Introduction -Begin with an overview of the general topic to establish the context of the study and orient the reader to the field.

Describe the larger context in which the problem exists. Explain how the problem can be addressed by the study.

Present an overview of why this research topic is relevant and warranted.

Briefly explain what research has been done on the topic and why the topic is important practically and empirically (applied and PhD) as well as theoretically (PhD).

Clearly lead the reader to the problem statement that will follow. The reader should not be surprised by the problem that is described later in the document.

Do not explicitly state the study problem, purpose, or methodology, as they are discussed in subsequent sections. 

Problem Statement -Begin with "The problem to be addressed by this study is...". This statement should logically flow from the introduction and clearly identify the problem to be addressed by the study.

Succinctly discuss the problem and provide evidence of its existence.

Identify who is impacted by the problem (e.g., individuals, organizations, industries, or society), what is not known that should be known about it, and what the potential negative consequences could be if the problem is not addressed in this study.

Ensure that the concepts that are presented are exactly the same as those that are mentioned in the Purpose Statement section.

Do not exceed 250-300 words. 

Purpose of the Study - Begin with a succinct purpose statement that identifies the study method, design, and overarching goal: "The purpose of this [identify research methodology] [identify research design] study is to [identify the goal of the dissertation that directly reflects and encompasses the research questions that will follow]."

Indicate how the study is a logical, explicit research response to the stated problem and the research questions that will follow.

Continue with a brief but clear step-by-step overview of how the study will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) conducted. .

Identify the variables/constructs, materials/instrumentation, and analysis.

Identify the target population and sample size that will be needed (proposal) or was obtained (manuscript).

Identify the site(s) where the research will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) conducted using general geographic terms to avoid identifying the specific location. To avoid compromising participants' confidentiality or anonymity, use pseudonyms. 

2 pages

APA