A research problem is the main organizing principle guiding the analysis of your paper. The problem under investigation offers us an occasion for writing and a focus that governs what we want to say. It represents the core subject matter of scholarly communication, and the means by which we arrive at other topics of conversations and the discovery of new knowledge and understanding.
Do not assume that choosing a research problem to study will be a quick or easy task! You should be thinking about it at the start of the course. There are generally three ways you are asked to write about a research problem : 1) your professor provides you with a general topic from which you study a particular aspect; 2) your professor provides you with a list of possible topics to study and you choose a topic from that list; or, 3) your professor leaves it up to you to choose a topic and you only have to obtain permission to write about it before beginning your investigation. Here are some strategies for getting started for each scenario.
Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. Constructing Research Questions: Doing Interesting Research . London: Sage, 2013; Chapter 1: Research and the Research Problem. Nicholas Walliman . Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work . 3rd edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 2011.
Step 1 : Identify concepts and terms that make up the topic statement . For example, your professor wants the class to focus on the following research problem: “Is the European Union a credible security actor with the capacity to contribute to confronting global terrorism?" The main concepts is this problem are: European Union, global terrorism, credibility [ hint : focus on identifying proper nouns, nouns or noun phrases, and action verbs in the assignment description]. Step 2 : Review related literature to help refine how you will approach examining the topic and finding a way to analyze it . You can begin by doing any or all of the following: reading through background information from materials listed in your course syllabus; searching the University Libraries Catalog to find a recent book on the topic and, if appropriate, more specialized works about the topic; conducting a preliminary review of the research literature using multidisciplinary library databases such as Start Your Research or subject-specific databases from the " Databases By Subject " page.
Choose the advanced search option feature and enter into each search box the main concept terms you developed in Step 1. Also consider using their synonyms to retrieve relevant articles. This will help you refine and frame the scope of the research problem. You will likely need to do this several times before you can finalize how to approach writing about the topic. NOTE : Always review the references from your most relevant research results cited by the authors in footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography to locate related research on your topic. This is a good strategy for identifying important prior research about the topic because titles that are repeatedly cited indicate their significance in laying a foundation for understanding the problem. However, if you’re having trouble at this point locating relevant research literature, ask a librarian for help!
ANOTHER NOTE : If you find an article from a journal that's particularly helpful, put quotes around the title of the article and paste it into Google Scholar . If the article record appears, look for a "cited by" reference followed by a number. This link indicates how many times other researchers have subsequently cited that article since it was first published. This is an excellent strategy for identifying more current, related research on your topic. Finding additional cited by references from your original list of cited by references helps you navigate through the literature and, by so doing, understand the evolution of thought around a particular research problem. Step 3 : Since social science research papers are generally designed to get you to develop your own ideas and arguments, look for sources that can help broaden, modify, or strengthen your initial thoughts and arguments. For example, if you decide to argue that the European Union is ill prepared to take on responsibilities for broader global security because of the debt crisis in many EU countries, then focus on identifying sources that support as well as refute this position. From the advanced search option in Start Your Research , a sample search would use "European Union" in one search box, "global security" in the second search box, and adding a third search box to include "debt crisis."
There are least four appropriate roles your related literature plays in helping you formulate how to begin your analysis :
NOTE : Remember to keep careful notes at every stage or utilize a citation management system like Endnote. You may think you'll remember what you have searched and where you found things, but it’s easy to forget or get confused. Most databases have a search history feature that allows you to go back and see what searches you conducted previously as long as you haven't closed your session. If you start over, that history could be deleted.
Step 4 : Assuming you've done an effective job of synthesizing and thinking about the results of your initial search for related literature, you're ready to prepare a detailed outline for your paper that lays the foundation for a more in-depth and focused review of relevant research literature [after consulting with a librarian, if needed!]. How will you know you haven't done an effective job of synthesizing and thinking about the results of our initial search for related literature? A good indication is that you start composing your paper outline and gaps appear in how you want to approach the study. This indicates the need to gather further background information and analysis about your research problem.
