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2 years ago in Research Objectives By Rachna M

How do I ensure my research objectives are truly aligned with my problem statement?

I have a clear problem statement about a gap in renewable energy policy, but my objectives seem like a generic list of research tasks. How do I make it obvious that each objective directly tackles a piece of the problem I've defined?

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By Jahnvi Answered 1 year ago

The best method is a direct mapping exercise. Take your problem statement and dissect it into its constituent parts or implied questions. Each part should spawn an objective. For example, if your problem is: "Policy X fails due to a lack of data on stakeholder perceptions (Part A) and an outdated cost-benefit model (Part B)." Then, your objectives become: 1. To identify and analyze key stakeholder perceptions through surveys and interviews (addresses Part A). 2. To develop an updated cost-benefit model incorporating socio-environmental factors (addresses Part B). You can even annotate your proposal with this mapping. This creates an irrefutable logic chain: the problem has components A and B, therefore the research must accomplish objectives 1 and 2. The committee should see the objectives as the only logical response to the problem.

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