difference between statement of the problem and research question

Research Problem vs. Research Question

What's the difference.

Research problem and research question are two essential components of any research study. The research problem refers to the issue or gap in knowledge that the researcher aims to address through their study. It identifies the area of research that requires further investigation and highlights the significance of the study. On the other hand, the research question is a specific inquiry that the researcher formulates to guide their investigation. It is a concise and focused query that helps to narrow down the research problem and provides a clear direction for the study. While the research problem sets the broader context, the research question provides a specific and measurable objective for the research study.

Further Detail

Introduction.

Research is a systematic process that involves the exploration and investigation of a particular topic or issue. It aims to generate new knowledge, solve problems, or answer specific questions. In any research endeavor, it is crucial to clearly define the research problem and research question. While they are closely related, they have distinct attributes that shape the research process. This article will delve into the characteristics of research problems and research questions, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Research Problem

A research problem is the foundation of any research study. It refers to an area of concern or a gap in knowledge that requires investigation. Identifying a research problem is the initial step in the research process, as it sets the direction and purpose of the study. A research problem should be specific, clear, and well-defined to guide the research process effectively.

One of the key attributes of a research problem is that it should be significant. It should address an issue that has practical or theoretical implications and contributes to the existing body of knowledge. A significant research problem has the potential to make a positive impact on society, industry, or academia.

Furthermore, a research problem should be researchable. This means that it should be feasible to investigate and gather relevant data to address the problem. It should be within the researcher's capabilities and resources to conduct the study. A research problem that is too broad or vague may hinder the research process and lead to inconclusive results.

Additionally, a research problem should be specific and well-defined. It should clearly state the variables or concepts under investigation and provide a clear focus for the study. A well-defined research problem helps in formulating research questions and hypotheses, as it narrows down the scope of the study.

Lastly, a research problem should be original. It should contribute to the existing body of knowledge by addressing a gap or extending previous research. Originality ensures that the research study adds value and novelty to the field, making it relevant and interesting to researchers and practitioners.

Research Question

A research question is a specific inquiry that guides the research process and aims to provide an answer or solution to the research problem. It is derived from the research problem and helps in focusing the study, collecting relevant data, and analyzing the findings. A well-formulated research question is crucial for conducting a successful research study.

Similar to a research problem, a research question should be clear and specific. It should be concise and focused on a particular aspect of the research problem. A clear research question helps in determining the appropriate research design, methodology, and data collection techniques.

Furthermore, a research question should be answerable. It should be feasible to gather data and evidence to address the research question. An answerable research question ensures that the research study is practical and achievable within the given constraints.

A research question should also be relevant. It should directly relate to the research problem and contribute to the existing body of knowledge. A relevant research question ensures that the study has significance and value in the field, making it meaningful to researchers and stakeholders.

Lastly, a research question should be specific to the research context. It should consider the scope, objectives, and limitations of the study. A specific research question helps in avoiding ambiguity and ensures that the research study remains focused and coherent.

While research problems and research questions share some similarities, they also have distinct attributes that differentiate them. Both research problems and research questions should be clear, specific, and relevant to the research study. They should address a gap in knowledge and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

However, a research problem is broader in scope compared to a research question. It sets the overall direction and purpose of the study, while a research question focuses on a specific aspect or inquiry within the research problem. A research problem provides a broader context for the study, while a research question narrows down the focus and guides the investigation.

Another difference lies in their formulation. A research problem is typically formulated as a statement or a declarative sentence, highlighting the area of concern or gap in knowledge. On the other hand, a research question is formulated as an interrogative sentence, posing a specific inquiry that needs to be answered or explored.

Furthermore, a research problem is often derived from a literature review or an analysis of existing research. It identifies the gap or area of concern based on the current state of knowledge. On the contrary, a research question is derived from the research problem itself. It is formulated to address the specific aspect or inquiry identified in the research problem.

Lastly, a research problem is usually stated at the beginning of a research study, while research questions are developed during the research design phase. The research problem sets the foundation for the study, while research questions are refined and finalized based on the research problem and objectives.

