Rationale

How it is used

Proposals and introductions present the rationale for the study, usually based on a research gap and its practical importance. Methods sections give the rationale for design choices. Reviewers often comment that the rationale is unclear or weak.

Example sentences

1. The rationale for the study is the lack of data on adult learners in distance education.

2. Please explain the rationale for choosing a qualitative design.

Common collocations

• rationale for the study
• provide a rationale
• clear rationale
• the rationale behind

Related terms

• research gapA question, group, context or problem that existing studies have not yet addressed well, which a new study aims to fill.
• research proposalA document that describes a planned study, including its aims, research questions, background, methods, timeline and expected contribution.
• objectiveA specific, achievable step that a study sets out to complete in order to reach its broader aim.
• introductionThe opening section of an article, thesis or essay, which presents the topic, shows why it matters, identifies a gap and states the aim of the work.

More terms: Thesis and Article Structure

• abstract
• thesis
• dissertation
• paper
• conclusion
• discussion
• draft
• limitation
• proofread
• IMRaD
• methods section
• keyword