Research rationale explains the justification for conducting a study, highlighting its importance and relevance. It outlines the problem being addressed, the gaps in existing knowledge and how the research will contribute to resolving these issues. It provides a clear argument for why the research is necessary and valuable.
Research rationale is also referred to as the justification of the study, the purpose of the study, the problem statement or the study’s significance.
This blog post explores the research rationale, outlining its significance, structure and key components. First, it explains why a research rationale is essential in academic writing, providing a step-by-step guide on how to write a well-structured justification for a study. In addition, it covers where research rationale appears in academic texts and how long it should be, and it provides examples across various disciplines.
- Research rationale: Purpose | Length | Structure
- Academic texts with a research rationale
- 5 steps to write a research rationale
- When is the research rationale written?
- Template
- Examples
- Editing services
- Resources
What is a research rationale?
A research rationale is a justification for a study. It explains why the research is necessary, what problem it addresses and how it contributes to existing knowledge. It identifies gaps in the literature, unresolved issues or practical challenges that require further investigation. A well-structured rationale provides a clear foundation for the study, ensuring it is relevant and meaningful.
What is the purpose of a research rationale?
A research rationale serves several key functions:
✔ Clarifies the research problem: It defines the issue being investigated and explains why it is significant.
✔ Identifies gaps in existing knowledge: It highlights missing information or unanswered questions that the study aims to address.
✔ Strengthens the study’s relevance: It connects the research to broader academic, professional or societal contexts.
✔ Justifies methodological choices: It explains why a particular approach or framework is appropriate for the research.
✔ Enhances credibility: It ensures that the study is well-founded, logically structured and aligned with academic expectations.
Academic texts that include a research rationale
Research rationale appears in various academic texts, including:
- Research proposals: Justifies the need for the study before it begins.
- Theses and dissertations: Included in the introduction to explain the study’s purpose and significance.
- Journal articles: Appears in the introduction, providing background and justifying the research.
- Grant applications: Essential for securing funding by explaining the study’s importance.
- Conference papers: Introduces the research topic and its relevance to the field.
How long should the research rationale be?
A well-structured research rationale should be concise but comprehensive, ensuring clarity while maintaining relevance to the study. The length of the research rationale depends on the type of academic text. As a percentage of the total word count, it typically falls within these ranges:
- Research proposals: 10%–20% (often part of the introduction)
- Theses and dissertations: 5%–10% (within the introduction or literature review)
- Journal articles: 5%–10% (concise explanation in the introduction)
- Grant applications: 10%–15% (focused on research significance and impact)
- Conference papers: 5%–10% (brief but clear justification in the introduction)
What is the structure of a research rationale?
A well-structured research rationale justifies the need for a study by explaining its foundation, significance and contribution to existing knowledge. It follows a 5-part structure that ensures clarity and coherence.
#1 Background
The rationale begins with an overview of the research topic. This section summarises existing knowledge and provides background information to set the stage for the study.
✔ Summarises conclusions from the literature review: Highlights dominant theories, established facts and prevailing trends in the field.
✔ Demonstrates what is already known: Ensures the research builds on existing knowledge rather than starting from scratch.
✔ Provides a foundation for the study: Connects the new research to previous work, showing continuity.
#2 Problem statement
A strong research rationale clearly defines the problem being investigated. It identifies gaps in current knowledge and explains why further research is necessary.
✔ Limited research on a specific aspect: Some areas may not have been explored in depth.
✔ Lack of comprehensive data: Existing studies might not provide sufficient or conclusive evidence.
✔ Failure to apply theories in new contexts: Theories or models may need testing in different settings.
#3 Relevance
This section justifies why the research is important. It connects the study to broader academic, professional or societal contexts, demonstrating its impact.
✔ Addresses inconclusive or controversial findings: Some studies may have reached opposing conclusions on the same issue.
✔ Responds to a lack of definitive evidence: Prior research may not be robust enough to draw clear conclusions.
✔ Strengthens understanding through further validation: A new study can confirm, challenge or refine previous findings.
#4 Objectives
Clearly stating the research objectives ensures the study remains focused and purposeful. This section outlines what the research seeks to accomplish.
✔ Clarifies unanswered questions: Research may expand on unresolved issues or emerging trends.
✔ Updates outdated concepts: Theories and frameworks may need revision due to new discoveries.
✔ Incorporates technological advancements: New tools or methods may allow for deeper or more precise investigation.
#5 Justification
A strong research rationale concludes by explaining how the study will fill the identified gap. It highlights the research’s originality, relevance and potential impact.
✔ Expands on previous research: Builds on existing knowledge to refine theories or introduce new perspectives.
✔ Offers methodological improvements: Uses innovative approaches or advanced techniques to enhance research accuracy.
✔ Provides practical applications: Generates findings that benefit academia, policymakers or industry professionals.
What are 5 steps to write a research rationale?
A research rationale justifies the necessity of a study by identifying a specific problem or gap in existing knowledge, explaining its significance and outlining how the proposed research aims to address it. To write an effective research rationale, follow these steps:
- Introduce the research context: Begin by providing background information on your topic. Summarise existing studies and highlight key findings to set the stage for your research.
