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Research Problem – Examples, Types and Guide

Table of Contents

A research problem is the starting point of any study, as it defines the issue or challenge that the research intends to address. Clearly articulating a research problem is essential because it shapes the direction of the study, influencing research design, methodology, and analysis. This guide explores what a research problem is, the types of research problems, and how to develop one with clear examples to aid in understanding.

Research Problem

A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, or gap in knowledge that prompts the need for investigation. It reflects the purpose of the research and the questions that the study aims to answer. Without a clear research problem, it is difficult to determine the scope, goals, and relevance of the research.

For example, in social sciences, a research problem might involve understanding factors that influence student motivation. In business, it could involve identifying reasons behind declining customer satisfaction.

Why is a Research Problem Important?

The research problem is the foundation of the research process because it:

Defines the Study’s Purpose : It helps clarify what the research is trying to achieve.
Guides the Research Design : It determines which methodologies and data collection techniques are suitable.
Provides Focus and Direction : It prevents the study from being overly broad or unfocused.
Establishes Relevance : A well-defined problem highlights the research’s significance and its contribution to knowledge.

Types of Research Problems

Example : What are the psychological factors influencing digital addiction among young adults?
Example : How can customer service training improve client retention in the hospitality industry?
Example : How do rural and urban educational outcomes compare in terms of student performance?
Example : What are the emerging behaviors associated with the use of augmented reality in retail shopping?
Example : What are the common characteristics of high-performing teams in technology companies?
Example : What effect does daily exercise have on reducing stress levels among college students?

Steps to Formulate a Research Problem

Identify a Broad Topic Area Start by choosing a general area of interest. This could be anything from mental health and marketing to technology or education. Focusing on a topic you’re passionate about can make the research process more engaging.
Conduct Preliminary Research Conducting initial research helps you understand existing knowledge and identify gaps. Look at recent studies, articles, or reports in your field to find areas that need further exploration.
Narrow Down the Topic A broad topic needs to be narrowed to a specific issue. Consider the aspects of the topic that interest you most or that have limited research available. Narrowing the focus prevents the study from being too general and enhances its depth.
Identify the Problem Clearly define the problem or gap that the research aims to address. Frame it as a statement that indicates the issue, its context, and its importance.
Formulate Research Questions Develop research questions that provide a basis for investigating the problem. Good research questions are specific, clear, and feasible, guiding the research process and helping focus data collection.
Assess Feasibility Evaluate if the research problem is manageable given available resources, time, and access to data. Feasibility ensures that the study is achievable and practical within constraints.

Examples of Research Problems

Example 1 : In Education

Problem : Declining student engagement in online learning environments.
Research Question : What factors contribute to decreased engagement in online courses compared to in-person learning?

Example 2 : In Business

Problem : High employee turnover in customer service departments.
Research Question : How does job satisfaction impact turnover rates among customer service employees?

Example 3 : In Healthcare

Problem : Rising obesity rates among children in urban areas.
Research Question : What are the primary lifestyle factors contributing to obesity among urban children?

Example 4 : In Psychology

Problem : Increased rates of social media addiction among teenagers.
Research Question : What psychological factors lead to social media addiction in teenagers?

Example 5 : In Environmental Studies

Problem : Rapid decline in pollinator populations affecting crop yields.
Research Question : What impact does pesticide usage have on pollinator populations in agricultural areas?

Tips for Defining a Strong Research Problem

Make It Specific : Clearly state the issue you intend to investigate. Avoid overly broad topics that are difficult to address.
Identify Relevance : Choose a problem that has practical, theoretical, or social importance, demonstrating why the study matters.
Align with Research Goals : Ensure that the problem aligns with the overall objectives of your research or field of study.
Keep It Manageable : Be realistic about what you can accomplish within your time frame, resources, and skills.
Consider Originality : Aim to address a gap in the current literature, focusing on issues that have not been explored in depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overly Broad Problems : A vague or broad problem can make it difficult to formulate research questions or collect relevant data.
Irrelevant or Trivial Problems : Choose a problem that has value and contributes meaningfully to your field of study.
Unfeasible Problems : Ensure that your research problem is practical and can be addressed with available resources.
Confusing the Problem with the Method : Define the issue clearly instead of describing the method. For example, “Using interviews to study…” is a method, not a problem.

A well-defined research problem is crucial to successful research. By selecting a relevant, specific, and feasible problem, researchers set a strong foundation for their study. Whether you are studying education, business, psychology, or any other field, understanding the types and examples of research problems can help you structure a clear and focused investigation. Defining the problem carefully and creating focused research questions ultimately guides the research process, making your work impactful and meaningful.

Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Sage Publications.
Maxwell, J. A. (2013). Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach . Sage Publications.
Kumar, R. (2019). Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners . Sage Publications.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research Methods for Business Students . Pearson Education.
Punch, K. F. (2014). Introduction to Social Research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches . Sage Publications.

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What is Research Problem? Components, Identifying, Formulating,

Post last modified: 13 August 2023
Reading time: 10 mins read
Post category: Research Methodology

What is Research Problem?

A research problem refers to an area or issue that requires investigation, analysis, and resolution through a systematic and scientific approach. It is a specific question, gap, or challenge within a particular field of study that researchers aim to address through their research endeavors.

Table of Content

1 What is Research Problem?
2 Concept of a Research Problem
3 Need to Define a Research Problem
4 Conditions and Components of a Research Problem
5 Identifying a Research Problem
6 Formulating a Research Problem

Concept of a Research Problem

The first step in any research project is to identify the problem. When we specifically talk about research related to a business organisation, the first step is to identify the problem that is being faced by the concerned organisation. The researchers need to develop a concrete, unambiguous and easily comprehensible definition of the problem that requires research.

If the research problem is not well-defined, the research project may be affected. You may also consider defining research problem and carrying out literature review as the foundation on which the entire research process is based.

In general, a research problem refers to a problem that a researcher has witnessed or experienced in a theoretical or real-life situation and wants to develop a solution for the same. The research problem is only a problem statement and it does not describe how to do something. It must be remembered that a research problem is always related to some kind of management dilemma

Need to Define a Research Problem

The researchers must clearly define or formulate the research problem in order to represent a clear picture of what they wish to achieve through their research. When a researcher starts off his research with a well-formulated research problem, it becomes easier to carry out the research.

Some of the major reasons for which a research problem must be defined are:

Select useful information for research
Segregate useful information from irrelevant information
Monitor the research progress
Ensure research is centred around a problem
What data should be collected?
What data attributes are relevant and need to be analysed?
What relationships should be investigated?
Determine the structure of the study
Ensure that the research is centred around the research problem only

Defining a research problem well helps the decision makers in getting good research results if right questions are asked. On the contrary, correct answer to a wrong question will lead to bad research results.

Conditions and Components of a Research Problem

Conditions necessary for the existence of a research problem are:

Existence of a problem whose solution is not known currently
Existence of an individual, group or organisation to which the given problem can be attributed
Existence of at least two alternative courses of action that can be pursued by a researcher
At least two feasible outcomes of the course of action and out of two outcomes, one outcome should be more preferable to the other

A research problem consists of certain specific components as follows:

Manager/Decision-maker (individual/group/institution) and his/ her objectives The individual, group or an institution is the one who is facing the problem. At times, the different individuals or groups related to a problem do not agree with the problem statement as their objectives differ from one another. The decision makers must agree on a concrete and clearly worded problem statemen.
Environment or context of the problem
Nature of the problem
Alternative courses of problem
A set of consequences related to courses of action and the occurrence of events that are not under the control of the manager/decision maker
A state of uncertainty for which a course of action is best

Identifying a Research Problem

Identifying a research problem is an important and time-consuming activity. Research problem identification involves understanding the given social problem that needs to be investigated in order to solve it. In most cases, the researchers usually identify a research problem by using their observation, knowledge, wisdom and skills. Identifying a research problem can be as simple as recognising the difficulties and problems in your workplace.

