research paper example introduction paragraph

Starting Your Research Paper: Writing an Introductory Paragraph

• Choosing Your Topic
• Define Keywords
• Planning Your Paper
• Writing an Introductory Paragraph

The Dreaded Introductory Paragraph

Writing the introductory paragraph can be a frustrating and slow process -- but it doesn't have to be.  If you planned your paper out, then most of the introductory paragraph is already written.  Now you just need a beginning and an end.

Here's an introductory paragraph for a paper I wrote.  I started the paper with a factoid, then presented each main point of my paper and then ended with my thesis statement.

  Breakdown:

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• Last Updated: Feb 12, 2024 12:16 PM
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How to Write a Research Paper Introduction (with Examples)

The research paper introduction section, along with the Title and Abstract, can be considered the face of any research paper. The following article is intended to guide you in organizing and writing the research paper introduction for a quality academic article or dissertation.

The research paper introduction aims to present the topic to the reader. A study will only be accepted for publishing if you can ascertain that the available literature cannot answer your research question. So it is important to ensure that you have read important studies on that particular topic, especially those within the last five to ten years, and that they are properly referenced in this section. 1 What should be included in the research paper introduction is decided by what you want to tell readers about the reason behind the research and how you plan to fill the knowledge gap. The best research paper introduction provides a systemic review of existing work and demonstrates additional work that needs to be done. It needs to be brief, captivating, and well-referenced; a well-drafted research paper introduction will help the researcher win half the battle.

The introduction for a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals:

• Present your research topic
• Capture reader interest
• Summarize existing research
• Position your own approach
• Define your specific research problem and problem statement
• Highlight the novelty and contributions of the study
• Give an overview of the paper’s structure

The research paper introduction can vary in size and structure depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or is a review paper. Some research paper introduction examples are only half a page while others are a few pages long. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all of the other sections of your paper; its length depends on the size of your paper as a whole.

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Table of Contents

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The introduction in a research paper is placed at the beginning to guide the reader from a broad subject area to the specific topic that your research addresses. They present the following information to the reader

• Scope: The topic covered in the research paper
• Context: Background of your topic
• Importance: Why your research matters in that particular area of research and the industry problem that can be targeted

The research paper introduction conveys a lot of information and can be considered an essential roadmap for the rest of your paper. A good introduction for a research paper is important for the following reasons:

• It stimulates your reader’s interest: A good introduction section can make your readers want to read your paper by capturing their interest. It informs the reader what they are going to learn and helps determine if the topic is of interest to them.
• It helps the reader understand the research background: Without a clear introduction, your readers may feel confused and even struggle when reading your paper. A good research paper introduction will prepare them for the in-depth research to come. It provides you the opportunity to engage with the readers and demonstrate your knowledge and authority on the specific topic.
• It explains why your research paper is worth reading: Your introduction can convey a lot of information to your readers. It introduces the topic, why the topic is important, and how you plan to proceed with your research.
• It helps guide the reader through the rest of the paper: The research paper introduction gives the reader a sense of the nature of the information that will support your arguments and the general organization of the paragraphs that will follow. It offers an overview of what to expect when reading the main body of your paper.

What are the parts of introduction in the research?

A good research paper introduction section should comprise three main elements: 2

• What is known: This sets the stage for your research. It informs the readers of what is known on the subject.
• What is lacking: This is aimed at justifying the reason for carrying out your research. This could involve investigating a new concept or method or building upon previous research.
• What you aim to do: This part briefly states the objectives of your research and its major contributions. Your detailed hypothesis will also form a part of this section.

How to write a research paper introduction?

The first step in writing the research paper introduction is to inform the reader what your topic is and why it’s interesting or important. This is generally accomplished with a strong opening statement. The second step involves establishing the kinds of research that have been done and ending with limitations or gaps in the research that you intend to address. Finally, the research paper introduction clarifies how your own research fits in and what problem it addresses. If your research involved testing hypotheses, these should be stated along with your research question. The hypothesis should be presented in the past tense since it will have been tested by the time you are writing the research paper introduction.

The following key points, with examples, can guide you when writing the research paper introduction section:

• Highlight the importance of the research field or topic
• Describe the background of the topic
• Present an overview of current research on the topic

Example: The inclusion of experiential and competency-based learning has benefitted electronics engineering education. Industry partnerships provide an excellent alternative for students wanting to engage in solving real-world challenges. Industry-academia participation has grown in recent years due to the need for skilled engineers with practical training and specialized expertise. However, from the educational perspective, many activities are needed to incorporate sustainable development goals into the university curricula and consolidate learning innovation in universities.

