Defining a Problem of Practice

How to identify, evidence, and frame the problem your capstone will address

A capstone begins with a real problem in a real setting. Unlike a dissertation gap, a problem of practice lives inside an organization, classroom, clinic, or community, and solving it should make a measurable difference there. This guide helps you define that problem clearly enough to build a whole project on it.

Inside this guide:

• What a Problem of Practice Is
• Step 1: Notice and Name the Problem
• Step 2: Gather Local Evidence
• Step 3: Connect to the Wider Literature
• Step 4: Find the Root Cause
• Step 5: Frame Your Project Question
• Step 6: Check Scope and Feasibility
• Writing the Problem Statement
• Worksheet: Define Your Problem of Practice
• Worksheet: Build Your PICOT or Aim

Who it's for: Capstone & applied doctoral project writers.

Format: Instant PDF download · 8 pages · US Letter, printable, with fill-in worksheets.

Licensed for the purchaser's personal use. Written by Professor Takara M. Carter, English professor, Ph.D. researcher, and dissertation editor.