This document discusses what constitutes a good research problem and the criteria for selecting one. It states that a research problem should arise from a practical or theoretical issue that needs investigation. Not all problems are researchable, as some involve individual preferences or values that cannot be scientifically identified. A good research problem should not be too vague or narrow, provide an overview of the subject, and make a general concept more specific. It also notes that a research problem must have an empirical basis. Finally, it outlines four key questions - what, why, how, and when - that underpin any research problem framework.

1. RESEARCH PROBLEM:
CRITERIA AND
CHARACTERISTICS
Md. Zakiul Alam
Roll: ZH013
BSS (Hons)4th Semester
Dept. Of Population Sciences
University of Dhaka

2. WHAT IS A RESEARCH
PROBLEM?
In the context of selection of a research problem it is
essential to understand what is a problem and its
components.
A research problem is one which may arise in practice or
theory, which needs some solution by way of investigation.
 The next question that comes up is – are all problems
researchable?

3. ARE ALL PROBLEMS
RESEARCHABLE?
Is daily star the most read newspaper?
Is a Jackson Pollock painting beautiful or dreadful?
Do supernatural entities intervene in human affairs?
Not all human behavior can be guided by scientific knowledge.

4. RESEARCH PROBLEMS
SHOULD :
Not be too vague or too narrow
Have an overview of the subject
Make a general concept more specific by showing its
dimensions, aspects, factors, components or indicators.
The important thing is that the finished product, as a piece of
research ,shows logical conclusions across the different levels
of abstraction.

5. RESEARCH PROBLEMS
SHOULD :
Problems that do not have empirical ground are do not
fulfill the criteria of a research problem. Have an overview
of the subject
Reasons behind………..
1. individual preference,
2. beliefs,
3. traditions,
4. customs
5. and values
cannot be identified by research problems.

6. THE ANSWERS TO FOUR IMPORTANT
QUESTIONS UNDERPIN THE FRAMEWORK
FOR ANY RESEARCH PROBLEM
What are you going to do?
The title and aim of the research should answer this.
• Elaboration on the purpose and outcome is also needed.
 Clarity is essential
Why are you going to do it?
this answer should explain why the research is necessary.
Also be able to state how the outcomes of the research
should provide the solutions to the problems revealed.
Explain the severity of the problem

7. Four important questions contd.
How are you going to do it?
A plan of action laid out to show how the problem is to be
investigated.
What methodology was undertaken.
How the information was analyzed.
When are you going to do it?
Programming your time.
By considering all these issues a problem will be researchable!

8. Thank You