How to Define the Problem in One Sentence

Clarity begins by naming the problem well

Many social projects describe their work with broad phrases such as:
“Poverty is a great challenge in our community.”

True, such statements do not allow us to understand what is the real problem your organization wants to solve, or how it will.

When you define the problem in a single clear, concrete and specific sentence, something powerful happens:
donors, allies and community instantly understand why your mission is urgent.

What makes a problem phrase powerful

A good definition of the problem should:

• Focus on a specific population

• Be measurable or verifiable

• Show a fact, not an opinion

• Connecting to community reality

• Allow to imagine a solution

Practical example

Too wide:
“Poverty affects many families.”

Concrete and financial:
“In our community, 7 out of 10 young people drop out of high school before graduating.”

This sentence shows:

• Who,

• What's wrong with them,

• And why it matters.

Simple formula to define your problem

You can use this structure:

In [place/population], [X of each Y / % / #] [specific situation], what generates [consequence].

Example:
“In Altos del Sur, 4 out of 10 women heads of household lack stable incomes, increasing the risk of food insecurity.”

Quick review: does your phrase meet these criteria?

• Do you understand in five seconds?

• Is it specific?

• Do you have a data or indicator?

• Does it connect with a possible change?

• Avoids trials or labels?

If not, it's simplified again.

Remember

A clear phrase opens doors.
At SIGUE Network we help you express your problem accurately and financially.

contacto@siguenetwork.org

@siguenetwork