When applying for a PhD or preparing for an interview, one of the most critical sections that can make or break your proposal is the Research Problem and Research Gap.
This section isn’t just a formality — it’s your chance to prove your study is valuable, unique, and needed right now. Let’s break it down in a simple, clear, and powerful way that even a selection panel can’t ignore.
What Is a Research Problem?
A research problem is the central issue or challenge your study wants to solve or explore. It’s usually a real-world question or gap in understanding that hasn’t been clearly answered yet.
Example:
“Despite multiple government schemes, Dalit women in rural India still struggle to access higher education.”
This is not just a statement — it’s a call for inquiry, a social issue that needs investigation.
What Is a Research Gap?
A research gap is the missing piece in existing studies. It could be a topic that was:
- Ignored
- Underexplored
- Only partially understood
Example of a Gap:
“Most studies on women’s education focus on urban areas. But the barriers faced by rural Dalit women remain largely unexamined.”
Here’s where your research steps in — to fill the gap and contribute something original.
Why Are These Important in a PhD Proposal or Interview?
Your problem + gap combo shows that:
- Your study matters
- You are not repeating what others have done
- You have studied the literature seriously
- You have a clear purpose and direction
- Your topic is timely and relevant
Without a strong research problem and gap, your proposal might seem weak, vague, or redundant.
How to Clearly Write the Problem and Gap Section?
Use this simple 3-part structure:
1. What is already known?
Briefly state the studies that exist.
2. What is not yet studied?
Pinpoint the exact area missing from current research.
3. What needs attention now?
Explain the urgency or value of solving this issue.
Example for Writing Your Gap Section:
“Several studies have discussed educational inequality in India. However, there is a lack of focused research on the school experiences of Dalit girl students in rural Bihar. This study aims to address this underexplored area.”
See how it shows:
- Awareness of literature
- A real issue
- Purpose and relevance
What Does This Tell the PhD Interview Panel?
When your research problem and gap are clear, it tells the interviewers:
- You didn’t randomly pick a topic — you’ve found a real issue
- You know what’s missing in current studies
- You are ready to add value to academia or society
- You have a clear vision and academic maturity
Pro Tips for Your Research Gap Section
- Avoid generic topics. Instead, zoom in on a specific, actionable issue.
- Back up your gap with facts or references from credible sources.
- Ensure your objectives, questions, and methodology match the gap you’re trying to fill.
- Keep it crisp — no unnecessary jargon or fluff.
Why It’s Your Secret Weapon?
Most candidates struggle here. If you get this right, you’ll immediately stand out.
Why? Because committees are looking for purpose, originality, and direction.
And that’s exactly what the research problem and gap section delivers.
FAQs: Research Problem & Gap in PhD Proposal
Q1. Can I find a research gap even if my topic is broad?
Yes, but narrow it down to a specific region, group, or issue to make it impactful.
Q2. How do I find the research gap?
Read recent journal articles and look at their “limitations” and “future scope” sections. That’s where gaps often hide.
Q3. What if someone has already worked on my problem?
That’s okay. You just need to identify what they missed, or apply their idea to a new region, context, or population.
Q4. Can I mention multiple gaps?
It’s better to focus on one main gap — too many can confuse your reader and weaken your core argument.
Q5. Should I include real-life examples?
Absolutely! It makes your proposal more relatable and grounded.