Certain other factors that are considered while identifying a research problem include:

Potential research problems raised at the end of journal articles
Large-scale reports and data records in the field may disclose the findings or facts based on data that require further investigation
Personal interest of the researcher
Knowledge and competence of the researcher
Availability of resources such as large-scale data collection, time and finance
Relative importance of different problems
Practical utility of finding answers to a problem
Data availability for a problem

Formulating a Research 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
Refine the Research Question(s)

You have already studied why it is important to clarify a research question. The next step is to discover the management dilemma. The entire research process starts with a management dilemma. For instance, an organisation facing increasing number of customer complaints may want to carry out research.

At most times, the researchers state the management dilemma followed by developing questions which are then broken down into specific set of questions. Management dilemma, in most cases, is a symptom of the actual problem being faced by an organisation.

A few examples of management dilemma are low turnover, high attrition, high product defect rate, low quality, increasing costs, decreasing profits, low employee morale, high absenteeism, flexibility and remote work issues, use of technology, increasing market share of a competitor, decline in plant/production capacity, distribution of profit between dividends and retained earnings, etc.

If an organisation tracks its performance indicators on a regular basis, it is quite easy to identify the management dilemma. Now, the difficult task for a researcher to choose a particular management dilemma among the given set of management dilemmas.

Business Ethics

( Click on Topic to Read )

What is Ethics?
What is Business Ethics?
Values, Norms, Beliefs and Standards in Business Ethics
Indian Ethos in Management
Ethical Issues in Marketing
Ethical Issues in HRM
Ethical Issues in IT
Ethical Issues in Production and Operations Management
Ethical Issues in Finance and Accounting
What is Corporate Governance?
What is Ownership Concentration?
What is Ownership Composition?
Types of Companies in India
Internal Corporate Governance
External Corporate Governance
Corporate Governance in India
What is Enterprise Risk Management (ERM)?
What is Assessment of Risk?
What is Risk Register?
Risk Management Committee

Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

Theories of CSR
Arguments Against CSR
Business Case for CSR
Importance of CSR in India
Drivers of Corporate Social Responsibility
Developing a CSR Strategy
Implement CSR Commitments
CSR Marketplace
CSR at Workplace
Environmental CSR
CSR with Communities and in Supply Chain
Community Interventions
CSR Monitoring
CSR Reporting
Voluntary Codes in CSR
What is Corporate Ethics?

Lean Six Sigma

What is Six Sigma?
What is Lean Six Sigma?
Value and Waste in Lean Six Sigma
Six Sigma Team
MAIC Six Sigma
Six Sigma in Supply Chains
What is Binomial, Poisson, Normal Distribution?
What is Sigma Level?
What is DMAIC in Six Sigma?
What is DMADV in Six Sigma?
Six Sigma Project Charter
Project Decomposition in Six Sigma
Critical to Quality (CTQ) Six Sigma
Process Mapping Six Sigma
Flowchart and SIPOC
Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility
Statistical Diagram
Lean Techniques for Optimisation Flow
Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
What is Process Audits?
Six Sigma Implementation at Ford
IBM Uses Six Sigma to Drive Behaviour Change
Research Methodology
What is Research?
What is Hypothesis?
Sampling Method
Research Methods
Data Collection in Research
Methods of Collecting Data
Application of Business Research

Levels of Measurement

What is Sampling?
Hypothesis Testing
Research Report
What is Management?
Planning in Management
Decision Making in Management
What is Controlling?
What is Coordination?
What is Staffing?
Organization Structure
What is Departmentation?
Span of Control
What is Authority?
Centralization vs Decentralization
Organizing in Management
Schools of Management Thought
Classical Management Approach
Is Management an Art or Science?
Who is a Manager?

Operations Research

What is Operations Research?
Operation Research Models
Linear Programming
Linear Programming Graphic Solution
Linear Programming Simplex Method
Linear Programming Artificial Variable Technique
Duality in Linear Programming
Transportation Problem Initial Basic Feasible Solution
Transportation Problem Finding Optimal Solution
Project Network Analysis with Critical Path Method
Project Network Analysis Methods
Project Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)
Simulation in Operation Research
Replacement Models in Operation Research

Operation Management

What is Strategy?
What is Operations Strategy?
Operations Competitive Dimensions
Operations Strategy Formulation Process
What is Strategic Fit?
Strategic Design Process
Focused Operations Strategy
Corporate Level Strategy
Expansion Strategies
Stability Strategies
Retrenchment Strategies
Competitive Advantage
Strategic Choice and Strategic Alternatives
What is Production Process?
What is Process Technology?
What is Process Improvement?
Strategic Capacity Management
Production and Logistics Strategy
Taxonomy of Supply Chain Strategies
Factors Considered in Supply Chain Planning
Operational and Strategic Issues in Global Logistics
Logistics Outsourcing Strategy
What is Supply Chain Mapping?
Supply Chain Process Restructuring
Points of Differentiation
Re-engineering Improvement in SCM
What is Supply Chain Drivers?
Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) Model
Customer Service and Cost Trade Off
Internal and External Performance Measures
Linking Supply Chain and Business Performance
Netflix’s Niche Focused Strategy
Disney and Pixar Merger
Process Planning at Mcdonald’s

Service Operations Management

What is Service?
What is Service Operations Management?
What is Service Design?
Service Design Process
Service Delivery
What is Service Quality?
Gap Model of Service Quality
Juran Trilogy
Service Performance Measurement
Service Decoupling
IT Service Operation
Service Operations Management in Different Sector

Procurement Management

What is Procurement Management?
Procurement Negotiation
Types of Requisition
RFX in Procurement
What is Purchasing Cycle?
Vendor Managed Inventory
Internal Conflict During Purchasing Operation
Spend Analysis in Procurement
Sourcing in Procurement
Supplier Evaluation and Selection in Procurement
Blacklisting of Suppliers in Procurement
Total Cost of Ownership in Procurement
Incoterms in Procurement
Documents Used in International Procurement
Transportation and Logistics Strategy
What is Capital Equipment?
Procurement Process of Capital Equipment
Acquisition of Technology in Procurement
What is E-Procurement?
E-marketplace and Online Catalogues
Fixed Price and Cost Reimbursement Contracts
Contract Cancellation in Procurement
Ethics in Procurement
Legal Aspects of Procurement
Global Sourcing in Procurement
Intermediaries and Countertrade in Procurement

Strategic Management

What is Strategic Management?
What is Value Chain Analysis?
Mission Statement
Business Level Strategy
What is SWOT Analysis?
What is Competitive Advantage?
What is Vision?
What is Ansoff Matrix?
Prahalad and Gary Hammel
Strategic Management In Global Environment
Competitor Analysis Framework
Competitive Rivalry Analysis
Competitive Dynamics
What is Competitive Rivalry?
Five Competitive Forces That Shape Strategy
What is PESTLE Analysis?
Fragmentation and Consolidation Of Industries
What is Technology Life Cycle?
What is Diversification Strategy?
What is Corporate Restructuring Strategy?
Resources and Capabilities of Organization
Role of Leaders In Functional-Level Strategic Management
Functional Structure In Functional Level Strategy Formulation
Information And Control System
What is Strategy Gap Analysis?
Issues In Strategy Implementation
Matrix Organizational Structure
What is Strategic Management Process?

