How to write an introduction for a research paper

This short guide will describe the purpose of a research paper introduction, what it should include and how to create a good one.

What is an introduction paragraph?

It may seem obvious, but introductions are the introductory (first) paragraph of a piece of writing, in this case, a research paper. Intro paragraphs should give readers a “sneak peek” of what to expect. Intro paragraph must include:

• A scope. This is the topic you’ll be covering.
• Context. The background of your topic
• Importance: The “so what?” to your research—why it matters.

Your introduction will cover a lot of ground. However, it will only be half a page to a few pages long. The length depends on the size of your paper. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all the other sections of your paper.

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What is the point of an introduction paragraph?

The introduction to your research paper does far more than you think. It’s the selling point to your readers. Your readers don’t know everything your paper will cover just from the title, so that’s the entire purpose of an introduction article.

A good introduction:

• Helps your reader understand your topic’s background
• Explains why a research paper is worth reading
• Offers guidance for navigating the rest of the piece
• Piques your reader’s interest (contains a hook)

Without a clear introduction, your readers will struggle. They may feel confused when they start reading your paper. They might even give up entirely. Your introduction will ground them and prepare them for the in-depth research to come.

What should an introduction paragraph include?

All research paper introductions should strive to be engaging and informative, but your introduction will never be complete if it doesn’t contain these six essential items:

A clear overview of the topic

Start with a general overview of your topic. Narrow the overview until you address your paper’s specific subject. Then, mention questions or concerns you had about the case. Note that you will address them in the publication.

Prior research

Your introduction is the place to review what is currently known about your research paper topic and what isn’t known. Include both older scholars and modern scholars. This background information also demonstrates your credibility to readers. What is currently known about your topic or proven? What are the existing gaps in your topic’s academia?

Rationale

The rationale for your research paper is the problem you are trying to solve. Explain why your topic needs to be addressed right now. In other words, your introduction needs to answer the question, “So what?” Why should readers care about your topic?

Methodologies

Recount your processes to make your paper more credible. Lay out your goal and the questions you will address. Reveal how you conducted research and describe how you measured results. Moreover, explain why you made key choices. For example, did your research project involve a control group? What methods did you use to gather your research? Examples could include a focus group, questionnaires, or a case study.

Thesis statement

Your main introduction should end with a thesis statement. This statement summarizes the ideas that will run through your entire research article. It’s what your research paper is trying to prove or argue.

Outline

Introductions often conclude with an outline of your article. Your layout should quickly review what you intend to cover in the following sections. Think of it as a roadmap that gives your reader what to expect throughout the paper.

How you use these components in your intro depends on your field. For example, a physics research paper might emphasise methodology since quantitative methods and labs are often used versus a humanities-geared paper.

Three tips for writing your introduction paragraph

Here are three tips to keep in mind as you write your intro, if you want it to shine:

Tip 1: Write your introduction last.

An introduction summarises all the things you’ve learned from your research. While it can feel good to get your preface done quickly, you should write the rest of your paper first. Then, you’ll find it easy to create a clear overview.

Tip 2: Include a strong quotation or story upfront.

You want your paper to be full of substance. But that doesn’t mean it should feel boring or flat. Add a relevant quotation or surprising anecdote to the beginning of your introduction. This technique will pique the interest of your readers and leave them wanting more.

Tip 3: Be concise.

Research papers cover complex topics. To help your readers, try to write as clearly as possible. Use concise sentences. Check for confusing grammar or syntax. Read your introduction aloud to catch awkward phrases. Before you finish your paper, be sure to proofread too.

Remember: introductions are your reader’s first impression of your research paper, so you’ll want to dress your intro paragraphs as best as you can. Write a research paper that’ll really wow readers by checking out other helpful writing tips and tools like Microsoft Editor.