Step 1 : Under this scenario, the key process is turning an idea or general thought into a topic that can be configured into a research problem. When given an assignment where you choose the research topic, don't begin by thinking about what to write about, but rather, ask yourself the question, "What do I want to know?" Treat an open-ended assignment as an opportunity to learn about something that's new or exciting to you.
Step 2 : If you lack ideas, or wish to gain focus, try any or all of the following strategies:
Step 3 : To build upon your initial idea, use the suggestions under this tab to help narrow , broaden , or increase the timeliness of your idea so you can write it out as a research problem.
Once you are comfortable with having turned your idea into a research problem, follow Steps 1 - 4 listed in Part I above to further develop it into a research paper.
Alderman, Jim. " Choosing a Research Topic ." Beginning Library and Information Systems Strategies. Paper 17. Jacksonville, FL: University of North Florida Digital Commons, 2014; Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. Constructing Research Questions: Doing Interesting Research . London: Sage, 2013; Chapter 2: Choosing a Research Topic. Adrian R. Eley. Becoming a Successful Early Career Researcher . New York: Routledge, 2012; Answering the Question . Academic Skills Centre. University of Canberra; Brainstorming . Department of English Writing Guide. George Mason University; Brainstorming . The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Chapter 1: Research and the Research Problem. Nicholas Walliman . Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work . 3rd edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 2011; Choosing a Topic . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Coming Up With Your Topic . Institute for Writing Rhetoric. Dartmouth College; How To Write a Thesis Statement . Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University; Identify Your Question . Start Your Research. University Library, University of California, Santa Cruz; The Process of Writing a Research Paper . Department of History. Trent University; Trochim, William M.K. Problem Formulation . Research Methods Knowledge Base. 2006.
I. How To Begin: You are provided a list of possible topics to choose from Step 1 : I know what you’re thinking--which topic from this list my professor has given me will be the easiest to find the most information on? An effective instructor should never include a topic that is so obscure or complex that no research is available to examine and from which to begin to design a study. Instead of searching for the path of least resistance choose a topic that you find interesting in some way, or that is controversial and that you have a strong opinion about, or has some personal meaning for you. You're going to be working on your topic for quite some time, so choose one that you find interesting and engaging or that motivates you to take a position. Embrace the opportunity to learn something new! Once you’ve settled on a topic of interest from the list, follow Steps 1 - 4 listed above to further develop it into a research paper.
NOTE : It’s ok to review related literature to help refine how you will approach analyzing a topic, and then discover that the topic isn’t all that interesting to you. In that case, you can choose another from the list. Just don’t wait too long to make a switch and, of course, be sure to inform your professor that you are changing your topic.
Resources for identifying a research problem.
If you are having difficulty identifying a topic to study or need basic background information, the following web resources and databases can be useful:
Don't be a Martyr!
In thinking about a research topic to study, don't adopt the mindset of pursuing an esoteric or incredibly complicated topic just to impress your professor but that, in reality, does not have any real interest to you. As best as you can, choose a topic that has at least some interest to you or that you care about. Obviously, this is easier for courses within your major, but even for those nasty prerequisite classes that you must take in order to graduate [and that provide an additional revenue stream to the university], try to apply issues associated with your major to the general topic given to you. For example, if you are an IR major taking a philosophy class where the assignment asks you to apply the question of "what is truth" to some aspect of life, you could choose to study how government leaders attempt to shape truth through the use of propaganda.
Not Finding Anything on Your Topic? Ask a Librarian!
Librarians are experts in locating information and providing strategies for analyzing existing knowledge in new ways. Don't assume or jump to the conclusion that your topic is too narrowly defined or obscure just because you haven’t found any information about it. Always consult a librarian before you consider giving up on finding information about the topic you want to investigate. If there isn't a lot of information about your topic, a librarian can often help you identify a closely related topic that you can study. Follow this link to contact a librarian.
Defining a research problem is the fuel that drives the scientific process, and is the foundation of any research method and experimental design, from true experiment to case study.
It is one of the first statements made in any research paper and, as well as defining the research area, should include a quick synopsis of how the hypothesis was arrived at.
Operationalization is then used to give some indication of the exact definitions of the variables, and the type of scientific measurements used.