Supply Chain

What is Supply Chain Management?
Supply Chain Planning and Measuring Strategy Performance
What is Warehousing?
What is Packaging?
What is Inventory Management?
What is Material Handling?
What is Order Picking?
Receiving and Dispatch, Processes
What is Warehouse Design?
What is Warehousing Costs?

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How to Write a Research Problem: Types, Importance, and Example

October 15, 2024

Dr. Marvin L. Smith

A research problem is the foundation of any research project . It identifies the specific issue or question the study aims to address.

Understanding the importance of a well-defined research problem is crucial for guiding the research process.

This article explores its characteristics, types, examples, and how to effectively write one, ensuring your research is focused and valuable.

Table of Contents

What is a research problem?

A research problem is a clear, concise statement that defines the issue or question your research aims to solve.

It helps guide the study by focusing on what needs to be investigated. Whether it’s understanding a phenomenon, exploring a relationship, or finding a cause, the research problem sets the direction of your project.

For example, a research problem might ask, “What are the factors contributing to air pollution in urban areas?”

It’s the essential starting point for any research effort.

Importance of research problem

The research problem is vital because it shapes the entire study. A well-defined problem ensures that your research stays focused, asking the right questions and seeking meaningful answers.

It helps avoid wasting time on irrelevant data and guides the research process toward clear, impactful conclusions.

Moreover, it makes your work valuable, as solving a relevant research problem can contribute to existing knowledge and offer solutions to real-world issues. Without a strong research problem, your project risks losing direction and purpose.

Characteristics of a research problem

A goodresearchproblem has several key characteristics:

Clear : It is easy to understand, avoiding any vague or complex language.
Focused : It addresses a specific issue rather than being too broad or general.
Researchable : There is enough available data or methods to investigate and find answers.
Relevant : It addresses a problem that matters to the field or community.
Feasible : It can be realistically studied within time and resource constraints.

Example of a research problem

Here’s an example of a research problem :

“Increasing levels of student stress are becoming a concern. What are the main factors contributing to high stress levels among high school students, and how do these factors affect academic performance?”

This research problem is clear, focused, and researchable, guiding the study to explore specific causes and impacts of stress in a defined group. It also addresses a relevant issue with potential solutions.

Ready to transform your writing experience?

Types of research problems

Research problems come in different types, each tailored to address specific aspects of a subject.

Understanding the types of research problems can help guide the direction and purpose of a study.

Here’s a detailed look at the most common types:

1. Descriptive Problems

A descriptive problem focuses on providing a detailed account or explanation of a phenomenon or situation.

This type of research problem aims to describe what is happening without seeking to establish a relationship between variables. It answers the “what” and “how” questions about the current state of the subject.

Example : “What are the study habits of college students during finals week?”

This question aims to describe how students prepare for exams, focusing on the characteristics of their study routines without exploring why these habits exist or how they affect performance.

Purpose: Descriptive problems are ideal for studies that aim to document trends, behaviors, or characteristics of a particular group or situation. They provide valuable insights into the present conditions, forming the basis for further exploration.

2. Relational Problems

A relational problem investigates the connections between two or more variables.

It goes beyond mere description by exploring how different factors influence or interact with one another. This type of research problem answers the “how” and “why” of a relationship, looking to identify patterns or correlations.

Example: “Is there a relationship between social media usage and anxiety levels in teenagers?”

This research problem seeks to understand if and how the amount of time teenagers spend on social media impacts their mental health, specifically anxiety levels.

Purpose: Relational problems are commonly used in research that aims to explore interactions or associations between variables. They help researchers understand how different factors influence each other, providing a foundation for studies that could later explore causality.

3. Causal Problems

A causal problem is designed to explore cause-and-effect relationships.

It seeks to identify what factors lead to or result in a specific outcome.

This type of research problem addresses the “why” and “what causes” questions, looking for the underlying reasons behind a phenomenon.

Example: “What factors cause high school students to drop out before graduation?”

This question aims to discover the specific reasons that lead students to leave school early, such as economic issues, academic performance, or family problems.

Purpose: Causal problems are essential in research that seeks to establish why certain events or behaviors occur. By identifying cause-and-effect relationships, this type of research problem can suggest solutions or interventions to address the issue at hand.

How Each Type Serves a Purpose

Each of these types of research problems serves a different role in the research process:

Descriptive problems provide a foundation by documenting and explaining the current state of a topic. This is often the starting point for many studies.
Relational problems build on descriptive research by exploring the links between variables, helping to identify patterns that may inform future research.
Causal problems aim to go a step further by identifying the root causes of a phenomenon, which is critical for developing interventions or solutions.

By choosing the right type of research problem, researchers can ensure their study is well-focused and designed to answer the questions that matter most. Each type provides a unique perspective on the subject, helping to uncover new knowledge and understanding.

How to write a research problem

Writing a research problem involves a structured approach to defining what your research will address.

Here’s a detailed guide with examples to help you through the process:

1. Identify a Broad Topic

Begin by selecting a general area that interests you. This helps set the foundation for narrowing down your focus.

For example, let’s say you’re interested in climate change . This topic is vast, so your research problem will need to focus on a specific aspect of it.

Broad Topic: Climate change.

2. Narrow Down the Focus

Once you have your broad topic, narrow it down by focusing on a particular issue within that topic. You can do this by considering a specific group, region, or effect.

For example, instead of just “climate change,” you could narrow it to “how climate change is affecting agriculture in the Midwest.”

Narrowed Focus: Impact of climate change on agriculture in the Midwest.

3. Research Existing Literature

Now that you’ve identified a focused topic, review the existing literature. This helps you understand what has already been studied and identify gaps that your research can fill. Look for unanswered questions, conflicting findings, or areas that need further exploration.

You find that while many studies have explored climate change’s overall effects, few have specifically examined how it impacts corn production in the Midwest.

4. Define the Problem

With the literature review in mind, define the specific issue your research will address. A well-written research problem should be clear, specific, and researchable.

Your problem statement should focus on one main issue or question.

Problem Statement: “How is climate change affecting corn production in the Midwest, and what are the contributing factors?”

5. Formulate Research Questions

Next, break down the research problem into smaller, specific questions that your research will answer. These questions help guide your study and make your research problem more manageable.

Research Questions:

“What climate factors (temperature, rainfall, etc.) are most responsible for changes in corn production?”
“How has the yield of corn in the Midwest changed over the last decade due to climate variability?”

6. Ensure It’s Researchable

Make sure your problem is researchable, meaning it can be investigated through data collection , experiments, or analysis. It’s important that you have access to the resources, tools, and data required to explore your problem.

You may find government agricultural records or climate data on corn yields in the Midwest, which will help you study this problem.

7. State the Significance

Explain why this problem matters. A good research problem is not just interesting but also significant. This step involves articulating how solving this problem will contribute to the field or solve real-world issues.

Significance: “Understanding the impact of climate change on corn production is crucial for food security and for farmers in the Midwest to adapt their farming practices.”

8. Revise and Refine

Lastly, review and refine your research problem to ensure it’s concise, focused, and clear. Avoid jargon and ensure that your problem can be easily understood by others in your field.

