Defining the Problem

Outline and Guide Questions

General Guidelines
· Answer the guide questions as thoroughly as possible. Support statements with research
whenever necessary.
· SMART questions deal with Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound
matters.

A general overview of the subject or topic of the problem, which will help contextualize the
discussion to follow.
· What are some useful facts to know if one is to understand the nature of the problem in
depth?

A discussion of why such a subject or topic was chosen, and where/how the choice originated.
Must include an explanation of the subject’s or topic’s significance on multiple levels, beginning
with the personal and pragmatic, and proceeding to more theoretical or philosophical levels.
· How did the problem originate as a focus of attention? What were the circumstances that
brought this problem to your attention?
· In what ways is this problem relevant or connected to you on a personal level?
· Why is this problem important enough to merit attention? What are the potential
consequences of leaving this problem unattended? Why should the problem be addressed,
and how urgent is it?
· What larger issues and topics surround this problem, and how are these interrelated to
each other? What attempts have been made in the past to address the problem, or the
larger issues and topics? What were the outcomes of these attempts?

A description and discussion of the problem under examination. Should be initially articulated in
the form of a question.
· What is the problem? Why is it a problem?
· What are the sub-problems related to the main problem? How are they related to the
problem?
· What can be achieved if the problem and sub-problems are successfully addressed?