This will lead to the proposal of a viable hypothesis . As an aside, when scientists are putting forward proposals for research funds, the quality of their research problem often makes the difference between success and failure.
Look at any scientific paper, and you will see the research problem, written almost like a statement of intent.
Defining a research problem is crucial in defining the quality of the answers, and determines the exact research method used. A quantitative experimental design uses deductive reasoning to arrive at a testable hypothesis .
Qualitative research designs use inductive reasoning to propose a research statement.
Formulating the research problem begins during the first steps of the scientific process .
As an example, a literature review and a study of previous experiments, and research, might throw up some vague areas of interest.
Many scientific researchers look at an area where a previous researcher generated some interesting results, but never followed up. It could be an interesting area of research, which nobody else has fully explored.
A scientist may even review a successful experiment, disagree with the results , the tests used, or the methodology , and decide to refine the research process, retesting the hypothesis .
This is called the conceptual definition, and is an overall view of the problem. A science report will generally begin with an overview of the previous research and real-world observations. The researcher will then state how this led to defining a research problem.
The operational definition is the determining the scalar properties of the variables .
For example, temperature, weight and time are usually well known and defined, with only the exact scale used needing definition. If a researcher is measuring abstract concepts, such as intelligence, emotions, and subjective responses, then a system of measuring numerically needs to be established, allowing statistical analysis and replication.
For example, intelligence may be measured with IQ and human responses could be measured with a questionnaire from ‘1- strongly disagree’, to ‘5 - strongly agree’.
Behavioral biologists and social scientists might design an ordinal scale for measuring and rating behavior. These measurements are always subjective, but allow statistics and replication of the whole research method. This is all an essential part of defining a research problem.
An anthropologist might find references to a relatively unknown tribe in Papua New Guinea. Through inductive reasoning , she arrives at the research problem and asks,
‘How do these people live and how does their culture relate to nearby tribes?’
She has found a gap in knowledge, and she seeks to fill it, using a qualitative case study , without a hypothesis.
The Bandura Bobo Doll Experiment is a good example of using deductive reasoning to arrive at a research problem and hypothesis.
Anecdotal evidence showed that violent behavior amongst children was increasing. Bandura believed that higher levels of violent adult role models on television, was a contributor to this rise. This was expanded into a hypothesis , and operationalization of the variables, and scientific measurement scale , led to a robust experimental design.
Martyn Shuttleworth (Oct 2, 2008). Defining a Research Problem. Retrieved Jun 21, 2024 from Explorable.com: https://explorable.com/defining-a-research-problem
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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.
What is a research problem.
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 .
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.
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 .
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.
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:
Practicality – a good research problem needs to be manageable in light of your resources. Ask yourself:
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:
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.
We’ve covered a lot of ground. Let’s do a quick recap of the key takeaways:
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 ...
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A research problem is a statement about an area of concern, a condition to be improved, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice that points to the need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. In some social science disciplines the research problem is typically posed in the form of a question. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value question.
The purpose of a problem statement is to:
In the social sciences, the research problem establishes the means by which you must answer the "So What?" question. The "So What?" question refers to a research problem surviving the relevancy test [the quality of a measurement procedure that provides repeatability and accuracy]. Note that answering the "So What" question requires a commitment on your part to not only show that you have researched the material, but that you have thought about its significance.
To survive the "So What" question, problem statements should possess the following attributes:
Castellanos, Susie. Critical Writing and Thinking . The Writing Center. Dean of the College. Brown University; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem. Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); Thesis and Purpose Statements . The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements . The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
I. Types and Content
There are four general conceptualizations of a research problem in the social sciences:
A problem statement in the social sciences should contain :
II. Sources of Problems for Investigation
Identifying a problem to study can be challenging, not because there is a lack of issues that could be investigated, but due to pursuing a goal of formulating a socially relevant and researchable problem statement that is unique and does not simply duplicate the work of others. To facilitate how you might select a problem from which to build a research study, consider these three broad sources of inspiration:
Deductions from Theory This relates to deductions made from social philosophy or generalizations embodied in life in society that the researcher is familiar with. These deductions from human behavior are then fitted within an empirical frame of reference through research. From a theory, the research can formulate a research problem or hypothesis stating the expected findings in certain empirical situations. The research asks the question: “What relationship between variables will be observed if theory aptly summarizes the state of affairs?” One can then design and carry out a systematic investigation to assess whether empirical data confirm or reject the hypothesis and hence the theory.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives Identifying a problem that forms the basis for a research study can come from academic movements and scholarship originating in disciplines outside of your primary area of study. A review of pertinent literature should include examining research from related disciplines, which can expose you to new avenues of exploration and analysis. An interdisciplinary approach to selecting a research problem offers an opportunity to construct a more comprehensive understanding of a very complex issue than any single discipline might provide.
