Example of Purpose of the Study | Purpose Statement – How to Write Your Purpose Statement

Introduction

In the realm of research, understanding the purpose of the study is crucial for both researchers and readers. This article delves into the intricacies of crafting a clear and effective purpose statement, whether you’re conducting a qualitative study or a quantitative research. We’ll explore the definition, importance, and key components of a purpose of the study, providing examples and step-by-step guides to help you articulate your research goals. Whether you’re working on a case study, a phenomenological study, or a quantitative correlational study, this comprehensive guide will help you develop a purpose of the study statement that succinctly explains the focus of your research and aligns with your problem statement, research aim, objectives and questions. This is an important section in the dissertation chapter one, as shown in our dissertation template.

What is a Purpose of the Study?

Definition of a Purpose of the Study

The purpose of the study is a concise paragraph that outlines the intent of the research study. It serves as the foundation for your entire research project, clearly stating what you aim to accomplish. In essence, the purpose of the study succinctly explains the reason for conducting the study and the specific goals you hope to achieve. Whether you’re writing a qualitative purpose of the study statement or a quantitative research purpose statement, it should provide a clear picture of the purpose and direction of your research.

The purpose of the study statement typically includes key concepts under study and may vary depending on whether you’re conducting a qualitative study or a quantitative research. For instance, in a qualitative study, the purpose might be to explore or describe a phenomenon, while in quantitative research, the purpose often involves measuring relationships between variables or testing hypotheses.

Importance of the Purpose Statement in Research

The purpose of the study plays a crucial role in research as it narrows and focuses the study aims. It provides greater clarity for the research process and helps readers understand the goal of the study. A well-crafted purpose of the study should flow directly from the problem statement and set the stage for the research questions and methodology.

In both qualitative and quantitative research, purpose statements reflect viable research objectives and guide the entire study. They help researchers maintain focus throughout the research process and ensure that all aspects of the study align with its primary goal. Moreover, the purpose statement serves as a communication tool, allowing other researchers and stakeholders to quickly grasp the intent of the study.

The way you articulate your purpose of the study may evolve as you develop your study, but having a clear initial declaration of purpose is essential for maintaining direction and coherence in your research.

Key Components of a Purpose Statement in Research

A comprehensive purpose statement should include several key elements:

• The intent of the study (e.g., explore, describe, explain, or predict)
• The specific focus of your research
• The participants or subjects in the study
• The context or setting of the research
• The central phenomenon or variables being studied

For a qualitative study, the purpose of the study statement might emphasize exploration or description. For example, “The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the experiences of first-generation college students in adapting to university life.”

In contrast, quantitative purpose of the study often include measurable objectives. For instance, “The purpose of this quantitative correlational study is to determine the relationship between employee satisfaction and productivity in tech startups.”

Regardless of the research type, the purpose of the study should specifically address the main objective of your study and provide a foundation for your research questions.

How to Determine the Purpose of Your Study

Determining the purpose of your study involves careful consideration of your research interests, the gaps in existing literature, and the potential impact of your findings. Start by reviewing your problem statement, as the purpose of the study statement should emerge directly from it. Consider what you hope to achieve with your research and how it will contribute to your field.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want to learn or understand better?
• What problem am I trying to solve?
• How will my study address the identified research gap?

These questions will help you clarify your mind as to the purpose of your research and guide you in crafting a focused purpose of the study statement.

Examples of Purpose of the Study

• Qualitative example: “The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore the lived experiences of cancer survivors in returning to work after treatment.”

• Quantitative example: “The purpose of this quantitative study is to examine the relationship between social media usage and academic performance among high school students.”

• Mixed-methods example: “The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions in reducing workplace stress and to explore employees’ perceptions of these interventions.”

These examples demonstrate how the purpose statement succinctly explains the focus of the research, the method employed, and the specific aspects being studied.

How to Write Your Purpose Statement?

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Purpose Statement

Step1: Identify your research type

• Determine whether you’re conducting a qualitative study, quantitative research, or a mixed-methods approach. This will influence the language and structure of your purpose of the study.

Step 2: Clarify your research focus

• Based on your problem statement, pinpoint the specific aspect of the issue you want to address. The purpose of the study should flow directly from the problem statement, narrowing the focus to a manageable research objective.

