theoretical ideas and precepts necessary to comprehend the study issue and guide the research activity in this section.
- Include the research methodology
To provide a clear and concise research framework, add a brief description of the research methodologies, including collection and analysis of data, which will be needed to address the research questions and objectives.
Characteristics of a research problem statement
It is essential for a research statement to be clear and concise so that it can guide the development of the research project. A good research statement also helps other stakeholders in comprehending the scope and relevance of the research, which could further lead to opportunities for collaboration or exploration. Here is a list of the key characteristics of a research problem that you should keep in mind when writing an effective research problem statement.
- The “need” to resolve the issue must be present.
It is not enough to choose a problem in your area of interest and expertise; the research problem should have larger implications for a population or a specific subset. Unless the significance of the research problem is elaborated in detail, the research is not deemed significant. Hence, mentioning the “need” to conduct the research in the context of the subject area and how it will create a difference is of utmost importance.
- The research problem needs to be presented rationally and clearly
The research statement must be written at the start and be simple enough for even researchers outside the subject area to understand. The two fundamental elements of a successful research problem statement are clarity and specificity. So, check and rewrite your research problem statement if your peers have trouble understanding it. Aim to write in a straightforward manner while addressing all relevant issues and coherent arguments.
- The research issue is supported by facts and evidence
Before you begin writing the problem statement, you must collect all relevant information available to gain a better understanding of the research topic and existing gaps. A thorough literature search will give you an idea about the current situation and the specific questions you need to ask to close any knowledge gaps. This will also prevent you from asking the questions or identifying issues that have already been addressed. Also, the problem statement should be based on facts and data and should not depend upon hypothetical events.
- The research problem should generate more research questions
Ideally, the research problem should be such that it helps advance research and encourage more questions. The new questions could be specific to the research that highlights different components or aspects of the problem. These questions must also aid in addressing the problem in a more comprehensive manner which provides a solid foundation for the research study.
- The research problem should be tangible
The research issue should be concrete, which means that the study project’s budget and time constraints should be met. The research problem should not call for any actions and experiments that are impractical or outside of your area of competence.
To summarize the main characteristics of a research problem statement, it must:
- Address the knowledge gap
- Be current and relevant
- Aids in advancing the field
- Support future research
- Be tangible and should suit researcher’s time and interest
- Be based on facts and data
How to write a problem statement in research proposal
The format of a problem statement might vary based on the nature and subject of the research; there is no set format. It is typically written in clear, concise sentences and can range from a few sentences to a few pages. Three considerations must be made when formulating a problem statement for a research proposal:
- Context: The research problem statement needs to be created in the right setting with sufficient background information on the research topic. Context makes it easier to distinguish between the current state and the ideal one in which the issue would not exist. In this section, you can also include instances of any prior attempts and significant roadblocks to solving the problem.
- Relevance: The main goal of the researcher here is to highlight the relevance of the research study. Explain how the research problem affects society or the field of research and, if the study is conducted to mitigate the issue, what an ideal scenario would look like. Who your study will most affect if the issue is resolved and how it can impact future research are other arguments that might be made in this section.
- Strategy: Be sure to mention the goals and objectives of your research, and your approach to solve the problem. The purpose of this section is to lay out the research approach for tackling various parts of the research subject.
Examples of problem statement in research proposal
To put what we learned into practice, let’s look at an example of a problem statement in a research report. Suppose you decide to conduct a study on the topic of attention span of different generations. After a thorough literature search you concluded that the attention span of university students is reducing over generations compared to the previous one, even though there are many websites and apps to simplify tasks and make learning easy . This decrease in attention span is attributed to constant exposure to digital content and multiple screens.
In this scenario, the problem statement could be written as – “The problem this study addresses is the lack of regulative measures to control consumption of digital content by young university students, which negatively impacts their attention span”. The research’s goals and objectives, which may employ strategies to increase university students’ attention span by limiting their internet exposure, can then be described in more detail in subsequent paragraphs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a problem statement.
A problem statement is a succinct and unambiguous overview of the research issue that the study is trying to solve.
What is the difference between problem statement and thesis statement?
A problem statement is different from a thesis statement in that the former highlights the main points of a research paper while emphasizing the hypothesis, whilst the latter identifies the issue for which research is being done.
Why is a problem statement needed in a research proposal?
A problem statement identifies the specific problem that the researchers are trying to solve through their research. It is necessary to establish a framework for the project, focus the researcher’s attention, and inform stakeholders of the study’s importance.
Editage All Access is a subscription-based platform that unifies the best AI tools and services designed to speed up, simplify, and streamline every step of a researcher’s journey. The Editage All Access Pack is a one-of-a-kind subscription that unlocks full access to an AI writing assistant, literature recommender, journal finder, scientific illustration tool, and exclusive discounts on professional publication services from Editage.
Based on 22+ years of experience in academia, Editage All Access empowers researchers to put their best research forward and move closer to success. Explore our top AI Tools pack, AI Tools + Publication Services pack, or Build Your Own Plan. Find everything a researcher needs to succeed, all in one place – Get All Access now starting at just $14 a month !
Related Posts
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Paraphrasing techniques](https://blog.researcher.life/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/752-1-800x600.jpg)
Top 7 Tried and Tested Paraphrasing Techniques
![how to construct statement of the problem in research annex vs appendix](https://blog.researcher.life/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2148230606-1-800x600.jpg)
Annex vs Appendix: What is the difference?
- Research Process
- Manuscript Preparation
- Manuscript Review
- Publication Process
- Publication Recognition
- Language Editing Services
- Translation Services
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Elsevier QRcode Wechat](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/themes/authentic/images/wechat-qrcode.jpg)
What is a Problem Statement? [with examples]
- 5 minute read
Table of Contents
The statement of the problem is one of the first things that a colleague or potential client will read. With the vastness of the information available at one’s fingertips in the online9 world, your work may have just a few seconds to draw in a reader to take a deeper look at your proposal before moving on to the next option. It explains quickly to the reader, the problem at hand, the need for research, and how you intend to do it.
A strong, clear description of the problem that drew you to your research has to be straightforward, easy to read and, most important, relevant. Why do you care about this problem? How can solving this problem impact the world? The problem statement is your opportunity to explain why you care and what you propose to do in the way of researching the problem.
A problem statement is an explanation in research that describes the issue that is in need of study . What problem is the research attempting to address? Having a Problem Statement allows the reader to quickly understand the purpose and intent of the research. The importance of writing your research proposal cannot be stressed enough. Check for more information on Writing a Scientific Research Project Proposal .
It is expected to be brief and concise , and should not include the findings of the research or detailed data . The average length of a research statement is generally about one page . It is going to define the problem, which can be thought of as a gap in the information base. There may be several solutions to this gap or lack of information, but that is not the concern of the problem statement. Its purpose is to summarize the current information and where a lack of knowledge may be presenting a problem that needs to be investigated .
The purpose of the problem statement is to identify the issue that is a concern and focus it in a way that allows it to be studied in a systematic way . It defines the problem and proposes a way to research a solution, or demonstrates why further information is needed in order for a solution to become possible.
What is Included in a Problem Statement?
Besides identifying the gap of understanding or the weakness of necessary data, it is important to explain the significance of this lack.
-How will your research contribute to the existing knowledge base in your field of study?
-How is it significant?
-Why does it matter?
Not all problems have only one solution so demonstrating the need for additional research can also be included in your problem statement. Once you identify the problem and the need for a solution, or for further study, then you can show how you intend to collect the needed data and present it.
How to Write a Statement of Problem in Research Proposal
It is helpful to begin with your goal. What do you see as the achievable goal if the problem you outline is solved? How will the proposed research theoretically change anything? What are the potential outcomes?
Then you can discuss how the problem prevents the ability to reach your realistic and achievable solution. It is what stands in the way of changing an issue for the better. Talk about the present state of affairs and how the problem impacts a person’s life, for example.
It’s helpful at this point to generally layout the present knowledge and understanding of the subject at hand, before then describing the gaps of knowledge that are currently in need of study. Your problem statement is a proposed solution to address one of these gaps.
A good problem statement will also layout the repercussions of leaving the problem as it currently stands. What is the significance of not addressing this problem? What are the possible future outcomes?
Example of Problem Statement in Research Proposal
If, for example , you intended to research the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the immune system , you would begin with a review of the current knowledge of vitamin D’s known function in relation to the immune system and how a deficiency of it impacts a person’s defenses.
You would describe the ideal environment in the body when there is a sufficient level of vitamin D. Then, begin to identify the problems associated with vitamin D deficiency and the difficulty of raising the level through supplementation, along with the consequences of that deficiency. Here you are beginning to identify the problem of a common deficiency and the current difficulty of increasing the level of vitamin D in the blood.
At this stage, you may begin to identify the problem and narrow it down in a way that is practical to a research project. Perhaps you are proposing a novel way of introducing Vitamin D in a way that allows for better absorption by the gut, or in a combination with another product that increases its level in the blood.
Describe the way your research in this area will contribute to the knowledge base on how to increase levels of vitamin D in a specific group of subjects, perhaps menopausal women with breast cancer. The research proposal is then described in practical terms.
How to write a problem statement in research?
Problem statements differ depending on the type and topic of research and vary between a few sentences to a few paragraphs.
However, the problem statement should not drag on needlessly. Despite the absence of a fixed format, a good research problem statement usually consists of three main parts:
Context: This section explains the background for your research. It identifies the problem and describes an ideal scenario that could exist in the absence of the problem. It also includes any past attempts and shortcomings at solving the problem.
Significance: This section defines how the problem prevents the ideal scenario from being achieved, including its negative impacts on the society or field of research. It should include who will be the most affected by a solution to the problem, the relevance of the study that you are proposing, and how it can contribute to the existing body of research.
Solution: This section describes the aim and objectives of your research, and your solution to overcome the problem. Finally, it need not focus on the perfect solution, but rather on addressing a realistic goal to move closer to the ideal scenario.
Here is a cheat sheet to help you with formulating a good problem statement.
1. Begin with a clear indication that the problem statement is going to be discussed next. You can start with a generic sentence like, “The problem that this study addresses…” This will inform your readers of what to expect next.
2. Next, mention the consequences of not solving the problem . You can touch upon who is or will be affected if the problem continues, and how.
3. Conclude with indicating the type of research /information that is needed to solve the problem. Be sure to reference authors who may have suggested the necessity of such research.
This will then directly lead to your proposed research objective and workplan and how that is expected to solve the problem i.e., close the research gap.
Language Editing Plus
Elsevier Language Editing Plus service will provide you with a thorough language review of your thesis, article or presentation. It offers review of logic and flow, reference checks, document formatting, a customized cover letter and more.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research What is and How to Write a Good Hypothesis in Research?](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Write-a-Good-Hypothesis-in-Research-560x420.jpg)
What is and How to Write a Good Hypothesis in Research?
![how to construct statement of the problem in research How to Use Tables and Figures effectively in Research Papers](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/tables-figures-research-papers-560x420.jpg)
How to Use Tables and Figures effectively in Research Papers
You may also like.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research what is a descriptive research design](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/what-is-a-descriptive-Research-Design-320x240.png)
Descriptive Research Design and Its Myriad Uses
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Doctor doing a Biomedical Research Paper](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Imagem9-320x240.jpg)
Five Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Biomedical Research Paper
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Writing in Environmental Engineering](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Picture2-320x240.jpg)
Making Technical Writing in Environmental Engineering Accessible
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Risks of AI-assisted Academic Writing](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/els-img-1-320x240.jpg)
To Err is Not Human: The Dangers of AI-assisted Academic Writing
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Importance-of-Data-Collection](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Importance-of-Data-Collection-and-Analysis-Methods-320x240.jpg)
When Data Speak, Listen: Importance of Data Collection and Analysis Methods
![how to construct statement of the problem in research choosing the Right Research Methodology](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Choosing-the-Right-Research-Methodology-1-320x240.jpg)
Choosing the Right Research Methodology: A Guide for Researchers
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Why is data validation important in research](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/why-is-data-validation-important-in-research-320x240.jpg)
Why is data validation important in research?
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Writing a good review article](https://scientific-publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/writing-a-goog-review-article-320x240.jpg)
Writing a good review article
Input your search keywords and press Enter.
- Resources Home 🏠
- Try SciSpace Copilot
- Search research papers
- Add Copilot Extension
- Try AI Detector
- Try Paraphraser
- Try Citation Generator
- April Papers
- June Papers
- July Papers
![how to construct statement of the problem in research SciSpace Resources](https://typeset.io/resources/content/images/2023/01/Scispace--600---72-px---1-.png)
How to Write a Statement of the Problem in Research
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Madalsa](https://typeset.io/resources/content/images/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-04-at-6.27.08-PM.png)
Table of Contents
The problem statement is a foundation of academic research writing , providing a precise representation of an existing gap or issue in a particular field of study.
Crafting a sharp and focused problem statement lays the groundwork for your research project.
- It highlights the research's significance .
- Emphasizes its potential to influence the broader academic community.
- Represents the initial step for you to make a meaningful contribution to your discipline.
Therefore, in this article, we will discuss what is a statement of the problem in research and how to craft a compelling research problem statement.
What is a research problem statement?
A research problem statement is a concise, clear, and specific articulation of a gap in current knowledge that your research aims to bridge. It not only sets forth the scope and direction of your research but also establishes its relevance and significance.
Your problem statement in your research paper aims to:
- Define the gap : Clearly identify and articulate a specific gap or issue in the existing knowledge.
- Provide direction : Serve as a roadmap, guiding the course of your research and ensuring you remain focused.
- Establish relevance : Highlight the importance and significance of the problem in the context of your field or the broader world.
- Guide inquiry : Formulate the research questions or hypotheses you'll explore.
- Communicate intent : Succinctly convey the core purpose of your research to stakeholders, peers, and any audience.
- Set boundaries : Clearly define the scope of your research to ensure it's focused and achievable.
When should you write a problem statement in research?
Initiate your research by crafting a clear problem statement. This should be done before any data collection or analysis, serving as a foundational anchor that clearly identifies the specific issue you aim to address.
By establishing this early on, you shape the direction of your research, ensuring it targets a genuine knowledge gap.
Furthermore, an effective and a concise statement of the problem in research attracts collaborators, funders, and supporters, resonating with its clarity and purpose. Remember, as your research unfolds, the statement might evolve, reflecting new insights and staying pertinent.
But how do you distinguish between a well-crafted problem statement and one that falls short?
Effective vs. ineffective research problem statements
Imagine a scenario where medical researchers aim to tackle a new strain of virus. Their effective problem statement wouldn't merely state the existence of the virus. Instead, it would delve into the specifics — the regions most affected, the demographics most vulnerable, and the current limitations in medical interventions.
Whereas an ineffective research problem statement is vague, overly broad, or ambiguous, failing to provide a clear direction for the research. It may not be rooted in existing literature, might lack clarity on its significance, or could be framed in a way that makes the research objectives unachievable or irrelevant.
To understand it better, let's consider the topic of “Remote work and employee productivity.”
Effective problem statement
“Over the past decade, there has been a 70% increase in organizations adopting remote work policies. While some studies suggest remote work enhances employee productivity, others indicate potential declines due to distractions at home.
However, there’s a lack of comprehensive research examining the specific factors in a remote environment that influence productivity. This study aims to identify and analyze these factors, providing organizations with actionable insights to optimize remote work policies.”
Why is this statement of a problem in research effective?
- Specificity : The statement provides a clear percentage to highlight the rise in remote work.
- Context : It acknowledges existing research and the conflicting findings.
- Clear gap identification : It points out the lack of comprehensive research on specific factors affecting productivity in remote work.
- Purpose : The statement concludes with a clear aim for the research.
Ineffective problem statement
"People are working from home a lot now, especially since there are so many internet tools. Some say it's good; others say it's not that great. This research will just look into the whole work-from-home thing and see what's up."
Why is this statement of a problem in research ineffective?
- Informal language : Phrases like "what's up" and "the whole work-from-home thing" are not suitable for academic writing.
- Vagueness : The statement doesn't provide any specific data or context about the rise of remote work.
- Lack of clear focus : It's unclear what aspect of remote work the research will address.
- Ambiguous purpose : The statement doesn't specify the research's objectives or expected outcomes.
After gaining an understanding of what an effective research problem statement looks like, let's dive deeper into how to write one.
How to write a problem statement in research?
Drafting your research problem statement at the onset of your research journey ensures that your research remains anchored. That means by defining and articulating the main issue or challenge you intend to address at the very beginning of your research process; you provide a clear focus and direction for the entire study.
Here's a detailed guide to how you can write an effective statement of the problem in research.
Identify the research area : Before addressing a specific problem, you need to know the broader domain or field of your study. This helps in contextualizing your research and ensuring it aligns with existing academic disciplines.
Example: If you're curious about the effects of digital technology on human behavior, your broader research area might be Digital Sociology or Media Studies.
Conduct preliminary literature review : Familiarize yourself with existing research related to your topic. This will help you understand what's already known and, more importantly, identify gaps or unresolved questions in the existing knowledge. This step also ensures you're advancing upon existing work rather than replicating it.
Example: Upon reviewing literature on digital technology and behavior, you find many studies on social media's impact on youth but fewer on its effects on the elderly.
Read how to conduct an effective literature review .
Define the specific problem : After thoroughly reviewing the literature, pinpoint a particular issue that your research will address. Ensure that this chosen issue is not only of substantial importance in its field but also realistically approachable given your resources and expertise. To define it precisely, you might consider:
- Highlighting discrepancies or contradictions in existing literature.
- Emphasizing the real-world implications of this gap.
- Assessing the feasibility of exploring this issue within your means and timeframe.
Example: You decide to investigate how digital technology, especially social media, affects the mental well-being of the elderly, given the limited research in this area.
Articulate clearly and concisely : Your problem statement should be straightforward and devoid of jargon. It needs to convey the essence of your research issue in a manner that's understandable to both experts and non-experts.