In conclusion, research problems and research questions are essential components of any research study. While they share similarities in terms of being clear, specific, and relevant, they also have distinct attributes that shape the research process. A research problem sets the overall direction and purpose of the study, while research questions focus on specific inquiries within the research problem. Both are crucial in guiding the research process, collecting relevant data, and generating new knowledge. By understanding the attributes of research problems and research questions, researchers can effectively design and conduct their studies, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.

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The Research Problem & Statement

I f you’re new to academic research, you’re bound to encounter the concept of a “ research problem ” or “ problem statement ” fairly early in your learning journey. Having a good research problem is essential, as it provides a foundation for developing high-quality research, from relatively small research papers to a full-length PhD dissertations and theses.

In this post, we’ll unpack what a research problem is and how it’s related to a problem statement . We’ll also share some examples and provide a step-by-step process you can follow to identify and evaluate study-worthy research problems for your own project.

Overview: Research Problem 101

What is a research problem.

• What is a problem statement?

Where do research problems come from?

• How to find a suitable research problem
• Key takeaways

A research problem is, at the simplest level, the core issue that a study will try to solve or (at least) examine. In other words, it’s an explicit declaration about the problem that your dissertation, thesis or research paper will address. More technically, it identifies the research gap that the study will attempt to fill (more on that later).

Let’s look at an example to make the research problem a little more tangible.

To justify a hypothetical study, you might argue that there’s currently a lack of research regarding the challenges experienced by first-generation college students when writing their dissertations [ PROBLEM ] . As a result, these students struggle to successfully complete their dissertations, leading to higher-than-average dropout rates [ CONSEQUENCE ]. Therefore, your study will aim to address this lack of research – i.e., this research problem [ SOLUTION ].

A research problem can be theoretical in nature, focusing on an area of academic research that is lacking in some way. Alternatively, a research problem can be more applied in nature, focused on finding a practical solution to an established problem within an industry or an organisation. In other words, theoretical research problems are motivated by the desire to grow the overall body of knowledge , while applied research problems are motivated by the need to find practical solutions to current real-world problems (such as the one in the example above).

As you can probably see, the research problem acts as the driving force behind any study , as it directly shapes the research aims, objectives and research questions , as well as the research approach. Therefore, it’s really important to develop a very clearly articulated research problem before you even start your research proposal . A vague research problem will lead to unfocused, potentially conflicting research aims, objectives and research questions .

What is a research problem statement?

As the name suggests, a problem statement (within a research context, at least) is an explicit statement that clearly and concisely articulates the specific research problem your study will address. While your research problem can span over multiple paragraphs, your problem statement should be brief , ideally no longer than one paragraph . Importantly, it must clearly state what the problem is (whether theoretical or practical in nature) and how the study will address it.

Here’s an example of a statement of the problem in a research context:

Rural communities across Ghana lack access to clean water, leading to high rates of waterborne illnesses and infant mortality. Despite this, there is little research investigating the effectiveness of community-led water supply projects within the Ghanaian context. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of such projects in improving access to clean water and reducing rates of waterborne illnesses in these communities.

As you can see, this problem statement clearly and concisely identifies the issue that needs to be addressed (i.e., a lack of research regarding the effectiveness of community-led water supply projects) and the research question that the study aims to answer (i.e., are community-led water supply projects effective in reducing waterborne illnesses?), all within one short paragraph.

Need a helping hand?

Wherever there is a lack of well-established and agreed-upon academic literature , there is an opportunity for research problems to arise, since there is a paucity of (credible) knowledge. In other words, research problems are derived from research gaps . These gaps can arise from various sources, including the emergence of new frontiers or new contexts, as well as disagreements within the existing research.

Let’s look at each of these scenarios:

New frontiers – new technologies, discoveries or breakthroughs can open up entirely new frontiers where there is very little existing research, thereby creating fresh research gaps. For example, as generative AI technology became accessible to the general public in 2023, the full implications and knock-on effects of this were (or perhaps, still are) largely unknown and therefore present multiple avenues for researchers to explore.

