This article is the first in a series of three focused on the steps in the development of a research proposal. This first article presents the beginning steps of identification of a problem, statement of the research question and hypotheses, and review of the literature. The series of articles is meant to provide an overview of how to accomplish each of the steps. The discussion of the steps focuses the reader on helpful hints pertinent to each step. Additional references are provided for a more in-depth discussion of the process.