Final Research Problem Example:

“How has climate change affected corn production in the Midwest over the past decade, and what specific climate factors are most responsible for these changes?”

Example in Another Field: Education

Broad Topic : Student performance
Narrow Focus : Impact of classroom technology on student performance
Literature Review : Studies show mixed results; some suggest technology improves learning, while others show no impact.
Problem Statement : “How does the use of digital tools in classrooms affect high school students’ performance in math?”
“Which digital tools are most effective in enhancing math performance?”
“How do students with access to technology perform compared to those without it?”
Ensure Researchable : Access to performance records, surveys, and studies on technology use.
Significance : “This study will help educators understand the role of technology in improving student outcomes, helping schools invest in the right tools.”
Revise : The final problem is focused, researchable, and important.

By following these detailed steps, you can develop a research problem that is specific, researchable, and impactful, setting the foundation for a successful research project.

A well-defined research problem is essential for guiding research efforts and ensuring that the study stays focused and relevant. It serves as the foundation for asking the right questions and finding meaningful answers. Understanding its importance, characteristics, and types allows researchers to approach their topics with clarity, setting the stage for a successful and impactful project.

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Research Problem – Definition, Steps & Tips

Published by Jamie Walker at August 12th, 2021 , Revised On October 3, 2023

Once you have chosen a research topic, the next stage is to explain the research problem: the detailed issue, ambiguity of the research, gap analysis, or gaps in knowledge and findings that you will discuss.

Here, in this article, we explore a research problem in a dissertation or an essay with some research problem examples to help you better understand how and when you should write a research problem.

“A research problem is a specific statement relating to an area of concern and is contingent on the type of research. Some research studies focus on theoretical and practical problems, while some focus on only one.”

The problem statement in the dissertation, essay, research paper, and other academic papers should be clearly stated and intended to expand information, knowledge, and contribution to change.

This article will assist in identifying and elaborating a research problem if you are unsure how to define your research problem. The most notable challenge in the research process is to formulate and identify a research problem. Formulating a problem statement and research questions while finalizing the research proposal or introduction for your dissertation or thesis is necessary.

Why is Research Problem Critical?

An interesting research topic is only the first step. The real challenge of the research process is to develop a well-rounded research problem.

A well-formulated research problem helps understand the research procedure; without it, your research will appear unforeseeable and awkward.

Research is a procedure based on a sequence and a research problem aids in following and completing the research in a sequence. Repetition of existing literature is something that should be avoided in research.

Therefore research problem in a dissertation or an essay needs to be well thought out and presented with a clear purpose. Hence, your research work contributes more value to existing knowledge. You need to be well aware of the problem so you can present logical solutions.

Formulating a research problem is the first step of conducting research, whether you are writing an essay, research paper, dissertation , or research proposal .

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Step 1: Identifying Problem Area – What is Research Problem

The most significant step in any research is to look for unexplored areas, topics, and controversies . You aim to find gaps that your work will fill. Here are some research problem examples for you to better understand the concept.

Practical Research Problems

To conduct practical research, you will need practical research problems that are typically identified by analysing reports, previous research studies, and interactions with the experienced personals of pertinent disciplines. You might search for:

Problems with performance or competence in an organization
Institutional practices that could be enhanced
Practitioners of relevant fields and their areas of concern
Problems confronted by specific groups of people within your area of study

If your research work relates to an internship or a job, then it will be critical for you to identify a research problem that addresses certain issues faced by the firm the job or internship pertains to.

Examples of Practical Research Problems

Decreased voter participation in county A, as compared to the rest of the country.

The high employee turnover rate of department X of company Y influenced efficiency and team performance.

A charity institution, Y, suffers a lack of funding resulting in budget cuts for its programmes.

Theoretical Research Problems

Theoretical research relates to predicting, explaining, and understanding various phenomena. It also expands and challenges existing information and knowledge.

Identification of a research problem in theoretical research is achieved by analysing theories and fresh research literature relating to a broad area of research. This practice helps to find gaps in the research done by others and endorse the argument of your topic.

Here are some questions that you should bear in mind.

A case or framework that has not been deeply analysed
An ambiguity between more than one viewpoints
An unstudied condition or relationships
A problematic issue that needs to be addressed

Theoretical issues often contain practical implications, but immediate issues are often not resolved by these results. If that is the case, you might want to adopt a different research approach to achieve the desired outcomes.

Examples of Theoretical Research Problems

Long-term Vitamin D deficiency affects cardiac patients are not well researched.

The relationship between races, sex, and income imbalances needs to be studied with reference to the economy of a specific country or region.

The disagreement among historians of Scottish nationalism regarding the contributions of Imperial Britain in the creation of the national identity for Scotland.

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Step 2: Understanding the Research Problem

The researcher further investigates the selected area of research to find knowledge and information relating to the research problem to address the findings in the research.

Background and Rationale

Population influenced by the problem?
Is it a persistent problem, or is it recently revealed?
Research that has already been conducted on this problem?
Any proposed solution to the problem?
Recent arguments concerning the problem, what are the gaps in the problem?

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Particularity and Suitability

What specific place, time, and/or people will be focused on?
Any aspects of research that you may not be able to deal with?
What will be the concerns if the problem remains unresolved?
What are the benefices of the problem resolution (e.g. future researcher or organisation’s management)?

Example of a Specific Research Problem

A non-profit institution X has been examined on their existing support base retention, but the existing research does not incorporate an understanding of how to effectively target new donors. To continue their work, the institution needs more research and find strategies for effective fundraising.

Once the problem is narrowed down, the next stage is to propose a problem statement and hypothesis or research questions.

If you are unsure about what a research problem is and how to define the research problem, then you might want to take advantage of our dissertation proposal writing service. You may also want to take a look at our essay writing service if you need help with identifying a research problem for your essay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is research problem with example.

A research problem is a specific challenge that requires investigation. Example: “What is the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents?” This problem drives research to analyse the relationship between social media use and mental well-being in young people.

How many types of research problems do we have?

Descriptive: Describing phenomena as they exist.
Explanatory: Understanding causes and effects.
Exploratory: Investigating little-understood phenomena.
Predictive: Forecasting future outcomes.
Prescriptive: Recommending actions.
Normative: Describing what ought to be.

What are the principles of the research problem?

Relevance: Addresses a significant issue.
Re searchability: Amenable to empirical investigation.
Clarity: Clearly defined without ambiguity.
Specificity: Narrowly framed, avoiding vagueness.
Feasibility: Realistic to conduct with available resources.
Novelty: Offers new insights or challenges existing knowledge.
Ethical considerations: Respect rights, dignity, and safety.

Why is research problem important?

A research problem is crucial because it identifies knowledge gaps, directs the inquiry’s focus, and forms the foundation for generating hypotheses or questions. It drives the methodology and determination of study relevance, ensuring that research contributes meaningfully to academic discourse and potentially addresses real-world challenges.

How do you write a research problem?

To write a research problem, identify a knowledge gap or an unresolved issue in your field. Start with a broad topic, then narrow it down. Clearly articulate the problem in a concise statement, ensuring it’s researchable, significant, and relevant. Ground it in the existing literature to highlight its importance and context.

How can we solve research problem?

To solve a research problem, start by conducting a thorough literature review. Formulate hypotheses or research questions. Choose an appropriate research methodology. Collect and analyse data systematically. Interpret findings in the context of existing knowledge. Ensure validity and reliability, and discuss implications, limitations, and potential future research directions.

