Defining the Research Problem and Research Objectives
What is a Research Problem?
A research problem is a clear and specific issue, question, or gap in knowledge that a researcher wants to
study or solve.
It is the starting point of any research. Without a clear problem, research has no direction.
Example:
- General Area: Employee turnover
- Research Problem: "Why are employees leaving XYZ Company within 6 months of joining?"
Characteristics of a Good Research Problem
1. Clear and specific
2. Researchable - Can be studied with data or evidence
3. Relevant - Should have importance in business or society
4. Feasible - Can be completed with available resources and time
Steps in Defining a Research Problem
1. Identify a broad topic - Choose a general area of interest.
2. Review the literature - Study existing research to find gaps.
3. Narrow down the topic - Focus on a specific issue or question.
4. Formulate the problem statement - Write it clearly and precisely.
5. Check feasibility - Make sure it can be done with your resources.
What is a Research Objective?
Research objectives are the specific goals or purposes that guide your research - what you want to achieve
or find out.
Example:
- Problem: Why are employees leaving XYZ Company?
- Objectives:
Defining the Research Problem and Research Objectives
1. To identify reasons behind employee turnover.
2. To analyze satisfaction with company policies.
3. To suggest ways to improve retention.
Types of Research Objectives
1. General Objective - Broad aim of the study.
E.g., To study customer satisfaction in e-commerce.
2. Specific Objectives - Detailed goals.
E.g., To measure satisfaction with delivery, price, and product quality.
Why Defining Problem & Objectives is Important
1. Gives direction - Keeps research focused.
2. Helps in planning - Guides what data to collect.
3. Improves relevance - Solves real-world problems.
4. Supports decision-making - Leads to useful findings.
Summary for Exams
A research problem is a specific issue or question to be studied. Research objectives are the goals the
researcher wants to achieve. Properly defining both ensures that the research is focused, useful, and
successful.
Sample Exam Question & Answer
Q: Define a research problem. How is it different from research objectives?
A: A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, or gap that needs investigation. Research objectives are
the clear and specific goals that the research aims to achieve. While the problem defines 'what is wrong or
unknown', objectives define 'what the research wants to discover or accomplish.'