Example: " The impact of social media on the mental well-being of elderly individuals remains underexplored, despite the growing adoption of digital technology in this age group. "
Highlight the significance : Explain why your chosen research problem matters. This could be due to its real-world implications, its potential to fill a knowledge gap or its relevance to current events or trends.
Example: As the elderly population grows and becomes more digitally connected, understanding the psychological effects of social media on this demographic could inform digital literacy programs and mental health interventions.
Ensure feasibility : Your research problem should be something you can realistically study, given your resources, timeframe, and expertise. It's essential to ensure that you can gather data, conduct experiments, or access necessary materials or participants.
Example: You plan to survey elderly individuals in local community centers about their social media usage and perceived mental well-being, ensuring you have the means to reach this demographic.
Seek feedback : Discuss your preliminary problem statement with peers, mentors, or experts in the field. They can provide insights, point out potential pitfalls, or suggest refinements.
Example: After discussing with a gerontologist, you decide to also consider the role of digital training in moderating the effects of social media on the elderly.
Refine and Revise : Based on feedback and further reflection, revise and improve your problem statement. This iterative process ensures clarity, relevance, and precision.
Example: Your refined statement reads: Despite the increasing digital connectivity of the elderly, the effects of social media on their mental well-being, especially in the context of digital training, remain underexplored.
By following these detailed steps, you can craft a research problem statement that is both compelling and academically rigorous.
Having explored the details of crafting a research problem statement, it's crucial to distinguish it from another fundamental element in academic research: the thesis statement.
Difference between a thesis statement and a problem statement
While both terms are central to research, a thesis statement presents your primary claim or argument, whereas a problem statement describes the specific issue your research aims to address.
Think of the thesis statement as the conclusion you're driving towards, while the problem statement identifies a specific gap in current knowledge.
For instance, a problem statement might highlight the rising mental health issues among teenagers, while the thesis statement could propose that increased screen time is a significant contributor.
Refer to the comparison table between what is a thesis and a problem statement in the research below:
Aspect | Thesis Statement | Problem Statement |
Definition | A concise statement that presents the main claim or argument of the research | A clear articulation of a specific issue or gap in knowledge that the research aims to address |
Purpose | To provide readers with the primary focus or argument of the research and what it aims to demonstrate | To highlight a particular issue or gap that the research seeks to address |
Placement | Found in the introduction of a thesis or dissertation, usually within the first 1-2 pages, indicating the central argument or claim the entire work | Positioned early in research papers or proposals, it sets the context by highlighting the issue the research will address, guiding subsequent questions and methodologies |
Nature of statement | Assertive and argumentative, as it makes a claim that the research will support or refute | Descriptive and explanatory, as it outlines the issue without necessarily proposing a solution or stance |
Derived from | Research findings, data analysis, and interpretation | Preliminary literature review, observed gaps in knowledge, or identified issues in a particular field |
Word count | Typically concise, ranging from 1 sentence to a short paragraph (approximately 25-50 words) | Generally more detailed, ranging from a paragraph to a page (approximately 100-300 words) |
Common mistakes to avoid in writing statement of the problem in research
Mistakes in the research problem statement can lead to a domino effect, causing misalignment in research objectives, wasted resources, and even inconclusive or irrelevant results.
Recognizing and avoiding these pitfalls not only strengthens the foundation of your research but also ensures that your efforts concede impactful insights.
Here's a detailed exploration of frequent subjective, qualitative, quantitative and measurable mistakes and how you can sidestep them.
Being too broad or too narrow
A problem statement that's too broad can lack focus, making it challenging to derive specific research questions or objectives. Conversely, a statement that's too narrow might limit the scope of your research or make it too trivial.
Example of mistake: "Studying the effects of diet on health" is too broad, while "Studying the effects of eating green apples at 3 pm on heart health" is overly narrow.
You can refine the scope based on preliminary research. The correct way to write this problem statement will be "Studying the effects of a high-fiber diet on heart health in adults over 50." This statement is neither too broad nor too narrow, and it provides a clear direction for the research.
Using unnecessary jargon or technical language
While academic writing often involves academic terms, overloading your problem statement with jargon can alienate readers and obscure the actual problem.
Example of Mistake: "Examining the diurnal variations in macronutrient ingestion vis-à-vis metabolic homeostasis."
To ensure it’s not complicated, you can simplify and clarify. "Examining how daily changes in nutrient intake affect metabolic balance" conveys the same idea more accessible.
Not emphasizing the "Why" of the problem
It's not enough to state a problem; you must also convey its significance. Why does this problem matter? What are the implications of not addressing it?
Example of Mistake: "Many students are not engaging with online learning platforms."
You can proceed with the approach of highlighting the significance here. "Many students are not engaging with online learning platforms, leading to decreased academic performance and widening educational disparities."
Circular reasoning and lack of relevance
Your problem statement should be grounded in existing research or observed phenomena. Avoid statements that assume what they set out to prove or lack a clear basis in current knowledge.
Example of Mistake: "We need to study X because not enough research has been done on X."
Instead, try grounding your statement based on already-known facts. "While several studies have explored Y, the specific impact of X remains unclear, necessitating further research."
Being overly ambitious
While it's commendable to aim high, your problem statement should reflect a challenge that's achievable within your means, timeframe, and resources.
Example of Mistake: "This research will solve world hunger."
Here, you need to be realistic and focused. "This research aims to develop sustainable agricultural techniques to increase crop yields in arid regions."
By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can craft a problem statement that is clear, relevant and sets a solid foundation for your research.
Over-reliance on outdated data
Using data that is no longer relevant can mislead the direction of your research. It's essential to ensure that the statistics or findings you reference are current and pertinent to the present scenario.
Example of Mistake: "According to a 1995 study, only 5% of the population uses the internet for daily tasks."
You always cross-check the dates and relevance of the data you're using. For a contemporary study on internet usage, you'd want to reference more recent statistics.
Not specifying the sample size or demographic
A problem statement should be clear about the population or sample size being studied, especially when making generalizations or claims.
Example of Mistake: "People prefer online shopping to in-store shopping."
Here, you would benefit from specifying the demographic or sample size when presenting data to avoid overgeneralization. " In a survey of 1,000 urban residents aged 18-35, 70% expressed a preference for online shopping over in-store shopping. "
Ignoring conflicting data
Cherry-picking data that supports your hypothesis while ignoring conflicting data can lead to a biased problem statement.
Example of Mistake: "Research shows that all students benefit from online learning."
You’ve to ensure a balanced view by considering all relevant data, even if it contradicts your hypothesis. " While many studies highlight the advantages of online learning for students, some research points to challenges such as decreased motivation and lack of face-to-face interaction. "
Making unsubstantiated predictions
Projecting future trends without solid data can weaken the credibility of your problem statement.
Example of Mistake: "The demand for electric cars will increase by 500% in the next year."
Base your predictions on current trends and reliable data sources, avoiding hyperbolic or unsupported claims. " With the current growth rate and recent advancements in battery technology, there's potential for a significant rise in the demand for electric cars. "
Wrapping Up
A well-crafted problem statement ensures that your research is focused, relevant, and contributes meaningfully to the broader academic community.
However, the consequences of an incorrect or poorly constructed problem statement can be severe. It can lead to misdirected research efforts, wasted resources, compromised credibility, and even ethical concerns. Such pitfalls underscore the importance of dedicating time and effort to craft a precise and impactful problem statement.
So, as you start your research journey , remember that a well-defined problem statement is not just a starting point; it guides your entire research journey, ensuring clarity, relevance, and meaningful contributions to your field.
Frequently Asked Questions
A problem statement is a clear, concise and specific articulation of a gap in current knowledge that your research aims to bridge.
The Problem Statement should highlight existing gaps in current knowledge and also the significance of the research. It should also include the research question and purpose of the research.
Clear articulation of the problem and establishing relevance; Working thesis (methods to solve the problem); Purpose and scope of study — are the 3 parts of the problem statement.
While the statement of the problem articulates and delineates a particular research problem, Objectives designates the aims, purpose and strategies to address the particular problem.
Here’s an example — “The study aims to identify and analyze the specific factors that impact employee productivity, providing organizations with actionable insights to optimize remote work policies.”
You might also like
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Consensus GPT vs. SciSpace GPT: Choose the Best GPT for Research](https://typeset.io/resources/content/images/size/w1000/2024/02/scispace-gpt-vs-consensus-gpt.png)
Consensus GPT vs. SciSpace GPT: Choose the Best GPT for Research
Literature Review and Theoretical Framework: Understanding the Differences
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Nikhil Seethi](https://typeset.io/resources/content/images/size/w100/2023/11/NIKHILS.png)
Types of Essays in Academic Writing - Quick Guide (2024)
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://gradcoach.com/wp-content/uploads/GC-Logo-Registered.png)
The Research Problem & Statement
What they are & how to write them (with examples)
By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2023
If you’re new to academic research, you’re bound to encounter the concept of a “ research problem ” or “ problem statement ” fairly early in your learning journey. Having a good research problem is essential, as it provides a foundation for developing high-quality research, from relatively small research papers to a full-length PhD dissertations and theses.
In this post, we’ll unpack what a research problem is and how it’s related to a problem statement . We’ll also share some examples and provide a step-by-step process you can follow to identify and evaluate study-worthy research problems for your own project.
Overview: Research Problem 101
What is a research problem.
- What is a problem statement?
Where do research problems come from?
- How to find a suitable research problem
- Key takeaways
A research problem is, at the simplest level, the core issue that a study will try to solve or (at least) examine. In other words, it’s an explicit declaration about the problem that your dissertation, thesis or research paper will address. More technically, it identifies the research gap that the study will attempt to fill (more on that later).
Let’s look at an example to make the research problem a little more tangible.
To justify a hypothetical study, you might argue that there’s currently a lack of research regarding the challenges experienced by first-generation college students when writing their dissertations [ PROBLEM ] . As a result, these students struggle to successfully complete their dissertations, leading to higher-than-average dropout rates [ CONSEQUENCE ]. Therefore, your study will aim to address this lack of research – i.e., this research problem [ SOLUTION ].
A research problem can be theoretical in nature, focusing on an area of academic research that is lacking in some way. Alternatively, a research problem can be more applied in nature, focused on finding a practical solution to an established problem within an industry or an organisation. In other words, theoretical research problems are motivated by the desire to grow the overall body of knowledge , while applied research problems are motivated by the need to find practical solutions to current real-world problems (such as the one in the example above).
As you can probably see, the research problem acts as the driving force behind any study , as it directly shapes the research aims, objectives and research questions , as well as the research approach. Therefore, it’s really important to develop a very clearly articulated research problem before you even start your research proposal . A vague research problem will lead to unfocused, potentially conflicting research aims, objectives and research questions .
![research-topic-webinar Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic](https://gradcoach.com/wp-content/uploads/research-topic-webinar.png)
What is a research problem statement?
As the name suggests, a problem statement (within a research context, at least) is an explicit statement that clearly and concisely articulates the specific research problem your study will address. While your research problem can span over multiple paragraphs, your problem statement should be brief , ideally no longer than one paragraph . Importantly, it must clearly state what the problem is (whether theoretical or practical in nature) and how the study will address it.
Here’s an example of a statement of the problem in a research context:
Rural communities across Ghana lack access to clean water, leading to high rates of waterborne illnesses and infant mortality. Despite this, there is little research investigating the effectiveness of community-led water supply projects within the Ghanaian context. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of such projects in improving access to clean water and reducing rates of waterborne illnesses in these communities.
As you can see, this problem statement clearly and concisely identifies the issue that needs to be addressed (i.e., a lack of research regarding the effectiveness of community-led water supply projects) and the research question that the study aims to answer (i.e., are community-led water supply projects effective in reducing waterborne illnesses?), all within one short paragraph.
Need a helping hand?
Wherever there is a lack of well-established and agreed-upon academic literature , there is an opportunity for research problems to arise, since there is a paucity of (credible) knowledge. In other words, research problems are derived from research gaps . These gaps can arise from various sources, including the emergence of new frontiers or new contexts, as well as disagreements within the existing research.
Let’s look at each of these scenarios:
New frontiers – new technologies, discoveries or breakthroughs can open up entirely new frontiers where there is very little existing research, thereby creating fresh research gaps. For example, as generative AI technology became accessible to the general public in 2023, the full implications and knock-on effects of this were (or perhaps, still are) largely unknown and therefore present multiple avenues for researchers to explore.
New contexts – very often, existing research tends to be concentrated on specific contexts and geographies. Therefore, even within well-studied fields, there is often a lack of research within niche contexts. For example, just because a study finds certain results within a western context doesn’t mean that it would necessarily find the same within an eastern context. If there’s reason to believe that results may vary across these geographies, a potential research gap emerges.
Disagreements – within many areas of existing research, there are (quite naturally) conflicting views between researchers, where each side presents strong points that pull in opposing directions. In such cases, it’s still somewhat uncertain as to which viewpoint (if any) is more accurate. As a result, there is room for further research in an attempt to “settle” the debate.
Of course, many other potential scenarios can give rise to research gaps, and consequently, research problems, but these common ones are a useful starting point. If you’re interested in research gaps, you can learn more here .
How to find a research problem
Given that research problems flow from research gaps , finding a strong research problem for your research project means that you’ll need to first identify a clear research gap. Below, we’ll present a four-step process to help you find and evaluate potential research problems.
If you’ve read our other articles about finding a research topic , you’ll find the process below very familiar as the research problem is the foundation of any study . In other words, finding a research problem is much the same as finding a research topic.
Step 1 – Identify your area of interest
Naturally, the starting point is to first identify a general area of interest . Chances are you already have something in mind, but if not, have a look at past dissertations and theses within your institution to get some inspiration. These present a goldmine of information as they’ll not only give you ideas for your own research, but they’ll also help you see exactly what the norms and expectations are for these types of projects.
At this stage, you don’t need to get super specific. The objective is simply to identify a couple of potential research areas that interest you. For example, if you’re undertaking research as part of a business degree, you may be interested in social media marketing strategies for small businesses, leadership strategies for multinational companies, etc.
Depending on the type of project you’re undertaking, there may also be restrictions or requirements regarding what topic areas you’re allowed to investigate, what type of methodology you can utilise, etc. So, be sure to first familiarise yourself with your institution’s specific requirements and keep these front of mind as you explore potential research ideas.
Step 2 – Review the literature and develop a shortlist
Once you’ve decided on an area that interests you, it’s time to sink your teeth into the literature . In other words, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the existing research regarding your interest area. Google Scholar is a good starting point for this, as you can simply enter a few keywords and quickly get a feel for what’s out there. Keep an eye out for recent literature reviews and systematic review-type journal articles, as these will provide a good overview of the current state of research.
At this stage, you don’t need to read every journal article from start to finish . A good strategy is to pay attention to the abstract, intro and conclusion , as together these provide a snapshot of the key takeaways. As you work your way through the literature, keep an eye out for what’s missing – in other words, what questions does the current research not answer adequately (or at all)? Importantly, pay attention to the section titled “ further research is needed ”, typically found towards the very end of each journal article. This section will specifically outline potential research gaps that you can explore, based on the current state of knowledge (provided the article you’re looking at is recent).
Take the time to engage with the literature and develop a big-picture understanding of the current state of knowledge. Reviewing the literature takes time and is an iterative process , but it’s an essential part of the research process, so don’t cut corners at this stage.
As you work through the review process, take note of any potential research gaps that are of interest to you. From there, develop a shortlist of potential research gaps (and resultant research problems) – ideally 3 – 5 options that interest you.
![research-problem-vs-research-gap The relationship between the research problem and research gap](https://gradcoach.com/wp-content/uploads/research-problem-vs-research-gap.png)
Step 3 – Evaluate your potential options
Once you’ve developed your shortlist, you’ll need to evaluate your options to identify a winner. There are many potential evaluation criteria that you can use, but we’ll outline three common ones here: value, practicality and personal appeal.
Value – a good research problem needs to create value when successfully addressed. Ask yourself:
- Who will this study benefit (e.g., practitioners, researchers, academia)?
- How will it benefit them specifically?
- How much will it benefit them?
Practicality – a good research problem needs to be manageable in light of your resources. Ask yourself:
- What data will I need access to?
- What knowledge and skills will I need to undertake the analysis?
- What equipment or software will I need to process and/or analyse the data?
- How much time will I need?
- What costs might I incur?
Personal appeal – a research project is a commitment, so the research problem that you choose needs to be genuinely attractive and interesting to you. Ask yourself:
- How appealing is the prospect of solving this research problem (on a scale of 1 – 10)?
- Why, specifically, is it attractive (or unattractive) to me?
- Does the research align with my longer-term goals (e.g., career goals, educational path, etc)?
Depending on how many potential options you have, you may want to consider creating a spreadsheet where you numerically rate each of the options in terms of these criteria. Remember to also include any criteria specified by your institution . From there, tally up the numbers and pick a winner.
Step 4 – Craft your problem statement
Once you’ve selected your research problem, the final step is to craft a problem statement. Remember, your problem statement needs to be a concise outline of what the core issue is and how your study will address it. Aim to fit this within one paragraph – don’t waffle on. Have a look at the problem statement example we mentioned earlier if you need some inspiration.
Key Takeaways
We’ve covered a lot of ground. Let’s do a quick recap of the key takeaways:
- A research problem is an explanation of the issue that your study will try to solve. This explanation needs to highlight the problem , the consequence and the solution or response.
- A problem statement is a clear and concise summary of the research problem , typically contained within one paragraph.
- Research problems emerge from research gaps , which themselves can emerge from multiple potential sources, including new frontiers, new contexts or disagreements within the existing literature.
- To find a research problem, you need to first identify your area of interest , then review the literature and develop a shortlist, after which you’ll evaluate your options, select a winner and craft a problem statement .
![title= how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://gradcoach.com/wp-content/uploads/course.png)
Psst... there’s more!
This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...
I APPRECIATE YOUR CONCISE AND MIND-CAPTIVATING INSIGHTS ON THE STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS. PLEASE I STILL NEED SOME SAMPLES RELATED TO SUICIDES.
