Research problem clear statement – UGC NET Question

A research problem is the clearly defined issue or difficulty that the researcher intends to investigate through systematic inquiry. It pinpoints what exactly is unsatisfactory or unknown in the existing knowledge or practice. This statement guides the formulation of objectives, hypotheses and methods. Therefore, the clear and precise statement that identifies the central issue of the study is correctly called the research problem.

Option A:
A research objective states what the researcher plans to accomplish in concrete or measurable terms, but it is derived from the prior identification of the research problem. Objectives break down the problem into specific tasks rather than defining the core issue itself. Hence, research objective does not represent the fundamental statement of the central issue.

Option B:
The research problem represents the starting point of any scientific investigation by converting a felt difficulty or gap into a form that can be studied empirically. It provides focus and direction, helping to avoid a diffuse or aimless inquiry. Because it is this statement that identifies the central issue of investigation, research problem appropriately completes the stem.

Option C:
A research hypothesis is a tentative, testable prediction about the relationship between variables that emerges from the research problem and theory. It does not itself describe the broader contextual issue that motivates the study. Thus, research hypothesis is not the best term for the clear statement of the central issue.

Option D:
A research design is the overall plan specifying how data will be collected and analysed, but it presupposes that the problem has already been stated. It focuses on procedure rather than on articulating the core problem. Therefore, research design is not the correct completion for the stem.