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A research problem is a specific issue or gap in knowledge that a researcher aims to address through systematic investigation. It forms the foundation of a study, guiding the research question, research design , and potential outcomes. Identifying a clear research problem is crucial as it often emerges from existing literature, theoretical frameworks, and practical considerations. In a student case study , the research question and hypothesis stem from the identified research problem.

What is a Research Problem?

A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, contradiction, or gap in knowledge that a researcher aims to address through systematic investigation. It forms the basis of a study, guiding the research question, research design, and the formulation of a hypothesis.

Examples of Research Problem

Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health : Investigating how social media usage affects the mental health and well-being of teenagers.
Climate Change and Agricultural Productivity : Examining the effects of climate change on crop yields and farming practices.
Online Learning and Student Engagement : Assessing the effectiveness of online learning platforms in maintaining student engagement and academic performance.
Healthcare Access in Rural Areas : Exploring the barriers to healthcare access in rural communities and potential solutions.
Workplace Diversity and Employee Performance : Analyzing how workplace diversity influences team dynamics and employee productivity.
Renewable Energy Adoption : Studying the factors that influence the adoption of renewable energy sources in urban versus rural areas.
AI in Healthcare Diagnostics : Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of artificial intelligence in medical diagnostics.
Gender Disparities in STEM Education : Investigating the causes and consequences of gender disparities in STEM education and careers.
Urbanization and Housing Affordability : Exploring the impact of rapid urbanization on housing affordability and availability in major cities.
Public Transportation Efficiency : Assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of public transportation systems in reducing urban traffic congestion.

Research Problem Examples for Students

The Impact of Homework on Academic Achievement in High School Students
The Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance in College Students
The Effects of Extracurricular Activities on Social Skills Development
Influence of Parental Involvement on Students’ Attitudes Toward Learning
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Classroom Learning
Factors Contributing to Student Anxiety During Exams
The Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring in Improving Reading Skills
Challenges Faced by International Students in Adapting to New Educational Systems
Impact of Nutrition on Concentration and Academic Performance
The Role of Socioeconomic Status in Access to Higher Education Opportunities

Research Problems Examples in Education

Effect of Class Size on Student Learning Outcomes
Impact of Technology Integration in Classroom Instruction
Influence of Teacher Professional Development on Student Achievement
Challenges in Implementing Inclusive Education for Students with Disabilities
Effectiveness of Bilingual Education Programs on Language Proficiency
Role of Parental Involvement in Enhancing Academic Performance
Impact of School Leadership on Teacher Retention and Job Satisfaction
Assessment of Remote Learning Efficacy During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Barriers to STEM Education Participation Among Female Students
Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Access to Quality Education

Research Problems Examples in Business

Impact of Employee Engagement on Productivity and Retention
Effectiveness of Social Media Marketing Strategies on Consumer Behavior
Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Business Practices
Influence of Leadership Styles on Organizational Performance
Role of Corporate Culture in Driving Innovation
Impact of Remote Work on Team Collaboration and Communication
Strategies for Managing Supply Chain Disruptions
Effect of Customer Feedback on Product Development
Challenges in Expanding into International Markets
Influence of Brand Loyalty on Customer Retention

Basic Research Problem Examples

Effect of Sleep on Cognitive Function
Impact of Exercise on Mental Health
Influence of Diet on Academic Performance
Role of Social Support in Stress Management
Impact of Screen Time on Children’s Behavior
Effects of Pollution on Public Health
Influence of Music on Mood and Productivity
Role of Genetics in Disease Susceptibility
Impact of Advertising on Consumer Choices
Effects of Climate Change on Local Wildlife

Research Problem in Research Methodology

A research problem in research methodology refers to an issue or gap in the process of conducting research that requires a solution. Examples include:

Validity and Reliability of Measurement Tools : Ensuring that instruments used for data collection consistently produce accurate results.
Selection of Appropriate Sampling Techniques : Determining the best sampling method to ensure the sample represents the population accurately.
Bias in Data Collection and Analysis : Identifying and minimizing biases that can affect the validity of research findings.
Ethical Considerations in Research : Addressing ethical issues related to participant consent, confidentiality, and data protection.
Generalizability of Research Findings : Ensuring that research results are applicable to broader populations beyond the study sample.
Mixed Methods Research Design : Effectively integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches in a single study.
Data Interpretation and Reporting : Developing accurate and unbiased interpretations and reports of research findings.
Longitudinal Study Challenges : Managing the complexities of conducting studies over extended periods.
Control of Extraneous Variables : Identifying and controlling variables that can affect the dependent variable outside the study’s primary focus.
Developing Theoretical Frameworks : Constructing robust frameworks that guide the research process and support hypothesis development.

Characteristics of a Research Problem

Clarity : The research problem should be clearly defined, unambiguous, and understandable to all stakeholders.
Specificity : It should be specific and narrow enough to be addressed comprehensively within the scope of the research.
Relevance : The problem should be significant and relevant to the field of study, contributing to the advancement of knowledge or practice.
Feasibility : It should be practical and manageable, considering the resources, time, and capabilities available to the researcher.
Novelty : The research problem should address an original question or gap in the existing literature, providing new insights or perspectives.
Researchability : The problem should be researchable using scientific methods, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Ethical Considerations : The research problem should be ethically sound, ensuring no harm to participants or the environment.
Alignment with Objectives : The problem should align with the research objectives and goals, guiding the direction and purpose of the study.
Measurability : It should be possible to measure and evaluate the outcomes related to the problem using appropriate metrics and methodologies.
Contextualization : The problem should be placed within a broader context, considering theoretical frameworks, existing literature, and practical applications.

Types of Research Problems

Aim: To describe the characteristics of a specific phenomenon or population.
Example: “What are the key features of successful online education programs?”
Aim: To compare two or more groups, variables, or phenomena.
Example: “How does employee satisfaction differ between remote and on-site workers?”
Aim: To determine cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
Example: “What is the impact of leadership style on employee productivity?”
Aim: To examine the relationship between two or more variables.
Example: “What is the relationship between social media usage and self-esteem among teenagers?”
Aim: To explore a new or under-researched area where little information is available.
Example: “What are the emerging trends in consumer behavior post-pandemic?”
Aim: To solve a specific, practical problem faced by an organization or society.
Example: “How can small businesses improve their cybersecurity measures?”
Aim: To expand existing theories or develop new theoretical frameworks.
Example: “How can existing theories of motivation be integrated to better understand employee behavior?”
Aim: To evaluate the effects of policies or suggest improvements.
Example: “What are the effects of the new minimum wage laws on small businesses?”
Aim: To investigate ethical issues within a field or practice.
Example: “What are the ethical implications of AI in decision-making processes?”
Aim: To address issues that span multiple disciplines or fields of study.
Example: “How can principles of environmental science and economics be combined to develop sustainable business practices?”

