Statement of problem is a communication tool that outlines the problem as well as gaps in prior researches. It provides crucial information necessary to solve the issue identified in a research. But how to ensure proper statement of problem in a research paper? This article will provide advanced-level tips for writing an effective statement of problem in a research paper.
Understanding Statement of Problem in a Research Paper
It is a concise statement that addresses the gap. These gaps may be knowledge, empirical and evidence gaps in prior studies. It aims to transform broad and universal issues or gaps into a well-defined problem. This well-defined problem is researchable. By writing it, researchers will get the purpose of conducting a study. It places in the introduction section of a proposal or thesis. It grabs the readers’ attention by outlining what the study will contribute. Also, it helps researchers in understanding the significance of conducting a comprehensive study.
What Are The Significant Characteristics of a Statement of Problem in a Research Paper?
A sound statement of problem is researchable. It is researchable by focusing on the subjects under a specific study. It targets a specific and well-defined issue or gap. Moreover, it addresses the significant gap in prior research. It allows researchers to overcome these gaps through robust research. For this, researchers conduct careful data collection. They apply analysis techniques and extract meaning out of them. It helps in contributing a noteworthy wealth of knowledge into the existing domain of knowledge. It assists in discovering the truth on the basis of primary, secondary or both ways of data collection. It is of significant interest to the researcher. It should be according to the researcher’s skills. Lastly, it addresses the gap within the required time and budget.
Why Statement of Problem Is Important in a Research Paper?
It is a building block of a research study. With the help of this, people understand the research questions as well as the scope of the study. It provides interest to the reader. Besides, establishes the significance of the study along with provides how the study’s findings will contribute to the literature.
Advanced Level Tips for Writing A Statement of Problem in Research Paper
The following tips will help researchers in writing an effective statement of problem in their research papers:
Tip 1: Clarifying Vision of the Study
The researcher should clarify the vision of writing a problem of the study. Vision becomes clear if a researcher understands what he/she hopes to achieve by addressing the problem. By outlining the vision, the researcher gets direction for doing a study. This direction is in the form of research methods that guide how the problem will be addressed. Hence, it serves to exhibit a clear vision and direction of a study.
Tip 2: Determining the Context
The context and content of the problem need to be clear. They depict what circumstances can lead to worsening or softening of problems. Moreover, researchers usually identify the contribution of prior studies while resolving the research problem. Thus, the context is vital in writing up an effective statement of problem.
Tip 3: Defining the Problem
Clarifying the vision of the study does not define the problem. The reason is that vision focuses on what will happen after the problem gets a solution. So, it is important to define the problem. Researchers should define the problem in clear and concise words. They should focus on what aspects or specific issues are encountered in developing a problem. Moreover, problem defining should not be one or two pages long. It should be only a few sentences long. So, it should define the problem in clear and concise words.
Tip 4: Identifying Impact
Researcher should establish a clear impact of statement of problem on its audience. The impact of the problem should be broader. The greater the impact is, the greater will be the scope of the statement of problem.
Tip 5: Identifying Gaps In Prior Studies
In this tip, researchers should identify gaps. These gaps may be empirical, population, evidence, or methodological. The underlying aim behind statement of problem is to address these gaps. After identifying gaps, researchers can insert these gaps in their statement of problem.
Tip 6: Explaining the Causes of the Gap
After identifying gaps, researchers should conduct research. They should explain the causes that lead to these gaps by research. The research would be effective in overcoming the gaps. For instance, are employees exhibiting low job satisfaction in XYZ firm? Before moving into the solution to boost employees’ job satisfaction, researchers should identify what is causing low job satisfaction. For this, researchers should research a list of potential causes. This will help a lot in writing an effective statement of problem.
Tip 7: Opt for a Suitable Problem-Solving Technique
Choosing one appropriate problem-solving technique is vital for writing up statement. It is essential as readers or targeted audience will get an idea about what was wrong and how you will fix it. Moreover, it will exhibit how you will proceed with the study. So, researchers should add some details about problem-solving techniques in the statement of problem.
Tip 8: Review 5 W’s
Researchers should review and verify their final statement of the problem. They should evaluate their statement of problem by answering 5W’s. These 5 W’s entail what, when, why, where, and whom.
· Who gets affected by the problem?
· What would be the result if the problem is not addressed?
· Where is the problem heading?
· When will be the problem addressed?
· Why is it vital to fix the problem?
Tip 9: Persuading its Intended Users
After writing it, researchers should identify its persuasions. They can consult with their supervisors, seniors or colleagues to let them study your statement of problem. Ask them whether it is persuading them or not. Gain their valuable insight and amend it as required.
Final Thoughts
A Statement of problem is effective in outlining what the study will address. It exhibits significance as well as provides direction to the researcher for conducting a study. Therefore, it needs to be concise and well-developed.