Very pleased and appreciate clear information.
Your videos and information have been a life saver for me throughout my dissertation journey. I wish I’d discovered them sooner. Thank you!
Submit a Comment Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
- Print Friendly
- Privacy Policy
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Research Method](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/logo.png)
Home » Problem Statement – Writing Guide, Examples and Types
Problem Statement – Writing Guide, Examples and Types
Table of Contents
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Problem Statement](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Problem_Statement-1024x576.jpg)
Problem Statement
Definition:
Problem statement is a clear, concise, and well-defined statement that outlines the issue or challenge that needs to be addressed. It is a crucial element in any project or research as it provides a clear understanding of the problem, its context, and its potential impact.
Types of Problem Statements
There are various types of problem statements, and the type of problem statement used depends on the context and purpose of the project or research. Some common types of problem statements are:
Business Problem Statement
Business Problem Statement identifies a problem or challenge within an organization that needs to be solved. It typically includes the impact of the problem on the organization and its stakeholders, such as customers, employees, or shareholders.
Research Problem Statement
Research Problem Statement outlines the research question or problem that the study aims to address. It describes the research objectives, the significance of the research, and the potential impact of the research findings.
Design Problem Statement
Design Problem Statement defines the problem or challenge that a design project aims to solve. It includes the user’s needs, the design constraints, and the desired outcomes of the design project.
Social Problem Statement
Social Problem Statement describes a problem or challenge in society that needs to be addressed. It typically includes the social, economic, or political impact of the problem and its effect on individuals or communities.
Technical Problem Statement
Technical Problem Statement defines a problem or challenge related to technology or engineering. It includes the technical requirements, constraints, and potential solutions to the problem.
Components of Problem Statement
The components of a problem statement may vary depending on the context and purpose of the project or research, but some common components include:
- Problem description : This component provides a clear and concise description of the problem, its context, and its impact. It should explain what the problem is, who is affected by it, and why it needs to be addressed.
- Background information : This component provides context for the problem by describing the current state of knowledge or practice related to the problem. It may include a review of relevant literature, data, or other sources of information.
- Objectives : This component outlines the specific objectives that the project or research aims to achieve. It should explain what the project or research team hopes to accomplish by addressing the problem.
- Scope : This component defines the boundaries of the problem by specifying what is included and excluded from the problem statement. It should clarify the limits of the project or research and ensure that the team remains focused on the core problem.
- Methodology : This component outlines the approach or methodology that the project or research team will use to address the problem. It may include details about data collection, analysis, or other methods used to achieve the objectives.
- Expected outcomes : This component describes the potential impact or outcomes that the project or research aims to achieve. It should explain how the solution or findings will address the problem and benefit the stakeholders.
How to write Problem Statement
Here are some general steps to follow when writing a problem statement:
- Identify the problem : Clearly identify the problem that needs to be addressed. Consider the context, stakeholders, and potential consequences of the problem.
- Research the problem: Conduct research to gather data and information about the problem. This may involve reviewing literature, analyzing data, or consulting with experts.
- Define the problem: Define the problem clearly and concisely, using specific language and avoiding vague or ambiguous terms. Be sure to include the impact of the problem and the context in which it occurs.
- State the objectives : Clearly state the objectives that the project or research aims to achieve. This should be specific and measurable, with clear outcomes that can be evaluated.
- Identify the scope: Identify the boundaries of the problem, including what is included and excluded from the problem statement. This helps to ensure that the team remains focused on the core problem.
- Outline the methodology : Outline the approach or methodology that the project or research team will use to address the problem. This should be based on research and best practices, and should be feasible and realistic.
- Describe the expected outcomes : Describe the potential impact or outcomes that the project or research aims to achieve. Be specific about how the solution or findings will address the problem and benefit the stakeholders.
- Revise and refine : Review the problem statement and revise it as needed to ensure clarity, accuracy, and completeness.
Applications of Problem Statement
Here are some of the applications of problem statements:
- Research : In academic research, problem statements are used to clearly define the research problem, identify the research question, and justify the need for the study. A well-crafted problem statement is essential for the success of any research project.
- Project management: In project management, problem statements are used to identify the issues or challenges that a project team needs to address. Problem statements help project managers to define project scope, set project goals, and develop project plans.
- Business strategy: In business strategy, problem statements are used to identify business challenges and opportunities. Problem statements help businesses to define their strategic objectives, develop action plans, and allocate resources.
- Product development : In product development, problem statements are used to identify customer needs and develop new products that address those needs. Problem statements help product developers to define product requirements, develop product features, and test product prototypes.
- Policy-making: In public policy-making, problem statements are used to identify social, economic, and environmental issues that require government intervention. Problem statements help policymakers to define policy objectives, develop policy options, and evaluate policy outcomes.
Examples of Problem Statements
Examples of Problem Statements are as follows:
- High student-to-teacher ratios are leading to decreased individualized attention and lower academic achievement.
- Limited funding for extracurricular activities is limiting opportunities for student development and engagement.
- The lack of diversity and inclusion in curriculum is limiting cultural understanding and perpetuating inequalities.
- The need for continuous professional development for teachers is crucial to improving teaching quality and student outcomes.
- Unequal access to education due to socio-economic status, geographical location, or other factors is contributing to disparities in academic achievement.
- The shortage of healthcare professionals is leading to increased patient wait times and decreased quality of care.
- Limited access to mental health services is contributing to the high prevalence of mental health issues and suicides.
- The over-prescription of opioids is contributing to the current opioid epidemic and increasing rates of addiction and overdose.
- Limited access to affordable and nutritious food is leading to poor nutrition and increased rates of chronic diseases.
- The lack of standardized electronic health record systems is limiting coordination of care and leading to medical errors.
Environmental Science
- Pollution from industrial and agricultural practices is contributing to climate change and increased health risks.
- The overexploitation of natural resources is leading to decreased biodiversity and ecological imbalance.
- Limited access to clean water is leading to health issues and affecting agriculture and economic development.
- The destruction of natural habitats is leading to the extinction of many species and disrupting ecosystems.
- Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, causing significant damage to infrastructure and displacement of populations.
Engineering
- The inadequate design and maintenance of bridges and roads is leading to increased accidents and fatalities.
- The lack of reliable and sustainable energy sources is contributing to environmental degradation and limiting economic growth.
- The lack of cybersecurity measures in critical infrastructure is making it vulnerable to cyber attacks and compromising public safety.
- The lack of efficient waste management systems is contributing to pollution and environmental degradation.
- The need for developing technologies that are environmentally friendly and sustainable is crucial to addressing climate change.
Social Work
- The lack of resources for mental health and social services is contributing to homelessness and the need for emergency assistance.
- The high prevalence of child abuse and neglect is leading to long-term physical and emotional harm to children.
- The lack of affordable and accessible childcare is limiting the opportunities for working parents, especially mothers.
- The stigmatization of mental health issues is limiting access to mental health services and perpetuating discrimination.
- The limited access to education, employment, and housing opportunities is contributing to poverty and social inequality.
- The increasing use of ad-blocking software is limiting the effectiveness of traditional digital advertising.
- The lack of transparency in digital advertising is leading to ad fraud and decreased trust in online marketing.
- The need to adapt marketing strategies to changing consumer behaviors and preferences is crucial to reaching target audiences effectively.
- The high competition in the marketplace is making it challenging for small businesses to compete with larger corporations.
- The need to balance marketing goals with ethical considerations is crucial to maintaining consumer trust and avoiding negative publicity.
- The high prevalence of anxiety and depression is leading to decreased productivity and increased healthcare costs.
- The limited access to mental health services in certain geographic areas is limiting access to care and contributing to disparities in mental health outcomes.
- The need for effective prevention and intervention programs for substance abuse and addiction is crucial to reducing rates of addiction and overdose.
- The lack of awareness and understanding of mental health issues is perpetuating stigma and limiting access to care.
- The need for culturally sensitive mental health services that are tailored to the needs of diverse populations is crucial to improving mental health outcomes.
Purpose of Problem Statement
The purpose of a problem statement is to clearly and concisely describe a specific problem or issue that needs to be addressed. It serves as a clear and succinct explanation of the problem, its context, and its importance, providing the necessary information to understand why the problem is worth solving. A well-crafted problem statement also helps to define the scope of the problem, which in turn helps to guide the research or problem-solving process. In essence, a problem statement sets the stage for identifying potential solutions and determining the best approach to solve the problem.
Characteristics of Problem Statement
The characteristics of a good problem statement include:
- Clear and concise : A problem statement should be written in clear and concise language, free of technical jargon, and easily understandable to the intended audience.
- Specific : The statement should clearly define the problem and its scope. It should identify the who, what, where, when, and why of the problem.
- Measurable : A problem statement should be measurable in some way, whether through quantitative or qualitative methods. This allows for objective assessment of progress towards solving the problem.
- Relevant : The problem statement should be relevant to the context in which it is presented. It should relate to the needs and concerns of stakeholders and the broader community.
- Feasible : The problem statement should be realistic and achievable, given the available resources and constraints.
- Innovative: A good problem statement should inspire creative and innovative solutions.
- Actionable : The problem statement should lead to actionable steps that can be taken to address the problem. It should provide a roadmap for moving forward.
Advantages of Problem Statement
Advantages of Problem Statement are as follows:
- Focus : A problem statement helps to clearly define the problem at hand and provides focus to the problem-solving process. It helps to avoid wasting time and resources on issues that are not relevant.
- Alignment : A well-written problem statement ensures that everyone involved in the problem-solving process is on the same page and understands the issue at hand. This alignment helps to ensure that efforts are focused in the right direction and that everyone is working towards the same goal.
- Clarity : A problem statement provides clarity about the nature of the problem and its impact. This clarity helps to facilitate communication and decision-making, making it easier to develop effective solutions.
- Innovation : A well-crafted problem statement can inspire creativity and encourage innovative thinking. By clearly defining the problem, it can help to identify new approaches and solutions that may not have been considered before.
- Measurability : A problem statement that is clear and specific can be used to measure progress and success. It helps to ensure that efforts are focused on addressing the root cause of the problem and that progress towards a solution can be tracked and evaluated.
Limitations of Problem Statement
While problem statements have many advantages, they also have some limitations, such as:
- Limited Scope: A problem statement is usually focused on a specific issue or challenge. As a result, it may not capture the full complexity of a larger problem, which can limit the effectiveness of the solutions developed.
- Lack of Detail : In some cases, problem statements may be too broad or lack sufficient detail, which can make it difficult to develop effective solutions. It’s important to ensure that the problem statement is specific enough to guide the problem-solving process.
- Bias : The way in which a problem statement is written can sometimes reflect the biases or assumptions of the person or group writing it. This can lead to a narrow or incomplete understanding of the problem and limit the effectiveness of the solutions developed.
- Inflexibility : A problem statement may be too rigid or inflexible, which can limit the exploration of alternative solutions. It’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to adapt the problem statement as new information or perspectives emerge.
About the author
Muhammad Hassan
Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer
You may also like
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Chapter Summary](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Chapter_Summary-145x100.png)
Chapter Summary & Overview – Writing Guide...
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Appendices](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Appendices-145x100.png)
Appendices – Writing Guide, Types and Examples
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Implications in Research](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Implications_in_Research-145x100.png)
Implications in Research – Types, Examples and...
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Research Summary](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Research_Summary-145x100.png)
Research Summary – Structure, Examples and...
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Theoretical Framework](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Theoretical_Framework-145x100.png)
Theoretical Framework – Types, Examples and...
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Future Research](https://researchmethod.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Future_Research-145x100.png)
Future Research – Thesis Guide
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/site/f8e3e61133-1720599212/academy.png)
How To Write a Solid Problem Statement
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/authors/roehl-sybing/5afa3c4e4e-1720599066/roehl3.png)
Introduction
The basic research process, what is an example of a problem statement, how does writing problem statements help, types of problem statements, how do i write a problem statement.
A well-defined problem statement is one of the key elements of a rigorously designed research project. It is based on your literature review and informs your study design in a manner that facilitates the creation of a proposed solution through the data analysis .
This article looks at the concept of problem statements, their role in a research project, and how to write a problem statement for conducting effective research.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/research-hub/problem-statement/616c19e314-1720599308/write-a-problem-statement.png)
While data collection and data analysis get most of the attention in any given primary research project, research relies a great deal on the amount of effort placed in the preparation of the research design. This preparation involves demonstrating a thorough understanding of the current research in order to assess the value and novelty of the new research being presented.
To ensure that the primary research and its underlying research questions are novel and interesting in their contributions to scientific knowledge, the overall study is supported by a robust and rigorous literature review . This review should provide a comprehensive survey of the conceptual and empirical knowledge relevant to the study being conducted.
![](http://earnmoneybangla.online/777/templates/cheerup1/res/banner1.gif)
What is the problem statement?
A problem statement bridges the literature review and the resulting study. It synthesizes the salient points and gaps in the existing research and makes an argument about the kind of research that should be conducted to generate new knowledge.
Why a problem statement is useful
An effective problem statement sets the tone for the rest of the study, in that it identifies what needs to be researched and how. This assertion is based on what existing research has already established, making it clear that new research would make a novel contribution to scholarly knowledge.
When to use a problem statement
A problem statement is a clear declaration of what research should be conducted and what theory should be developed. To that end, a problem statement can provide an explicit description for research audiences, which is useful for just about any research project. A problem statement explains why the larger research study is necessary or expands scientific understanding.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/research-hub/problem-statement/2e4aa39800-1720599308/a-useful-problem-statement-allows-for-the-clear-planning-of-future-stages-of-research.avif)
Here is an example of a problem statement that might be found in organizational research in financial services contexts.
The financial services industry suffers from issues arising from poor customer service, and the problem's financial costs continue to rise as the demand for financial services increases. Research and professional literature on the financial services industry have long posited that a business world increasingly dependent on automation and digitization is a root cause negatively affecting the financial service workforce's morale.
However, there is insufficient primary research to provide insights as to how to improve workplace conditions, a prerequisite for implementing solutions to provide better customer care. Further study is required in order to identify how financial service business leaders can create a productive workplace necessary for quality customer service outcomes.
The above problem statement looks at key workplace aspects influencing a financial services company's ability to identify potential solutions to deliver outstanding customer service. It refers to existing discussions in scholarly research and professional publications while asserting that such discussions have yet to illustrate any useful solutions to the problem that needs to be addressed.
The format of a problem statement
A study's own problem statement has three main components: a synthesis or summary of the existing knowledge relevant to the research inquiry, the gaps identified by that review and why those gaps are important, and the kind of research necessary to fill those gaps.
Let's examine the parts of another example problem statement that might belong in a larger study about education:
The contemporary literature has highlighted numerous cases where literacy teachers have elicited detailed and well-supported ideas from their students when asking more open-ended questions.
In the sentence above, the author has pointed to previous research (which should be described and correctly referenced in the literature review ) about the effects of open-ended questions on high school students. In particular, students offer more details for ideas during interaction.
However, previous research has not examined whether the engaging classroom interactions from open-ended questions are related to other learning outcomes.
Here, a lack of empirical evidence illustrates a gap in the research that needs to be filled.
Moreover, any evidence presented thus far has been primarily focused on learning outcomes that can be measured in standarized tests. This leaves other important learning outcomes overlooked, such as students' motivation, comprehension, or creativity.
The problem statement goes further by pointing out a methodological gap in understanding the effects of classroom interaction and why this is important.
Further research that captures students' perceptions and interpretations of being asked open-ended questions by their teachers can meaningfully extend current theory and practice by shedding light on other important learning outcomes.
The last component highlights how the present research makes a novel and interesting contribution to existing literature, thus justifying the research to be presented.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/research-hub/problem-statement/4187579a4f-1720599308/macbook-06-1408x.jpg)
Make the most of your data with ATLAS.ti
Download a free trial and turn your qualitative data into critical insights with our powerful analysis tools.
An effective problem statement sets up the rest of the research inquiry and ensures a rigorous research process. Let's look at each of the particular stages of research influenced by problem statements.
Research question
The problem statement identifies the gaps in knowledge that existing scholarship has yet to address. With these gaps in mind, the study you present will be novel enough to justify the attention paid by your research audience.
Study design
The literature gap can also highlight what types of research should be conducted to contribute to new knowledge. A problem statement that describes a reliance on interview research methods , for example, can justify the use of observations in a new study.
Theoretical framework
A problem statement can highlight a theoretical gap, as in a research field's reliance on one particular theory while overlooking another. In that case, the problem statement can justify a novel theoretical framework to look at data from a new angle.
As the previous section illustrated, there are different kinds of problem statements that can be used to establish the novelty of a study. Three common types of statements are detailed in this section.
Empirical problem statement
In many cases, researchers can argue that scientific theory might lack sufficient evidence. Theory that has been established in one context (e.g., high school classrooms), for example, may not have evidence to be considered applicable to another context (e.g., university classrooms), requiring further research to affirm or challenge that theory.
Theoretical problem statement
A theoretical framework is simply a way of looking at data to generate knowledge. When you change the theory, you change the way you analyze the research . As a result, a problem statement that illustrates a focus on one particular theory can justify the use of another theory, provided it generates meaningful knowledge about your research topic .
Methodological problem statement
Method triangulation is the concept of examining a phenomenon through multiple research methods to gain a sufficiently robust understanding of the knowledge regarding that phenomenon. If the literature prefers one method (e.g., assessments) you can establish research novelty by conducting a study that employs another method (e.g., interviews ) and explaining how this contributes new understanding.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/research-hub/problem-statement/cc8b429cb8-1720599308/problem-solving-in-research-requires-careful-planning-stemming-from-writing-the-problem-statement.avif)
There is an intentional process to writing problem statements, even if it's just a few sentences. This section deals with what things belong and don't belong in a useful problem statement.
Questions to answer when writing a problem statement
As written above, make sure that your problem statement has three essential components:
What does your literature review say? While your background description of the research should be presented in thorough and transparent detail, you need to have a succinct summary of what the existing research says and how it informs your study design.