Interviewing Practitioners The identification of research problems about particular topics can arise from formal or informal discussions with practitioners who provide insight into new directions for future research and how to make research findings increasingly relevant to practice. Discussions with experts in the field, such as, teachers, social workers, health care providers, etc., offers the chance to identify practical, “real worl” problems that may be understudied or ignored within academic circles. This approach also provides some practical knowledge which may help in the process of designing and conducting your study.
Personal Experience Your everyday experiences can give rise to worthwhile problems for investigation. Think critically about your own experiences and/or frustrations with an issue facing society, your community, or in your neighborhood. This can be derived, for example, from deliberate observations of certain relationships for which there is no clear explanation or witnessing an event that appears harmful to a person or group or that is out of the ordinary.
Relevant Literature The selection of a research problem can often be derived from an extensive and thorough review of pertinent research associated with your overall area of interest. This may reveal where gaps remain in our understanding of a topic. Research may be conducted to: 1) fill such gaps in knowledge; 2) evaluate if the methodologies employed in prior studies can be adapted to solve other problems; or, 3) determine if a similar study could be conducted in a different subject area or applied to different study sample [i.e., different groups of people]. Also, authors frequently conclude their studies by noting implications for further research; this can also be a valuable source of problems to investigate.
III. What Makes a Good Research Statement?
A good problem statement begins by introducing the broad area in which your research is centered and then gradually leads the reader to the more narrow questions you are posing. The statement need not be lengthy but a good research problem should incorporate the following features:
Compelling topic Simple curiosity is not a good enough reason to pursue a research study. The problem that you choose to explore must be important to you and to a larger community you share. The problem chosen must be one that motivates you to address it. Supports multiple perspectives The problem most be phrased in a way that avoids dichotomies and instead supports the generation and exploration of multiple perspectives. A general rule of thumb is that a good research problem is one that would generate a variety of viewpoints from a composite audience made up of reasonable people. Researchable It seems a bit obvious, but you don't want to find yourself in the midst of investigating a complex research project and realize that you don't have much to draw on for your research. Choose research problems that can be supported by the resources available to you. Not sure? Seek out help from a librarian!
NOTE: Do not confuse a research problem with a research topic. A topic is something to read and obtain information about whereas a problem is something to solve or framed as a question that must be answered.
IV. Mistakes to Avoid
Beware of circular reasoning . Don’t state that the research problem as simply the absence of the thing you are suggesting. For example, if you propose, "The problem in this community is that it has no hospital."
This only leads to a research problem where:
This is an example of a research problem that fails the "so what?" test because it does not reveal the relevance of why you are investigating the problem of having no hospital in the community [e.g., there's a hospital in the community ten miles away] and because the research problem does not elucidate the significance of why one should study the fact that no hospital exists in the community [e.g., that hospital in the community ten miles away has no emergency room].
Choosing and Refining Topics . Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem. Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); How to Write a Research Question . The Writing Center. George Mason University; Invention: Developing a Thesis Statement . The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Problem Statements PowerPoint Presentation . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Procter, Margaret. Using Thesis Statements . University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Trochim, William M.K. Problem Formulation . Research Methods Knowledge Base. 2006; Thesis and Purpose Statements . The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements . The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
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Research is a rigorous problem-solving process whose ultimate goal is the discovery of new knowledge. Research may include the description of a new phenomenon, definition of a new relationship, development of a new model, or application of an existing principle or procedure to a new context. Research is systematic, logical, empirical, reductive, replicable and transmittable, and generalizable. Research can be classified according to a variety of dimensions: basic, applied, or translational; hypothesis generating or hypothesis testing; retrospective or prospective; longitudinal or cross-sectional; observational or experimental; and quantitative or qualitative. The ultimate success of a research project is heavily dependent on adequate planning.
