Steps for writing a research problem statement

Start: After defining the research problem...

TOPIC

Establish the topic to which the research problem belongs, Example: If the research problems is Determining the effects of oil consumption to the quality of air in big cities, the subject matter to which it belongs would be "Air Polution"

The Research Problem

Write about the research problem, which is related to the main topic but way more specific, addressing the actual and concrete issue, problem or controversy to investigate. The initial question that poses the problem could be a question or a statement with statistical information, a defying or controversial statement or question, or the direct purpose of the research.

The Justification of the Research Problem

In this part, write about the importance of targeting the problem. What are the main benefits to investigating the issue. Point out what other authors and literature say in that matter and show the experiences others have had as well. You need to appeal to an specific audience so make sure you use the necessary arguments to coax the reader to be interested in reading your work on the research.

The gaps and deficiencies of previous studies

Write about the aspects that haven't been addressed or considered in previous works of researches and in studies previously conducted and point out the aspects that you will cover that will complement and provide new knowledge on the subject. Your research will complement and add something new to already existing information on the matter.

The Audience

Explain why your research is important by writing about the people and things that will change as a consequence of your research. The investigation that you will conduct will produce new light for instance, in the field of education and regarding a problem in the classrooms with students. If your research targets a problem in the classroom that nobody else has noticed before, and because of the data collected and the analysis conducted, the issue investigated will be handled according to your findings and thus it will provide a new approach in teaching that will target the problem.

AIR POLUTION

The dangers of air pollution in big cities for its inhabitants. A silent killer

Increase in cases of respiratory deceases.

Raise in the death tolls of air-quality related illnesses.

Increasing levels of carbon dioxide present in the air of big cities especially within industrialized zones

The previous studies have not consider the socio-economical factors of the problem and the problems local governments are having with the observation of the regulations to control carbon dioxide emissions.

The contributions of carbon dioxide by small businesses

The population of people around industrialized areas, who are generally workers and underprivileged citizens living in slums