What is missing in the existing research and why is this important? A sufficiently comprehensive literature review should also allow you to describe what the current research has yet to establish or achieve. It is also important that you explain why this unexplored topic or question is important for theory or practice. This gap illustrates the problem and justifies the proposed solution in the present study that addresses this problem.
What study is required to contribute to scientific knowledge? Identifying the literature gap and explaining how your research address that gap in knowledge will help illustrate the novelty and contribution of the study you want to present.
Note that the overall study should address all of these questions in detail for transparency's sake. However, a succinct problem statement gives your research audience an easy place of reference to identify the salient points of the new research. Variations of your problem statement can be presented in your abstract, introduction, discussion, and conclusion sections.
What not to include in a problem statement
A problem statement should focus primarily on what existing knowledge has already established. Assertions that are not grounded in previously published studies are little more than speculation, and research inquiries that are built on unfounded assertions do not make for meaningful research. A problem statement rooted in a thoroughly-researched literature review mitigates this issue and ensures a robust link from scientific knowledge to new empirical analysis.
A useful problem statement should also focus on justifying the research that is to be presented. To that end, researchers should not assume that merely spotting a gap is sufficient. Rather, it is important to explain the theoretical or practical implications of addressing that gap to more convincingly justify the present research.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/research-hub/problem-statement/be4d038431-1720599308/packs-1408x-1408x.jpg)
Let ATLAS.ti accompany you through every stage of research
Count on our powerful analysis tools for drawing insights from your research. Download a free trial today.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://atlasti.com/media/pages/authors/lauren-stewart/905df9b24f-1720599067/lauren.png)
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Enago Academy](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/enago-academy-sitelogo.png)
Research Problem Statement — Find out how to write an impactful one!
![how to construct statement of the problem in research ' src=](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Shrutika-profile-pic-170x150.jpg)
Table of Contents
What Is a Research Problem Statement?
A research problem statement is a clear, concise, and specific statement that describes the issue or problem that the research project addresses. It should be written in a way that is easily understandable to both experts and non-experts in the field.
To write a research problem statement, you should:
- Identify the general area of interest: Start by identifying the general area of research that interests you.
- Define the specific problem: Narrow down the general area of interest to a specific problem or issue.
- Explain the significance of the problem: Provide context for the problem by explaining why it is important to study and what gap in current knowledge or understanding it fills.
- Provide a clear and concise statement: State the problem in a clear and concise manner, making sure to use language that is easily understood by your intended audience.
- Use a scientific and objective tone: The problem statement should be written in a neutral and objective tone, avoiding any subjective language and personal bias .
An Example of a Research Problem Statement
“The increasing prevalence of obesity in children is a growing public health concern. Despite the availability of information on healthy eating and physical activity, many children are still not engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors. The problem this study addresses is the lack of understanding of the barriers and facilitators to healthy lifestyle behaviors in children.”
When to Write a Problem Statement in Research?
A research problem statement should be written at the beginning of the research process, before any data collection or analysis takes place. This is because the statement sets the foundation for the entire research project by clearly defining the problem that the research is trying to address.
Writing a problem statement early in the research process helps to guide the research design and methodology , and ensures that the research is focused on addressing the specific problem at hand. It also helps to ensure that the research is relevant and addresses a gap in current knowledge or understanding.
In addition, a well-written problem statement effectively communicates the purpose and significance of the research to potential funders, collaborators, and other stakeholders. It also generates interest and support for the research project.
It’s also important to note that, during the research process, the statement can be refined or updated as new information is discovered or as the research progresses. This is normal and it’s a good idea to revise the statement as needed to ensure that it remains clear and concise and that it accurately reflects the current focus of the research project.
What Does a Research Problem Statement Include?
A research problem statement typically includes the following elements:
1. The research topic:
The general area of interest or field of study that the research project addresses.
2. The specific problem or issue:
A clear and concise statement of the problem or issue that the research project aims to address.
3. The significance of the problem:
A discussion of why the problem is important and what gap in current knowledge or understanding it fills.
4. The research questions:
A set of questions that the research project aims to answer, in order to address the problem or issue.
5. The research objectives:
A set of specific and measurable objectives that the research project aims to achieve.
6. The scope of the research:
A description of the specific population, setting, or context that the research project will focus on.
7. The theoretical framework:
A discussion of the theoretical concepts and principles that inform the research project.
8. The research design:
A description of the research methodologies that will be used to collect and analyze data in order to address the research questions and objectives.
It’s important to note that the problem statement is usually brief and concise, typically a few sentences or a short paragraph. But it should provide enough information to convey the main idea of the research project.
Important Features of Research Problem Statement
The problem statement should be clear and easy to understand. Write it in a way that is accessible to both experts and non-experts in the field.
2. Specificity
The statement should be specific and clearly define the problem or issue that the research project aims to address. It should be narrow enough to be manageable, but broad enough to be of interest to others in the field.
3. Significance
The statement should explain why the problem is important and what gap in current knowledge or understanding it fills. It should provide context for the research project and help to justify its importance.
4. Relevance
The statement should be relevant to the field of study and address an issue that is currently of concern to researchers.
5. Research questions
The statement should include a set of research questions that the research project aims to answer in order to address the problem or issue.
6. Research objectives
The statement should include a set of specific and measurable objectives that the research project aims to achieve.
The statement should define the specific population, setting, or context that the research project will focus on.
8. Theoretical framework
The statement should provide an overview of the theoretical concepts and principles that inform the research project.
9. Research design
The statement should provide an overview of the research methodologies. This will be useful collect and analyze data in order to address the research questions and objectives.
Difference Between a Thesis Statement and a Problem Statement
A thesis statement and a problem statement are related but distinct elements of a research project.
A thesis statement is a statement that summarizes the central argument or claim of a research paper or essay. It presents the main idea of the paper and sets the direction for the rest of the content. It’s usually located at the end of the introduction, and it’s often one sentence.
A problem statement, on the other hand, is a statement that describes a specific problem or issue that the research project aims to address. It sets the foundation for the entire research project by clearly defining the research problem. It is usually located at the beginning of a research paper or proposal, and is of one or a few paragraphs.
In summary, a thesis statement is a summary of the main point or key argument of the research paper. A problem statement describes the specific issue that the research project aims to address. A thesis statement is more focused on the final outcome of the research. While a problem statement is focused on the current state of knowledge and the gap in understanding that the research project aims to fill.
In Conclusion
A problem statement is a critical component of the research project, as it provides a clear and concise roadmap for the research, and helps to ensure that the research is well-designed and addresses a significant and relevant issue.
We hope this blog has clarified your doubts and confusion associated with research problem statement and helps you write an effective statement for your research project!
![how to construct statement of the problem in research ' src=](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/ap_avatars/cfcd208495d565ef66e7dff9f98764da.jpg)
comprehensive contents. thanks!
Very good writing and easy to understand
WOW..its easy to understand…
This has opened up my mind, Systematically outlined steps.
Wow I’ve gained Alot from this!
WOW…This was much helpful.
Good and straightforward explanations with ease of understanding for all the students and teachers alike.
Beautiful work
I enjoy and understand every bit of the explanations on each topic. Kudos to the team.
very clear and easy to understand. i really benefited
Rate this article Cancel Reply
Your email address will not be published.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/800-X-210-1.jpg)
Enago Academy's Most Popular Articles
![how to construct statement of the problem in research retractions and research integrity](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/FeatureImages-43-210x136.png)
- Publishing Research
- Trending Now
- Understanding Ethics
Understanding the Impact of Retractions on Research Integrity – A global study
As we reach the midway point of 2024, ‘Research Integrity’ remains one of the hot…
![how to construct statement of the problem in research What is Academic Integrity and How to Uphold it [FREE CHECKLIST]](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/FeatureImages-59-210x136.png)
Ensuring Academic Integrity and Transparency in Academic Research: A comprehensive checklist for researchers
Academic integrity is the foundation upon which the credibility and value of scientific findings are…
![how to construct statement of the problem in research 7 Step Guide for Optimizing Impactful Research Process](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/FeatureImages-40-210x136.png)
- Reporting Research
How to Optimize Your Research Process: A step-by-step guide
For researchers across disciplines, the path to uncovering novel findings and insights is often filled…
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Launch of "Sony Women in Technology Award with Nature"](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/FeatureImages-34-210x136.png)
- Industry News
Breaking Barriers: Sony and Nature unveil “Women in Technology Award”
Sony Group Corporation and the prestigious scientific journal Nature have collaborated to launch the inaugural…
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Guide to Adhere Good Research Practice (FREE CHECKLIST)](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/FI-210x136.png)
Achieving Research Excellence: Checklist for good research practices
Academia is built on the foundation of trustworthy and high-quality research, supported by the pillars…
Choosing the Right Analytical Approach: Thematic analysis vs. content analysis for…
Research Recommendations – Guiding policy-makers for evidence-based decision making
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iwwa_dashboard.png)
Sign-up to read more
Subscribe for free to get unrestricted access to all our resources on research writing and academic publishing including:
- 2000+ blog articles
- 50+ Webinars
- 10+ Expert podcasts
- 50+ Infographics
- 10+ Checklists
- Research Guides
We hate spam too. We promise to protect your privacy and never spam you.
I am looking for Editing/ Proofreading services for my manuscript Tentative date of next journal submission:
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.enago.com/academy/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/ai-survey-sticky.jpg)
In your opinion, what is the most effective way to improve integrity in the peer review process?
Reference management. Clean and simple.
How to write a problem statement
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://cdn.paperpile.com/guides/img/problem-statement-400x400.png)
What is a problem statement?
Why write a problem statement, when are problem statements commonly written, how do i write a problem statement, the format of a problem statement, the trademarks of a good problem statement, an example of a problem statement, frequently asked questions about problem statements, related articles.
A problem statement is a clear and concise description of the problem or issue a team aims to address in a project.
A problem statement identifies a problem’s current state, desired future state, and the gaps that lie between the two. It doesn't define the solution to the problem or provide a road map for solving the problem; it only gives an outline of what the problem is.
However, the researcher or team can later use the problem statement to validate that their work delivered an outcome that resulted in the solution.
A problem statement is a useful communication tool, as it keeps the whole team on track and tells them why the project is important. A problem statement helps someone to define and understand the problem, identify the goals of the project, and outline the scope of work.
A problem statement is especially relevant for projects that aim to improve processes, as it allows for the easier development of solutions. Referencing it helps guide the activities carried out and aids the research team in staying focused. The information in a problem statement also helps a team make important decisions.
When the desired solution is implemented later on, a problem statement can help make sure that steps are put into place to prevent the original problem from recurring in the future.
Problem statements are used in both academic and business contexts. In a business environment, project managers can use them to help execute process improvement projects.
But in an academic setting, they can help researchers to contextualize and understand the significance of the problem in a research project. This guide focuses on academic problem statements.
Before planning or writing out your academic problem statement, ask yourself some important questions, and make notes with your answers:
- What is the problem?
- How often does the problem occur?
- Where does the problem occur?
- When does the problem occur?
- Who does the problem impact?
- What causes the problem?
- How would things ideally work if the problem wasn't present?
- Why is this a problem, and why does it matter?
- What impact does the problem cause?
- Which possible solution/s to the problem are you going to propose?
- What are the predicted benefits or outcomes of your solutions?
When you write your problem statement, split it into four sections:
- Problem: Here, simply define what your problem is, clearly and concisely. Make it no longer than one or two sentences.
- Background: This is the section where you can describe what causes the problem, how often it occurs, where and when it occurs, and who the problem impacts.
- Relevance: You'll want to show how the problem is relevant, as well as why it matters and requires a solution. This is a great space to specify why it's a problem and what impacts it causes. If it fits comfortably, you can also articulate how things would ideally work if the problem wasn't present.
- Objectives: This section doesn't require great detail or length, as the problem statement isn't the area of your research project in which to specifically problem-solve. However, you should lay out a brief plan of what you're going to do to investigate and how that should help you formulate solutions. You can also hypothesize on possible solutions you're going to propose, and the benefits you predict from these.
A quality problem statement should be:
- Concise: You should be able to summarize your problem, as well as the different elements of how and why it's a problem, in succinct sentences. If you can't, revisit your initial notes and clarify what you want to achieve with your project.
- Specific: Only write about one issue in a problem statement, even if there's more than one impact of that issue. Your research and actions then only have to focus on solving the one problem, and there's no confusion.
- Measurable: Be clear about how you're able to measure and convey both the problem and your proposed objectives. This is usually by communicating the problem in terms of degree and frequency.
Below is an academic problem statement example. You don't need to include any headers in your real problem statement, but we'll do so here to show you how the sections of the document function in practice.
There is worryingly low uptake of free cervical cancer screening in the UK amongst women aged 25 to 35.
According to an assessment conducted by X Health Trust, only 60% of 25- to 35-year-old female patients attended cervical cancer screening appointments within the last two years.
This could be due to several contributing factors:
- Female patients in this age group may be more likely to believe they are not susceptible to cervical cancer due to their younger age.
- There has been an absence of regular and informative public health announcements on this subject within the last seven years.
- Cervical cancer screening has a reputation for being an unpleasant experience, which could be off-putting for patients due to attend one.
Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer in females in the UK, representing a notable health risk. As of 2017, there were around 3,200 new cervical cancer cases, with 850 consequent deaths, in the UK every year.
Although mortality rates in the UK for cervical cancer are highest in females aged 85 to 89, incidence rates for the disease are still highest in females aged 30 to 34.
When cervical cancer is diagnosed at its earliest stage, 96% of people diagnosed will survive their disease for one year or more. This is compared with only 50% of people when the disease is diagnosed at the latest stage.
Screening is a vital health service as many cervical cancer patients will be symptomless until they are in a later stage of the disease.
We are going to conduct a survey of 10,000 females in the UK between the ages of 25 and 35. We will first ask them the question of whether they have attended a cervical screening appointment in the last five years. For those who answer “no,” we will then present them with multiple-choice options that answer the question, “why not?”
From the results we gather, we should be able to accurately assess the most common reasons why there is a low uptake in cervical cancer screening in this age group. We will then propose interventions to the medical community based on our findings.
Our ultimate goal is to increase the uptake of cervical cancer screening by females between 25 and 35 in the UK over the next five years.
🔲 Background
🔲 Relevance
🔲 Objectives
A problem statement helps you define and understand a problem, identify the goals of your project, and outline the scope of your work. A problem statement is especially important for projects that aim to improve processes, as it allows for the easier development of solutions.
A good problem statement is concise, specific and measurable. It summarizes the different elements of how and why it's a problem. It focusses on solving this one problem, and there is no confusion as to what the problem is and how it is solved. It is clear how the problem can be solved and how this can be measured.
To start a problem statement, first ask yourself some important questions to define the problem, like:
- Which possible solutions to the problem are you going to propose?
When you write your problem statement, split it into these sections:
A smart problem statement is concise, specific and measurable. It should briefly describe the problem, where it is occurring, the timeframe over which it has been occurring, and the size and magnitude of the problem.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research How to write a grant proposal](https://cdn.paperpile.com/guides/img/write-grant-proposal-400x400.png)
- How to Write a Problem Statement for your Research
![how to construct statement of the problem in research busayo.longe](https://www.formpl.us/blog/static/dist/img/fpls.png)
Every research starts with identifying a problem which is usually an existing gap in your field of study. Once you do this, the next step is to craft a statement of the problem that captures this issue and how you plan to resolve it. A statement of problem forms the basis of every systematic investigation.
Seeing as a problem statement forms the core of your research, it makes sense to know how to write an effective one. So how do you go about this? First, you need to get acquainted with the features of a good problem statement plus its elements and structure.
Use this guide to know how to write an effective statement of the problem for your systematic investigation.
What is the Statement of the Problem in Research?
A statement of problem refers to the critical issue that your research seeks to address. In other words, it captures the existing knowledge gap that your study aims to bridge using reliable results or outcomes. A problem statement can be as little as a few sentences or go all the way to several paragraphs—what matters is it communicates the central focus of your study.
As your study bridges this gap, it also leaves room for future investigations. The implication is that your problem statement should not be too broad; instead, it should address one specific issue and contribute to the knowledge pool for further research.
Use for Free: Research Form Templates
What are the Features of a Good Problem Statement?
A good problem statement captures the core purpose of your study in simple, clear, and direct terms. Some other tell-tale signs of a well-written research statement of problem include:
- A good problem statement is concrete and concise. It doesn’t capture ideas vaguely or ambiguously.
- It allows you to contextualize the research problem.
- A good problem statement helps you to set the aims and objectives of your systematic investigation.
- It justifies your research and draws attention to the study’s significance.
Why is a Problem Statement Important in Research Writing?
Writing a good problem statement serves both the researcher and the readers. For the researcher, the problem statement helps you visualize the scope of your project and outline it accordingly. Also, it allows you to map out specific aims and objectives for your study.
On the flip side, the problem statement helps the reader identify the core reason for your research and see how your work fits into the existing body of knowledge. It helps them get on the same page as you regarding the importance and significance of your systematic investigation.
If you require funding for your research, a problem statement can help potential financiers to see why investing in your project is the right move to make. It gives them an overview of the existing problem, your solution, and the impact of your solution on the field of study.
Elements and Structure of a Problem Statement
In its most basic form, a problem statement comprises three(3) elements which are:
- The research problem
- The claim or working thesis
- The significance of the study
In other words, it tells the reader what you’re trying to solve, how you plan to solve it, and why you want to solve it.
1. The Research Problem
Your research problem is the reason for your systematic investigation. It is the gap you identified and planned to fill based on the results of your study. You can also think of this as the primary research question.
A few questions you should ask yourself here include:
- Is it clear what’s being described in this problem statement?
- Do I understand the main problem being described here?
- Do I have a good grasp of what the main issue is here?
2. The Claim or Working Thesis
Your working thesis is the first attempt at asserting your position, and it spells out your stance on the matter at a specific point in time. It’s called a “working” thesis because it is subject to change as your study progresses. In your working thesis, you have the chance to justify your position by providing primary and secondary claims that support your position.