New contexts – very often, existing research tends to be concentrated on specific contexts and geographies. Therefore, even within well-studied fields, there is often a lack of research within niche contexts. For example, just because a study finds certain results within a western context doesn’t mean that it would necessarily find the same within an eastern context. If there’s reason to believe that results may vary across these geographies, a potential research gap emerges.

Disagreements – within many areas of existing research, there are (quite naturally) conflicting views between researchers, where each side presents strong points that pull in opposing directions. In such cases, it’s still somewhat uncertain as to which viewpoint (if any) is more accurate. As a result, there is room for further research in an attempt to “settle” the debate.

Of course, many other potential scenarios can give rise to research gaps, and consequently, research problems, but these common ones are a useful starting point. If you’re interested in research gaps, you can learn more here .

How to find a research problem

Given that research problems flow from research gaps , finding a strong research problem for your research project means that you’ll need to first identify a clear research gap. Below, we’ll present a four-step process to help you find and evaluate potential research problems.

If you’ve read our other articles about finding a research topic , you’ll find the process below very familiar as the research problem is the foundation of any study . In other words, finding a research problem is much the same as finding a research topic.

Step 1 – Identify your area of interest

Naturally, the starting point is to first identify a general area of interest . Chances are you already have something in mind, but if not, have a look at past dissertations and theses within your institution to get some inspiration. These present a goldmine of information as they’ll not only give you ideas for your own research, but they’ll also help you see exactly what the norms and expectations are for these types of projects.

At this stage, you don’t need to get super specific. The objective is simply to identify a couple of potential research areas that interest you. For example, if you’re undertaking research as part of a business degree, you may be interested in social media marketing strategies for small businesses, leadership strategies for multinational companies, etc.

Depending on the type of project you’re undertaking, there may also be restrictions or requirements regarding what topic areas you’re allowed to investigate, what type of methodology you can utilise, etc. So, be sure to first familiarise yourself with your institution’s specific requirements and keep these front of mind as you explore potential research ideas.

Step 2 – Review the literature and develop a shortlist

Once you’ve decided on an area that interests you, it’s time to sink your teeth into the literature . In other words, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the existing research regarding your interest area. Google Scholar is a good starting point for this, as you can simply enter a few keywords and quickly get a feel for what’s out there. Keep an eye out for recent literature reviews and systematic review-type journal articles, as these will provide a good overview of the current state of research.

At this stage, you don’t need to read every journal article from start to finish . A good strategy is to pay attention to the abstract, intro and conclusion , as together these provide a snapshot of the key takeaways. As you work your way through the literature, keep an eye out for what’s missing – in other words, what questions does the current research not answer adequately (or at all)? Importantly, pay attention to the section titled “ further research is needed ”, typically found towards the very end of each journal article. This section will specifically outline potential research gaps that you can explore, based on the current state of knowledge (provided the article you’re looking at is recent).

Take the time to engage with the literature and develop a big-picture understanding of the current state of knowledge. Reviewing the literature takes time and is an iterative process , but it’s an essential part of the research process, so don’t cut corners at this stage.

As you work through the review process, take note of any potential research gaps that are of interest to you. From there, develop a shortlist of potential research gaps (and resultant research problems) – ideally 3 – 5 options that interest you.

Step 3 – Evaluate your potential options

Once you’ve developed your shortlist, you’ll need to evaluate your options to identify a winner. There are many potential evaluation criteria that you can use, but we’ll outline three common ones here: value, practicality and personal appeal.

Value – a good research problem needs to create value when successfully addressed. Ask yourself:

• Who will this study benefit (e.g., practitioners, researchers, academia)?
• How will it benefit them specifically?
• How much will it benefit them?

Practicality – a good research problem needs to be manageable in light of your resources. Ask yourself:

• What data will I need access to?
• What knowledge and skills will I need to undertake the analysis?
• What equipment or software will I need to process and/or analyse the data?
• How much time will I need?
• What costs might I incur?

Personal appeal – a research project is a commitment, so the research problem that you choose needs to be genuinely attractive and interesting to you. Ask yourself:

• How appealing is the prospect of solving this research problem (on a scale of 1 – 10)?
• Why, specifically, is it attractive (or unattractive) to me?
• Does the research align with my longer-term goals (e.g., career goals, educational path, etc)?