• Reveal a gap in existing research or oppose an existing assumption
• Formulate the research question

Example: There have been plausible efforts to integrate educational activities in higher education electronics engineering programs. However, very few studies have considered using educational research methods for performance evaluation of competency-based higher engineering education, with a focus on technical and or transversal skills. To remedy the current need for evaluating competencies in STEM fields and providing sustainable development goals in engineering education, in this study, a comparison was drawn between study groups without and with industry partners.

• State the purpose of your study
• Highlight the key characteristics of your study
• Describe important results
• Highlight the novelty of the study.
• Offer a brief overview of the structure of the paper.

Example: The study evaluates the main competency needed in the applied electronics course, which is a fundamental core subject for many electronics engineering undergraduate programs. We compared two groups, without and with an industrial partner, that offered real-world projects to solve during the semester. This comparison can help determine significant differences in both groups in terms of developing subject competency and achieving sustainable development goals.

Write a Research Paper Introduction in Minutes with Paperpal

Paperpal Copilot is a generative AI-powered academic writing assistant. It’s trained on millions of published scholarly articles and over 20 years of STM experience. Paperpal Copilot helps authors write better and faster with:

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With Paperpal Copilot, create a research paper introduction effortlessly. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how Paperpal transforms your initial ideas into a polished and publication-ready introduction.

How to use Paperpal to write the Introduction section

Step 1: Sign up on Paperpal and click on the Copilot feature, under this choose Outlines > Research Article > Introduction

Step 2: Add your unstructured notes or initial draft, whether in English or another language, to Paperpal, which is to be used as the base for your content.

Step 3: Fill in the specifics, such as your field of study, brief description or details you want to include, which will help the AI generate the outline for your Introduction.

Step 4: Use this outline and sentence suggestions to develop your content, adding citations where needed and modifying it to align with your specific research focus.

Step 5: Turn to Paperpal’s granular language checks to refine your content, tailor it to reflect your personal writing style, and ensure it effectively conveys your message.

You can use the same process to develop each section of your article, and finally your research paper in half the time and without any of the stress.

The purpose of the research paper introduction is to introduce the reader to the problem definition, justify the need for the study, and describe the main theme of the study. The aim is to gain the reader’s attention by providing them with necessary background information and establishing the main purpose and direction of the research.

The length of the research paper introduction can vary across journals and disciplines. While there are no strict word limits for writing the research paper introduction, an ideal length would be one page, with a maximum of 400 words over 1-4 paragraphs. Generally, it is one of the shorter sections of the paper as the reader is assumed to have at least a reasonable knowledge about the topic. 2 For example, for a study evaluating the role of building design in ensuring fire safety, there is no need to discuss definitions and nature of fire in the introduction; you could start by commenting upon the existing practices for fire safety and how your study will add to the existing knowledge and practice.

When deciding what to include in the research paper introduction, the rest of the paper should also be considered. The aim is to introduce the reader smoothly to the topic and facilitate an easy read without much dependency on external sources. 3 Below is a list of elements you can include to prepare a research paper introduction outline and follow it when you are writing the research paper introduction. Topic introduction: This can include key definitions and a brief history of the topic. Research context and background: Offer the readers some general information and then narrow it down to specific aspects. Details of the research you conducted: A brief literature review can be included to support your arguments or line of thought. Rationale for the study: This establishes the relevance of your study and establishes its importance. Importance of your research: The main contributions are highlighted to help establish the novelty of your study Research hypothesis: Introduce your research question and propose an expected outcome. Organization of the paper: Include a short paragraph of 3-4 sentences that highlights your plan for the entire paper

Cite only works that are most relevant to your topic; as a general rule, you can include one to three. Note that readers want to see evidence of original thinking. So it is better to avoid using too many references as it does not leave much room for your personal standpoint to shine through. Citations in your research paper introduction support the key points, and the number of citations depend on the subject matter and the point discussed. If the research paper introduction is too long or overflowing with citations, it is better to cite a few review articles rather than the individual articles summarized in the review. A good point to remember when citing research papers in the introduction section is to include at least one-third of the references in the introduction.