3. The Significance of the Study
This is the point where you communicate the value of your research and show readers why it is necessary in the first place. Here, you can discuss the impact of your work and its relevance to your field of study. Don’t forget to highlight the contributions of your work to existing knowledge and how others will benefit from it.
Read: Research Report: Definition, Types + [Writing Guide]
What is the Difference Between a Thesis Statement and a Problem Statement?
A problem statement focuses on the specific issue you’ve identified and hope to resolve with your research. It comprises the research problem, claim, or working statement and the significance of your research. On the other hand, a thesis statement makes a specific claim or assertion open for debate.
For example, the statement “writing is more of a science than an art” is an excellent example of a thesis statement because it proposes an idea that may be true or false. Once you establish the thesis statement for your research, you are expected to provide evidence and build a strong argument that supports this claim.
What are the Steps for Writing a Problem Statement?
- Define Your Research Context
- State Why The Problem Matters
- State the Financial Cost
- Back Up Your Claims
- Propose A Solution
- Conclude By Summarizing the Problem and Solution
1. Define Your Research Context
The first thing you need to do is build a solid context that makes it easier for readers to understand the problem. A hack for this is to describe an ideal world where the problem doesn’t exist. In other words, help your readers to visualize how different things would be if they didn’t have to deal with this problem in the first place.
For example, if you’re researching the rise in the number of train accidents in London, start by describing how the process would function if the current problem didn’t exist. When you’ve done this, you can refer to the research problem at the end of your explanation.
2. State Why the Problem Matters
You should let readers in on why the problem matters and why you must address it at this point. In other words, answer the question, “why is it important that we fix this particular problem?” What difference would it make?
Your job here is to show the reader why your research problem is the biggest elephant in the room. You may also consider including what attempts have already been made to solve the problem and why they didn’t work out.
3. State the Financial Cost
If there’s a financial implication of not fixing the problem, then it’s a good idea to state it here. This is more useful if you’re pitching for funding for your research.
4. Back Up Your Claims
It’s not enough to say that the problem has some negative impact on other people or your organization; you must back up all of these claims with well-researched data. This is the point where you pull up information from relevant secondary data sources and reference them in your work.
5. Proffer a Solution
Now that we know the problem, the next question is, “what can be done about it”? To answer this, you need to propose a practical solution to the research problem. Take time to demonstrate why this is the most pragmatic solution and why it will work. More importantly, focus on the impact of your solution and hint at its benefits.
6. Conclude By Summarizing the Problem and Solution
Your conclusion should consist of the problem, why it needs to be fixed, and a summarized argument of why your solution is the best answer to the problem.
Sample Problem Statement
Problem : The use of hard drugs amongst teenagers in the District of Columbia has increased significantly over the past decade.
Background : According to the Drug Abuse Statistics Organization data, 50% of teenagers have misused a drug at least once. Teenagers in the District of Columbia are 11.94% more likely to have used drugs in the last month than the average American teen. Existing data shows that this is a significant problem but fails to address the root causes of rising teenage drug abuse in the state. Therefore, more research is required to identify why teenagers in Colombia abuse drugs and proffer solutions to this menace.
Relevance : Young people who abuse drugs expose themselves to many risks, including life-threatening conditions and mental health-related problems. Drug abuse can impact the brain’s ability to function in the short term and prevent proper growth and development in the long term. Data shows that teenagers who use hard drugs are more likely to be disillusioned. Addressing this problem will give concerned parties the much-needed insights to help them curtail drug abuse.
Objectives : This research aims to identify the root causes of teenage drug abuse and map out actionable solutions to address this.
Mistakes to Avoid when Writing Problem Statements
A good problem statement sets the tone for the rest of your dissertation, so you want to get it right. That said, here are some things you should have at the back of your mind as you craft a problem statement for your research paper.
1. Make sure your problem statement is straight to the point. Every sentence should reinforce the importance of your study.
2. Narrow the scope of your problem statement.
3. Avoid unnecessary jargon and highly technical language.
4. Build a logical argument that will convince the reader
5. Emphasize the “why” of the problem
FAQ About Writing a Statement of the Problem
How do you identify a research problem?
The best way to identify a research problem is to read through existing studies to discover any gaps in knowledge. You can also discover research problems by observing your environment and identifying any contradictions that exist among perspectives.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking funding for your research or approval from your professor, you need to write a well-defined statement of the problem. A problem statement allows you to pitch the core idea of your study and show others why it is worth being addressed. It should draw attention to the core idea of your research, and convince others to invest in your systematic investigation.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Logo](https://www.formpl.us/static/images/logo/Small-White.png)
Connect to Formplus, Get Started Now - It's Free!
- abstract in research papers
- Applied research methods
- problem statements
- research context
- research problems
- research report
- busayo.longe
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Formplus](https://www.formpl.us/blog/static/dist/img/logo-white.png)
You may also like:
Research Questions: Definitions, Types + [Examples]
A comprehensive guide on the definition of research questions, types, importance, good and bad research question examples
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.formpl.us/blog/static/dist/img/fpls.png)
What is Applied Research? + [Types, Examples & Method]
Simple guide on applied research; its types, examples, characteristics, methods, and advantages
21 Chrome Extensions for Academic Researchers in 2022
In this article, we will discuss a number of chrome extensions you can use to make your research process even seamless
15 Reasons to Choose Quantitative over Qualitative Research
This guide tells you everything you need to know about qualitative and quantitative research, it differences,types, when to use it, how...
Formplus - For Seamless Data Collection
Collect data the right way with a versatile data collection tool. try formplus and transform your work productivity today..
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Academic Success Center](https://libapps.s3.amazonaws.com/customers/4266/images/NU_Logo_ASC_6-21-23_Faded.png)
Research Writing and Analysis
- NVivo Group and Study Sessions
- SPSS This link opens in a new window
- Statistical Analysis Group sessions
- Using Qualtrics
- Dissertation and Data Analysis Group Sessions
- Defense Schedule - Commons Calendar This link opens in a new window
- Research Process Flow Chart
- Research Alignment Chapter 1 This link opens in a new window
- Step 1: Seek Out Evidence
- Step 2: Explain
- Step 3: The Big Picture
- Step 4: Own It
- Step 5: Illustrate
- Annotated Bibliography
- Literature Review This link opens in a new window
- Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses
- How to Synthesize and Analyze
- Synthesis and Analysis Practice
- Synthesis and Analysis Group Sessions
- Problem Statement
- Purpose Statement
- Conceptual Framework
- Theoretical Framework
- Locating Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks This link opens in a new window
- Quantitative Research Questions
- Qualitative Research Questions
- Trustworthiness of Qualitative Data
- Analysis and Coding Example- Qualitative Data
- Thematic Data Analysis in Qualitative Design
- Dissertation to Journal Article This link opens in a new window
- International Journal of Online Graduate Education (IJOGE) This link opens in a new window
- Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching & Learning (JRIT&L) This link opens in a new window
Jump to DSE Guide
Problem statement overview.
The dissertation problem needs to be very focused because everything else from the dissertation research logically flows from the problem. You may say that the problem statement is the very core of a dissertation research study. If the problem is too big or too vague, it will be difficult to scope out a purpose that is manageable for one person, given the time available to execute and finish the dissertation research study.
Through your research, your aim is to obtain information that helps address a problem so it can be resolved. Note that the researcher does not actually solve the problem themselves by conducting research but provides new knowledge that can be used toward a resolution. Typically, the problem is solved (or partially solved) by practitioners in the field, using input from researchers.
Given the above, the problem statement should do three things :
- Specify and describe the problem (with appropriate citations)
- Explain the consequences of NOT solving the problem
- Explain the knowledge needed to solve the problem (i.e., what is currently unknown about the problem and its resolution – also referred to as a gap )
What is a problem?
The world is full of problems! Not all problems make good dissertation research problems, however, because they are either too big, complex, or risky for doctorate candidates to solve. A proper research problem can be defined as a specific, evidence-based, real-life issue faced by certain people or organizations that have significant negative implications to the involved parties.
Example of a proper, specific, evidence-based, real-life dissertation research problem:
“Only 6% of CEOs in Fortune 500 companies are women” (Center for Leadership Studies, 2019).
Specific refers to the scope of the problem, which should be sufficiently manageable and focused to address with dissertation research. For example, the problem “terrorism kills thousands of people each year” is probably not specific enough in terms of who gets killed by which terrorists, to work for a doctorate candidate; or “Social media use among call-center employees may be problematic because it could reduce productivity,” which contains speculations about the magnitude of the problem and the possible negative effects.
Evidence-based here means that the problem is well-documented by recent research findings and/or statistics from credible sources. Anecdotal evidence does not qualify in this regard. Quantitative evidence is generally preferred over qualitative ditto when establishing a problem because quantitative evidence (from a credible source) usually reflects generalizable facts, whereas qualitative evidence in the form of research conclusions tend to only apply to the study sample and may not be generalizable to a larger population. Example of a problem that isn’t evidence-based: “Based on the researcher’s experience, the problem is that people don’t accept female leaders;” which is an opinion-based statement based on personal (anecdotal) experience.
Real-life means that a problem exists regardless of whether research is conducted or not. This means that “lack of knowledge” or “lack of research” cannot be used as the problem for a dissertation study because it’s an academic issue or a gap; and not a real-life problem experienced by people or organizations. Example of a problem that doesn’t exist in real life: “There is not enough research on the reasons why people distrust minority healthcare workers.” This type of statement also reveals the assumption that people actually do mistrust minority healthcare workers; something that needs to be supported by actual, credible evidence to potentially work as an underlying research problem.
What are consequences?
Consequences are negative implications experienced by a group of people or organizations, as a result of the problem. The negative effects should be of a certain magnitude to warrant research. For example, if fewer than 1% of the stakeholders experience a negative consequence of a problem and that consequence only constitutes a minor inconvenience, research is probably not warranted. Negative consequences that can be measured weigh stronger than those that cannot be put on some kind of scale.
In the example above, a significant negative consequence is that women face much larger barriers than men when attempting to get promoted to executive jobs; or are 94% less likely than men to get to that level in Corporate America.
What is a gap?
To establish a complete basis for a dissertation research study, the problem has to be accompanied by a gap . A gap is missing knowledge or insights about a particular issue that contributes to the persistence of the problem. We use gaps to “situate” new research in the existing literature by adding to the knowledge base in the business research field, in a specific manner (determined by the purpose of the research). Identifying gaps requires you to review the literature in a thorough fashion, to establish a complete understanding of what is known and what isn’t known about a certain problem. In the example from above about the underrepresentation of female CEOs, a gap may be that male-dominated boards have not been studied extensively in terms of their CEO hiring decisions, which might then warrant a study of such boards, to uncover implicit biases and discriminatory practices against female candidates.
How to Write a Problem Statement
How to write a problem statement.
- Here is one way to construct a problem section (keep in mind you have a 250-300 word limit, but you can write first and edit later):
It is helpful to begin the problem statement with a sentence : “The problem to be addressed through this study is… ” Then, fill out the rest of the paragraph with elaboration of that specific problem, making sure to “document” it, as NU reviewers will look for research-based evidence that it is indeed a problem (emphasis also on timeliness of the problem, supported by citations within the last 5 years).
Next, write a paragraph explaining the consequences of NOT solving the problem. Who will be affected? How will they be affected? How important is it to fix the problem? Again, NU reviewers will want to see research-based citations and statistics that indicate the negative implications are significant.
In the final paragraph, you will explain what information (research) is needed in order to fix the problem. This paragraph shows that the problem is worthy of doctoral-level research. What isn’t known about the problem? Ie, what is the gap? Presumably, if your problem and purpose are aligned, your research will try to close or minimize this gap by investigating the problem. Have other researchers investigated the issue? What has their research left unanswered?
- Another way to tackle the Statement of the Problem:
The Statement of the Problem section is a very clear, concise identification of the problem. It must stay within the template guidelines of 250-300 words but more importantly, must contain four elements as outlined below. A dissertation worthy problem should be able to address all of the following points:
-->identification of the problem itself--what is "going wrong" (Ellis & Levy, 2008)
-->who is affected by the problem
-->the consequences that will result from a continuation of the problem
-->a brief discussion of 1) at least 3 authors’ research related to the problem; and 2) their stated suggestion/recommendation for further research related to the problem
Use the following to work on the Statement of the Problem by first outlining the section as follows:
1. One clear, concise statement that tells the reader what is not working, what is “going wrong”. Be specific and support it with current studies.
2. Tell who is affected by the problem identified in #1.
3. Briefly tell what will happen if the problem isn’t addressed.
4. Find at least 3 current studies and write a sentence or two for each study that
i. briefly discusses the author(s)’ work, what they studied, and
ii. state their recommendation for further research about the problem
- Finally, you can follow this simple 3-part outline when writing the statement of the problem section:
Your problem statement is a short (250-300 words), 3 paragraph section, in which you
- Explain context and state problem (“the problem is XYZ”), supported by statistics and/or recent research findings
- Explain the negative consequences of the problem to stakeholders, supported by statistics and/or recent research findings
- Explain the gap in the literature.
Example of a problem statement that follows the 3-part outline (295 words):
The problem to be addressed by this study is the decline of employee well-being for followers of novice mid-level managers and the corresponding rise in employee turnover faced by business leaders across the financial services industry (Oh et al., 2014). Low levels of employee well-being are toxic for morale and result in expensive turnover costs, dysfunctional work environments, anemic corporate cultures, and poor customer service (Compdata, 2018; Oh et al., 2014). According to Ufer (2017), the financial services industry suffers from one of the highest turnover rates among millennial-aged employees in all industries in the developed world, at 18.6% annually. Starkman (2015) reported that 50% of those surveyed in financial services were not satisfied with a single one of the four key workplace aspects: job, firm, pay or career path.
Low levels of employee well-being interrupt a financial services’ company’s ability to deliver outstanding customer service in a world increasingly dependent on that commodity (Wladawsky-Berger, 2018).Mid-level managers play an essential role in support of the success of many of top businesses today (Anicich & Hirsh, 2017).
The current body of literature does not adequately address the well-being issue in the financial services industry from the follower’s perspective (Uhl-Bien, Riggio, Lowe, & Carsten, 2014). Strategic direction flows top-down from senior executives and passes through mid-level leadership to individual contributors at more junior grades. The mid-level managers’ teams are tasked with the achievement of core tasks and the managers themselves are expected to maintain the workforce’s morale, motivation and welfare (Anicich & Hirsh, 2017). Unless industry leaders better understand the phenomenon of employee well-being from the follower perspective and its role in positioning employees to provide a premium client experience, they may be handicapped from preserving their most significant principal market differentiator: customer service (Wladawsky-Berger, 2018).
Was this resource helpful?
- << Previous: Synthesis and Analysis Group Sessions
- Next: Purpose Statement >>
- Last Updated: Jul 9, 2024 3:24 PM
- URL: https://resources.nu.edu/researchtools
![how to construct statement of the problem in research NCU Library Home](https://libapps.s3.amazonaws.com/customers/4266/images/NU_NCU_Nav_Library.png)
- Skip to main content
- Skip to primary sidebar
- Skip to footer
- QuestionPro
![how to construct statement of the problem in research survey software icon](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/surveys-cube-80px.png)
- Solutions Industries Gaming Automotive Sports and events Education Government Travel & Hospitality Financial Services Healthcare Cannabis Technology Use Case NPS+ Communities Audience Contactless surveys Mobile LivePolls Member Experience GDPR Positive People Science 360 Feedback Surveys
- Resources Blog eBooks Survey Templates Case Studies Training Help center
![how to construct statement of the problem in research how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/flags/us.png)
Home Market Research
Problem Statement: What It Is, How to Write + Examples
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Learn a problem statement, how to craft one effectively, and find practical examples. Master the art of problem statement writing.](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Usability-testing-steps-1.jpg)
A well-defined problem statement is the foundation of any successful project, research, or initiative. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an entrepreneur, understanding a problem statement and how to craft one effectively is crucial.
In this blog post, we will dive deep into problem statements, explaining what they are, how to write them, and providing real-life examples to guide you.
What Is a Problem Statement?
A problem statement is a concise and clear description of an issue or challenge that needs to be addressed. It serves as a roadmap for problem-solving and decision-making, helping individuals and teams define the scope of their work and focus on the most critical aspects of a problem.
The problem statement underscores the need for exploring viable solutions and potential solutions to tackle the rising energy consumption in our community.
A well-crafted problem statement should be:
- Specific: Clearly define the problem, avoiding vague or general descriptions.
- Measurable: Include criteria to assess the success or completion of the solution.
- Achievable: Ensure that the problem can be solved or improved within reasonable constraints.
- Relevant: Align the problem statement with your goals and objectives.
- Time-bound: Set a timeframe for solving the problem or achieving progress.
When to Use a Problem Statement
A problem statement is a concise and clear description of an issue or challenge that needs to be addressed. It is often used in various contexts, including business, research , project management, and problem-solving.
Here are some key elements of situations in which you should use to write a problem statement in a brief and focused manner:
- Project Proposals: When proposing a project, whether it’s for a business world initiative or a research endeavor, concise writing problem statements help stakeholders understand why the project is necessary and what it aims to solve.
- Business Plans: A brief error statement can provide context for the business goals and objectives in a business plan or strategy document. It helps identify the specific market or industry challenges the business addresses.
- Research Proposals: In academic or scientific research proposals, a succinct error statement outlines the research question or problem the study intends to investigate. It sets the stage for the research objectives and methodology.
- Product Development: When creating a new product or service, a short problem statement helps the design process and development teams focus on solving a specific user or market problem.
- Policy Development: In the public sector, government agencies and policymakers often use error statements to define and communicate the issues that need attention, leading to the formulation of policies or regulations.
- Conflict Resolution: In conflict resolution or mediation processes, a concise error statement can help parties involved in a dispute to understand the core issues and work towards a resolution.