Depending on how many potential options you have, you may want to consider creating a spreadsheet where you numerically rate each of the options in terms of these criteria. Remember to also include any criteria specified by your institution . From there, tally up the numbers and pick a winner.

Step 4 – Craft your problem statement

Once you’ve selected your research problem, the final step is to craft a problem statement. Remember, your problem statement needs to be a concise outline of what the core issue is and how your study will address it. Aim to fit this within one paragraph – don’t waffle on. Have a look at the problem statement example we mentioned earlier if you need some inspiration.

Key Takeaways

We’ve covered a lot of ground. Let’s do a quick recap of the key takeaways:

• A research problem is an explanation of the issue that your study will try to solve. This explanation needs to highlight the problem , the consequence and the solution or response.
• A problem statement is a clear and concise summary of the research problem , typically contained within one paragraph.
• Research problems emerge from research gaps , which themselves can emerge from multiple potential sources, including new frontiers, new contexts or disagreements within the existing literature.
• To find a research problem, you need to first identify your area of interest , then review the literature and develop a shortlist, after which you’ll evaluate your options, select a winner and craft a problem statement .

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What Is The Difference Between Research Problem And Research Question

Research is a critical component of academic and professional pursuits, driving innovation and informed decision-making. At the heart of any successful research project lies a clear understanding of two fundamental concepts: the research problem and the research question. These elements are pivotal in shaping the direction and depth of a study, ensuring that it addresses significant issues and yields meaningful insights.

The main difference between a research problem and a research question is their focus and purpose. A research problem identifies a gap or issue that needs to be addressed, while a research question narrows down this problem into a specific query that guides the investigation. Together, they form the backbone of any research project, providing clarity and direction.

Understanding the distinction between a research problem and a research question is essential for anyone embarking on a research journey. A well-defined research problem highlights the importance and relevance of the study, while a precise research question ensures that the investigation is focused and manageable. By grasping these concepts, researchers can enhance the quality and impact of their work.

Research Problem

Concept and definition.

A research problem is the issue, gap, or question that a researcher seeks to address through their study. It is the foundation of any research project, providing a clear purpose and direction for the investigation. The research problem identifies the need for the study, explaining why the research is important and what it aims to achieve.

Characteristics

A good research problem has several key characteristics:

• Clarity : The problem should be clearly defined and easily understood.
• Significance : It should address a significant issue within the field.
• Feasibility : The problem must be solvable within the available resources and time.
• Novelty : It should offer something new or address a gap in existing knowledge.

Importance in Research

The research problem is crucial because it:

• Guides the study : It provides a clear focus and direction for the research.
• Justifies the research : It explains why the study is important and necessary.
• Influences the methodology : The problem determines the research design and methods used.
• Shapes the outcomes : It impacts the findings and conclusions of the study.

Examples of Research Problems

• Public Health : The rising rates of obesity among children in urban areas.
• Education : The impact of online learning on student engagement and performance.
• Technology : The cybersecurity risks associated with the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Environmental Science : The effects of plastic pollution on marine life.

Research Question

A research question is a specific, focused query that arises from the research problem. It guides the investigation by defining what the researcher aims to discover. The research question is precise and clear, providing a specific direction for the study.

A good research question has the following characteristics:

• Specificity : It is focused and detailed.
• Clarity : The question is clear and understandable.
• Feasibility : It can be answered within the scope of the research.
• Relevance : It addresses a significant aspect of the research problem.

The research question is vital because it:

• Directs the research : It narrows down the broad research problem into a specific inquiry.
• Focuses the study : It ensures the research remains on track and relevant.
• Guides data collection : It determines the type of data needed and the methods for gathering it.
• Shapes the analysis : The question influences how the data is analyzed and interpreted.

Examples of Research Questions

• Public Health : What factors contribute to the rising rates of obesity among children in urban areas?
• Education : How does online learning impact student engagement and performance?
• Technology : What are the cybersecurity risks associated with the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices?
• Environmental Science : How does plastic pollution affect marine life?

