Scientific Research Writing and the Statement of the Problem

These flashcards cover the structure of a scientific report, the specific moves and stages of an introduction, and the characteristics of a strong Statement of the Problem (SOP).

Scientific Research Report

A document written to share research with other scientists that should inform, not impress, and must be brief, clear, accurate, and helpful.

IMRAD Structure

The most commonly used manuscript format, which stands for Introduction, Methodology, Results, and Discussion.

Introduction

The first part of a scientific paper describing the reasons for writing, providing motivation, and giving sufficient information so the research can be evaluated.

Research Gap

The identification of what is missing in existing knowledge or additional research needed for the present study.

Move 1: Establishing the Territory

The introductory stage where the researcher states the topic and background for context and provides a review of related literature (RRL).

Move 2: Establishing the Niche

The introductory stage where the researcher indicates the need for additional research by identifying gaps or problems in existing knowledge.

Move 3: Occupying the Niche

The introductory stage where the researcher states the research purpose, objectives, outline, or hypothesis, and explains the study's significance.

Research Question

A clear, focused, and answerable question that guides an entire investigation and is testable through experimentation.

Statement of the Problem (SOP)

A set of research questions that define the investigation, identify variables, and test relationships; often called the "brain" of the research.

Measurable Terms

Specific terms used in a strong SOP to avoid vagueness, including growth rate, temperature change, efficiency, frequency, and yield.

Independent Variable ($IV$)

The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test the effects on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable ($DV$)

The variable being tested and measured in a scientific experiment, which must be included in every SOP question.

Feasibility

A characteristic of a research question indicating it can be answered within the available resources.