How to Define a Research Problem

Defining a research problem involves several key steps that help in identifying and articulating a specific issue that needs investigation. Here’s a structured approach:

Choose a general area of interest or field relevant to your expertise or curiosity. This can be broad initially and will be narrowed down through the next steps.
Review existing research to understand what has already been studied. This helps in identifying gaps, inconsistencies, or areas that need further exploration.
Based on your literature review, refine your broad topic to a more specific issue or aspect that has not been adequately addressed.
Ensure the problem is significant and relevant to the field. It should address a real-world issue or theoretical gap that contributes to advancing knowledge or solving practical problems.
Clearly articulate the problem in a concise and precise manner. This statement should explain what the problem is, why it is important, and how it impacts the field.
Develop specific research questions that your study will answer. These questions should be directly related to your problem statement and guide the direction of your research.
Establish clear research objectives that outline what you aim to achieve. Formulate hypotheses if applicable, which are testable predictions related to your research questions.
Consider the resources, time, and scope of your study. Ensure that the research problem you have defined is feasible to investigate within the constraints you have.
Discuss your defined research problem with peers, mentors, or experts in the field. Feedback can help refine and improve your problem statement.

Importance of Research Problem

The research problem is crucial as it forms the foundation of any research study, guiding the direction and focus of the investigation. It helps in:

Defining Objectives : Clarifies the purpose and objectives of the research, ensuring the study remains focused and relevant.
Guiding Research Design : Determines the methodology and approach, including data collection and analysis techniques.
Identifying Significance : Highlights the importance and relevance of the study, demonstrating its potential impact on the field.
Focusing Efforts : Helps researchers concentrate their efforts on addressing specific issues, leading to more precise and meaningful results.
Resource Allocation : Assists in the efficient allocation of resources, including time, funding, and manpower, by prioritizing critical aspects of the research.

FAQ’s

Why is defining a research problem important.

Defining a research problem is crucial because it guides the research process, helps focus on specific objectives, and determines the direction of the study.

How do you identify a research problem?

Identify a research problem by reviewing existing literature, considering real-world issues, discussing with experts, and reflecting on personal experiences and observations.

What is the difference between a research problem and a research question?

A research problem identifies the issue to be addressed, while a research question is a specific query the research aims to answer.

Can a research problem change during the study?

Yes, a research problem can evolve as new data and insights emerge, requiring refinement or redefinition to better align with findings.

How do you formulate a research problem?

Formulate a research problem by clearly stating the issue, outlining its significance, and specifying the context and scope of the problem.

What is the role of literature review in identifying a research problem?

A literature review helps identify gaps, inconsistencies, and unresolved issues in existing research, which can guide the formulation of a research problem.

How does a research problem impact the research design?

The research problem shapes the research design by determining the methodology, data collection techniques, and analysis strategies needed to address the issue.

What are common sources of research problems?

Common sources include academic literature, practical experiences, societal issues, technological advancements, and gaps identified in previous research.

How specific should a research problem be?

A research problem should be specific enough to guide focused research but broad enough to allow comprehensive investigation and meaningful results.

How do research objectives relate to the research problem?

Research objectives are specific goals derived from the research problem, detailing what the study aims to achieve and how it plans to address the problem.

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Defining a Research Problem

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.

This article is a part of the guide:

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1 Scientific Method
2.1.1 Null Hypothesis
2.1.2 Research Hypothesis
2.2 Prediction
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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.

Structuring the Research Problem

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 Definitions

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.

Examples 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.

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Martyn Shuttleworth (Oct 2, 2008). Defining a Research Problem. Retrieved Nov 26, 2024 from Explorable.com: https://explorable.com/defining-a-research-problem

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

The Research Problem/Question
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A research problem is a definite, 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. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value question. In the social and behavioral sciences, studies are most often framed around examining a problem that needs to be understood and resolved in order to improve society and the human condition.

Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Guba, Egon G., and Yvonna S. Lincoln. “Competing Paradigms in Qualitative Research.” In Handbook of Qualitative Research . Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln, editors. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 1994), pp. 105-117; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.

Importance of...

The purpose of a problem statement is to:

Introduces the reader to the importance of the topic being studied . The reader is oriented to the significance of the study.
Anchors the research questions, hypotheses, or assumptions to follow . It offers a concise statement about the purpose of your paper.
Places the topic into a particular context . It defines the parameters of what is to be investigated.
Provides the framework for reporting the results. It indicates what is probably necessary to conduct the study and explain how the findings will present this information.

In the social and behavioral sciences, the research problem establishes the means by which you must answer the "So What?" question. This declarative 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 reviewed the literature, but that you have thoroughly considered the significance of the research problem and its implications applied to creating new knowledge and understanding or informing practice in a meaningful way.

To survive the "So What" question, problem statements should possess the following attributes:

Clarity and precision [a well-written statement does not make sweeping generalizations and irresponsible pronouncements; it also does include unspecific determinates like "very" or "giant"],
Demonstrate a researchable topic or issue [i.e., feasibility of conducting the study is based upon access to information that can be effectively acquired, gathered, interpreted, synthesized, understood, and accurately reported],
Identification of what would be studied, while avoiding the use of value-laden words and terms,
Identification of an overarching question or small set of questions accompanied by key factors or variables,
Identification of key concepts and terms,
Articulation of the study's conceptual boundaries or parameters or limitations,
Some generalizability in regards to applicability and bringing results into general use,
Conveyance of the study's importance, benefits, and justification [i.e., regardless of the type of research, it is important to demonstrate that the research is not trivial],
Does not have unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentence constructions; and,
Conveyance of more than the mere gathering of descriptive data providing only a snapshot of the issue or phenomenon under investigation.

Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Brown, Perry J., Allen Dyer, and Ross S. Whaley. "Recreation Research—So What?" Journal of Leisure Research 5 (1973): 16-24; 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; Selwyn, Neil. "‘So What?’…A Question that Every Journal Article Needs to Answer." Learning, Media, and Technology 39 (2014): 1-5; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518.

Structure and Writing Style

I. Types and Content

There are four general conceptualizations of a research problem in the social and behavioral sciences:

Casuist Research Problem -- this type of problem relates to the determination of right and wrong in questions of conduct or conscience by analyzing moral dilemmas through the application of general rules and the careful distinction of special cases.
Difference Research Problem -- typically asks the question, “Is there a difference between two or more groups or treatments?” This type of problem statement is used when the researcher compares or contrasts two or more phenomena. This a common approach to defining a problem in the clinical social sciences or behavioral sciences.
Descriptive Research Problem -- typically asks the question, "what is...?" with the underlying purpose to describe the significance of a situation, state, or existence of a specific phenomenon. This problem is often associated with revealing hidden or understudied issues.
Relational Research Problem -- suggests a relationship of some sort between two or more variables to be investigated. The underlying purpose is to investigate specific qualities or characteristics that may be connected in some way.

A problem statement in the social sciences should contain :

A lead-in that helps ensure the reader will maintain interest over the study,
A declaration of originality [e.g., mentioning a knowledge void or a lack of clarity about a topic that will be revealed in the literature review of prior research],
An indication of the central focus of the study [establishing the boundaries of analysis], and
An explanation of the study's significance or the benefits to be derived from investigating the research problem.

NOTE: A statement describing the research problem of your paper should not be viewed as a thesis statement that you may be familiar with from high school. Given the content listed above, a description of the research problem is usually a short paragraph in length.

II. Sources of Problems for Investigation

The identification of a problem to study can be challenging, not because there's a lack of issues that could be investigated, but due to the challenge of formulating an academically relevant and researchable problem which 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 sources of inspiration:

Deductions from Theory This relates to deductions made from social philosophy or generalizations embodied in life and in society that the researcher is familiar with. These deductions from human behavior are then be placed within an empirical frame of reference through research. From a theory, the researcher 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. This can be an intellectually stimulating exercise. A review of pertinent literature should include examining research from related disciplines that can reveal 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 that any single discipline may be able to provide.