- Quality Improvement: In quality management or process improvement initiatives, a brief error statement helps identify the areas in a process where improvements are needed.
- Marketing and Advertising: When creating marketing campaigns or advertising materials, a problem statement can be used to highlight a consumer’s pain point and show how a product or service can solve it.
- Innovation Challenges: In innovation competitions or hackathons, participants often start by defining a clear and concise error statement before brainstorming a proposed solution.
- Personal Goals: Even in personal development or goal-setting, it can be helpful to formulate a concise problem statement to clarify what you want to achieve and why.
How to Write an Effective Problem Statement
Writing an effective problem statement is crucial for any project, research, or initiative because it sets the stage for addressing the issue at hand. A well-crafted problem statement clarifies the problem, provides context, and serves as a guide for developing and implementing solutions.
Here are the steps to write an effective problem statement:
01. Understand the Problem:
Begin by thoroughly understanding the problem you intend to address. Conduct research, gather data, and talk to relevant stakeholders to gain insights into the issue. Identify the scope and boundaries of the problem.
02. Define the Problem Clearly:
Your problem statement should be clear and concise. Avoid vague or ambiguous language. State the problem in simple terms so anyone reading it can understand the issue.
03. Provide Context:
Give background information to help readers understand the problem’s significance. Explain why it is important, who it affects, and what its implications are. Provide relevant statistics, trends, or examples to illustrate the problem’s financial costs, scope and impact.
04. Identify the Root Cause:
Try to identify the underlying causes or factors contributing to the problem. This will help address the issue at its core rather than just its symptoms.
05. Be Specific:
Avoid broad or generic problem statements. Instead, narrow down the problem to a specific issue that can be tackled effectively. Specificity will make it easier to develop targeted solutions.
06. Use Measurable Criteria:
Include measurable criteria for success. This allows you to evaluate whether the problem has been resolved or improvements have been made. Quantifiable metrics help in tracking progress.
07. Make It Feasible:
Ensure that the problem statement reflects a realistic and achievable challenge. It should be addressed within your resources and constraints.
08. Avoid Solution Language:
This should focus on describing the problem, not proposing solutions. Avoid phrases like “we need to do X” or “we should implement Y.” Save the solution-oriented discussions for later in the design thinking process.
09. Consider the Audience:
Tailor your own problem statement to the audience it is intended for. Use language and terminology that your audience can understand and relate to. Adapt the level of technical detail accordingly.
10. Seek Feedback:
Share your problem statement with colleagues, experts, or stakeholders to gather feedback and refine it. Their input can help ensure clarity and completeness.
11. Revise and Refine:
Continue to revise and refine the error statement as you gather more information and insights. It may evolve as your understanding of the problem deepens.
12. Test for Objectivity:
Ensure that your problem statement is free from bias and reflects a balanced perspective. Avoid making assumptions or assigning blame without evidence.
Examples of Problem Statements
The problem statement serves as the foundation for your research, outlining the key challenges and issues we aim to address in just a few sentences and providing a clear direction for our study. To further illustrate how to create effective problem statements, let’s explore some real-life problem statement examples:
Example 1: Education
“The high school dropout rate in our community has risen by 20% over the past two years, negatively impacting our future workforce. We need to implement targeted intervention programs to reduce dropout rates and ensure a more educated workforce.”
Example 2: Healthcare
“Patients in our clinic often face long wait times for appointments, resulting in dissatisfaction and delays in medical care. We must streamline our appointment scheduling process to reduce wait times and improve patient’s customer satisfaction ratings.”
Example 3: Business
“Our e-commerce website experiences a high cart abandonment rate, leading to lost sales opportunities. We must identify the reasons for cart abandonment and implement strategies to increase conversion rates.”
A well-crafted problem statement is fundamental for effective problem-solving in any field or endeavor. Following the steps outlined in this blog post and studying the examples provided can enhance your ability to define, address, and ultimately solve complex problems.
Whether you’re a student tackling a research project or a professional seeking to improve your organization’s processes, mastering the art of problem statement writing is a valuable skill that can lead to greater success.
QuestionPro streamlines problem-solving with versatile surveys, data analysis, segmentation, and real-time reporting. It offers a comprehensive toolkit for gathering valuable insights, facilitating informed decision-making, and addressing problem statements effectively.
LEARN MORE FREE TRIAL
MORE LIKE THIS
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Employee listening strategy](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Employee-Listening-Strategy.jpg)
Employee Listening Strategy: What it is & How to Build One
Jul 17, 2024
![how to construct statement of the problem in research As your relationships grow, you’ll find that people will come to you for a different perspective or creative way to solve a problem, and it spirals from there.](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CX-TCXT-Meta_images-8.jpg)
Winning the Internal CX Battles — Tuesday CX Thoughts
Jul 16, 2024
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Knowledge Management](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Knowledge-Management.jpg)
Knowledge Management: What it is, Types, and Use Cases
Jul 12, 2024
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Response Weighting: Enhancing Accuracy in Your Surveys](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Response-Weighting.jpg)
Response Weighting: Enhancing Accuracy in Your Surveys
Jul 11, 2024
Other categories
- Academic Research
- Artificial Intelligence
- Assessments
- Brand Awareness
- Case Studies
- Communities
- Consumer Insights
- Customer effort score
- Customer Engagement
- Customer Experience
- Customer Loyalty
- Customer Research
- Customer Satisfaction
- Employee Benefits
- Employee Engagement
- Employee Retention
- Friday Five
- General Data Protection Regulation
- Insights Hub
- Life@QuestionPro
- Market Research
- Mobile diaries
- Mobile Surveys
- New Features
- Online Communities
- Question Types
- Questionnaire
- QuestionPro Products
- Release Notes
- Research Tools and Apps
- Revenue at Risk
- Survey Templates
- Training Tips
- Tuesday CX Thoughts (TCXT)
- Uncategorized
- What’s Coming Up
- Workforce Intelligence
![how to construct statement of the problem in research down arrow](https://www.cwauthors.com/icon/dropdown.png)
- Translation
How to write the Statement of a Problem
By charlesworth author services.
- Charlesworth Author Services
- 19 November, 2021
The first step in research is to outline the research problem – this might be an area of concern, a gap in the existing knowledge or a deviation in something that has been previously established, which warrants further investigation.
Importance of the problem statement
The statement of a problem defines and describes the research hypothesis or question(s), along with the broad method that will be used to solve the problem . The statement of the problem serves as the basis for the introductory section of your project proposal. A well-formulated statement of the problem sets the stage for the rest of your study , including how you will address the problem and any anticipated outcomes or answers. Once you have very clearly laid out the core issue, problem or question that you’re investigating, you’ll have a much sharper focus for conducting and writing up the rest of your study. A clear and straightforward statement will also inform and impress your reader in grasping the issues that your proposed project will address.
Defining the ‘problem’
The research question should be compelling and must have an underlying basis. While formulating the problem statement, as a keen researcher, you should consider the current state of the topic in question, along with any other observations or educated guesses.
As you are defining the ‘problem’ that you are addressing in your research, consider the following questions:
- What is the problem?
- Why is it a problem, and why does it need to be resolved?
- What are the likely benefits of solving the problem?
- Besides the central question, what are smaller, specific questions that need to be asked and answered?
Clarifying and refining the problem statement
In the initial stages of writing, the problem statement might be a bit rough around the edges. A final and more refined form will emerge as you reflect more deeply over the topic and delve into the literature. The current status of the topic , including what is known and what is not , will help you refine your original problem statement to a clearer and more specific one.
Wrapping it up
To conclude the section, briefly summarise the problem and emphasise the need to fix it. All potential advantages and anticipated outcomes and implications should be mentioned here. Contextualising the problem in a broad sense will also strengthen your case.
Sample problem statement
In a detailed project proposal, the statement of the problem could be nearly a page long, over several paragraphs . In a report or paper, the problem is typically expressed in a few sentences in the Introduction . Here is an example based on a fictional study.
Early and targeted warning of dengue outbreaks is critical for vector control. Current studies have primarily focused on the role of weather conditions in dengue forecasting. Environmental and microenvironmental suitability for mosquito breeding has been sorely neglected as a crucial factor, particularly in the urban setting. The surge in dengue and other mosquito-borne infections in India metropolitan cities in 2020–2021 highlights the urgent need to identify conducive features to better track and predict outbreaks. This study proposes a framework for implementing intra-urban dengue forecasting by… Through this investigation, we aim to develop a set of early predictors for improved surveillance of dengue in large urban swathes in Indian metropolitan cities.
Dos and don’ts of writing a problem statement
- Write the actual problem statement as a declarative statement or as a question .
- Explain in the statement how previous studies have not addressed the issue or have fallen short due to certain limitations.
- Outline in your statement how you plan to overcome or circumvent previous roadblocks to fill these deficiencies.
- Ensure the statement is lucid and to the point, without any distracting information.
- Cite credible sources where needed.
Maximise your publication success with Charlesworth Author Services.
Charlesworth Author Services, a trusted brand supporting the world’s leading academic publishers, institutions and authors since 1928.
To know more about our services, visit: Our Services
Share with your colleagues
![how to construct statement of the problem in research cwg logo](https://www.cwauthors.com/icon/cwg-logo-two.png)
Scientific Editing Services
Sign up – stay updated.
We use cookies to offer you a personalized experience. By continuing to use this website, you consent to the use of cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy.
- Translators
- Graphic Designers
Please enter the email address you used for your account. Your sign in information will be sent to your email address after it has been verified.
Writing a Strong Statement of the Problem in Research
![how to construct statement of the problem in research David Costello](https://www.servicescape.com/img/blog/post/author/dcost.webp)
Starting a research project is like setting out on a thrilling expedition. It's full of discoveries, challenges, and growth. However, one aspect that can be a bit tricky is formulating the statement of the problem. This critical component is the compass that navigates the course of your entire research paper, laying the groundwork and providing the necessary context for your study. So, the pressing question is: how do we craft a problem statement that's not only convincing but also hits the nail on the head?
Let's take a closer look at this all-important aspect of research. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just taking your first steps into the world of research, the goal here is to simplify and demystify the process. By breaking it down into manageable chunks, we aim to make crafting a problem statement less of a daunting task and more of an exciting challenge. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get started on our journey to master the art of writing an effective problem statement for research.
What is the statement of the problem?
At its heart, the statement of the problem, or simply the problem statement, is a clear and unambiguous description of the specific issue or set of issues your research sets out to address. It's an essential bridge, a conceptual link that forges a connection between your research question and the more in-depth analysis and detailed discussions that form the body of your research paper.
Consider your problem statement as the trusty roadmap for your research expedition. It outlines the terrain, providing a sketch of the background or context in which the problem exists. It then zooms in, placing the issues of concern center stage, underlining their significance. Your problem statement tells the story of why finding solutions or answers to these issues matters, both in the context of your research and the broader field of study.
With its emphasis on focus and clarity, a well-crafted problem statement serves a dual purpose. First, it provides you with a clear path to follow during your research. It guides your thought process, influences your research decisions, and helps ensure your efforts are targeted and relevant. This can be invaluable in maintaining focus and direction, particularly in large-scale or complex research projects.
Secondly, it sets the stage for your readers, letting them know what to expect from your research paper. It primes the audience, providing them with the necessary context and background to understand your research. It sets out the problem you're addressing, why it's important, and hints at the approach you'll be taking to tackle it. In essence, it ensures your readers are on the same page as you from the get-go, enhancing their understanding and engagement with your research.
In sum, a well-crafted problem statement is the cornerstone of any successful research project, and taking the time to get it right can set the tone for the entire study.
The building blocks of a strong problem statement
When writing your problem statement, you're essentially trying to answer three main questions:
What is the problem? Why is it a problem? How will your research address the problem?
Let's break these down one by one.
1. What is the problem?
This is your starting point. You are tasked with defining the core issue that will serve as the focus of your research. Remember, clarity and specificity are key here—you want to present the issue in such a way that your readers instantly comprehend what you're addressing, without the need for interpretation or guesswork.
For instance, if you've chosen to investigate the issue of low student engagement in online learning, you might frame your problem like this: "In spite of the rapidly growing adoption of online learning across educational institutions, a significant concern that many educators report is a noticeable drop in levels of student engagement."
It's crucial to note that this initial definition of the problem serves as the foundation of your research project. This statement is the first impression your readers get about the nature of your study. The clearer and more explicit you are in defining the problem, the easier it will be for your readers to understand the purpose of your research. Thus, investing time and thought into crafting an articulate and comprehensive problem statement can go a long way in setting the right tone for your study.
2. Why is it a problem?
Once you've defined the problem, your next step is to articulate why this issue constitutes a problem. This involves discussing the implications or adverse consequences resulting from the problem. Essentially, you're showcasing why this problem is worthy of attention and why it necessitates a solution.
To build on our earlier example regarding low student engagement in online learning, you could say: "The lack of engagement observed in students during online learning isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a major hurdle with profound implications. It negatively impacts students' academic performance, creating a domino effect that hampers their overall learning experience. More so, it fosters a sense of disconnection and dissatisfaction among students, which, if left unchecked, can lead to increased dropout rates."
In this part of the problem statement, you're not merely stating the problem, but also drawing attention to the gravity of its consequences. Your goal here is to convince your readers that this issue is a genuine problem that needs addressing. This step brings the practical relevance of your research into sharp focus, highlighting the potential for your study to effect meaningful change.
3. How will your research address the problem?
Lastly, you'll sketch out how your research will contribute to addressing or mitigating the problem. This part doesn't require you to lay out your entire research methodology in detail; rather, it's about providing a brief preview of the direction your research will take.
Sticking with our example of low student engagement in online learning, you could state: "The purpose of this study is to delve into and explore potential strategies that educators could adopt to foster and increase student engagement within online learning environments."
This element of your problem statement offers a glimpse into the solution you're proposing or the insight your research aims to provide. It serves to reassure your readers that your research isn't merely a critique of an existing issue, but also a constructive endeavor aimed at finding solutions or better understanding the problem. In a nutshell, it underscores the value and potential impact of your research, demonstrating how your study could bring about positive change or contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
Striking a balance: clear, concise, and focused
Crafting your problem statement is a delicate balancing act. You strive for clarity and conciseness while maintaining a sharp focus. It's about capturing the core of the problem, elucidating its significance, and providing a snapshot of how your research intends to tackle it. And the icing on the cake? All this needs to be communicated in a manner that's effortlessly comprehensible to your readers.
Let's delve into some practical tips that can help you strike just the right balance in your problem statement:
Avoid jargon
When you're doing academic research, you'll definitely bump into plenty of technical terms related to your field of study. It just comes with the territory. But, when you're pulling together your problem statement, it's really important to go easy on the jargon. Overdoing it with too much technical language can muddy the waters and might even throw your readers off track.
The real magic of your problem statement is in its power to convey your message with clarity and precision. Think of it as a lighthouse guiding your readers to the heart of your research. If the light gets blocked by a dense fog of jargon, it can leave your readers feeling lost at sea.
Now, sometimes, you just can't avoid using technical terms. When that happens, your mission is to make sure they're clearly understood. This could mean providing a simple definition or using the term in a way that shines a light on its meaning . In the end, your aim is to keep your problem statement as reader-friendly as possible while staying true to the specifics of your research.
Stay focused
Think of your problem statement as the backbone of your research paper— it needs to be strong, straight, and centered around one main issue. If you attempt to tackle a bunch of problems at the same time, your problem statement can become a tangled mess, leaving your research paper looking scattered and lacking clear direction.
Picture this: you're diving into a deep sea of knowledge. If you focus on one spot, you can dive deep, discover the hidden treasures, and understand the intricacies of that specific area. But if you try to cover too much territory, you'll only manage to skim the surface, missing out on the depth and richness that a more focused approach would offer.
Keeping your problem statement tightly centered on the particular issue you're studying is like setting a precise GPS for your research journey. It guides every step you take, ensures your research remains coherent and unified, and adds depth to your insights. In turn, this clarity and focus will help your readers grasp your research's core purpose and the specific problem it's addressing. So, embrace the power of focus in crafting your problem statement—your research paper will be all the better for it.
Brevity is the soul of a great problem statement. It's all about being succinct, capturing the essence of the problem, highlighting its significance, and indicating how your research aims to tackle it, without any unnecessary frills or side-trips. In other words, it's about delivering maximum impact with minimal wordage.
However, being concise doesn't mean giving crucial details the short shrift. Far from it! It's about packing your punch in a compact manner, ensuring every word you use is pulling its weight . It's a bit like packing for a trip. You don't want to lug around a giant suitcase stuffed with unnecessary items, but you also don't want to forget your passport or other essentials.
In crafting your problem statement, aim for something that's lean and mean, but chock-full of insights. Remember, the key lies in balancing brevity and depth. Doing so allows you to present a problem statement that's efficient, compelling, and packed with all the necessary information to guide your research and inform your readers.
Show the impact
Merely stating the problem isn't enough; you need to show your readers why it's a problem that needs attention. This is where you highlight the ripple effects of the issue—how does it impact individuals, communities, or perhaps even the broader world? It's like drawing a vivid picture that shows the potential or actual fallout of the problem.
When you paint this picture, you're adding a sense of gravity to your problem statement, underscoring why it's critical to address this issue. More importantly, you're highlighting the relevance and urgency of your research. Your work isn't just an exercise in intellectual curiosity; it's an expedition with real-world consequences.
The trick here is to weave the human story into your problem statement. Show your readers that your research isn't happening in a vacuum, but is instead deeply connected to the world we all live in. By doing this, you'll help your readers see the larger significance of your work, lending both depth and weight to your problem statement.
Putting together a compelling and impactful problem statement may seem like a daunting task at first glance, but don't sweat it. With a bit of practice, some patience, and the guidelines we've discussed, you'll soon be crafting problem statements that hit the mark with ease.
Think about it this way: your problem statement is far more than just a tick-box requirement for your research paper. It's akin to laying down the cornerstone of a building—the first crucial piece on which everything else is built. Its quality and precision directly influence the structure that will rise above it.