The literature review plays a significant role in the research paper introduction section. A good literature review accomplishes the following: Introduces the topic – Establishes the study’s significance – Provides an overview of the relevant literature – Provides context for the study using literature – Identifies knowledge gaps However, remember to avoid making the following mistakes when writing a research paper introduction: Do not use studies from the literature review to aggressively support your research Avoid direct quoting Do not allow literature review to be the focus of this section. Instead, the literature review should only aid in setting a foundation for the manuscript.

Remember the following key points for writing a good research paper introduction: 4

• Avoid stuffing too much general information: Avoid including what an average reader would know and include only that information related to the problem being addressed in the research paper introduction. For example, when describing a comparative study of non-traditional methods for mechanical design optimization, information related to the traditional methods and differences between traditional and non-traditional methods would not be relevant. In this case, the introduction for the research paper should begin with the state-of-the-art non-traditional methods and methods to evaluate the efficiency of newly developed algorithms.
• Avoid packing too many references: Cite only the required works in your research paper introduction. The other works can be included in the discussion section to strengthen your findings.
• Avoid extensive criticism of previous studies: Avoid being overly critical of earlier studies while setting the rationale for your study. A better place for this would be the Discussion section, where you can highlight the advantages of your method.
• Avoid describing conclusions of the study: When writing a research paper introduction remember not to include the findings of your study. The aim is to let the readers know what question is being answered. The actual answer should only be given in the Results and Discussion section.

To summarize, the research paper introduction section should be brief yet informative. It should convince the reader the need to conduct the study and motivate him to read further. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, choose trusted AI academic writing assistants like Paperpal to effortlessly craft your research paper introduction and other sections of your research article.

1. Jawaid, S. A., & Jawaid, M. (2019). How to write introduction and discussion. Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia, 13(Suppl 1), S18.

2. Dewan, P., & Gupta, P. (2016). Writing the title, abstract and introduction: Looks matter!. Indian pediatrics, 53, 235-241.

3. Cetin, S., & Hackam, D. J. (2005). An approach to the writing of a scientific Manuscript1. Journal of Surgical Research, 128(2), 165-167.

4. Bavdekar, S. B. (2015). Writing introduction: Laying the foundations of a research paper. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 63(7), 44-6.

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How to Write a Scientific Paper Introduction

This blog post outlines the 7 most common mistakes I, as an academic writing coach, see researchers make when writing their scientific paper introduction. Learn how to write a scientific introduction instead.

The Introduction section is the part of a scientific paper that many researchers struggle with. It’s hard to know how many studies from your literature review you should cite, what not to include and how to make the scientific article introduction compelling by implementing a clear storyline.

If you don’t have a clear process for how to write a scientific introduction, it can result in a text that is unclear, and thus, difficult to read Even if you eventually get there, it can take time and feel like an emotional battle. If you have the hardest time with scientific paper introductions I can assure you, you are not alone.

Ok, let’s get to it! Here are seven mistakes I find authors make when writing an introduction for a scientific paper:

1. NOT including an element of tension in your scientific paper introduction

This is a big one. I’ve read countless scientific article introductions that only provide a literature review. But the main function of the Introduction section in a scientific paper is to contextualise your study. And the scientific paper introduction is also a great place to convince your reader (including your journal editor and peer-reviewers) that the topic you decided to study is an important one that needs investigating now.

A great way to contextualise the findings in your scientific paper introduction and to provide a strong motivation for your study is by using the concept of science storytelling . According to the principles of storytelling, the introduction for a scientific research paper serves to set the scene: it should present the main characters (what are you studying), the setting (where is this research field now), and an element of tension (what is still unknown).

That element of tension is some sort of problem, perhaps your research question, e.g., a debate in the research literature, a gap in the knowledge about a scientific topic, a contradiction in the literature, a disagreement between different scientific groups, a scientific claim that is only weakly evidenced etc.

The scientific paper introduction is the place where you can make a strong case for why the problem that you decided addressing is an important and urgent one. Use that space. This will make your whole scientific paper a lot more compelling.

2. The SCientific paper introduction is TOO LONG

Often, authors write Introduction sections that are simply too long. Sometimes scientific journals specify how long the introduction should be. Science , for example, doesn’t want you to write more than one or two paragraphs in a Research Article . And they don’t mean those kind of paragraphs that fill a whole page (see mistake #3). 😉

A common mistake is that authors of scientific papers are aiming to present a full review of the literature in their field. However, the goal isn’t to present all studies that are ever so slightly related to your research. It’s better to mention those aspects that are needed to contextualise the problem that your study is solving (see mistake # 1). And ONLY those aspects. I recommend this blog post for a guide on deciding who to cite and how to cite in the best way .