Interviewing Practitioners The identification of research problems about particular topics can arise from formal interviews or informal discussions with practitioners who provide insight into new directions for future research and how to make research findings more relevant to practice. Discussions with experts in the field, such as, teachers, social workers, health care providers, lawyers, business leaders, etc., offers the chance to identify practical, “real world” 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 Don't undervalue your everyday experiences or encounters as worthwhile problems for investigation. Think critically about your own experiences and/or frustrations with an issue facing society or related to your community, your neighborhood, your family, or your personal life. 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. From this, assume the position of a researcher to explore how a personal experience could be examined as a topic of investigation with outcomes [findings] applicable to others.

Relevant Literature The selection of a research problem can be derived from a thorough review of pertinent research associated with your overall area of interest. This may reveal where a lack of evidence exists in understanding a topic or where an issue has been understudied. 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 in a different context or to different study sample [i.e., different setting or different group of people].

NOTE: Authors frequently conclude their studies by noting implications for further research; read the conclusion of pertinent studies because statements about further research can be a valuable source for identifying new problems to investigate. The fact that a researcher has identified a topic worthy of further exploration validates the fact it is worth pursuing.

III. What Makes a Good Research Statement?

A good problem statement begins by introducing the broad area in which your research is centered, gradually leading the reader to the more specific issues you are investigating. The statement need not be lengthy, but a good research problem should incorporate the following features:

1. Compelling Topic The problem chosen should be one that motivates you to address it. However, simple curiosity is not a good enough reason to pursue a research study because this does not indicate significance. The problem that you choose to explore must be important to you, but it must also be viewed as important by your readers and to the larger academic and/or social community that could be impacted by the results of your study. 2. Supports Multiple Perspectives The problem must be phrased in a way that avoids dichotomies [i.e., difference of opinion] and instead supports the generation and exploration of multiple perspectives. A general rule of thumb in the social sciences is that a good research problem is one that would generate a variety of viewpoints from a composite audience made up of reasonable people. 3. Researchability This isn't a real word but it represents an important aspect of creating a good research statement. It seems a bit obvious, but you don't want to find yourself in the midst of a complex research project and realize that you do not have enough prior research to draw from for your analysis. There's nothing inherently wrong with original research, but you must choose a research problems that can be supported, in some way, by the resources available to you. If you are not sure if something is researchable, don't assume that it isn't if you don't find information right away--seek 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 be solved or framed as a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution, or explained as a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation. In short, a research topic is something to be understood; a research problem is something to be investigated.

IV. Asking Analytical Questions about the Research Problem

Research problems in the social and behavioral sciences are often analyzed around critical questions that must be addressed. These questions can be explicitly listed in the introduction [i.e., "This study addresses three research questions about women's psychological recovery from domestic abuse in multi-generational home settings..."], or, the questions are implied in the text as specific areas of study related to the research problem. Explicitly listing your research questions at the end of your introduction can help in designing a clear roadmap of what you plan to address in your study, whereas, implicitly integrating them into the text of the introduction allows you to create a more compelling narrative around the key issues under investigation. Either approach is appropriate.

The number of questions you attempt to address should be based on the complexity of the problem you are investigating and what areas of inquiry you find most critical to study. The questions should also relate to each other in some meaningful way . Practical considerations, such as, the length of the paper you are writing or the availability of resources to analyze the issue can also factor in how many questions to ask. In general, however, there should be no more than four research questions underpinning a single research problem.

Given this, well-developed analytical questions can focus on any of the following:

Highlights a genuine dilemma, area of ambiguity, or point of confusion about a topic open to interpretation by your readers;
Yields an answer that is unexpected and not obvious rather than inevitable and self-evident;
Provokes meaningful thought or discussion;
Raises the visibility of the key ideas or concepts that may be understudied or hidden;
Suggests the need for complex analysis or argument rather than a basic description or summary; and,
Offers a specific path of inquiry that avoids eliciting generalizations about the problem.

NOTE: Questions of how and why concerning a research problem often require more analysis than questions about who, what, where, and when. You should still ask yourself these latter questions, however. Thinking introspectively about the who, what, where, and when of a research problem can help ensure that you have thoroughly considered all aspects of the problem under investigation and helps define the scope of the study in relation to the problem.

V. Mistakes to Avoid

Beware of circular reasoning! Do not state the research problem as simply the absence of the thing you are suggesting. For example, if you propose the following, "The problem in this community is that there is no hospital," this only leads to a research problem where:

The need is for a hospital
The objective is to create a hospital
The method is to plan for building a hospital, and
The evaluation is to measure if there is a hospital or not.

This is an example of a research problem that fails the "So What?" test . In this example, the problem does not reveal the relevance of why you are investigating the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., perhaps there's a hospital in the community fifty miles away]; it does not elucidate the significance of why one should study the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., that hospital in the community fifty miles away has no emergency room]; the research problem does not offer an intellectual pathway towards adding new knowledge or clarifying prior knowledge [e.g., the county in which there is no hospital already conducted a study about the need for a hospital, but it was conducted ten years ago]; and, the problem does not offer meaningful outcomes that lead to recommendations that can be generalized for other situations or that could suggest areas for further research [e.g., the challenges of building a new hospital serves as a case study for other communities].

Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. “Generating Research Questions Through Problematization.” Academy of Management Review 36 (April 2011): 247-271 ; Choosing and Refining Topics. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; D'Souza, Victor S. "Use of Induction and Deduction in Research in Social Sciences: An Illustration." Journal of the Indian Law Institute 24 (1982): 655-661; 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; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518; 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; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Walk, Kerry. Asking an Analytical Question. [Class handout or worksheet]. Princeton University; White, Patrick. Developing Research Questions: A Guide for Social Scientists . New York: Palgrave McMillan, 2009; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.

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How to formulate research problems?

June 16, 2023 4 min read

One of the most important steps in the research process is formulating a research problem. It establishes the framework for the whole study and directs the researcher in determining the research’s emphasis, scope, and goals. An effective research technique may be created with the support of a clearly defined research topic, which also aids in the generation of pertinent research questions.

This article will provide a general overview of the procedure involved in defining research problems, highlighting important considerations and steps researchers should take to formulate precise and insightful research problems.

What is a research problem?

It refers to a specific topic, problem, or knowledge gap that a researcher aims to study and address through a systematic inquiry. It establishes the foundation for a research project and guides the entire investigation.

When creating a research problem, researchers often start with a topic of interest before focusing on a particular issue or question. A substantial, relevant, and original challenge adds to the corpus of knowledge and has real-world applications.

A clearly stated research topic aids in the concentration of research resources and efforts, permits the development of an effective research technique, and directs the evaluation and interpretation of data acquired. It also helps in developing research goals and hypotheses by giving the investigation a distinct direction.

For instance, a research problem could be “What are the causes leading to the decline of bee populations in urban areas?” — This study challenge addresses a particular set of urban regions and draws attention to the problem of dwindling bee numbers. By focusing on this issue, researchers may analyze the various reasons for the loss, analyze how it affects the environment, and suggest conservation tactics.

Characteristics of an effective research problem

An effective research problem possesses several essential qualities that enhance its quality and suitability for examination. The key characteristics of a strong research problem are:

Significance

Should address an important issue or knowledge gap in the field of study, contributing to the existing body of knowledge.

Should be precisely stated, avoiding vague or overly general statements and providing a clear and concise description. This clarity enables the definition of research objectives and hypotheses and guides the research process.

