26/07/2022
WHAT ARE THE STEPS FOR WRITING A PROBLEM STATEMENT?
1. Define Your Research Context
The first thing you need to do is build a solid context that makes it easier for readers to understand the problem. A hack for this is to describe an ideal world where the problem doesn't exist. In other words, help your readers to visualize how different things would be if they didn't have to deal with this problem in the first place.
For example, if you're researching the rise in the number of train accidents in London, start by describing how the process would function if the current problem didn't exist. When you've done this, you can refer to the research problem at the end of your explanation.
2. State Why the Problem Matters
You should let readers in on why the problem matters and why you must address it at this point. In other words, answer the question, "why is it important that we fix this particular problem?" What difference would it make?
Your job here is to show the reader why your research problem is the biggest elephant in the room. You may also consider including what attempts have already been made to solve the problem and why they didn't work out.
3. State the Financial Cost
If there's a financial implication of not fixing the problem, then it's a good idea to state it here. This is more useful if you're pitching for funding for your research.
4. Back Up Your Claims
It's not enough to say that the problem has some negative impact on other people or your organization; you must back up all of these claims with well-researched data. This is the point where you pull up information from relevant secondary data sources and reference them in your work.
5. Proffer a Solution
Now that we know the problem, the next question is, "what can be done about it"? To answer this, you need to propose a practical solution to the research problem. Take time to demonstrate why this is the most pragmatic solution and why it will work. More importantly, focus on the impact of your solution and hint at its benefits.
6. Conclude By Summarizing the Problem and Solution
Your conclusion should consist of the problem, why it needs to be fixed, and a summarized argument of why your solution is the best answer to the problem.