- Identify the gap or problem: Clearly state the gap in knowledge or the specific problem that current research has not addressed. This highlights the need for your study.
- Explain the significance: Discuss why it is important to address this gap or problem. Also, consider the potential impact on the field, society or specific communities.
- Outline your research objectives: Clearly define what your study aims to achieve. This provides a roadmap for your research and shows how it will address the identified gap.
- Justify your methodological approach: Briefly explain the methods you will use and why they are appropriate for your research objectives. This demonstrates the feasibility and validity of your approach.
When is the research rationale written?
The research rationale can be written before and after the research is conducted.
- Before conducting the research: Researchers write the rationale as part of a proposal, introduction or funding application. It establishes the study’s purpose, identifies gaps in existing knowledge and explains why the research is necessary. This helps secure approval or funding and provides a clear research direction.
- After conducting the research: The rationale can be refined in the final paper, thesis or journal article. At this stage, it reinforces how the study addressed the initial problem, contributed to the field and provided meaningful insights. It also justifies the chosen research approach based on the findings.
Template for writing a research rationale
A well-structured research rationale justifies the need for a study by clearly explaining its foundation, purpose and significance. In addition, it highlights existing knowledge, identifies gaps and demonstrates why further investigation is necessary.
Below is a detailed outline that combines the 5-part structure of a research rationale with key elements that strengthen its argument. By answering the guiding questions in each section, researchers can develop a complete and compelling research rationale.
#1 Background: Establishing context
This section provides an overview of the research topic, summarises existing literature and establishes the foundation for the study.
✔ What is the research topic?
✔ What is already known about this topic?
✔ What are the dominant theories, key concepts or relevant studies related to the topic?
✔ How does the study connect to existing research?
Key elements to include:
- A summary of key findings from previous studies
- An explanation of how the research builds on existing knowledge rather than starting from scratch
- A discussion of prevailing trends, theories or concepts relevant to the research area
#2 Problem statement: Identifying the gap
This section defines the issue the research aims to address and explains why it is significant.
✔ What specific problem does this research address?
✔ Why is this problem important?
✔ What are the consequences of not addressing this issue?
✔ Has this problem been explored before? If so, what gaps remain?
Key elements to include:
- A clear description of the gap in knowledge, practical challenge or theoretical issue
- Identification of gaps in current knowledge, such as:
- Limited research on a specific aspect of the topic
- Lack of comprehensive data or conclusive evidence
- Failure to apply existing theories in new contexts
#3 Relevance: Explaining the study’s significance
This section justifies the importance of the research and its potential impact.
✔ Why does this research matter?
✔ How does it contribute to the academic field, industry or society?
✔ Who benefits from this study (e.g. researchers, policymakers, businesses, communities)?
✔ Does this research align with current trends or emerging issues?
Key elements to include:
- Explanation of how the study builds on previous research, addressing:
- Unanswered questions from earlier studies
- The need to update theories or frameworks in light of new discoveries
- Recent technological advancements that enable new insights
- Discussion of real-world applications and potential impact on policy, education, healthcare or other relevant areas
#4 Objectives: Defining the research goals
This section outlines what the research aims to achieve and the expected outcomes.
✔ What are the specific aims of the research?
✔ What are the key research questions or hypotheses?
✔ What outcomes are expected?
✔ How will success be measured?
Key elements to include:
- A clear statement of the study’s objectives
- Explanation of how the research contributes new knowledge, validates existing theories or offers practical solutions
- Link between research questions and methodology, showing how they align
#5 Justification: Demonstrating the study’s contribution
This section explains why the research approach is valid and how it effectively addresses the problem.
✔ How does this research build on or challenge existing knowledge?
✔ What makes this study unique or necessary?
✔ What methods will be used and why are they appropriate?
✔ How will this research produce reliable and meaningful results?
Key elements to include:
- Justification of research design and methodology, explaining why they are suitable for answering the research questions
- Addressing inconclusive or controversial findings from previous studies:
- Conflicting results that need clarification
- Gaps in empirical evidence that require further validation
- Alternative interpretations that the study aims to explore
- Explanation of how findings will contribute to academic knowledge or practical applications.
Examples of a research rationale
Here are some examples of research rationale in 5 academic fields and in 5 types of academic texts:
- Example 1: Research proposal in social sciences
- Example 2: Master’s thesis in education
- Example 3: Journal article in healthcare
- Example 4: PhD dissertation in environmental science
- Example 5: Grant proposal in engineering
Example 1: Research proposal in social sciences
The Impact of social media on political polarisation
Research rationale
Political polarisation has intensified in recent years, with social media playing a critical role in shaping public opinion. Existing research has explored how social media algorithms create echo chambers, reinforcing users’ beliefs. However, studies primarily focus on the United States, with limited research on how these dynamics unfold in European political contexts.
This study addresses this gap by examining how social media influences political division in European democracies. By analysing engagement patterns, misinformation spread and ideological shifts, this research will provide insights into how digital platforms contribute to polarisation. Understanding these trends can inform policies that promote balanced online discourse and reduce misinformation.