Feasibility

Should be feasible in terms of the available time, resources, and skills. It can be realistically pursued, given the researcher’s capabilities and study circumstances. Sufficient data, research tools, and potential exploration paths should be reasonably accessible.

Should explore new facets, angles, or dimensions of the subject, offering fresh perspectives or approaches. This characteristic promotes intellectual progress and distinguishes the research from previous investigations.

Measurability

Should be formulated in a way that allows for empirical examination and the generation of quantifiable results. Data can be systematically collected and analyzed to answer the research questions or achieve the research goals, enhancing the objectivity and rigor of the research process.

Relevance and applicability

Should address relevant issues or help develop useful guidelines, regulations, or actions. It is more effective when it impacts multiple stakeholders and has the potential to produce practical results.

Interest and motivation

Should be intellectually engaging and interesting to the researcher and the academic community. It sparks curiosity and encourages further research, leading to high-quality research output.

Ethical consideration

Should adhere to ethical principles and rules, considering the welfare and rights of participants or subjects involved in the study.

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Types of research problems.

Research problems can be categorized into different types based on their nature and scope. The three most common types are:

Theoretical

It involves using theoretical frameworks, concepts, and models to investigate a subject or event. Theoretical research aims to extend existing knowledge, address unsolved disputes or gaps, or critique and evaluate preexisting theories.

It focuses on specific problems or challenges within a particular industry or sector and aims to provide practical solutions through systematic research. Applied research aims to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, optimizing existing processes, technologies, products, or services.

Action research combines research and action to address real-world issues. It encompasses problem-solving in various contexts, such as organizations, education, community development, policy implementation, and personal or professional development. Action research is flexible and can be tailored to different situations and issues.

Importance of research problems

Research problems play a vital role in shaping the direction and course of an investigation. They serve as the foundation for the entire research process, guiding researchers in their pursuit of knowledge and advancement in a specific field. The importance of research problems lies in the following:

Identifying knowledge gaps

Research problems help identify areas where knowledge is lacking or incomplete, highlighting the need for further investigation and addressing unanswered questions.

Providing direction

A well-defined research problem gives the research project focus and direction. It aids in the development of an effective research design, technique and the establishment of research objectives and questions.

Justifying the study’s significance

A clear research problem helps researchers justify the value and importance of their study by emphasizing its relevance, potential benefits, and contributions to the field.

Facilitating problem-solving and decision-making

Research problems often stem from real-world challenges or problems. By examining these problems, researchers can develop innovative ideas, methods, or strategies to solve practical issues or guide decision-making.

Advancing theory and knowledge

Research problems serve as a basis for developing new concepts, hypotheses, or models. By addressing research challenges, researchers contribute to understanding a subject, debunk preexisting beliefs, or propose new hypotheses.

Promoting intellectual curiosity and innovation

Research problems encourage intellectual curiosity and innovation by pushing researchers to explore fresh perspectives and methodologies. By encouraging critical thinking, generating original ideas, and developing unique research approaches, research problems foster innovation and creativity.

ALSO READ: The basics of market research

5 steps to formulate research problems.

Formulating research problems is a crucial initial step in conducting purposeful and targeted research. Here are five steps to follow:

Identify the broad research area

Determine the broad subject or field that interests you, considering discipline-specific topics or specific phenomena.

Conduct a literature review

Review existing literature and research in your chosen field to understand the current knowledge level and identify gaps or unsolved issues and areas requiring further research. Read relevant scholarly publications, books, and articles to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Narrow down the focus

Based on the literature review, select a specific component or subject within your chosen research field. Look for inconsistencies, contradictions, or open-ended questions in the existing literature that can present challenges for future research. Refine your research topic and focus it on a single problem or phenomenon.

Define clear objectives

Establish clear and concise research objectives that outline your investigation’s specific aims or outcomes. SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) objectives help maintain focus and guide the research process effectively.

Formulate research questions

Create distinct research questions or hypotheses that align with your research problem and objectives. Qualitative research often utilizes research questions, while quantitative research employs hypotheses. Ensure these inquiries or hypotheses are precise, concise, and aimed at addressing the stated research problem.

Remember that formulating research problems is an iterative process. As you learn more about the topic and develop new ideas, it can need several changes and improvements. You may establish a solid basis for your study and improve your chances of performing fruitful and influential research by adhering to these recommendations and continually improving your research problem.

Researchers can create precise and insightful research problems that add to the body of knowledge and progress in their particular fields of study by using the procedures described in this article. A research problem outlines the precise field of inquiry and knowledge gaps that the research attempts to address, defining the scope and objective of a study.

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How to Define a Research Problem
How to Define a Research Problem | Ideas & Examples. Published on November 2, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on May 31, 2023. A research problem is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to address in your research. You may choose to look for practical problems aimed at contributing to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge.
Research Problem
Research Problem. A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, or gap in knowledge that prompts the need for investigation. It reflects the purpose of the research and the questions that the study aims to answer. Without a clear research problem, it is difficult to determine the scope, goals, and relevance of the research.
What is Research Problem? Components, Identifying, Formulating
A research problem refers to an area or issue that requires investigation, analysis, and resolution through a systematic and scientific approach. ... Need to Define a Research Problem. ... it becomes easier to carry out the research. Some of the major reasons for which a research problem must be defined are:
How to Write a Research Problem: Types, Importance, and Example
A research problem is a clear, concise statement that defines the issue or question your research aims to solve. It helps guide the study by focusing on what needs to be investigated. Whether it's understanding a phenomenon, exploring a relationship, or finding a cause, the research problem sets the direction of your project.
How To Define a Research Problem in 6 Steps (With Types)
In this article, we discuss what a research problem is, list different types of research problems, describe how to define one. Key takeaways: A research problem introduces a reader to a study's topic and its significance. This problem contextualizes a research topic and helps define what researchers plan to investigate.
Research Problem
Here, in this article, we explore a research problem in a dissertation or an essay with some research problem examples to help you better understand how and when you should write a research problem. "A research problem is a specific statement relating to an area of concern and is contingent on the type of research.
Research Problem
A research problem is a specific issue or gap in knowledge that a researcher aims to address through systematic investigation. It forms the foundation of a study, guiding the research question, research design, and potential outcomes.Identifying a clear research problem is crucial as it often emerges from existing literature, theoretical frameworks, and practical considerations.
Defining a Research Problem
Defining a Research Problem. 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.
The Research Problem/Question
Definition. A research problem is a definite, 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 ...
What is a research problem and how to formulate one?
The importance of research problems lies in the following: Identifying knowledge gaps. Research problems help identify areas where knowledge is lacking or incomplete, highlighting the need for further investigation and addressing unanswered questions. Providing direction. A well-defined research problem gives the research project focus and ...

Research Problem – Examples, Types and Guide

Research Problem

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Types of Research Problems

Steps to Formulate a Research Problem

Examples of Research Problems

Tips for Defining a Strong Research Problem

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Muhammad Hassan

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Types of research problems

1. Descriptive Problems

2. Relational Problems

3. Causal Problems

How Each Type Serves a Purpose

How to write a research problem

1. Identify a Broad Topic

2. Narrow Down the Focus

3. Research Existing Literature

4. Define the Problem

5. Formulate Research Questions

6. Ensure It’s Researchable

7. State the Significance

8. Revise and Refine

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Step 2: Understanding the Research Problem

Background and Rationale

Particularity and Suitability

Example of a Specific Research Problem

Frequently Asked Questions

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