How to Write an Effective Problem Statement for Your Research Paper

The problem statement usually appears at the beginning of an article, making it one of the first things readers encounter. An excellent problem statement not only explains the relevance and importance of the research but also helps readers quickly determine if the article aligns with their interests by clearly defining the topic. Therefore, the problem statement plays a unique role in the widespread dissemination of the paper and enhancing the researcher’s academic influence. 

In this article, we will focus on writing ideas, structure, and practical examples of the problem statement, helping researchers easily write an excellent problem statement. 

Basic Writing Strategies for the Problem Statement

The problem statement aims to highlight the pressing issue the research intends to address. It should be concise and to the point. Researchers can follow a two-step approach: first, think about the content of the problem statement, and then organize the writing framework. 

Before writing, clarify the following points¹: 

• What is the reader’s level of understanding of the research topic?

• How can the significance of the research be effectively conveyed to the reader?

After addressing these two questions, you can organize the content according to the following structure: 

• Clarify what you aim to achieve with your research.

• Explore why the problem exists and explain how solving it helps reach the goal.

• Outline the potential impact of the research, such as possible outcomes, challenges, and benefits.

• Recommend a plan for your experiment that follows the rules of science.

• Explain the potential consequences if the problem is not resolved (if applicable).

Three Important Parts of the Problem Statement

The content and length of the problem statement can vary depending on the type of research. Although there’s no fixed format, it’s helpful to include these three key parts: 

• Research Background:

Explain clearly what problem your research focuses on. Describe how things would be better if this problem didn’t exist. Also, talk about what other researchers have tried to do about this problem and what still needs to be figured out. 

• Research Significance:

Clarify the impact of the problem on the research field and society, and analyze the cause of the problem. Explain who will benefit from solving the problem, thus demonstrating the relevance of the research and its contribution to the existing research system.² To illustrate the relevance, consider aspects such as the geographical location or process where the problem occurs, the time period during which it exists, and the severity of the problem. 

• Solution:

Describe the research objective and the expected solution or results. 

Understanding the Writing Method Through Examples

To further explore the writing method of the problem statement, let’s look at the following case. 

Research Topic: 

The benefits of vitamin D supplementation on the immune system. 

Problem Statement: 

1. Review existing research on the role of vitamin D in the immune system, emphasizing the potential impacts of vitamin D deficiency on the human body.
2. List the obstacles encountered when trying to increase vitamin D levels in the body through supplements, and briefly mention the physiological or molecular mechanisms behind these obstacles.
3. Clarify feasible ways to overcome these obstacles, such as new methods to promote the absorption of vitamin D in the intestine. Then, focus on the benefits of these methods, such as helping postmenopausal women with breast cancer improve their blood vitamin D levels.

Points to Note: 

When crafting your problem statement, focus on essential details and avoid unnecessary information. Additionally, absolute terms such as “must” should be avoided. 

(The examples in this article are used only to illustrate writing points, and the academic views contained therein are not for reference.) 

By mastering these techniques and methods, you can enhance the clarity and impact of their problem statements. This not only makes the articles more engaging for reviewers and readers but also increases the likelihood of broader dissemination. 

For efficient and professional assistance, consider reaching out to Elsevier Language Services. Our team of expert editors, who are native English speakers across various disciplines, can help refine every aspect of your article, including the problem statement. Our goal is to ensure your research achieves efficient publication and has wide-reaching impact, supporting your academic journey in the long term. 

References: 

1. SURF Workshop Resources: Problem Statements – Purdue OWL® – Purdue University. (n.d.).https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_the_purdue_surf_program/surf_workshop_resources_problem_statements/index.html
2. Problem Statement | A practical guide to delivering results. (n.d.). Copyright (C)2024 a Practical Guide to Delivering Results. All Rights Reserved. https://deliveringresults.leeds.ac.uk/delivering-results-lifecycle/problem-statement/