Step 3: Choose appropriate verbs

• Select action verbs that accurately describe what your study aims to do. For qualitative studies, verbs like “explore,” “describe,” or “understand” are common. Quantitative studies often use verbs like “measure,” “test,” or “evaluate.”

Step 4: Incorporate key elements

• Ensure your purpose of the study includes:

– The intent of the study
   – The specific focus or phenomenon being studied
   – The participants or population
   – The research context or setting
   – Any relevant variables or concepts

Here’s a template to help structure your purpose statement:

“The purpose of this [type of study] is to [verb] [what/whom] [where/when] for the purpose of [why].”

For example:

“The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore how small businesses in urban areas adapt to economic downturns for the purpose of identifying effective resilience strategies.”

Remember, the purpose statement should be concise yet comprehensive. It should provide a clear roadmap for your research without delving into specific methodological details. As you develop your study, you may need to refine your purpose statement to ensure it accurately reflects your research goals and aligns with your problem statement and research questions.

Common Practices for Writing Your Purpose

When writing the purpose of the study, several common practices can enhance clarity and effectiveness:

• Be specific: Clearly state what you intend to do in your research.
• Use appropriate language: Employ terms consistent with your research methodology.
• Align with the problem statement: Ensure your purpose of the study directly addresses the identified problem.
• Keep it concise: Aim for a single paragraph that succinctly explains your research intent.
• Avoid jargon: Use clear, accessible language that readers across disciplines can understand.
• Focus on objectives: Emphasize what you aim to achieve rather than the methods you’ll use.
• Be realistic: Ensure your purpose of the study reflects viable research objectives within your constraints.
• Review and revise: As your research evolves, be prepared to adjust your purpose of the study for better clarity and focus.

By following these practices, you can craft a purpose of the study that effectively communicates the core of your research study.

Tips for Crafting a Clear Purpose Statement in Research

To create a clear and effective purpose statement:

• Start with a strong verb that accurately describes your research intent (e.g., explore, examine, analyze).
• Be specific about what you’re studying and who your participants are.
• Avoid using vague or ambiguous terms that could confuse readers.
• Ensure your purpose of the study aligns with your research questions and hypotheses.
• Keep it concise – aim for one or two sentences that capture the essence of your study.
• Use language appropriate for your field and methodology.
• Have colleagues or mentors review your purpose of the study for clarity and focus.
• Revise your purpose statement as your research develops to maintain accuracy.
• Ensure it provides a clear link between your problem statement and research questions.
• Consider the broader implications of your study when framing your purpose.

Remember, a well-crafted purpose statement sets the tone for your entire research project.

Example 1: Example of Purpose of the Study

“The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the experiences of remote workers in maintaining work-life balance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through in-depth interviews with professionals who transitioned to remote work in 2020, this study aims to identify common challenges, successful strategies, and potential long-term impacts on work culture. By examining these experiences, the research seeks to contribute to the understanding of remote work dynamics and inform organizational policies that support employee well-being in distributed work environments. This study will be conducted over a six-month period, focusing on knowledge workers across various industries in the United States.”

Example 2: Example of Purpose of the Study

“The purpose of this quantitative correlational study is to determine the relationship between employee engagement levels and customer satisfaction ratings in the retail banking sector. By analyzing survey data from 500 employees across 50 branches of a national bank chain, alongside corresponding customer feedback scores, this study aims to examine the potential impact of employee engagement on service quality and customer experience. The findings of this study will provide insights for bank managers and human resource professionals to develop strategies that enhance both employee satisfaction and customer service outcomes, potentially leading to improved organizational performance in the competitive banking industry.”

What Should Be Included in the Purpose Section?

Linking Your Purpose Statement to Research Questions

The purpose of the study should serve as a bridge between your problem statement and research questions. It should provide a clear foundation from which your research questions naturally emerge. When crafting your purpose statement, consider how it will guide the development of your research questions.

For example, if your purpose statement is “The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of social media usage on adolescent mental health,” your research questions might include:

• How does the frequency of social media use correlate with reported levels of anxiety and depression in adolescents?
• What specific aspects of social media engagement are most strongly associated with positive or negative mental health outcomes?

