A problem statement begins the process of framing the issue that needs to be addressed. It describes a situation of concern to the researcher. Creswell describes the problem statement as the rationale behind a study and as the description of how the research fits into the context of existing literature. The process of developing a problem statement is essential for both the researcher and the audience in establishing a point of reference for the research.

The purpose statement follows logically from the problem statement by describing the intention of researching the problem so as to be able to propose a solution. The purpose statement includes a description of the methodology to be utilized and the parameters within which the research will be conducted. Whereas the problem statement establishes a context for conducting a study, the purpose statement asserts the direction that the study will take. The ultimate goal of the purpose statement is to relate the research objective and demonstrate how meeting that objective will contribute to the existing knowledge base (Creswell, 2018).

Both of these statements are meaningful, and extremely important in the research process.

Creswell & Creswell, Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches, 5th Edition,2018

Do you think this is a good response to the difference between problem and purpose statement? Why or Why not? What other suggestions would you give about problem and purpose statement?