One tip I often give my clients inside our scientific writing course , the Researchers’ Writing Academy, is to go through every sentence in their introduction and analyse whether the reader would still get the whole story of the scientific paper if they deleted the sentence. If that’s the case, you can probably remove or rewrite it so that only the most essential information is left. Head here for more tips on how to cut your word count in your scientific paper .

Does it take you a long time to write the Introduction section of your scientific paper because you don’t have a clear process for it? Or do you struggle to get a clear story line in your introduction? Our free training covers both points and shows you how you can get published without lacking structure anywhere in the writing process.

3. The paragraphs of the scientific paper introduction are too long

Not only the whole introduction section of a scientific paper is frequently too long, also the paragraphs within often are. I know this may make some academics feel uncomfortable but permission granted to write short paragraphs in your scientific paper. You are not presenting less valuable information by doing so.

The optimal paragraph length for a scientific paper is 100-200 words. Nobody likes to read big walls of text (check your own reading behaviour if you don’t believe me). Short paragraphs also help people to skim read. And it ultimately helps you, the author, too. Writing a scientific paper introduction with short paragraphs efficiently requires you to plan the section in advance. By doing this, you’ll also achieve good flow in your Introduction section, which will help make it more readable too (see mistake #6). If you want more tips on writing great paragraphs in scientific papers , check out this recent blog post. PS: This paragraph is 110 words long.

4. The sentences of the scientific paper introduction are too long

Yes, sorry, the sentences too. 😁 You might find yourself trying to sound fancy in your scientific writing. But sounding like an expert is not what writing a scientific paper is about! Instead, we want our reader to quickly understand exactly what you want to say. Good scientific writing, therefore, is simple and clear. And sentences spanning several lines rarely are.

Writing shorter instead of longer sentences in your scientific article introduction is harder than it may seem at first. You may not know where to chop a sentence into two while maintaining flow. Practice will get you there. Here’s the rule of thumb I share with the course members inside our Researchers’ Writing Academy: Never write more than one main and one sub-ordinate clause. A sub-ordinate clause is the part of a sentence that begins with “that”, “which”, “although”, “because” and similar words.

And there’s a little trick that sometimes works to break up sentences in your scientific paper introduction: When you want to break off a sub-ordinate clause starting with “because”, you can do so easily by using the transition “This is owing to” at the start of the new sentence. A sub-ordinate clause starting with “which” can become a new sentence starting with “This” or “These”. It’s okay to cheat sometimes! 😉

5.  The first sentence of your scientific paper introduction is boring

The first sentence in any paragraph is a powerful position but the first sentence of your whole scientific paper is even more so. Therefore, it would be a shame if you threw away this chance. There is an art to writing first sentences. The first sentence in your scientific article introduction needs to capture your readers by signaling them why they need to care about your study. A great way of doing that is giving them a hint of the wider problem your study is motivated by.

One implication of this is that the first sentence in your scientific paper introduction needs to be tailored to the readership of the journal you are submitting your paper to. For Nature , Science and co, you will need a first sentence that describes a very broad scientific problem. For more specialist journals, you can start a little deeper into the matter.

6.  There’s no flow in your scientific paper introduction

What makes a scientific paper readable is when the writing flows. Flow means that the reader can easily follow from one sentence to the next one without getting stuck. This gives you as the author an advantage because your reader will be less likely to stop reading your Introduction section.

Once your reader stops reading (even if just to think about what exactly a word meant that you wrote), they may get distracted or deem it too much of an effort to weed through the text. In both scenarios, they may end up giving up on reading your scientific paper. A journal editor might even desk-reject your scientific paper when they don’t understand the point is you’re making in the introduction of your scientific paper.

That’s why I strongly recommend connecting your sentences and paragraphs so that your Introduction section flows. In fact, I think it’s a good idea to map out your scientific paper introduction before writing it. You can learn the whole process step by step inside our scientific writing course , the Researchers’ Writing Academy.

7. You use too many synonyms in your scientific paper introduction

When we write our Introduction sections, we often feel an urge to throw in as many synonyms as possible because we fear the reader may otherwise find our writing repetitive and get bored. The opposite is the case. Readers get bored when they don’t understand what’s going on and when they have to make an effort to understand what you’re trying to communicate. That’s when their minds starts to wander (see also mistake #6).