Key Differences

Purpose and focus.

The research problem and research question serve different purposes:

• The research problem identifies the broad issue or gap in knowledge.
• The research question narrows this down into a specific, focused inquiry.

Scope and Specificity

• Research Problem : Broad and general, covering a wide area.
• Research Question : Specific and focused, targeting a particular aspect of the problem.

Development Process

• Research Problem : Developed through literature review, observations, and discussions.
• Research Question : Formulated by refining the research problem into a specific query.

Examples Comparing Both

• Problem : Rising rates of obesity among children in urban areas.
• Question : What factors contribute to the rising rates of obesity among children in urban areas?
• Problem : The impact of online learning on student engagement and performance.
• Question : How does online learning impact student engagement and performance?

Identifying Research Problem

Sources of research problems.

Research problems can originate from various sources:

• Literature Review : Identifying gaps or inconsistencies in existing research.
• Practical Issues : Real-world problems that need solutions.
• Theoretical Frameworks : Areas that require further exploration or validation.
• Personal Interest : Topics that the researcher is passionate about.

Steps to Identify a Research Problem

To identify a research problem, follow these steps:

• Conduct a Literature Review : Explore existing studies to find gaps or unresolved issues.
• Identify Practical Issues : Look for problems in real-world settings that need solutions.
• Consult Experts : Discuss potential problems with experts in the field.
• Refine and Narrow Down : Focus on a specific aspect that is feasible and significant.

Criteria for a Good Research Problem

A good research problem should meet the following criteria:

• Significance : It addresses an important issue.
• Feasibility : It can be investigated within the available resources and time.
• Clarity : It is clearly defined and understandable.
• Novelty : It offers new insights or addresses a gap in knowledge.

Case Studies

• Literature Review : Found gaps in understanding the factors contributing to childhood obesity.
• Practical Issue : Rising obesity rates among children in urban areas.
• Research Problem : Understanding the factors contributing to childhood obesity in urban settings.
• Literature Review : Identified inconsistent findings on the impact of online learning.
• Practical Issue : Increasing reliance on online education.
• Research Problem : Investigating the effects of online learning on student engagement and performance.

Formulating Research Question

Types of research questions.

Descriptive Questions

Descriptive questions seek to describe the characteristics of a phenomenon or population. They aim to answer “what” or “how” something is occurring.

• What are the common symptoms of diabetes?
• How often do high school students use social media?

Relational Questions

Relational questions explore the relationship between two or more variables. They aim to determine how variables are connected.

• What is the relationship between exercise and mental health?
• How does social media usage affect academic performance?

Causal Questions

Causal questions investigate the cause-and-effect relationships. They seek to understand how one variable influences another.

• Does smoking cause lung cancer?
• How does diet impact weight loss?

Steps to Formulate Research Questions

Formulating a good research question involves several steps:

• Identify the Research Problem : Understand the broader issue you want to address.
• Conduct a Literature Review : Explore existing studies to identify gaps or areas needing further investigation.
• Define the Scope : Narrow down the problem to a specific aspect that is feasible to study.
• Formulate the Question : Develop a clear and concise question that is specific and focused.
• Refine the Question : Ensure the question is manageable and relevant to your research goals.

Criteria for a Good Research Question

A good research question should meet the following criteria:

• Specificity : The question should be focused and detailed.
• Clarity : It must be easily understood and unambiguous.
• Feasibility : It should be answerable within the scope of your resources and time.
• Relevance : It must address a significant aspect of the research problem.
• Novelty : The question should offer new insights or perspectives.

Public Health

• Research Problem : Rising rates of obesity among children.
• Research Question : What factors contribute to childhood obesity in urban areas?
• Research Problem : Impact of online learning on student engagement.
• Research Question : How does online learning affect student engagement and performance in high schools?

Relationship Between Problem and Question

How a research problem leads to research questions.

A research problem identifies a broad issue or gap in knowledge. From this broad issue, specific research questions are developed to focus the study. The research problem provides the context and justification for the study, while the research questions define the specific inquiries to be addressed.

