How to write a research paper introduction: A step-by-step guide.

The introduction is the face of your research paper, the first thing readers will encounter. A solid research paper will often use an academic introduction to answer potential questions a reader may have, and to lay the groundwork for the rest of the paper. Writing a great introduction isn’t easy though. You may even find it the most difficult part of writing your research paper.

In this Adobe Express guide, we’ll walk you through the key details and look at what to include in your introduction to make a strong first impression.

What is a research paper introduction?

The research paper introduction is where you set the stage on what’s to come. It gives your readers a clear idea of the main topic of discussion. By the time they finish reading it, they should know what your paper is about, and the basis of your key argument. For scientific papers, the introduction can also include a brief description on how the research was conducted.

There’s no limit to how long a research paper introduction should be. But the more concise the better, generally. It may only be a paragraph, or more than one page.

What goes into an academic introduction?

A solid introduction to a research paper should include the following elements:

• Initial statement. This sets the tone for your essay. Include an effective hook to give readers an idea of what you’re writing about and to encourage them to continue reading.
• Background/context. Give context to your argument, hypothesis or research topic. For example, the geographical, historical or social context. Provide a summary of relevant theories, or definitions of key terminology. Keep it brief.
• Research niche and relevance. Briefly explain how your research provides new information on your topic of discussion, and how you plan to present this information logically.

How to write a research introduction in 5 steps.

Here are a few key points to help guide you when writing the introduction of your research paper.

1. Create your hook.

Your introduction must grab your reader’s attention from the get-go. Picture it as your way of persuading the reader to become invested in your topic. A captivating hook can range from a short anecdote that highlights the issue or a thought-provoking question. The goal is to engage your audience early so they read on.

2. Give broad background info, then narrow it down.

Your introduction is the perfect place to provide context before exploring your topic in-depth. Provide background information on the topic to ensure your readers have enough knowledge to progress to the main body of your thesis.

3. Craft a succinct thesis statement.

The thesis statement is an important feature of your introduction as it summarises your paper. A strong thesis statement is short and concise and sets up your argument. Take time with it, because it will make the rest of the paper much easier to write.

4. Set the scene of your paper’s structure.

Creating an outline for your research paper makes it easier for you to frame your argument. With a roadmap of what you’ll discuss and where, you can give your argument a logical structure that makes it easier for you to write and a reader to follow.

5. Check, amend, check, amend.

It’s important to edit and proofread your introduction until it is clear and easy to understand. If readers understand your introduction, you have got the foundations right. And readers are more likely to be able to follow what comes next in the paper and its overall argument.