Research problems are the foundation of any strong research project. They act as the launching point, sparking your curiosity and guiding your investigation. Here are some key aspects of research problems to consider:

What is a Research Problem?

A research problem is a gap in knowledge, a contradiction in an established theory, or a real-world challenge that you aim to address through your research. It should be a clear, concise statement that identifies a specific issue or question that requires further exploration.

Characteristics of a Good Research Problem:

• Feasible: The research problem should be achievable within the constraints of time, resources, and your expertise.
• Novel: It should address a gap in knowledge or offer a new perspective on an existing issue.
• Significant: The research problem should have the potential to contribute meaningfully to your field of study and potentially have a broader impact.
• Specific:  A well-defined research problem focuses on a particular aspect of a broader topic, making it manageable and allowing for a focused investigation.
• Clear and Concise: The research problem should be stated in a way that is easy to understand and unambiguous.

Where to Find Research Problems:

• Personal Interests: Look for areas within your field that spark your curiosity or raise questions in your mind.
• Current Events and Issues: Pay attention to emerging challenges or debates in your field or the wider world.
• Academic Literature: Review existing research in your field to identify gaps in knowledge or areas where further investigation is needed.
• Consult with Experts: Talk to professors, researchers, or practitioners in your field to gain insights into current research needs.

Examples of Research Problems:

• Broad Topic: Climate Change

• Specific Research Problem:  How do different government policies affect the adoption of renewable energy sources?

• Broad Topic: Public Health

• Specific Research Problem:  What are the social and economic factors that contribute to vaccine hesitancy?

Refining Your Research Problem:

Once you have identified a potential research problem, it's important to refine it further. Consider the following:

• Is it specific enough? Can it be broken down into smaller, more manageable questions?
• Is it feasible? Do you have the resources and access to data to investigate it effectively?
• Is it significant? Will your research have the potential to contribute meaningfully to your field?

By carefully considering these aspects, you can ensure that your research problem is well-defined, relevant, and sets the stage for a successful research project.