When embarking on a research project, one of the crucial steps is crafting a compelling statement of the problem. This statement sets the foundation for your research, outlining the issue you aim to address and its significance. However, many junior researchers often struggle with this task, falling into common pitfalls that can weaken the overall impact of their work. In this article, we will explore these pitfalls and provide examples of how to write a statement of the problem properly, using the example of the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension.
Pitfall 1: Lack of Clarity
One common mistake is a lack of clarity in the statement of the problem. Junior researchers may provide vague or overly broad descriptions, making it difficult for readers to understand the specific issue being addressed. For example:
Incorrect: “The problem is that hypertension is a prevalent condition.”
In this example, the problem is not clearly defined. It is essential to be specific and concise when stating the problem. Let’s revise the statement:
Correct: “The problem is the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 45-65 in urban areas.”
In the revised statement, we have clearly defined the problem by specifying the target population (adults aged 45-65) and the context (urban areas).
Pitfall 2: Lack of Significance
Another pitfall is failing to highlight the significance of the problem. Junior researchers may overlook the importance of demonstrating why the problem is worth investigating. Consider the following example:
Incorrect: “The problem is the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 45-65 in urban areas.”
In this example, the statement merely states the problem without explaining why it is significant. To address this, we can include the potential consequences of the problem:
Correct: “The problem is the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 45-65 in urban areas, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and places a burden on healthcare systems.”
The revised statement highlights the potential consequences of uncontrolled hypertension, emphasizing the significance of addressing this issue.
Pitfall 3: Lack of Context
Providing context is crucial in a statement of the problem. Junior researchers may fail to provide enough background information, leaving readers unaware of the broader context of the issue. Let’s consider the following example:
Incorrect: “The problem is the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 45-65 in urban areas.”
In this example, there is no mention of the current state of hypertension management or any relevant statistics. To provide context, we can include relevant information:
Correct: “The problem is the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 45-65 in urban areas, despite the availability of effective antihypertensive medications and ongoing public health campaigns targeting blood pressure control. According to recent studies, only 30% of hypertensive individuals in these areas achieve optimal blood pressure levels.”
The revised statement provides context by mentioning the availability of medications and public health campaigns, as well as presenting statistics to support the problem’s existence.
Conclusion
Writing a compelling statement of the problem is crucial for any research project. By avoiding common pitfalls such as lack of clarity, significance, and context, junior researchers can create a strong foundation for their work. Remember to be specific, highlight the significance of the problem, and provide relevant context to engage readers and demonstrate the importance of your research. Using the example of the low proportion of uncontrolled hypertension, we have illustrated how to write a statement of the problem properly. By following these guidelines, you can enhance the impact and effectiveness of your research.