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Supino, P.G. (2012). Overview of the Research Process. In: Supino, P., Borer, J. (eds) Principles of Research Methodology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-3360-6_1
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1) Who was the author of the book named "Methods in Social Research"? c) Goode and HaltThe book named "Methods in Social Research" was authored by Goode and Hatt on Dec 01, 1952, which was specifically aimed to improve student's knowledge as well as response skills. a) Association among variablesMainly the correlational analysis focus on finding the association between one or more quantitative independent variables and one or more quantitative dependent variables. d) Research designA conceptual framework can be understood as a Research design that you require before research. d) To help an applicant in becoming a renowned educationalistEducational research can be defined as an assurance for reviewing and improving educational practice, which will result in becoming a renowned educationalist. c) Collecting data with bottom-up empirical evidence.In qualitative research, we use an inductive methodology that starts from particular to general. In other words, we study society from the bottom, then move upward to make the theories. d) All of the aboveIn random sampling, for each element of the set, there exist a possibility to get selected. c) Ex-post facto methodMainly in the ex-post facto method, the existing groups with qualities are compared on some dependent variable. It is also known as quasi-experimental for the fact that instead of randomly assigning the subjects, they are grouped on the basis of a particular characteristic or trait. d) All of the aboveTippit table was first published by L.H.C Tippett in 1927. b) Formulating a research questionBefore starting with research, it is necessary to have a research question or a topic because once the problem is identified, then we can decide the research design. c) A research dissertationThe format of thesis writing is similar to that of a research dissertation, or we can simply say that dissertation is another word for a thesis. d) Its sole purpose is the production of knowledgeParticipatory action research is a kind of research that stresses participation and action. b) It is only the null hypothesis that can be tested.Hypotheses testing evaluates its plausibility by using sample data. b) The null hypotheses get rejected even if it is trueThe Type-I Error can be defined as the first kind of error. d) All of the above.No explanation. a) Long-term researchIn general, the longitudinal approach is long-term research in which the researchers keep on examining similar individuals to detect if any change has occurred over a while. b) Following an aimNo explanation. a) How well are we doing?Instead of focusing on the process, the evaluation research measures the consequences of the process, for example, if the objectives are met or not. d) Research is not a processResearch is an inspired and systematic work that is undertaken by the researchers to intensify expertise. d) All of the aboveResearch is an inspired and systematic work that is undertaken by the researchers to intensify expertise. b) To bring out the holistic approach to researchParticularly in interdisciplinary research, it combines two or more hypothetical disciplines into one activity. d) Eliminate spurious relationsScientific research aims to build knowledge by hypothesizing new theories and discovering laws. c) QuestionnaireSince it is an urban area, so there is a probability of literacy amongst a greater number of people. Also, there would be numerous questions over the ruling period of a political party, which cannot be simply answered by rating. The rating can only be considered if any political party has done some work, which is why the Questionnaire is used. b) Historical ResearchOne cannot generalize historical research in the USA, which has been done in India. c) By research objectivesResearch objectives concisely demonstrate what we are trying to achieve through the research. c) Has studied research methodologyAnyone who has studied the research methodology can undergo the research. c) ObservationMainly the research method comprises strategies, processes or techniques that are being utilized to collect the data or evidence so as to reveal new information or create a better understanding of a topic. d) All of the aboveA research problem can be defined as a statement about the area of interest, a condition that is required to be improved, a difficulty that has to be eradicated, or any disquieting question existing in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice that points to be solved. d) How are various parts related to the whole?A circle graph helps in visualizing information as well as the data. b) ObjectivityNo explanation. a) Quota samplingIn non-probability sampling, all the members do not get an equal opportunity to participate in the study. a) Reducing punctuations as well as grammatical errors to minimalist Select the answers from the codes given below: B. a), b), c) and d)All of the above. a) Research refers to a series of systematic activity or activities undertaken to find out the