Identifies the research problem – as with any academic study, you must
state clearly and concisely the research problem being investigated.
Reviews the literature — reviews scholarship on the topic, synthesizing key
themes and, if necessary, noting studies that have used similar methods of
inquiry and analysis. Note where key gaps exist and how your study helps to
fill these gaps or clarifies existing knowledge.
Describes the theoretical framework — provide an outline of the theory or
the hypothesis underpinning your study. If necessary, define unfamiliar or
complex terms, concepts, or ideas and provide the appropriate background
information to place the research problem in the proper context [e.g., historical,
cultural, economic, etc.].
