Rumusan Masalah Sebagai Kompas Ilmiah: Menavigasi Identifikasi, Batasan, dan Pertanyaan Penelitian

Abstrak

A precise research problem formulation is a crucial foundation in scientific inquiry. However, in practice, many researchers, including those in religious studies, face fundamental difficulties at this stage. This article aims to analyze the nature of problem identification, problem limitation, and research questions; to describe the form and logical sequence of their formulation; and to outline the application of methodologies in the context of religious research. Employing a literature review method, this study analyzes relevant scholarly sources. The findings indicate that: (1) These three elements form an inseparable logical sequence, where problem identification serves to locate a research gap, problem limitation focuses the scope, and research questions articulate the core problem to be answered; (2) The formulation process is systematic and sequential, starting from identification and delimitation to the formulation of specific, operational research questions that guide the entire study; (3) The application of methodology in religious research is dynamic, where qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches can be applied contextually, with the choice of method heavily dependent on the formulated problem, whether it concerns doctrinal aspects or empirical-social phenomena. It is concluded that a comprehensive understanding of these three aspects will yield focused, directed, and systematic religious research, making a significant contribution to the development of scientific knowledge