That's why it's worth taking the time to craft your problem statement with care. It's not a step to be rushed or taken lightly. When you invest the time and effort here, it sets the stage for a strong, focused, and compelling research paper. It's your opening move in the chess game of academic research, and a well-thought-out move can set you on the path to victory. So, gear up, embrace the process, and remember, every great research paper starts with a clear, concise, and compelling problem statement.
Header image by Getty Images .
- Academic Writing Advice
- All Blog Posts
- Writing Advice
- Admissions Writing Advice
- Book Writing Advice
- Short Story Advice
- Employment Writing Advice
- Business Writing Advice
- Web Content Advice
- Article Writing Advice
- Magazine Writing Advice
- Grammar Advice
- Dialect Advice
- Editing Advice
- Freelance Advice
- Legal Writing Advice
- Poetry Advice
- Graphic Design Advice
- Logo Design Advice
- Translation Advice
- Blog Reviews
- Short Story Award Winners
- Scholarship Winners
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Elevate your research paper with expert editing services](https://www.servicescape.com/img/blog/post/ad/editing-academic.webp)
Elevate your research paper with expert editing services
Have a language expert improve your writing
Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, automatically generate references for free.
- Knowledge Base
- Research process
- How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples
How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples
Published on 8 November 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George.
A problem statement is a concise and concrete summary of the research problem you seek to address. It should:
- Contextualise the problem. What do we already know?
- Describe the exact issue your research will address. What do we still need to know?
- Show the relevance of the problem. Why do we need to know more about this?
- Set the objectives of the research. What will you do to find out more?
Table of contents
When should you write a problem statement, step 1: contextualise the problem, step 2: show why it matters, step 3: set your aims and objectives.
Problem statement example
Frequently asked questions about problem statements
There are various situations in which you might have to write a problem statement.
In the business world, writing a problem statement is often the first step in kicking off an improvement project. In this case, the problem statement is usually a stand-alone document.
In academic research, writing a problem statement can help you contextualise and understand the significance of your research problem. It is often several paragraphs long, and serves as the basis for your research proposal . Alternatively, it can be condensed into just a few sentences in your introduction .
A problem statement looks different depending on whether you’re dealing with a practical, real-world problem or a theoretical issue. Regardless, all problem statements follow a similar process.
Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.
The problem statement should frame your research problem, giving some background on what is already known.
Practical research problems
For practical research, focus on the concrete details of the situation:
- Where and when does the problem arise?
- Who does the problem affect?
- What attempts have been made to solve the problem?
Theoretical research problems
For theoretical research, think about the scientific, social, geographical and/or historical background:
- What is already known about the problem?
- Is the problem limited to a certain time period or geographical area?
- How has the problem been defined and debated in the scholarly literature?
The problem statement should also address the relevance of the research. Why is it important that the problem is addressed?
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you have to do something groundbreaking or world-changing. It’s more important that the problem is researchable, feasible, and clearly addresses a relevant issue in your field.
Practical research is directly relevant to a specific problem that affects an organisation, institution, social group, or society more broadly. To make it clear why your research problem matters, you can ask yourself:
- What will happen if the problem is not solved?
- Who will feel the consequences?
- Does the problem have wider relevance? Are similar issues found in other contexts?
Sometimes theoretical issues have clear practical consequences, but sometimes their relevance is less immediately obvious. To identify why the problem matters, ask:
- How will resolving the problem advance understanding of the topic?
- What benefits will it have for future research?
- Does the problem have direct or indirect consequences for society?
Finally, the problem statement should frame how you intend to address the problem. Your goal here should not be to find a conclusive solution, but rather to propose more effective approaches to tackling or understanding it.
The research aim is the overall purpose of your research. It is generally written in the infinitive form:
- The aim of this study is to determine …
- This project aims to explore …
- This research aims to investigate …
The research objectives are the concrete steps you will take to achieve the aim:
- Qualitative methods will be used to identify …
- This work will use surveys to collect …
- Using statistical analysis, the research will measure …
The aims and objectives should lead directly to your research questions.
Learn how to formulate research questions
You can use these steps to write your own problem statement, like the example below.
Step 1: Contextualise the problem A family-owned shoe manufacturer has been in business in New England for several generations, employing thousands of local workers in a variety of roles, from assembly to supply-chain to customer service and retail. Employee tenure in the past always had an upward trend, with the average employee staying at the company for 10+ years. However, in the past decade, the trend has reversed, with some employees lasting only a few months, and others leaving abruptly after many years.
Step 2: Show why it matters As the perceived loyalty of their employees has long been a source of pride for the company, they employed an outside consultant firm to see why there was so much turnover. The firm focused on the new hires, concluding that a rival shoe company located in the next town offered higher hourly wages and better “perks”, such as pizza parties. They claimed this was what was leading employees to switch. However, to gain a fuller understanding of why the turnover persists even after the consultant study, in-depth qualitative research focused on long-term employees is also needed. Focusing on why established workers leave can help develop a more telling reason why turnover is so high, rather than just due to salaries. It can also potentially identify points of change or conflict in the company’s culture that may cause workers to leave.
Step 3: Set your aims and objectives This project aims to better understand why established workers choose to leave the company. Qualitative methods such as surveys and interviews will be conducted comparing the views of those who have worked 10+ years at the company and chose to stay, compared with those who chose to leave.
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement.
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.
They summarise the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.
Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .
A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.
Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.
The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .
A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis – a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.
Cite this Scribbr article
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.
McCombes, S. & George, T. (2022, November 08). How to Write a Problem Statement | Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 22 July 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/the-research-process/write-a-problem-statement/
Is this article helpful?
Shona McCombes
Other students also liked, how to choose a dissertation topic | 8 steps to follow, how to define a research problem | ideas & examples, how to write a strong hypothesis | guide & examples.
Watch CBS News
Microsoft outages caused by CrowdStrike software glitch paralyze airlines, other businesses. Here's what to know.
By Haley Ott
Updated on: July 20, 2024 / 12:06 AM EDT / CBS News
Banks, airlines, television networks and health systems around the world that rely on Microsoft 365 apps were hit by widespread outages early Friday linked to the company CrowdStrike. Thousands of flights and train services were canceled globally, including more than 1,800 in the U.S., and there were disruptions to many other public and retail services.
Here's what we know about the outages:
What caused the global Microsoft outages?
The issue was caused by a technical problem that global cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike said it had identified in its software and was working to resolve. CrowdStrike provides antivirus software to Microsoft for its Windows devices.
"Earlier today, a CrowdStrike update was responsible for bringing down a number of IT systems globally," Microsoft said in a statement to CBS News.
Later on Friday, Microsoft said on social media that it had "completed our mitigation actions and our telemetry indicates all previously impacted Microsoft 365 apps and services have recovered. We're entering a period of monitoring to ensure impact is fully resolved."
In a statement, CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz said the issue had been identified and a solution was being implemented. He added that "this is not a security incident or cyberattack. The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed."
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Long lines of passengers form at check-in counters at Ninoy Aquino International Airport amid a global IT disruption caused by a Microsoft outage and a CrowdStrike problem July 19, 2024, in Manila, Philippines.](https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/07/19/2080610f-4f4b-4941-b8b6-f7cf1c4f6231/thumbnail/620x413/c6407114993d7632c85039fc268493a5/gettyimages-2162652891.jpg?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
In an update shared Friday afternoon on social media , Kurtz again apologized to those impacted and said he was committed "to provide full transparency on how this occurred and the steps we're taking to prevent anything like this from happening again."
What has been affected by the Microsoft outages?
Over 3,000 flights had been canceled within, into or out of the U.S. as of Friday night, and more than 11,400 others were delayed, according to the flight tracking service, FlightAware . Globally, more than 42,000 flights were delayed Friday.
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines resumed at least some flight departures later Friday morning after pausing operations earlier in the day due to the outages.
"We have recovered our operation today and expect to deliver a reliable operation for our customers tomorrow," American Airlines said in a statement Friday evening.
And Toby Enqvist, chief operations officer for United Airlines, said in a statement late Friday night that "while we had to cancel and delay far more flights than we ever want to, we are poised to return to a near-normal operation on Saturday."
A timelapse shared by the Federal Aviation Administration showed flights resuming Friday afternoon.
Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston canceled all previously scheduled surgeries and medical visits that were not considered urgent because many of the computer systems were down, preventing access to vital digital records.
"We do everything on our computers now," neuro ICU nurse Meghan Mahoney told CBS News. "…People's medical history, their allergies. So when that goes down, we have to revert back to paper charting."
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City postponed all procedures requiring anesthesia. Emory Healthcare system in Atlanta delayed certain types of surgeries. Seattle Children's Hospital closed its outpatient clinic.
The Department of Health and Human Services said on Friday afternoon it was "working to assess the impact of the CrowdStrike outage on patient care and HHS systems, services, and operations."
A Department of Homeland Security memo to staff obtained by CBS News said that "DHS systems are currently impacted by a global outage of the cybersecurity software CrowdStrike. This is impacting many businesses globally, as you may be seeing in the news. This was not a cyberattack."
Portland, Oregon Mayor Ted Wheeler issued an Emergency Declaration for the city on Friday. The declaration will allow for "immediate response and resources to get city systems back to fully operational levels." In New York City , Mayor Eric Adams said the outage did not have a major impact on city operations because of previous drills that had been conducted to educate officials on how to respond to an IT issue.
The FAA is working closely with airlines impacted by a global IT issue. This timelapse depicts air traffic recovering after airlines requested FAA assistance with ground stops this morning. Contact your airline for more info and monitor https://t.co/smgdqJN3td . pic.twitter.com/inRTK6ovTI — The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) July 19, 2024
In Europe, Lufthansa, KLM and SAS Airlines reported disruptions. Switzerland's largest airport reported planes had not been allowed to land, according to CBS News partner network BBC News. In India, at the country's primary airport in Delhi, everything was being done manually. No electric check-in terminals were functioning and gate information was being updated by hand on a whiteboard, the BBC reported.
Hospitals in Germany said they were canceling elective surgeries Friday and doctors in the U.K. said they were having issues accessing their online booking system. Pharmacists in the U.K. said there were disruptions with medicine deliveries and accessing prescriptions.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Global IT outages at Newark International Airport](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/07/19/dc146a67-4827-4cee-b707-6fcda4e73dce/thumbnail/620x413/cccfcaead1e176a2bdb66a0a1f5d9078/microsoft-outage-crowdstrike.jpg?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation said there were no operational problems related to the outage, though some of its systems had been affected. Those systems have workarounds that allow their use even amid the outage.
The London Stock Exchange said it had experienced disruptions to its regulatory news service, but that trading had not been impacted. A spokesperson for the New York Stock Exchange said markets were fully operational and a normal opening was expected.
Starbucks said the outage was preventing customers from using its mobile ordering features. Delivery companies like FedEx also reported that some packages could be delayed due to the outages.
"FedEx has activated contingency plans to mitigate impacts from a global IT outage experienced by a third party software vendor. However, potential delays are possible for package deliveries with a commitment of July 19, 2024," the company said in a statement.
When will the Microsoft outages be fixed?
Even with the fix being implemented by CrowdStrike, some of the problems caused will likely take time to solve, Chief Information Officer at identity security firm CyberArk, Omer Grossman, told Reuters. He said the reason is that the problem has to do with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) products that run on individual client computers.
"It turns out that because the endpoints have crashed — the Blue Screen of Death — they cannot be updated remotely and the problem must be solved manually, endpoint by endpoint. This is expected to be a process that will take days," Grossman said.
In an interview with CNBC, CrowdStrike's Kurtz said many of the affected systems were already beginning to recover, and a fix could be as straightforward for some clients as rebooting their computers or servers.
He acknowledged, however, that "some systems may not fully recover, and we're working individually with each and every customer to make sure we can get them up and running and operational."
Kurtz did not provide a timeframe, and it appeared that many companies and organizations around the world would have to rely on their own technology departments to get systems back up and running.
— Kris Van Cleave contributed to this report.
- CrowdStrike
- Internet Outage
Haley Ott is the CBS News Digital international reporter, based in the CBS News London bureau.
More from CBS News
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/07/20/92edaf51-0452-4932-a5a0-e7b53328aab3/thumbnail/1200x630/2988cd01a83f9e66a4b69eb30d90b030/shawn-hubbardbaltimore-ravens-photos-13.png?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
Cybersecurity expert says Microsoft outage shows importance of preparedness
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2023/10/03/622fe648-b4aa-403f-90c6-227c53b62600/thumbnail/1200x630/81667de67e383221b0a34cdf70052dc7/gettyimages-1629828135.jpg?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
Maryland hospitals take preventative measures, courts close over Microsoft outage
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/07/07/abea6210-f8e7-4d36-8e62-ae9b1e64047c/thumbnail/1200x630/d875517c46f2323128c1d74863b040f9/tsa.jpg?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
BWI flights canceled, delayed; Maryland issues partial state of emergency over Microsoft outage
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/07/19/728180de-e931-4661-afaf-d3b02fee551b/thumbnail/1200x630/687a503bacba1007a00860c9d270d44c/shawn-hubbardbaltimore-ravens-photos-11.png?v=5710b2ed1cee1bdfd30cb9c02455b43d#)
Microsoft software outage affects Maryland courthouses, hospitals, and banks
What we know about the global Microsoft outage
A routine software update caused cascading chaos Friday that has engulfed global businesses from airports and banks to retail and law enforcement.
It wasn’t a cyberattack, but was caused by one of the world’s largest cybersecurity companies deploying a flawed update while trying to keep their customers safe from hackers.
CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity company based in Austin, Texas, that’s widely used by businesses and government agencies that run on Microsoft computers, said that a defect in one of its updates for computers running the Windows operating system had caused the issue. The result was arguably the largest global information technology outage in history.
Here’s what we know:
What has been affected?
The outage appeared to affect almost every major business sector in one way or another.
Airports and flights across the world were severely delayed or canceled altogether, as the computers on which these services rely were disrupted by the issue. Three of the largest airlines in the United States — American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines — all issued ground stops, citing communications problems.
Long lines snaked through airports from Berlin to Hong Kong, as electronic systems failed and staff members resorted to checking in passengers manually. One flier in the Indian city of Hyderabad posted a picture of a curiosity usually unseen in the modern digital age: a handwritten boarding pass.
Follow live updates on the global tech outage
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Mass IT Outage Affects Travel, Businesses And Individual Users Across The Globe](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-07/240719-airport-mb-1137-06888e.jpg)
The issue also affected banks, leaving some customers unable to access their money. People across Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere reported problems logging into their accounts at major retail banks. Meanwhile the London Stock Exchange, the largest of its kind in Europe, said some of its services had been disrupted although trading had not been impeded.
In retail, McDonald’s closed some of its stores in Japan because of what it said in an online statement was a “cash register malfunction.” And the British grocery chain Waitrose was forced to put up handwritten notes informing customers that it was only accepting cash. Some Starbucks locations temporarily closed after the company's mobile ordering system went down, while other locations stayed open and left their baristas scrambling to come up with new workflows.
Baltic Hub, a global shipping terminal in Poland, said in a statement it had been battling issues related to the outage. The Alaska State Troopers agency was among the law enforcement agencies to report issues, warning people that 911 was temporarily not working. And the British broadcaster Sky News, which is owned by NBCUniversal's parent company, Comcast, was briefly knocked off the air.
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Global Microsoft Outage](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-07/240719-ord-chicago-mb-1211-41ae91.jpg)
Some computers that were not on during the software update appear to have avoided the issue, according to initial reports.
What caused it?
Cybersecurity programs like CrowdStrike’s frequently and automatically update themselves to account for new tactics that malicious hackers have discovered. And there’s always a slight risk that any software update will be incompatible with other programs.
CrowdStrike’s update should have been routine, but an error in its code conflicted with Windows and proved catastrophic.
The company’s CEO, George Kurtz , said Friday morning on the "TODAY" show that while some customers would see their computers fixed automatically, others would require manual work to fix.
“The system was sent an update, and that update had a software bug in it and caused an issue with the Microsoft operating system,” Kurtz said. “Our systems are always looking for the latest attacks from these adversaries that are out there.”
How long until things go back to normal?
CrowdStrike identified the problem and issued a fix early Friday after the problem began to emerge. On Friday afternoon, Kurtz released a statement apologizing for the outage, adding that CrowdStrike was “operating normally.”
The fix required affected computers to download another software update, which some have been able to do automatically.
Many companies and services affected by the chaos, such as the New Hampshire Department of Safety, which said its 911 system was briefly down, reported that they were back online by Friday morning.
Others haven’t been able to load the update, which would potentially require IT workers at some companies to reboot and tinker with every single affected computer.
“Many of the customers are rebooting the system, and it’s coming up, and it’ll be operational because we fixed it on our end,” Kurtz said. “Some of the systems that aren’t recovering, we’re working with them. So it could be some time for some systems that just automatically won’t recover.”
![how to construct statement of the problem in research](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_focal-60x60,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2020_03/3183816/alex-smith-circle-byline-template.jpg)
Alexander Smith is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital based in London.
Kevin Collier is a reporter covering cybersecurity, privacy and technology policy for NBC News.
Advertisement
J.D. Vance on the Issues, From Abortion to the Middle East
Like Donald J. Trump, the Ohio senator has been skeptical of American intervention overseas and argues that raising tariffs will create new jobs.
- Share full article
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio speaking at a lectern with a sign that reads “Fighting for Fiscal Sanity” with the U.S. Capitol building in background.](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2024/07/11/multimedia/00pol-vance-issues-pvbm/00pol-vance-issues-pvbm-articleLarge-v2.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
By Adam Nagourney
- Published July 15, 2024 Updated July 17, 2024
Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, Donald J. Trump’s newly chosen running mate, has made a shift from the Trump critic he was when he first entered politics to the loyalist he is today. It was a shift both in style and substance: Now, on topics as disparate as trade and Ukraine, Mr. Vance is closely aligned with Mr. Trump.
