Writing the

Introduction
“ Introductions should be short and arresting, and they should tell the reader
why you have undertaken the study.

-Richard Smith ”
“ The introduction is not a data dump or an exercise in mental throat clearing. A
proper introduction has a definite format and sets the tone for the remainder if

”
the article.
-MaryAnn Foote
 Motivation

Why write a good introduction?

 It is the most frequently read part of the research paper
 It gives the reader a first glimpse of what is to come
 It gives an indication of how much effort you have exerted
into the task

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 Parts of the Introduction

1 Background of the Study

 Also referred to as the setting, context, or frame of reference

 Provides the readers with a preview of the problem to be reported
 Conveys the issue at hand together with its context, importance,
and relevance
 Parts of the Introduction

2 Review of Previous Research

 Indicates the general aspects of the problem already investigated

by other researchers
 Gives a preview of studies to be presented in the review of related
literature
 Parts of the Introduction

3 Research Gap(s)

 Indicates the need for the study or the need for more investigation
 May also succinctly present the conflicting data/views, knowledge
gaps, or uncertainties about the issue
 Parts of the Introduction

4 Statement of Purpose

 Indicates the objective(s) of the study

 Must be related to the research gaps in the sense that the
author(s) must state how they intend to fill the knowledge gap and
resolve conflicting data or expert viewpoints
 Parts of the Introduction

5 Statement of Value

 Indicates the significance of the study

 Mainly answers the following questions: once the objective(s) of the
study is/are attained, how does this contribute to the improvement
of society? How does this help specific stakeholders?
 Parts of the Introduction

6 Scope and Delimitation

 Indicates what the study covers and fails to cover

 Common limitations include but are not limited to the following: time
frame, specific population, techniques used
 Tips for Writing the
Introduction

What are the characteristics of a good

introduction?
 Brevity
 Clarity
 Direction

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 Tips for Writing the
Introduction

What are the characteristics of a good

introduction?
 Brief
 Clear
 Has direction
 Contains variety and style
 Voice
 Point of View
 Language
 Diction – word choice and usage

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