How to Write the Background of the Problem in a Dissertation

How to write the Background of the Problem in a dissertation. The Background of the Problem is one of the most important sections in a dissertation introduction. It explains the context of your research topic and shows why your study is needed. This section helps the reader understand the issue you are investigating, how it developed over time, and what gaps exist in current knowledge or practice.

A well-written background of the problem in your Chapter 1 sets the stage for your research question and justifies your entire study.

What Is the Background of the Problem?

The Background of the Problem is a section in a dissertation that:

• Introduces the research topic

• Explains the broader context of the issue

• Describes what is already known from existing research

• Identifies gaps, limitations, or unresolved problems

• Leads logically to your research question or purpose

In simple terms, it answers: “What is the issue, and why does it matter?”

Why Is the Background of the Problem Important?

This section is important because it:

• Provides context for your research

• Shows why the topic is relevant and significant

• Demonstrates your understanding of existing literature

• Helps justify your research question

• Connects real-world problems to academic research

Without a clear background, your dissertation may lack focus and direction.

Step 1: Introduce the General Topic

Start by introducing the broad area of your research. This helps the reader understand the general field before narrowing down to your specific problem.

Example:

If your dissertation is about student stress:

• Begin with education and student wellbeing in general

• Then narrow to academic stress in higher education

Keep this section clear and accessible.

Step 2: Narrow Down to the Specific Problem

After introducing the topic, focus on the specific issue you are studying.

Example:

• Broad topic: Mental health in students

• Narrowed problem: Increasing anxiety levels among university students during dissertation writing

This step shows the exact issue your research addresses.

Step 3: Provide Context Using Existing Research

Use relevant studies to show what is already known about your topic. This demonstrates that your research is grounded in academic literature.

Include:

• Key findings from previous research

• Theories related to your topic

• Trends or patterns in the literature

This helps establish credibility and academic relevance.

Step 4: Identify the Research Gap

A strong background of the problem clearly shows what is missing in existing research.

Research gaps may include:

• Limited studies on a specific population

• Outdated research

• Conflicting findings

• Lack of research in a specific context or country

• Missing variables or perspectives

Example:

“While many studies have examined student anxiety, few have explored how dissertation deadlines specifically affect postgraduate mental health.”

This gap justifies your study.

Step 5: Explain Why the Problem Matters

You should explain the real-world importance of your research.

Consider:

• Who is affected by the problem?

• Why is it important to address?

• What are the consequences of not solving it?

This helps show the significance of your study in practical terms.

Step 6: Lead Into Your Research Aim or Question

The final part of the background should naturally lead into your research aim or question.

Example:

“Given the increasing levels of academic stress among postgraduate students, this study aims to explore the factors contributing to dissertation-related anxiety.”

This creates a smooth transition into the next section of your dissertation.

Tips for Writing a Strong Background of the Problem

• Start broad and gradually narrow your focus

• Use recent and relevant academic sources

• Avoid including too much unnecessary detail

• Clearly highlight the research gap

• Keep a logical flow from general to specific

• Maintain academic tone and clarity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Students often make mistakes such as:

• Making the section too broad or too vague

• Including too much literature review detail

• Failing to clearly identify the research problem

• Not explaining the significance of the issue

• Jumping straight to the research question too early

A clear structure helps avoid confusion.

Final Thoughts on How to Write the Background of the Problem in a Dissertation

The Background of the Problem is a foundational part of any dissertation. It helps readers understand the context of your study, highlights gaps in existing research, and justifies why your research is important. By moving logically from a broad topic to a specific problem, you create a strong foundation for your research aim and methodology.

A well-written background makes your dissertation more focused, relevant, and academically credible.

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