Ensure that your purpose statement is broad enough to encompass all your research questions, yet specific enough to provide clear direction. This link between purpose and questions helps maintain coherence throughout your study.

Incorporating Significance of the Study into Your Purpose Section

While the purpose statement focuses on what you aim to do in your study, it’s also important to touch on why it matters. Incorporating the significance of the study into your purpose of the study section can provide context and justify the importance of your research.

Consider addressing:

• The gap in existing knowledge your study will fill
• Potential practical applications of your findings
• How your study contributes to the broader field

For example:

“The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing workplace stress among healthcare professionals. By examining the impact of these interventions on stress levels, job satisfaction, and patient care quality, this research aims to provide evidence-based strategies for improving healthcare worker well-being and, consequently, patient outcomes. The findings of this study will contribute to the growing body of literature on workplace wellness programs and may inform hospital policies aimed at reducing burnout and improving retention rates in high-stress medical environments.”

What is a Sample Purpose Statement?

Example 3: Example of Purpose of the Study

“The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of renewable energy technologies in rural communities. Through a combination of surveys and in-depth interviews with residents and local leaders in three rural counties, this research aims to identify the barriers and motivators affecting renewable energy adoption. The quantitative component will examine correlations between demographic factors and adoption rates, while the qualitative aspect will explore personal attitudes and community dynamics. This study seeks to inform policymakers and energy companies about effective strategies for promoting sustainable energy solutions in rural areas, potentially contributing to more targeted and successful green energy initiatives.”

Analyzing a Sample Purpose Statement

Let’s analyze the sample purpose statement above:

• It clearly states the type of study (mixed-methods).
• The main verb (investigate) indicates the research intent.
• It specifies the focus (factors influencing renewable energy adoption).
• The context and participants are clearly defined (rural communities, residents, and local leaders).
• It outlines both quantitative and qualitative aspects of the study.
• The statement explains the potential significance and application of the research.
• It’s concise yet comprehensive, providing a clear overview of the study’s aims and scope.

This purpose statement effectively communicates the what, why, and how of the research study.

Creating Your Own Purpose Statement from a Sample

When creating your own purpose statement, use the sample as a guide but tailor it to your specific research:

• Start with “The purpose of this [type] study is to [main verb]…”
• Clearly state what you’re studying and why it’s important.
• Specify your research context and participants.
• If applicable, briefly mention your methodology.
• Include the potential impact or significance of your study.

For example:

“The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study is to explore the experiences of first-generation college students in navigating academic and social challenges. By conducting in-depth interviews with 20 first-generation students at a large public university, this research aims to identify common obstacles and successful coping strategies. The findings will inform university support programs and policies aimed at improving retention and success rates among this student population.”

Comparing Different Types of Purpose Statements

Purpose statements can vary significantly depending on the type of research being conducted. Let’s compare purpose statements for different research approaches:

1. Qualitative Purpose Statement:

“The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore how small business owners in urban areas adapt their marketing strategies during economic downturns. Through in-depth interviews and observation of 10 small businesses in Chicago, this study aims to identify innovative approaches and best practices for maintaining customer engagement during challenging economic times.”

2. Quantitative Purpose Statement:

“The purpose of this quantitative correlational study is to examine the relationship between employee satisfaction and productivity in tech startups. By analyzing survey data from 500 employees across 50 tech startups, this research seeks to determine if there is a significant correlation between job satisfaction levels and measurable productivity metrics.”

3. Mixed-Methods Purpose Statement:

“The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to investigate the impact of a new literacy program on reading comprehension skills of elementary school students. Quantitative data from standardized test scores will be analyzed to measure improvements, while qualitative interviews with teachers and students will explore perceptions and experiences with the program.”

Key differences:

• Qualitative statements often use words like “explore” or “describe” and focus on understanding experiences or phenomena.
• Quantitative statements typically use terms like “examine,” “measure,” or “test” and focus on relationships between variables or testing hypotheses.
• Mixed-methods statements combine elements of both, often using phrases like “investigate” or “assess” and explaining both quantitative and qualitative components.

How to Connect the Problem Statement and Purpose Statement?

Relationship Between Problem Statement and Purpose Statement

The problem statement and purpose statement are closely intertwined in research. While the problem statement identifies the issue or gap in knowledge that your research addresses, the purpose statement outlines how you intend to address this problem through your study.