solution to a problem. Select the correct answer from the codes given below: A. a), b), c) and d)All of the above. b) Fundamental ResearchJean Piaget, in his cognitive-developmental theory, proposed the idea that children can actively construct knowledge simply by exploring and manipulating the world around them. d) Introduction; Literature Review; Research Methodology; Results; Discussions and ConclusionsThe core elements of the dissertation are as follows: Introduction; Literature Review; Research Methodology; Results; Discussions and Conclusions d) A sampling of people, newspapers, television programs etc.In general, sampling in case study research involves decisions made by the researchers regarding the strategies of sampling, the number of case studies, and the definition of the unit of analysis. a) Systematic Sampling TechniqueSystematic sampling can be understood as a probability sampling method in which the members of the population are selected by the researchers at a regular interval. a) Social relevanceNo explanation. c) Can be one-tailed as well as two-tailed depending on the hypothesesAn F-test corresponds to a statistical test in which the test statistic has an F-distribution under the null hypothesis. a) CensusCensus is an official survey that keeps track of the population data. b) ObservationNo explanation. d) It contains dependent and independent variablesA research problem can be defined as a statement about the concerned area, a condition needed to be improved, a difficulty that has to be eliminated, or a troubling question existing in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice pointing towards the need of delivering a deliberate investigation. d) All of the aboveThe research objectives must be concisely described before starting the research as it illustrates what we are going to achieve as an end result after the accomplishment. c) A kind of research being carried out to solve a specific problemIn general, action research is termed as a philosophy or a research methodology, which is implemented in social sciences. a) The cultural background of the countryAn assumption can be identified as an unexamined belief, which we contemplate without even comprehending it. Also, the conclusions that we draw are often based on assumptions. d) All of the aboveNo explanation. b) To understand the difference between two variablesFactor analysis can be understood as a statistical method that defines the variability between two variables in terms of factors, which are nothing but unobserved variables. a) ManipulationIn an experimental research design, whenever the independent variables (i.e., treatment variables or factors) decisively get altered by researchers, then that process is termed as an experimental manipulation. d) Professional AttitudeA professional attitude is an ability that inclines you to manage your time, portray a leadership quality, make you self-determined and persistent. b) Human RelationsThe term sociogram can be defined as a graphical representation of human relation that portrays the social links formed by one particular person. c) Objective ObservationThe research process comprises classifying, locating, evaluating, and investigating the data, which is required to support your research question, followed by developing and expressing your ideas. |
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Research problem is selected from the stand point of: | |
Social relevance [Correct Answer] | |
Financial support [Wrong Answer] | |
Researcher's interest [Wrong Answer] | |
Availability of relevant literature [Wrong Answer] | |
Said on 2021-03-10 10:19:58 Who has developed anova is required to post your answer/result |
Set-I (Research Methods) | Set-II (Data Collection Tools) |
a. Experimental method | I. Using primary and secondary source |
b. Ex post-facto method | ii. Questionsnaire |
c. Descriptive survey method | iii. Standardized tests |
d. Historical method | iv. Typical characteristic tests |
List-A | List-B |
(a) Survey Method | (i) Past events |
(b) Historical Method | (ii) Vision |
(c) Philosophical Method | (iii) Present events |
(d) Experimental Method | (iv) Exceptional cases |
(v) Future action |
Q. | |
A. | Researcher's interest |
B. | Financial support |
C. | Social relevance |
D. | Availbility of relevant literature |
Answer» C. Social relevance |
View all MCQs in
COMMENTS
A research problem is a gap in existing knowledge, a contradiction in an established theory, or a real-world challenge that a researcher aims to address in their research. It is at the heart of any scientific inquiry, directing the trajectory of an investigation. The statement of a problem orients the reader to the importance of the topic, sets ...
The research problem, therefore, is the main organizing principle guiding the analysis of your research. The problem under investigation establishes an occasion for writing and a focus that governs what you want to say. It represents the core subject matter of scholarly communication and the means by which scholars arrive at other topics of ...
Learn how to identify and refine a research problem for your academic project. Find out the difference between practical and theoretical problems, and how to formulate a problem statement and questions.
