3.3: Statement of the Problem
- Page ID
- 7133
In one statement, summarize the problem for which you intend to propose a solution.
Rule of Thumb
The problem should be “local,” in the sense that you are already connected personally with it.
This statement is a poor statement of a problem:
Schools do not have designated smoking areas.
It is not connected to anyone or any place. A better statement of the problem is:
East High School does not have a room for students who smoke to study or a place for students who smoke to hang out.
This statement assumes it is “local” (if I attended East High School) and personal (if I know the situation from my own experience).
In my own experience, which is teaching writing, teachers often tell me that they think students should be better writers when they graduate. I think I can help out. First, however, I must articulate the problem if I ever hope to propose a solution. For example:
Example \(\PageIndex{1}\):
Statement of Problem
Students leave Newman University without professional writing skills.
It is something I am connected with personally and something I think I can offer a solution for. I will start with that statement.
Rule of Thumb
Assume that the “Statement of Problem” will change constantly while you are writing your other sections.