Describe the problem or issue that you are addressing

Introduction (1-2 pages)

In this entire section, you describe the problem or issue that you are addressing, including why the problem is interesting (e.g., there is something that cannot be explained; the standard explanations no longer appear to work). The Introduction should start very broadly and then narrow to the specific issue that you are addressing (the “funnel” approach).

Background / Existing State of Knowledge (include at least two citations from previous studies)

There must be enough detail in this section so that the relevant theory and empirical work are understandable to people outside the area of your research. In addition, you must include enough background to show that: (a) you are familiar with the work that has already been done in the area and on the topic; (b) you understand that work; and (c) that you know how your proposed research fits in with the existing body of work. This section is not a summary of the literature – instead, focus on pulling out the parts of the literature that in some way are critical for the work that you will carry out.

Purpose of Study (1-2 paragraphs)

This section includes a detailed statement of the purpose of study/research questions; in some cases you will be able to state the purpose of study/research questions as a hypothesis.