As the author, you are so familiar with the content of your scientific paper that it can be hard to realise how other people may fail to understand what is – to you – the most obvious synonym. But just think for a second about how much your reader has to process while reading your manuscript. The area might be new to them, or the methods, or your model system – or all those things. (This, by the way, is likely the case for your Nature or Science editor who receives manuscripts from a broader scientific spectrum.) They might never realise that your fancy abbreviation and what you call “the model system” are the same thing. And remember, a journal editor may make the decision to desk-reject your article straight away when what you studied isn’t clear to them.

There you have it, the 7 most common mistakes researchers make when writing their scientific paper introduction and how to write a scientific introduction instead.

If you found this blog post helpful, I highly recommend signing up for our free scientific writing training below where you will learn how to develop a scientific paper step by step.

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How to Write an Introduction Paragraph for a Research Paper

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Are you struggling to write an introduction paragraph for your research paper? The introduction is a crucial part of your paper as it sets the tone for the rest of your work. A poorly written introduction can cause readers to lose interest in your paper, while a well-crafted one can captivate their attention and encourage them to keep reading. In this article, we will discuss how to write an effective introduction paragraph for your research paper.

Importance of a Strong Introduction Paragraph

The introduction paragraph is the first thing your readers will see, and it can make a significant impact on their perception of your work. A well-written introduction can grab their attention and make them want to read more. It should provide a brief overview of your topic, introduce your thesis statement, and set the tone for the rest of your paper.

A weak introduction can have the opposite effect, causing readers to lose interest in your paper before they even get to the main body. It is essential to make sure your introduction is engaging, informative, and well-written to keep your readers interested in your work.

In addition to engaging your readers, a strong introduction can also help you establish credibility and authority. By demonstrating your knowledge of the topic and presenting a clear thesis statement, you can establish yourself as an expert on the subject matter. This can help you gain the trust of your readers and make them more likely to take your arguments seriously.

Elements of a Strong Introduction Paragraph

To write an effective introduction paragraph, you need to include three essential elements: a hook, background information, and a thesis statement.

The hook is the first sentence of your introduction paragraph, and its purpose is to grab your readers’ attention. It can be a question, a quote, a startling statistic, or an anecdote that relates to your topic. The hook should be engaging and relevant to your research paper’s topic, but it should also be concise and to the point.

Background Information

After your hook, you need to provide some context for your readers. This includes providing some background information on your topic, explaining why it is important, and discussing any relevant terms or concepts that your readers need to understand. This section should be brief and focused, providing only the necessary information to help your readers understand your topic.

Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the most important part of your introduction paragraph. It is the main argument you will be making in your paper, and it should be clear, concise, and specific. Your thesis statement should be located at the end of your introduction paragraph, and it should provide a roadmap for the rest of your paper. Make sure your thesis statement is arguable and supported by evidence, and avoid using vague or general statements.

Tips for Writing an Effective Introduction Paragraph

Writing an effective introduction paragraph can be challenging, but there are some tips you can follow to make the process easier.

Start with a Question or a Quote

Starting with a question or a quote can be an excellent way to grab your readers’ attention and make them interested in your topic. Make sure your question or quote is relevant to your topic and sets the stage for the rest of your paper.

Your introduction paragraph should be brief and focused, providing only the necessary information to set up your paper. Avoid including irrelevant information or going off on tangents.

Avoid Using Clichés

Using clichés in your introduction paragraph can make your writing sound unoriginal and uninspired. Try to come up with unique and creative ways to introduce your topic.

Use Clear Language

Make sure your language is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical language that your readers may not be familiar with. Use simple, straightforward language to convey your ideas.

Writing an effective introduction paragraph can be challenging, but there are several tips you can follow to ensure your introduction is engaging and informative.

Starting your introduction with a question or a quote can be an effective way to grab your readers’ attention. It can pique their curiosity and encourage them to keep reading to find out more. Make sure the question or quote is relevant to your topic and sets the tone for the rest of your paper.

Your introduction should be concise and to the point. Avoid using unnecessary words or phrases that do not add value to your introduction. Keep your sentences short and straightforward, and make sure your introduction does not exceed one or two paragraphs.

Clichés can make your writing sound unoriginal and uninspired. Avoid using clichés in your introduction, and instead, try to come up with a unique way to introduce your topic. This can help you stand out from other writers and make your work more memorable.

Make sure your language is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that your readers may not be familiar with. Instead, use simple language that is easy to follow and understand.

