Q: How to write the research problem, research question, and introduction?

Finding a suitable research problem is an essential step in your research journey. You can read literature related to your topic to find gaps in research that you could address. You can look for questions that have remained unanswered or choose an interesting problem in real life that you would like to find a solution to. These articles will help you understand how you can state your research problem.

• The basics of writing a statement of the problem for your research proposal [Downloadable template]
• 3 Easy steps to write an effective statement of problem

Once you have chosen a research problem, you can narrow it down to a specific research question. You need to break down your research problem into smaller questions that will help you move towards solving that problem. Further, you can evaluate your questions on the basis clarity and novelty and finally choose a question that is most suitable. Remember, your research question must be feasible as well as something that you are interested in, as this will keep you motivated throughout the project. Here are some excellent articles that will help you choose a research question:

• How to choose a research question
• Finding the right research question is the first step to successful publication
• How can I choose a suitable research question?

The Introduction is the beginning of your research paper and provides a background of your research topic. It includes the study background, a general overview of the research problem, and purpose of the study, followed by a literature review and finally your research question. The Introduction also highlights the significance of your study and states how it will add to the knowledge in your field.

Your Introduction should do the following:

• Provide a background of the problem you wish to study
• Explain why you have undertaken the study
• Describes your research problem
• Summarizes the existing knowledge related to your topic
• Highlights the contribution that your research will make to your field
• States your research question clearly

You can look up these resources to have a clear understanding of how you can write your Introduction better:

• 4 Step approach to writing the Introduction section of a research paper
• The secret to writing the introduction and methods section of a manuscript
• What is the best way to write an effective introduction?
• How can I write the introduction section for my article?