Integration in Research Design

The integration of the research problem and research questions in the research design is crucial. The research problem guides the overall direction of the study, while the research questions shape the methodology, data collection, and analysis.

Impact on Methodology

The research problem influences the choice of research methods, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. The research questions determine the specific techniques used for data collection and analysis, ensuring that the study addresses the problem effectively.

Examples Illustrating the Relationship

• Research Problem : High prevalence of childhood obesity.
• Research Question : What are the dietary habits contributing to obesity in children?

The research problem highlights a significant health issue, while the research question focuses on a specific aspect, guiding the data collection on dietary habits.

• Research Problem : Increasing cybersecurity threats.
• Research Question : What are the most common vulnerabilities in IoT devices?

The problem identifies a broad issue in technology, and the question narrows it down to specific vulnerabilities, guiding the investigation.

Common Mistakes

Confusing research problem with research question.

Many researchers mistakenly interchange the research problem with the research question. The problem identifies the issue, while the question specifies what will be investigated.

Overly Broad or Narrow Focus

An overly broad research question can lead to a scattered study, while an overly narrow question may limit the research’s impact. Balancing the scope is crucial.

Lack of Clarity and Specificity

Ambiguous or vague research questions can confuse the study’s direction. Clear and specific questions ensure focused and meaningful research.

Tips to Avoid These Mistakes

• Differentiate : Clearly distinguish between the research problem and the research question.
• Scope : Ensure your question is neither too broad nor too narrow.
• Clarity : Formulate clear and specific questions.
• Review : Continuously refine your question to maintain focus and relevance.

Practical Tips

Techniques to refine research problems and questions.

• Feedback : Seek feedback from peers and experts to refine your research problem and question.
• Pilot Studies : Conduct preliminary studies to test the feasibility of your question.
• Iteration : Revise and refine your questions based on new insights and findings.

Tools and Resources for Researchers

• Literature Databases : Use databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and JSTOR to find existing research.
• Research Software : Tools like NVivo, SPSS, and EndNote can help manage and analyze data.
• Workshops and Webinars : Attend workshops and webinars on research methodology to improve your skills.

Best Practices from Experienced Researchers

• Stay Updated : Keep abreast of the latest research in your field to identify gaps and new opportunities.
• Collaborate : Work with other researchers to gain different perspectives and insights.
• Document : Maintain detailed records of your research process to ensure transparency and reproducibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a research problem.

A research problem is an issue or gap in existing knowledge that prompts the need for a study. It identifies what is missing or insufficiently understood within a particular field, serving as the starting point for research. The problem highlights the significance and urgency of addressing this gap, providing a rationale for why the study is necessary.

What is a research question?

A research question is a specific, focused query that stems from the research problem. It guides the direction of the study by narrowing down the broad issue into a manageable and precise inquiry. The research question defines what the researcher aims to find out, ensuring the study remains focused and relevant.

How do research problems and research questions differ?

The primary difference lies in their scope and purpose. A research problem is broader, identifying a gap or issue that needs addressing, while a research question is narrower, specifying the exact aspect of the problem the study will investigate. The research problem provides the context, and the research question offers a targeted inquiry within that context.

Why are research problems important?

Research problems are crucial because they highlight areas where knowledge is lacking, guiding researchers toward significant and impactful studies. By identifying a research problem, researchers can justify the need for their study, ensuring it addresses relevant and pressing issues within their field.

How can I formulate a good research question?

To formulate a good research question, ensure it is specific, focused, and feasible. It should clearly define what you aim to discover, be manageable within the scope of your resources and time, and align with your research problem. A well-crafted research question provides a clear path for investigation and helps maintain the study’s relevance.

Distinguishing between a research problem and a research question is fundamental for conducting effective research. The research problem sets the stage by identifying an issue or gap, while the research question provides a focused inquiry to guide the study. Together, they ensure that research is purposeful and directed.

Understanding these concepts enhances the quality of research, leading to more impactful and meaningful findings. By clearly defining the problem and asking precise questions, researchers can contribute valuable insights to their field, advancing knowledge and addressing critical issues.

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Research Problem vs. Research Question: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

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