How to write an introduction for a research paper

The introduction of a research paper is the crucial doorway through which readers enter into the research paper. It’s where you have a chance of  getting the reader or professor attention, highlight the significance of your research, and set the tone for what follows.

Writing a good introduction requires you to have clarity, persuasion, and engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned scholar or a novice researcher, understanding well the concept of writing an introduction is key to making a memorable impression and drawing readers into your study from the outset.

What is a research paper introduction?

A research paper introduction serves as the opening section of the paper, introducing the topic, providing background information, stating the research problem or question, highlighting the significance of the study, presenting objectives or purpose, and outlining the structure of the paper.

Acting as a bridge between the reader and the research topic, the introduction aims to capture the reader’s interest, establish the relevance and importance of the research, and provide a clear roadmap for navigating the paper. It should be clear, concise, and engaging, drawing readers in and encouraging them to continue reading while fulfilling its functions of providing context, defining the problem, articulating significance, stating objectives, and outlining the paper’s structure.

How to start an introduction of a research paper

1. Start with a Compelling Hook: Engage your readers from the outset with a captivating hook that draws them into your topic. This could be an intriguing fact, a compelling anecdote, a provocative question, or a relevant quotation. A strong hook sets the tone for your paper and encourages readers to continue reading.
2. Provide Background Information: Offer context and background information to help readers understand the significance of your research topic. This may include historical context, relevant theoretical frameworks, key terminology, or previous research findings. Providing this background information helps establish the groundwork for your study and highlights its relevance within the broader scholarly discourse.
3. State the Research Problem or Question: Clearly articulate the specific problem or research question that your study addresses. This helps to focus your readers’ attention and conveys the purpose of your research. Be succinct yet specific in defining the research problem or question to guide readers through your paper effectively.
4. Highlight the Significance of the Study: Explain why your research is important and why it matters within the context of your field or discipline. Emphasize the gap in knowledge that your study seeks to address, the potential implications of your findings, or how your research contributes to advancing theoretical understanding or addressing practical concerns. Demonstrating the significance of your study encourages readers to recognize its relevance and value.
5. Present the Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main argument or central claim of your research paper in a concise and focused thesis statement. This statement should encapsulate the core idea or argument that your paper will develop and support. A well-crafted thesis statement provides readers with a roadmap for navigating your paper and understanding its overarching purpose.

Research Paper Introduction Example

INDEPENDENT PROJECT IN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Introduction
Teenage pregnancy has been a major problem in the United Kingdom. Statistics indicate
that for every 1000 births, 93 of them are from youngsters aged between 15-19 (Stapleton, 2020).
The most outstanding issue concerning underage pregnancy has to do with the effect it has on the
mother and the child. Complications from underage pregnancy and childbirth happen to be the
leading causes of deaths in teenagers aged 15 to 19 in U.K. This age group has a high chance of
obstructed labor, premature labor, low birth weight, fistulas and STIs. There are estimated 1000
deaths in the country from teenage mothers stemming from them giving birth before they are
physically ready for parenthood (UNICEF, 2020).

The children from teenage mothers have a 50% chance of dying compared to women
born from age 20 and above. Due to stigma and fear, there is a very high chance that a pregnant
teenager will likely terminate a pregnancy through unsafe abortion techniques which come with
a high risk. Teenage pregnancies happen to be a major contributor to UK’s appalling maternal
and infant mortality rates (UNICEF, 2020). Teenage mothers often lack resources and support
needed to take care of their infants’ health. Their children have high cases of malnutrition as
compared to children of older mothers. The teenage mothers also face the problem of dropping
out of school and this contributes to low literacy levels.

Tips on writing an introduction for a research paper

1. Understand Your Audience: Consider who your readers are and what they need to know to understand your research. Tailor your introduction to their level of expertise and interest in the topic.
2. Start with a Hook: Begin your introduction with a captivating hook to grab your readers’ attention. This could be a thought-provoking question, an intriguing fact, a relevant anecdote, or a compelling quote.
3. Provide Background Information: Offer context and background information to orient your readers to the topic. This may include historical background, relevant theories, key concepts, or previous research findings.
4. State the Research Problem or Question: Clearly articulate the specific problem or research question that your study addresses. This helps to focus your readers’ attention and sets the purpose of your research.
5. Highlight the Significance of the Study: Explain why your research is important and why it matters within the broader context of your field. Emphasize the gap in knowledge that your study fills, the potential implications of your findings, or how your research contributes to advancing understanding in the field.
6. Present Objectives or Purpose: Clearly state the objectives or purpose of your research. What are you aiming to achieve with your study? This helps to clarify the goals of your research and provides a roadmap for readers to understand what to expect in the paper.
7. Outline the Structure: Briefly outline the structure of your paper to give readers a preview of what is to come. This helps to guide readers through your paper and provides a framework for understanding the organization of your research.
8. Be Clear and Concise: Keep your introduction clear, concise, and focused. Avoid unnecessary jargon or technical language that may confuse readers. Present information in a logical and easy-to-follow manner.
9. Revise and Edit: Once you’ve written your introduction, revise and edit it carefully. Check for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Make sure your introduction effectively sets the stage for your research and encourages readers to continue reading.

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