Examples of Effective Introduction Paragraphs

Here are some examples of effective introduction paragraphs:

“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time. With the planet getting warmer every year, it is essential that we take action to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change. In this paper, we will explore the causes and consequences of climate change and discuss potential solutions to this global problem.”

“The internet has revolutionized the way we access information and communicate with each other. With the rise of social media and other online platforms, it is easier than ever to connect with people from all around the world. In this paper, we will explore the impact of the internet on our society and discuss both the positive and negative aspects of this technological advancement.”

“The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies being developed every day. In this paper, we will explore the latest advancements in healthcare and discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of these innovations.”

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research paper writing tips from the top experts

How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper + Examples

No matter the form of writing you are tasked with, presenting a strong introduction is vital for setting the tone for your readers. From articles to blogs to college papers and even high school essays, the introduction can be the major difference between a good write-up and an average one. Strong introductions pique a reader’s interest and draw their attention to every part of your writing.

The stakes for a research paper introduction are higher than regular essay writing. After choosing a particular topic, your introduction must precisely convey the general idea of the topic and earn the readers’ interest.

The introduction of a research paper also contains a thesis statement, which is a brief and clear sentence that provides a general overview of the main objective of your research paper. In this piece, we will examine the basic requirements of a research paper introduction while offering examples and instructions on how to go about them.

How to Start an Introduction for a Research Paper

The first thing that a good introduction must have is interest. It must be able to hold the reader’s interest and garner their attention easily. Keeping that in mind, here’s how to start an introduction.

• Topic Introduction

First, you start a research paper by providing a strong introduction. For instance, you can capture the reader’s attention and then clearly state your thesis by using a surprising statement. Finally, you can also provide accurate data on the particular topic of interest to pick your reader’s curiosity into reading the rest of the paper.

• Description of the Background

This part of the research paper’s introduction can differ depending on the approach taken to write the paper. It differs from an argumentative paper and an empirical paper. In an argumentative paper, you will need to provide more general background. Conversely, in an empirical paper, you will need to review prior research and provide a clear definition of your research and how they are related.

• Stating the Research Problem

The next step is to state your research problem and explain how it fits the topic. For an argumentative research paper, you simply state the problem and what is important as it relates to your research topic. On the other hand, you approach the problem based on a literary discussion for an empirical paper.

• Clearly Stating Objectives

This signifies the final parts of your introduction to a research paper. Here you get into the specifics of the idea of your topic and how you intend to tackle problems and provide solutions.

Tips to Writing a Good Research Paper Introduction

Good knowledge of the step-by-step process of writing a research introduction is important; It is as important as the topic. However, it is also necessary that you identify tricks that you can use to make your research introduction catchier and more interesting to read. Here are a few tips that can make your research introduction stand out:

• Don’t cite excessively
• The shorter, the better: shorter sentences and introductions always leave your reader wanting more
• Take it easy on the details
• Avoid citing too many sources for one point
• Your thesis, hypothesis, or research question should be clear enough for your readers to identify easily
• Briefly but thoroughly state the importance and aim of your research

Introduction Examples for Research Papers

The format for writing research papers introductions is largely the same and only differs based on the topic in question or writing styles. Here is a sample research paper introduction:

Social determinants have a great influence on the health of individuals. Obesity rates have been on the rise posing a social problem. The unequal distribution of risk factors relates to social factors, including social status and education. The main causes of obesity are genetic factors, environmental factors, psychological factors and physical factors. Bader et al. (2009) asserts that the obesity can be as a result of risk factors, such as a lack of access to fresh produce. Fresh produce may cost more than pre-packaged foods in many areas, which creates a social boundary. For better understanding of the social inequalities, this essay will analyze five factors that arise from social inequality that may also contribute to obesity. The factors for discussion include; a contrast between lower- and upper-class neighborhoods, access to fruits and vegetables, access to market, market adjust to geographical areas and the simple cost of fresh fruits in the different neighborhoods.

Research Paper Introduction Example APA

There are two major writing styles of research papers. The APA format and the MLA ones. Both offer a unique structure and are issued depending on the writing assessment method. An APA style introduction example of a research paper goes thus: the entire paper is usually written in a 12-point font double spaced and with one-inch margins provisions all around the texts.

Research Paper Introduction Example MLA

Usually, the introduction of research papers in the MLA format starts with a catchphrase, an engaging statement, or a question to motivate readers to engage in the content. The subsequent sentences provide background information, and the entire introduction should be approximately 10% of the research paper. Also, the introduction paragraph ends with a thesis statement that provides a clear expression of the main arguments. These are the major differences between the APA example written above.

