0.3 Writing module two: problem statements, introductions, and  (Page 53/5)

Module two objectives

• Introduce Problem Statements
• Learn the Five Parts of the Problem Statement
• Apply tips to Introductions, Issues, and Audience

What is a problem statement?

Problem statements lead the reader from a shared context to the perception of a problem , and on to a proposed solution .

The following examples, though certainly potentially problematic, are not problem statements:

• “The confinement of water molecules in sub-nanometre channels”
• “Insufficient evidence”
• “Difficulty in explaining”

A problem statement does combine elements of the examples above to introduce and approach to a given problem. For example:

The properties of water at the nanoscale are crucial in many areas of biology, but the confinement of water molecules in sub-nanometre channels in biological systems has received relatively little attention. Advances in nanotechnology make it possible to explore the role played by water molecules in living systems, potentially leading to the development of ultrasensitive biosensors. (Mertens, J., et al. )

Recognizing the parts of a problem statement

The example cited above can be broken down into several distinct parts.

• Status Quo : “The properties of water at the nanoscale are crucial in many areas of biology
• Destabilizing Moment : but the confinement of water molecules in sub-nanometre channels in biological systems has received relatively little attention…
• Solution : Advances in nanotechnology make it possible to explore the role played by water molecules in living systems, potentially leading to the development of ultrasensitive biosensors.”

The Craft of Argument emphasizes that Problem Statements are not :

• a topic or “subject,” i.e. “DNA” or “Clean Energy”;
• a summary of what is already known;
• a statement of fact or opinion;
• an explanation, definition, invention, or solution alone.

Acknowledging problems, framing solutions

Don’t forget, if you are introducing an argument , you are making a case for something.

We make arguments to solve problems. Problems can be either conceptual or pragmatic, but they always ask us to think or to act differently . A concise problem statement motivates the reader and sets the stakes for the argument to follow. Williams and Colomb teach us that problems have a familiar structure:

Problem = Destabilizing Condition + Cost [Negative Effect] or Consequence

In other words, before we can approach a solution, we need to understand and accept that we have a problem.

The destabilizing moment

The Destabilizing Moment or Destabilizing Condition is the place where the problem becomes apparent. It often asserts the difference between what is – and – what should or can be . A good Problem Statement introduces a question and makes us aware of the costs that might result from it. Framed another way:

Problem = Question + Costs or Benefits