Example 2: Master’s thesis in education
The Effectiveness of online learning in primary education
Research rationale
The COVID-19 pandemic forced schools worldwide to shift to online learning. While many studies focus on university students, research on its effectiveness in primary education remains limited. Younger students require interactive learning environments, yet digital platforms often fail to replicate classroom engagement.
This study examines how online learning affects academic performance and social development in primary school students. It fills a critical gap by comparing learning outcomes in traditional and digital classrooms. Findings will help educators refine e-learning strategies, ensuring that technology supports rather than hinders early childhood education.
Example 3: Journal article in healthcare
The role of artificial intelligence in early cancer detection
Research rationale
Early cancer detection significantly improves survival rates. Traditional diagnostic methods rely on imaging and pathology reports, which can be subjective and prone to human error. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer promising solutions for enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Despite AI’s potential, few studies assess its real-world effectiveness in clinical settings. Most research focuses on algorithm development rather than patient outcomes. This study evaluates AI-assisted diagnostic tools in hospitals, comparing accuracy, efficiency and patient impact. Findings will contribute to integrating AI into medical practice, ultimately improving early cancer detection rates.
Example 4: PhD dissertation in environmental science
The impact of urban green spaces on mental health
Research rationale
Rapid urbanisation has reduced green spaces in many cities, raising concerns about its impact on mental well-being. Research suggests that access to parks and nature improves mental health, yet most studies focus on self-reported well-being rather than physiological indicators.
This dissertation investigates how urban green spaces influence mental health by analysing cortisol levels, heart rate variability and survey responses. By combining physiological and psychological data, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of nature’s role in mental health. Findings will guide urban planning policies to prioritise green spaces for public health benefits.
Example 5: Grant proposal in engineering
Sustainable materials for affordable housing
Research rationale
Housing shortages and environmental concerns highlight the need for sustainable, affordable building materials. Traditional construction methods rely on resource-intensive materials like concrete and steel, which contribute to carbon emissions.
While alternative materials exist, research on their cost-effectiveness and durability is limited. This study evaluates the feasibility of using recycled and bio-based materials in low-cost housing. By assessing structural integrity, insulation properties and environmental impact, this research aims to develop practical, sustainable solutions for affordable housing. Findings will support government policies and industry adoption of eco-friendly construction methods.
Editing services
Academic editing services refine research papers to ensure they meet high scholarly standards. Copyediting and proofreading can help improve academic texts, including the quality of a research rationale. Copyediting improves clarity, coherence and academic style, while proofreading eliminates language errors and formatting inconsistencies. Together, these editing services increase the chances of approval for submission or publication.
Copyediting
Copyediting focuses on improving the readability, logical flow and consistency of the research rationale. In addition, it ensures that the text is clear, well-structured and academically appropriate.
✔ Refining the research rationale: Strengthens how the rationale explains the research problem, knowledge gap and relevance.
✔ Improving structure and logical flow: Ensures smooth transitions between background, problem statement and justification.
✔ Enhancing academic tone and style: Adjusts wording to align with formal academic writing standards.
✔ Eliminating redundancy and ambiguity: Removes repetitive phrases and clarifies unclear arguments.
✔ Standardising terminology: Ensures consistency in key terms and concepts throughout the document.
Proofreading
Proofreading is the final stage of editing, focusing on minor errors in grammar, punctuation and formatting. Moreover, it ensures the document is error-free and ready for submission.
✔ Correcting grammar, punctuation and spelling: Eliminates typos, subject-verb agreement errors and awkward phrasing.
✔ Checking citation and reference accuracy: Ensures proper citation format (e.g. APA, MLA, Chicago).
✔ Verifying journal or institutional formatting guidelines: Adjusts layout, headings, spacing and font as required.
✔ Ensuring consistency in abbreviations and citations: Prevents inconsistencies that could undermine credibility.
Resources
- Elsevier Researcher Academy: Resources on writing research proposals and academic papers
- Harvard Writing Center: Tips on crafting clear and effective academic writing.
- Introduction to Social Research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches by K. Punch (Sage Publications, 2014)
- Methods: A Podcast on Social Science Methods explores research design and justification
- Proposals That Work: A Guide for Planning Dissertations and Grant Proposals by L. F. Locke, W. W. Spirduso, and S. J. Silverman (Sage Publications, 2013)
- Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach by J. A. Maxwell (Sage Publications, 2013)
- Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by J. W. Creswell and J. D. Creswell (Sage Publications, 2018)
- The Craft of Research by W. C. Booth, G. G. Colomb, and J. M. Williams (University of Chicago Press, 2016)
- The Research Whisperer: Discusses research writing, grants and academic proposals
Key takeaways
A research rationale justifies the need for a study by identifying a knowledge gap, explaining its significance and outlining how the research addresses the issue. It follows a structured approach, including background, problem statement, relevance, objectives and justification. An effective rationale strengthens the research’s credibility, ensuring it is relevant and contributes meaningfully to academic or professional fields. It is usually included in grant proposals, theses or journal articles, where a strong research rationale enhances the clarity and impact of a study.
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