Research is defined as a systematic inquiry into a problem using scientific methods. A research problem is a clear statement about an area needing investigation or improvement. Research problems come from various sources, including social issues, previous studies, and personal interests. When formulating a research problem, researchers specify objectives, review the context, explore the nature of the problem, define variable relationships, and consider alternative courses of action. Characteristics of a good research problem include being clear, specific, limited in scope, researchable, and free of ethical constraints.