A research problem is a definite or clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation.
Feasibility: A research problem should be feasible in terms of the availability of data, resources, and research methods. It should be realistic and practical to conduct the study within the available time, budget, and resources. Novelty: A research problem should be novel or original in some way.
Research Problem Explanation of Each Criterion Significant A research problem should be extensive or important enough to merit scholarly consideration (i.e., serious academic study). Its worth is judged by the strength of the author's rationale for the study and its contributions to knowledge, practice, or theory. Researchable The problem ...
Formulating a research problem is usually done under the first step of research process, i.e., defining the research problem. Identification, clarification and formulation of a research problem is done using different steps as: Discover the Management Dilemma. Define the Management Question. Define the Research Question.
A research problem is the main organizing principle guiding the analysis of your paper. The problem under investigation offers us an occasion for writing and a focus that governs what we want to say. It represents the core subject matter of scholarly communication, and the means by which we arrive at other topics of conversations and the discovery of new knowledge and understanding.
The research problem to be selected should be in the form of an unsolved question or challenge faced by the society or a group. Some precautions while selecting a problem are: (a) Brainstorming of ...
Defining a research problem is the fuel that drives the scientific process, and is the foundation of any research method and experimental design, from true experiment to case study. It is one of the first statements made in any research paper and, as well as defining the research area, should include a quick synopsis of how the hypothesis was ...
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.
The research problem is the questions or challenges that the proposed research is posed to answer or solve to fill the knowledge gap in existing studies or contribute to the existing knowledge body in the study area. Generally, a research problem can be referred to as a specific issue, difficulty, or challenge that a researcher or a team of researchers experiences and wants to solve in the ...
A research problem is a statement about an area of concern, a condition to be improved, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice that points to the need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. In some social science disciplines the research problem is typically posed in the form of a question.
because with no research problem to work on, he/she has nothing to do. A researchable problem could be a gap in the knowledge of a given field; that expectation and reality do not correlate; that a phenomenon breaks a system or the like, i.e. something does not seem right; perhaps a phenomenon has not yet been categorised or a disciplinary ...
Research is a rigorous problem-solving process whose ultimate goal is the discovery of new knowledge. Research may include the description of a new phenomenon, definition of a new relationship, development of a new model, or application of an existing principle or procedure to a new context. Research is systematic, logical, empirical, reductive, replicable and transmittable, and generalizable.
The research problem is selected from the standpoint of. (a) Researcher's interest. (b) Financial support. (c) Social relevance. (d) Availability of relevant literature. 50 % students answered this correctly. Check.
identify and determine the problem to study. Identifying a research problem is important. because, as the issue or concern in a particular setting that motivates and guides the need. Parlindungan ...
a) Research refers to a series of systematic activity or activities undertaken to find out the solution to a problem. b) It is a systematic, logical and unbiased process wherein verification of hypotheses, data analysis, interpretation and formation of principles can be done. c) It is an intellectual inquiry or quest towards truth,
37) Research problem is selected from the standpoint of. a. Social relevance b. Financial support c. Researcher's interest d. Availability of relevant literature Hide Answer Workspace. Answer: a) Social relevance Explanation: No explanation. 38) The F-test: a. Is essentially a two-tailed test. b. Is essentially a one-tailed test. c.
Research problem is selected from the stand point of: A. Social relevance: B. Financial support: C. Researcher's interest: D. Availability of relevant literature: View Answer 40 -45 Explanation:- Answer : A Discuss it below : Jawaid ahmad Said on 2021-03-10 10:19:58. Who has developed anova ...
The research problem is selected from the standpoint of social relevance Research is the process of deducing new theories from existing ones It requires analysis of data It includes three basic operations and they are named as Data collection It refers to the observation and measurement of the data Data analysis It refers to the systematic ...
The research is based on actual facts and evidence (non-hypothetical) The research problem generates and encourages research questions. Sufficient data can be obtained. The problem has an unsatisfactory answer or is a new problem. Therefore, from the above explanation, a research problem is primarily chosen depending upon its relevance.
Research problem is selected from the stand point of? A. Researcher's interest. B. Financial support. C. Social relevance. D.