How to write a research proposal? How to define a research problem? For Science and Social Science

What is a Research Proposal? A research proposal is a structured document that outlines what you plan to study, why it matters, and how you will study it. It is your argument to convince reviewers, funders, or supervisors that your research is worth pursuing. PART 1: How to Define a Research Problem This is the most critical step — everything else flows from it.Step 1: Identify a Broad Area of Interest Start with a general domain you are passionate about. Science: Climate change, cancer biology, renewable energy Social Science: Migration, gender inequality, political polarization Step 2: Review Existing Literature Read recent journal articles, reports, and books Identify what is known and what is missing Look for contradictions, gaps, outdated findings, or underexplored populations Step 3: Narrow Down to a Specific Gap Ask yourself: What has not been studied yet? What has been studied but not in this context (country, group, time period)? What findings are contested or inconclusive? Step 4: Formulate the Research Problem A good research problem should be: Specific — not too broad or vague Researchable — can be investigated empirically Significant — has theoretical or practical value Feasible — within your time, budget, and skill set Novel — adds something new to knowledge Step 5: Write a Problem Statement A problem statement typically has three parts: PartWhat it doesExampleContextSets the background"CO₂ emissions in India have risen 300% since 1990..."Gap/ProblemIdentifies what's missing"Yet, no study has quantified sustainability resilience at sub-national level..."SignificanceWhy it matters"This limits evidence-based climate policy in developing nations."