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A conceptual or theoretical rationale is not provided.
Without a sound rationale, a systematic presentation of previous research, a logical progression of ideas that culminate in the purpose statement, and research questions and hypotheses if appropriate, that emanate directly from theory and research, the author will probably not convince the reviewers that the study is a meritorious one that will extend the boundaries of knowledge.
Three types of error are as follows:
- "overexclusive error"—his occurs when the author fails to adequately describe the underlying theoretical principles that are driving the research question.
- "overinclusive error"—The author describes so many facets of the theory that the presentation lacks focus.
- Lack of a theoretical or conceptual rationale. This is typically a fatal flaw.
Certain variables are included in the Design section, but not in the Introduction.
Key variables implemented to test theoretical predictions should be justified in the Introduction.
Two frequent problems in introducing variables:
- Introducing an independent variable (e.g., gender, age) in the Method or Results sections without previously explaining why this variable is theoretically relevant.
- The theory and research consistently identify (e.g., gender) as a salient variable, but it is not being examined or included in a preliminary analysis.
The research question is not relevant.
The research question should contribute to the knowledge base by going beyond previous research. The question to be answered is "What does this study contribute that is different from previous research?" If the answer to this question is unclear, then the author needs to step back and reevaluate how to make a convincing argument for the merit of the study.