Introduction

Scientific research is fundamentally based on the pursuit of new knowledge, which often emerges through the recognition of gaps in existing literature and the study of underexplored fields. The idea of research gaps has occupied the scientific community for decades, since identifying them is not always straightforward. What one researcher may consider a gap, another might view as an already explored or sufficiently addressed field. This relativity highlights the need for a systematic approach. Within this context, the concept of the population gap emerges as one of the most common and recognizable types of research gaps. The population gap refers to situations in which specific groups of people, defined by characteristics such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, have not been studied sufficiently or have been neglected entirely in research.

Identifying the Population Gap

Identifying a population gap is a crucial step, as it allows researchers to determine which groups have not received adequate scientific attention. For example, many studies in the medical field focus on adults, often excluding children or the elderly, while in psychology, research frequently relies on student populations, overlooking other social or age groups. Such omissions create significant knowledge gaps that may lead to limited or non-generalizable conclusions. The essence of the population gap does not merely lie in the absence of data but also in the imbalance of research that consistently emphasizes certain populations while leaving others in the margins.

Steps After Identification

Once the population gap has been identified, the researcher must follow a series of steps to ensure the scientific validity of the study. The first step is defining the problem by formulating a research question that will serve as the foundation of the investigation. An extensive review of the literature then follows, which helps uncover existing research pathways and highlight omissions or inconsistencies. Through this process, the initial research problem is clarified and narrowed down into a more specific and manageable focus. Equally important is the clear definition of the terms and concepts employed, ensuring that no ambiguities arise throughout the study.

The next step involves defining the target population of the study, that is, the group that will serve as the focus of research. This definition may be based on demographic or socioeconomic criteria, depending on the purpose of the study. Developing a detailed research plan is the logical next step, determining the methodology, data collection process, and timeline of the research. Data collection itself constitutes the most essential stage, as it represents the beginning of the actual study, whether through observation, fieldwork, surveys, interviews, or secondary sources. The final and decisive stage is the analysis of data, where the researcher evaluates the information gathered, draws conclusions, and provides answers to the original research question.

Strategy and Writing

The strategy followed during the writing process is just as important as the research itself. The study must clearly present its objectives, explain the necessity of the research, and demonstrate how it addresses the identified gap. The contribution of the research should be articulated in such a way that its value to the scientific community becomes evident, as well as its potential for practical application. A well-crafted research paper is not merely a presentation of data but a documented demonstration of how new knowledge is added to the existing body of work.

Conclusions

Recognizing and exploring population gaps is not a simple task, but it is an indispensable part of scientific progress. A systematic review of literature and a critical assessment of existing findings provide researchers with the foundation to pose new questions and develop innovative studies. Investigating populations that remain on the periphery of research allows for the enrichment of scientific knowledge, contributing not only to theoretical advancement but also to the improvement of social reality. Therefore, the population gap should not be seen merely as a deficiency in the literature but as an opportunity for scientific renewal and social progress. It demonstrates that research never ceases to seek new ways of understanding human beings and society at large.