It is normal that not every student exemplifies great writing skills. However, there is absolutely nothing wrong with searching for introductory research paper writing tips online as a student. Also, you can hire someone to write research paper for you if this task seems too difficult. This helps students have the confidence to begin their writing and make the entire research paper a good one.

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How to Write an Introduction Paragraph to a Research Paper

Sometimes life can be complicated, and we may not have enough time to do the task as qualitatively as we want. The reasons may differ, ranging from lacking time to the difficulty of the topic. It’s an everyday thing for many students, but sometimes a substandard essay can ruin the whole paper.

Do you realize that one of the most common mistakes in a student’s writing process is to skip a meaningful introduction? Many students think that the most important thing in the assignment is the body of the research papers. You will not get a perfect grade for only a good research paper introduction, but you shouldn’t skip it anyway.

Why it’s so important to know how to write an opening paragraph for a research paper? The introduction is the face of your paper that your reader will see first, which is why it is one of the most memorable segments of the whole writing that has to be perfect. Speaking briefly, it’s responsible for the first impression of your research paper. So, if you are even 1% unsure about your skills, getting an assignment writing service won’t harm you. It will be a good decision to save your grades from declining.

General Guidelines On Writing An Introduction

If the research paper opening paragraph doesn’t keep the audience’s attention at the beginning — they may not be serious about the rest of your work and skim through. That is why it is a serious matter.

Knowing how to write an introductory paragraph is not difficult, but you need to adhere to standards and consider how to contain all the work’s sense in a little text piece. If you feel like the process is too challenging or confusing, you may refer to the website that writes research papers for professional help. This way, not only your introductory paragraph but also the whole research paper will be done as adequately as possible.

Otherwise, follow our guidelines on how to write a masterpiece. The main rules will tell you about writing the perfect introduction to a research paper! Let’s discover what we want to include in the intro.

Writing A Good Research Paper Introduction

• If you have a keyword list — try to use it there. If you are writing an article for publication, you will be asked to provide a short list of keywords that reflect the field to which your research relates. For example, if your papers are about World’s water reserves — use the word Water in the introduction. This will make sense clear to your audience. If you try to write your papers way too abstract and non-relatable to the topic, it may confuse the reader.
• In the article’s title, there may also be keywords that you want to emphasize in the opening clause. You may look for samples or get help with the title page for a research paper to get the best results in the shortest period. It is also a good idea to follow the guidelines you see there.
• Present the topic of the research paper in a short and interesting form. Many works start with a short story that illustrates the topic in the beginning — make sure your tale is brief and related to the paper, and remember that it’s a great way to keep the reader on edge and impress them.
• Define the concepts if it’s necessary. If you have some difficult common concepts that will accompany the reader throughout the whole work — it would be useful to explain them in the introduction. Don’t forget to mention all the resources used. By properly citing a research paper , you show your respect for other people’s efforts and follow the format rules. It is crucial to successful writing, so get help if you need to.
• Avoiding emotional expressions and slang in the introductory paragraph is also better. If your paper is in an academic tone — try to keep it in the entire document.
• Your situation might not be ideal: you may struggle or procrastinate with your research paper. These things may cause stress and negatively impact your mental and physical health. To prevent this from happening, pay for research paper writing help and relax. Everything will turn out just fine in the end, thanks to the professional aid you will get.

Examples Of A Good Introduction To A Research Paper

There are many ways to start your research paper successfully, and here are examples of interesting components of the opening paragraphs :

• Quote  — start your work with a quote from a famous person — is a great way to make an impression and show the importance of the topic. You can use quotes from a famous philosopher or even a literary character. Anyway, you need to find the one that will describe your topic and look organically. For instance, your paper is about introductions. Let’s look at the quote which would fit this idea:

“Boris Karloff once said: “The average introduction to almost any book is somewhat of a bore.”

• Use the shocking fact. Check your topic — maybe you can provide some surprising facts about it — using such points is another simple but effective way to draw the reader’s attention, making them interested in the rest of your text. For example, your topic is Global warming. Here is a sample:

“Global warming can drastically change the ocean currents, which in turn will lead to a mini Ace-age period in Europe. So, why we don’t think about it?”

