When we write a research paper, it is not enough to present a topic and formulate a problem. We also need to explain why it is worth studying this topic. This part is called the justification of the research.
What is the justification of the research?
The justification is the part of the paper where the author defends the importance of the research. Its purpose is to show that the study is not conducted “just because”, but because there is a real need to analyse a problem.
In other words, in this section we explain the reasons why the study should be carried out, what need exists, why the problem is important, and what contribution the research may make.
A good justification should explain:
- what problem will be studied,
- why this problem is important,
- who is affected by the problem,
- what the research will contribute,
- how it may help to understand or solve the problem.
For example, if a study analyses customer satisfaction in a restaurant, it is not enough to say that “satisfaction is important”. The author should explain why satisfaction is important in this specific context: because it may influence customer loyalty, online reviews, or the restaurant’s reputation.
Types of justification
The justification may have different focuses. Usually, there are three main types: theoretical, methodological, and practical.
| Type of justification | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Theoretical justification | Explains what the research will contribute to existing knowledge. It shows that the study may help us better understand a topic, review previous ideas, confirm results from other authors, or offer a new perspective. | This research is important because it helps to better understand how emotions influence customer loyalty in gastronomic restaurants. In this case, the study is justified because it may contribute knowledge about a specific relationship: emotions and loyalty. |
| 2. Methodological justification | Refers to the usefulness of the method, instrument, or procedure used in the research. This type of justification appears when the study proposes, adapts, or applies a research tool, such as a survey, interview, rubric, measurement scale, or analysis model. | This research is relevant because it applies a questionnaire that helps identify which aspects of service have the strongest influence on the customer experience. Here, the importance of the study is not only the topic itself, but also the way data are collected and analysed. |
| 3. Practical justification | Explains how the results may help solve a real problem or support decision-making. This type of justification is very important in applied research, especially in areas such as business, gastronomy, education, marketing, and management. | The results of this research may help restaurants improve customer service and design strategies to increase satisfaction and loyalty. Here, the research is justified because it may have direct value for professionals, companies, or organisations. |
What should not be included in the justification?
A common mistake is to justify the research with personal reasons. For example:
These sentences may explain the personal motivation of the student, but they do not justify the research scientifically.
The justification should focus on the importance of the problem, not on the personal interests of the researcher.
Conclusion
The justification of the research is a fundamental part of any academic paper. Its function is to show that the study responds to a real need and may provide value.
A good justification should not simply say that the topic is “interesting” or “important”. It should clearly explain why the problem deserves to be studied, what the research will contribute, and who may benefit from its results.