The purpose statement should flow directly from the problem statement, providing a logical connection between the identified issue and your research goals. Think of the problem statement as the “what” and “why” of your research, while the purpose of the study statement is the “how” and “what for.” Together, they provide a clear rationale and direction for your study, ensuring alignment between the research problem and your objectives.

Writing the Problem Statement and Purpose Statement Together

When writing the problem statement and purpose statement together, consider the following approach:

1. Start with the problem statement:

•   Identify the research problem or knowledge gap
•   Explain why this problem is significant
•   Provide context and background information

2. Transition to the purpose statement:

• Use phrases like “Therefore, the purpose of this study is…” or “To address this problem, this research aims to…”
• Clearly state your research objectives
• Explain how your study will contribute to solving the identified problem

3. Ensure alignment:

• Check that your purpose directly addresses the problem
• Verify that the scope of your purpose is appropriate for the identified problem

4. Review for clarity and coherence:

• Ensure both statements are clear and concise
• Confirm that together they provide a logical and compelling rationale for your study

By developing these statements in tandem, you create a strong foundation for your research.

Importance of Alignment Between Statements

The alignment between your problem statement and purpose statement is crucial for several reasons:

• Research focus: Proper alignment ensures your study remains focused on addressing the identified problem.
• Logical flow: It provides a clear, logical progression from the research problem to your study’s objectives.
• Justification: Alignment helps justify the need for your study by directly connecting it to an existing problem or knowledge gap.
• Coherence: It enhances the overall coherence of your research design.
• Clarity: Well-aligned statements provide greater clarity for the purpose of your study to readers and reviewers.

Remember, the purpose of the study should flow directly from the problem statement, creating a seamless narrative for your research.

What are the Common Mistakes in Writing Purpose Statements?

Identifying Common Errors in Purpose Statements

When writing their purpose statement, researchers often make several common mistakes:

• Being too vague: The purpose statement should focus on specific objectives, not broad generalizations.
• Including methodology details: While important, detailed methodology doesn’t belong in the purpose statement.
• Misalignment with the problem statement: The purpose should directly address the identified problem.
• Overambitious scope: Attempting to cover too much in a single study can lead to unfocused research.
• Neglecting to identify participants: Failing to specify who will be studied is a common oversight.
• Using passive voice: Active voice makes the purpose clearer and more direct.
• Incorporating personal preferences and desired study outcomes: The statement should be objective and unbiased.
• Failing to distinguish between qualitative and quantitative approaches: There are vast differences between the purpose statements written for qualitative versus quantitative studies.
• Not following the color-coded problem statement: Your purpose statement should reflect and align with your problem statement.

Awareness of these common errors can help in crafting a more effective purpose statement.

Avoiding Ambiguity in Your Purpose Statement

To avoid ambiguity when writing the purpose statement:

• Be specific about what your study will examine.
• Clearly state “the purpose of this qualitative” or quantitative study.
• Use precise language that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
• Avoid jargon or overly complex terminology.
• Ensure that each component of your statement is clear and necessary.
• Focus on one main objective rather than multiple competing goals.
• Specify the participants in the study and the context of the research.
• Use action verbs that clearly convey your research intentions.
• Review your statement to ensure it doesn’t presuppose you know the study’s outcomes.

How to Revise Your Purpose Statement for Clarity

To revise your purpose statement for clarity:

• Start by printing out your problem statement and purpose statement. Keep them side by side for easy reference.
• Review these purpose statements critically, checking for alignment with your problem statement.
• Ensure your purpose statement is a concise paragraph that captures the essence of your study in a single sentence.
• Use a purpose of the study template to structure your statement if needed.
• For qualitative research, purpose statements should use exploratory language, while quantitative research purpose incorporates measurable objectives.
• Check that your statement narrows and focuses the purpose of your study appropriately.
• Identify in the purpose statement the key concepts under study.
• Consider using a script for drafting purpose of the study to ensure you include all necessary elements.
• Seek feedback from colleagues or mentors to gain new perspectives.
• Be prepared to make adjustments to your purpose of the study as your research evolves.

Remember, developing the purpose of the study section is an iterative process that often requires multiple revisions to achieve clarity and precision.

FAQs about Purpose of the Study