Here’s a look at where the senator stands on the issues that will most likely dominate the campaign ahead and, should Mr. Trump and Mr. Vance win in November, their years in the White House.
Mr. Vance opposes abortion rights, even in the case of incest or rape, but says there should be exceptions for cases when the mother’s life is in danger. He praised the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade. As he ran for Senate in 2022, a headline on the issues section of his campaign website read simply: “Ban Abortion.”
Mr. Vance has said that he would support a 15-week national ban proposed by Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. He has also said the matter is “primarily a state issue,” suggesting states should be free to make more restrictive laws. “Ohio is going to want to have a different abortion policy from California, from New York, and I think that’s reasonable, he said in an interview with USA Today Network in October 2022.
Mr. Vance has been one of the leading opponents of U.S. support for Ukraine in the war with Russia. “I think it’s ridiculous that we’re focused on this border in Ukraine,” he said in a podcast interview with Stephen K. Bannon, the former Trump adviser and longtime ally. “I’ve got to be honest with you, I don’t really care what happens to Ukraine one way or the other.”
He led the battle in the Senate, unsuccessfully, to block a $60 billion military aid package for Ukraine. “I voted against this package in the Senate and remain opposed to virtually any proposal for the United States to continue funding this war,” he wrote in an opinion essay for The New York Times early this year challenging President Biden’s stance on the war. “Mr. Biden has failed to articulate even basic facts about what Ukraine needs and how this aid will change the reality on the ground.”
We are having trouble retrieving the article content.
Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.
Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.
Thank you for your patience while we verify access.
Already a subscriber? Log in .
Want all of The Times? Subscribe .
- MyU : For Students, Faculty, and Staff
Seven graduate students honored with Doctoral Dissertation Fellowships
![how to construct statement of the problem in research Photographs of 2024 DDF Recipients](https://cse.umn.edu/sites/cse.umn.edu/files/styles/webp_scaled/public/2024%20DDF_1.png.webp?itok=TJf_Ag2z)
MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (7/18/2024) – Seven graduate students advised by Department of Chemistry faculty members were recently awarded the University of Minnesota’s Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship. The seven students honored by this prestigious award are Kaylee Barr, Brylon Denman, Madeline Honig, Chris Seong, Sneha Venkatachalapathy, Murphi Williams, and Caini Zheng.
Kaylee Barr , a Chemical Engineering and Materials Science PhD student, is entering her fifth year in the Reineke Group . Before making the move to Minnesota, she received her BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Kansas. “I came to the University of Minnesota because of the department's developments in polymer science, and because I was interested in the intersection of polymer science and drug delivery in Theresa Reineke's lab,” she says. Here at UMN, Kaylee studies how bottlebrush polymer architecture affects pH-responsive oral drug delivery. This summer, she is excited to grow professionally and as a scientist in an intern position at Genentech.
Brylon Denman is a Chemistry PhD candidate in the Roberts Group . She joined the UMN community in 2020 after completing her BS in Biochemistry at St. Louis University. “My research in the Roberts group seeks to resolve regioselectivity and reactivity issues within aryne methodology via ligand control,” Brylon says. “To accomplish this task, I have taken a mechanistic and hypothesis driven approach to understand how key molecular parameters modify regioselectivity and reactivity. I hope to use the knowledge I have gained from these studies to both improve the synthetic utility of aryne intermediates, and improve the sustainability of aryne reactions.” Brylon is also passionate about sustainable and green chemistry. As a founding member of the Sustainable and Green Chemistry committee, Brylon strives to collaborate with other department teammates to strengthen the culture of green and sustainable chemistry through integration into teaching, research, and community engagement. “In my career I aim to continue this advocacy and use my breadth of knowledge to enact sustainable change at a major pharmaceutical company as emphasizing sustainability on such a large scale can lead to a large impact,” she says. As she works through her internship at AbbVie this summer, Brylon is looking towards the future to outline her next steps after graduation.
Madeline Honig first experienced Chemistry at UMN during a summer REU experience in the Bühlmann Lab . She formally joined the Prof. Bühlmann's team in Fall 2020 after earning her BA in Chemistry from Earlham College. Her research here at UMN has focused on the development and improved understanding of polymeric membrane-based ion-selective electrodes (ISEs). “One of my projects involves developing a quantitative parameter to better define the upper detection limits of these sensors which can be used to more accurately define sensor performance and predict the working range under different conditions,” Madeline says. “This research led us to investigate the unexplained 'super-Nernstian' responses of some pH-selective electrodes and expand the phase boundary model (the quantitative model that predicts ISE behavior) to include the formation of complexes between protonated ionophores and counter-ions in the sensing membrane. ISEs have been widely used for decades in clinical blood analysis among many other applications so it's exciting that I was still able to add to our fundamental understanding of how these sensors function.” One of Madeline’s goals is to use her research to enable the development of improved sensors that can be used in a wider range of conditions. Over the course of her graduate studies, Madeline has had the opportunity to be a graduate student mentor for two other students: Ariki Haba, a visiting master's student from Japan, and Katie O'Leary, a summer REU student, who both made significant contributions to the project. “Acting as a graduate mentor was really cool and I hope I can also make graduate-level chemistry research more approachable for everyone that I work with,” Madeline says. For her significant research efforts, Madeline was also recently selected in a national competition as one of the four winners of the 2024 Eastern Analytical Symposium Graduate Student Research Award. She will accept the award in November in Plainsboro NJ at the Eastern Analytical Symposium.
Chris Seong , an international student from New Zealand and PhD candidate in the Roberts Group, came to UMN after completing his BA with Distinction in Chemistry at St. Olaf College in 2020. Chris’ overarching chemistry interests involve the development of methods to utilize naturally abundant carboxylic acids as feedstock to synthesize medicinally relevant products, which are traditionally made with non-renewable starting materials derived from fossil fuels. “My earlier work has been focused on making alkyl-alkyl bonds through decarboxylation, but lately, in true Roberts Group fashion, I have turned my attention to using a similar mechanism to do aryne chemistry,” Chris says. He is currently working to publish a paper on the aryne project that he has been working on with two talented group mates; Sal Kargbo and Felicia Yu. “I am really excited to share this cool chemistry with the world,” he says. Outside of the lab, Chris is working on expanding his network to apply for jobs in the pharmaceutical industry – specifically in the early process space.
Sneha Venkatachalapathy is a member of the Distefano Group and an international student from India. She completed her BS in Chemistry with a minor degree in Biotechnology from Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India in 2020. “Chemistry has always been my passion since high school. I still remember my first successful brown ring test that has left a remarkable fascination and interest towards chemistry,” Sneha says. “This early fascination has driven my academic journey, guided by mentors like Dr. Subhabrata Sen, who encouraged me to pursue a PhD in the United States.” Sneha was drawn towards working in the Chemical Biology research field where she could directly contribute to developing human life. “Joining Dr. Mark Distefano’s lab at UMN provided me with the chance to collaborate with Dr. Mohammad Rashidian from Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Together, we work towards expanding the scope of protein prenylation to construct protein-based cancer diagnostic tools,” she says. Sneha’s goal for her time in the UMN PhD program is to create innovative protein-based tools for cancer detection and treatment, aiming to enhance patient’s quality of life. She says she is looking forward to continuing to develop her leadership skills as she continues her doctorate, and is also exploring future opportunities beyond UMN. “One thing that motivates me daily is the belief that my research contributions to the scientific community would enhance our understanding of cancer diagnostic methods, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes worldwide,” she says.
Murphi Williams completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, then joined the Bhagi-Damodaran at UMN in 2020. When it comes to research, Murphi is interested in chemical biology, more specifically, looking into proteins involved in important biological problems. “One of my major projects is developing and characterizing a potential inhibitor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis , the bacteria that causes tuberculosis,” Murphi says. “Tuberculosis is the leading infectious disease so my projects center on understanding and inhibiting heme proteins important for the bacteria. Specifically, a previous lab member identified a small molecule that I've been characterizing the activity of in cells.” Her current research goal is to express and purify the protein targets for her small molecule inhibitor in the lab to further demonstrate the in vitro activity. She is also contemplating a future career in science communication. Outside of the lab, she enjoys working on her garden.
Caini Zheng joined the Chemistry at the UMN in 2019 after finishing her undergraduate studies at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. She is currently a sixth-year graduate student co-advised by Profs. Tim Lodge and Ilja Siepmann . Her research focuses on the phase behavior of soft materials, including polymers and oligomers. Her DDF statement is titled "Self-Assembly of Polymers and Amphiphiles into Bicontinuous Phases". Caini is currently working on a project to elucidate the self-assembly of glycolipids through molecular dynamics simulations coupled with machine learning methods. In the future, she wants to work in the industry on bridging data science with traditional material research.
Related news releases
- Joint Safety Team featured in ACS Chemical Health & Safety
- Distinguished University Teaching Professor Philippe Bühlmann receives President's Award for Outstanding Service
- Twelve students recognized at 23rd annual GSRS
- Professor Emerita Jane Wissinger awarded 2024 Career Achievement in Green Chemistry Education
- Chemistry Diversity and Inclusion Committee debuts DEI Self-Study program
- Future undergraduate students
- Future transfer students
- Future graduate students
- Future international students
- Diversity and Inclusion Opportunities
- Learn abroad
- Living Learning Communities
- Mentor programs
- Programs for women
- Student groups
- Visit, Apply & Next Steps
- Information for current students
- Departments and majors overview
- Departments
- Undergraduate majors
- Graduate programs
- Integrated Degree Programs
- Additional degree-granting programs
- Online learning
- Academic Advising overview
- Academic Advising FAQ
- Academic Advising Blog
- Appointments and drop-ins
- Academic support
- Commencement
- Four-year plans
- Honors advising
- Policies, procedures, and forms
- Career Services overview
- Resumes and cover letters
- Jobs and internships
- Interviews and job offers
- CSE Career Fair
- Major and career exploration
- Graduate school
- Collegiate Life overview
- Scholarships
- Diversity & Inclusivity Alliance
- Anderson Student Innovation Labs
- Information for alumni
- Get engaged with CSE
- Upcoming events
- CSE Alumni Society Board
- Alumni volunteer interest form
- Golden Medallion Society Reunion
- 50-Year Reunion
- Alumni honors and awards
- Outstanding Achievement
- Alumni Service
- Distinguished Leadership
- Honorary Doctorate Degrees
- Nobel Laureates
- Alumni resources
- Alumni career resources
- Alumni news outlets
- CSE branded clothing
- International alumni resources
- Inventing Tomorrow magazine
- Update your info
- CSE giving overview
- Why give to CSE?
- College priorities
- Give online now
- External relations
- Giving priorities
- CSE Dean's Club
- Donor stories
- Impact of giving
- Ways to give to CSE
- Matching gifts
- CSE directories
- Invest in your company and the future
- Recruit our students
- Connect with researchers
- K-12 initiatives
- Diversity initiatives
- Research news
- Give to CSE
- CSE priorities
- Corporate relations
- Information for faculty and staff
- Administrative offices overview
- Office of the Dean
- Academic affairs
- Finance and Operations
- Communications
- Human resources
- Undergraduate programs and student services
- CSE Committees
- CSE policies overview
- Academic policies
- Faculty hiring and tenure policies
- Finance policies and information
- Graduate education policies
- Human resources policies
- Research policies
- Research overview
- Research centers and facilities
- Research proposal submission process
- Research safety
- Award-winning CSE faculty
- National academies
- University awards
- Honorary professorships
- Collegiate awards
- Other CSE honors and awards
- Staff awards
- Performance Management Process
- Work. With Flexibility in CSE
- K-12 outreach overview
- Summer camps
- Outreach events
- Enrichment programs
- Field trips and tours
- CSE K-12 Virtual Classroom Resources
- Educator development
- Sponsor an event
![](http://earnmoneybangla.online/777/templates/cheerup1/res/banner1.gif)
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Step 3: Set your aims and objectives. Finally, the problem statement should frame how you intend to address the problem. Your goal here should not be to find a conclusive solution, but rather to propose more effective approaches to tackling or understanding it. The research aim is the overall purpose of your research.
Step 1: Understanding the Problem. The problem statement should provide a clear and concise background to the research problem you are investigating. Before starting your research, review the literature about the specific problem and find a gap to fill with your own research. Practical Research Problem Statement.
Research Problem Statement Example. The following is a sample statement of the problem for a practical research study on the challenges of online learning. Note that your statement might be much longer (especially the context section where you need to explain the background of the study) and that you will need to provide sources for all the ...
Developing a 'good' research problem statement, therefore, involves systematic planning and setting time-based, realistic objectives. Your problem has to be achievable. You'll also need to apply feasible research methods based on an approach that best suits the research question. Your methods have to make sense.
A research problem statement is the descriptive statement which conveys the issue a researcher is trying to address through the study with the aim of informing the reader the context and significance of performing the study at hand. The research problem statement is crucial for researchers to focus on a particular component of a vast field of ...
The purpose of the problem statement is to identify the issue that is a concern and focus it in a way that allows it to be studied in a systematic way. It defines the problem and proposes a way to research a solution, or demonstrates why further information is needed in order for a solution to become possible.
The problem statement is a foundation of academic research writing, providing a precise representation of an existing gap or issue in a particular field of study.. Crafting a sharp and focused problem statement lays the groundwork for your research project. It highlights the research's significance.; Emphasizes its potential to influence the broader academic community.
A research problem can be theoretical in nature, focusing on an area of academic research that is lacking in some way. Alternatively, a research problem can be more applied in nature, focused on finding a practical solution to an established problem within an industry or an organisation. In other words, theoretical research problems are motivated by the desire to grow the overall body of ...
Here are some general steps to follow when writing a problem statement: Identify the problem: Clearly identify the problem that needs to be addressed. Consider the context, stakeholders, and potential consequences of the problem. Research the problem: Conduct research to gather data and information about the problem.
The format of a problem statement. A study's own problem statement has three main components: a synthesis or summary of the existing knowledge relevant to the research inquiry, the gaps identified by that review and why those gaps are important, and the kind of research necessary to fill those gaps. Let's examine the parts of another example ...
The ultimate goal of a statement of the problem is to transform a generalized problem (something that bothers you; a perceived lack) into a targeted, well-defined problem; one that can be resolved through focused research and careful decision-making. Writing a statement of the problem should help you clearly identify the purpose of the research ...
A research problem statement typically includes the following elements: 1. The research topic: The general area of interest or field of study that the research project addresses. 2. The specific problem or issue: A clear and concise statement of the problem or issue that the research project aims to address. 3.
The format of a problem statement. When you write your problem statement, split it into four sections: Problem: Here, simply define what your problem is, clearly and concisely. Make it no longer than one or two sentences. Background: This is the section where you can describe what causes the problem, how often it occurs, where and when it ...
That said, here are some things you should have at the back of your mind as you craft a problem statement for your research paper. 1. Make sure your problem statement is straight to the point. Every sentence should reinforce the importance of your study. 2. Narrow the scope of your problem statement.
Here is one way to construct a problem section (keep in mind you have a 250-300 word limit, but you can write first and edit later): It is helpful to begin the problem statement with a sentence: "The problem to be addressed through this study is…". Then, fill out the rest of the paragraph with elaboration of that specific problem, making ...
Here are the steps to write an effective problem statement: 01. Understand the Problem: Begin by thoroughly understanding the problem you intend to address. Conduct research, gather data, and talk to relevant stakeholders to gain insights into the issue. Identify the scope and boundaries of the problem. 02.
In this video, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write Problem Statement of your research paper, thesis, dissertation, or research proje...
Good research begins with writing a problem statement. Sometimes this is called identifying a research gap. The problem statement captures a narrow issue and...
Defining the 'problem'. The research question should be compelling and must have an underlying basis. While formulating the problem statement, as a keen researcher, you should consider the current state of the topic in question, along with any other observations or educated guesses. As you are defining the 'problem' that you are ...
Consider your problem statement as the trusty roadmap for your research expedition. It outlines the terrain, providing a sketch of the background or context in which the problem exists. It then zooms in, placing the issues of concern center stage, underlining their significance. Your problem statement tells the story of why finding solutions or ...
Answer: A research problem is an area of concern or a gap in the existing knowledge that points to the need for further understanding and investigation. A problem statement is used in research work as a claim that outlines the problem addressed by a study. The problem statement briefly explains the problem that the research will address.
Infographic: 8 Things to remember when writing a statement of the problem. For any research project, the first and most important step is to identify and delineate the research problem i.e. to define the gap in existing knowledge that your research will address. A statement of the problem helps you outline and present this research problem in a ...
Sealed bottles of tattoo and permanent makeup ink, including some marked as sterile, contained millions of potentially dangerous bacteria, according to new research by the US Food and Drug ...
Step 3: Set your aims and objectives. Finally, the problem statement should frame how you intend to address the problem. Your goal here should not be to find a conclusive solution, but rather to propose more effective approaches to tackling or understanding it. The research aim is the overall purpose of your research.
The issue was caused by a technical problem that global cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike said it had identified in its software and was working to resolve. CrowdStrike provides antivirus software to ...
Throughout the state, several lakeshores have temporarily closed, often due to E. coli contamination. Joan Rose, MSU Homer Nowlin Endowed Chair in Water Research and one of the world's foremost water experts, says the source of some of that contamination is human waste from septic tanks.. Up-to-date septic tanks that are maintained work well in areas where they're not too heavily concentrated.
CrowdStrike identified the problem and issued a fix early Friday after the problem began to emerge. On Friday afternoon, Kurtz released a statement apologizing for the outage, adding that ...
President Biden has said none of his doctors have told him he has a serious medical condition. But his debate performance last month raised questions about his health and acuity.
Like Donald J. Trump, the Ohio senator has been skeptical of American intervention overseas and argues that raising tariffs will create new jobs. By Adam Nagourney Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio ...
When it comes to research, Murphi is interested in chemical biology, more specifically, looking into proteins involved in important biological problems. "One of my major projects is developing and characterizing a potential inhibitor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis," Murphi says.