Problem Identification:

The process of clearly defining and comprehending the problem or challenge that must be handled is known as problem definition. It is an important phase in problem solving and decision making since it aids in determining the root causes, scope, and boundaries of the problem. Correct problem definition ensures that efforts are directed in the proper directions and that solutions generated are effective and efficient.

Several actions can be taken to effectively define a problem:

1. Determine the issue: Clearly define the issue or difficulty that must be solved. Understanding the current condition, identifying any gaps or concerns, and determining the desired outcome or aim are all part of this process.
2. Collect data, facts, and information about the problem: Collect relevant data, facts, and information about the situation. This could include performing research, reviewing available data, interviewing stakeholders, or employing other means of data collection.
3. Analyze the problem: Break the problem down into its essential components and examine its causes, effects, and potential consequences. This aids in understanding the fundamental causes of the problem.
4. Determine the scope: Define the problem's boundaries and scope. This includes determining what is included and excluded from the problem statement, as well as any limits or limitations that must be taken into account.
5. Identify stakeholders: These are the people or organizations who are affected by or have a vested interest in the situation. Understanding the viewpoints and needs of various stakeholders is essential for development.
6. Refine the problem statement: Refine the problem statement based on the analysis and information gathered to achieve clarity and specificity. The issue, its relevance, and the desired conclusion should all be clearly articulated in the problem statement.

Formulation of Hypotheses:

The act of establishing a tentative explanation or statement that can be tested via research and investigation is known as hypothesis creation. Hypotheses are critical in scientific and research contexts for guiding the examination and analysis of a given phenomenon or topic.

The following are the major steps in hypothesis formation:

1. Determine the research question: Define the study subject or problem you wish to investigate. The question should be precise and specific, allowing for the formulation of a distinct hypothesis.
2. Conduct Preliminary Research :Gather background information and perform basic study on the topic before creating a hypothesis. This aids in comprehending the existing knowledge, theories, and findings concerning the study subject.
3. Formulate the hypothesis: Create a hypothesis based on the research question and available knowledge. A hypothesis is a statement that suggests an explanation or relationship between variables. It should be testable, concrete, and supportable or refutable by empirical data.
4. Determine the following variables: Determine your hypothesis's independent and dependent variables. The independent variable is the one that can be changed or controlled, whereas the dependent variable is the one that can be measured or observed.
5. Specify the relationship: State the expected relationship between the independent and dependent variables in detail. This could be a cause-and-effect relationship, a correlation, or a group comparison.
6. Test the hypothesis : Design and carry out tests, surveys, or other research procedures to test the idea. Gather data, analyze the findings, and form conclusions based on the evidence.

Keep in mind that hypotheses are not absolute facts, but rather proposed explanations that must be tested empirically. The outcomes of testing the hypothesis will either support or reject it, requiring further refining of the research topic and, if necessary, the formation of new hypotheses.