• Offer thoughts regarding the related question. Don’t compose a paper with too little content; keep in mind that the introduction must establish the primary thesis’s topic. If you struggle and need qualified help in writing your research paper , refer to professionals. They will not only guide you through how to write an introduction but also provide excellent service. It would be a fantastic method to draw attention to the issue surrounding your topic, but the key to this sort of introduction is to be sure that reliable sources support your views. So, you could use the following statement to support your shocking fact about Global warming:

“I believe that everyone should spread awareness about this issue so that people understand that we must do something about Global warming very soon.”

• Add some statistics. There is no more cogent fact than official statistics; for example, if you are writing about the problem of educated people in the world, you can add some statistics from verified sources and use them in the intro to attract attention.

“79% of schools do not have libraries, only 7% of schools have a full library of textbooks, and 3,544 schools don’t have electricity at all.”

Thus, if you are hoping to get a perfect grade, you need to think about all the aspects of the work. The first impression impacts the reader right after reading the introduction. Just imagine that your work will contain perfect research, but the introduction and conclusion will not have any sense. Your best idea, in this case, would be to contact experts and get a cheap research paper writing service . They will help you complete all your writing assignments on time. Specify the topic and instructions, and your chosen professional will take over from there. You will only need to review the finished paper in the end.

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Your Guide to Writing A Strong Academic Introduction

Your introductory paragraph explained.

There is a specific stylistic methodology that can assist in forming a coherent and powerful academic introduction paragraph in a research article , especially in scientific disciplines. Writing a strong introductory paragraph is not only a necessary component of being published, but in ensuring your work is understood and makes a significant contribution to the body of knowledge.

John Swales , a leading linguistics professor, defines a model for writing such an introduction in terms of “moves” and “steps”.

Topic overview

The first rhetorical move communicated in the introductory paragraph(s) consists of setting boundaries wherein the research area or territory is defined. For example, you should not simply refer to theoretical physics as such, but the specific branch or intra-disciplinary focus. To the extent that this research area is significant or at least well-established, the importance of the research area is established.  In this way, you claim a certain centrality. Here, you need to highlight previous work in this area. 

The next “move” consists in highlighting a blind spot or at least a “gap” in the existing literature. For example, returning to the example of a topic within theoretical physics, you could mention that there is scant literature on a specific aspect of such a study. At this point, you need to indicate certain limitations to current research in the demarcated area. Another possible “step” is to expand on an existing tradition or line of argument that perhaps has not been probed deeply enough.

At this point, you have prepared the reader for the “coup”, wherein you now established how the current paper or research material will adequately “fill the gap”, that is to say, provide new and pertinent knowledge to develop current research or at best, develop and generate new knowledge. Thus, you should speak directly about what new knowledge in, say, this specialized area in theoretical physics will offer. You should outline the purpose of the current paper, including a summary of principal findings and one possible step is to also outline the structure of the paper.

State your hypothesis

By following this schema, a clear articulation of the context of the study is established. Moreover, its relevance and potential for developing the terrain is argued for. The last move, namely defining the objectives of this study, may in many cases mean articulating a clear hypothesis. This ought to be followed by a brief account of what these findings were and if the hypothesis was proven true or not. In this case, the reader knows the trajectory of the project and the value it may hold. In addition, a clearly defined outcome in the introduction gives the reader clear bearings and thus makes later sections, such as the methodology and results, easier to follow and clear in terms of what the quantitative data might imply both in terms of the paper in question and the larger questions so far as the future research implications might be.

Narrow your focus

The key point in terms of such a formula is to taper your language from the general to the more specific, narrowing your focus toward the paper in question itself. You begin citing references that introduce the research area in question and then as the reader becomes aware of “gaps” the need for the current paper is argued for. By the time you reach “move 3”, it is best to use the present simple tense in describing the work of the paper itself.

In my own role as a lecturer in academic writing for doctoral students in English where in general their first language is Hebrew or other foreign tongues, the structured outlined certainly assists students in writing a coherent introduction and developing their project with both precision and clarity. It furthermore assists in finding accurate words without being wordy and perhaps most importantly creates a seamless flow, which is the basis for good writing and communication of ideas, however technical in scope. A good introduction ought to follow this structure. In so doing, your chances of success of being published, read, and even contributing to the prevailing discourse is increased greatly. 

References:

Glassman, H. (2010). Science research writing for non-native speakers of English. Imperial College Press, London: UK.

Swales, J & Feak, C. (2004).  Academic Writing for Graduate Students, 3rd Edition, Essential Tasks and Skills, 3rd Edition, Michigan University Press: MI/

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