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How to write an introduction for a research paper
Beginnings are hard. Beginning a research paper is no exception. Many students—and pros—struggle with how to write an introduction for a research paper.
This short guide will describe the purpose of a research paper introduction and how to create a good one.
What is an introduction for a research paper?
Introductions to research papers do a lot of work.
It may seem obvious, but introductions are always placed at the beginning of a paper. They guide your reader from a general subject area to the narrow topic that your paper covers. They also explain your paper’s:
- Scope: The topic you’ll be covering
- Context: The background of your topic
- Importance: Why your research matters in the context of an industry or the world
Your introduction will cover a lot of ground. However, it will only be half of a page to a few pages long. The length depends on the size of your paper as a whole. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all of the other sections of your paper.
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Why is an introduction vital to a research paper?
The introduction to your research paper isn’t just important. It’s critical.
Your readers don’t know what your research paper is about from the title. That’s where your introduction comes in. A good introduction will:
- Help your reader understand your topic’s background
- Explain why your research paper is worth reading
- Offer a guide for navigating the rest of the piece
- Pique your reader’s interest
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 you include in an introduction for a research paper?
Research paper introductions are always unique. After all, research is original by definition. However, they often contain six essential items. These are:
- An 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 other conclusions on your topic. Include both older scholars and modern scholars. This background information shows that you are aware of prior research. It also introduces past findings to those who might not have that expertise.
- A rationale for your paper. Explain why your topic needs to be addressed right now. If applicable, connect it to current issues. Additionally, you can show a problem with former theories or reveal a gap in current research. No matter how you do it, a good rationale will interest your readers and demonstrate why they must read the rest of your paper.
- Describe the methodology you used. 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.
- A 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 should be straightforward and clear.
- An outline. Introductions often conclude with an outline. Your layout should quickly review what you intend to cover in the following sections. Think of it as a roadmap, guiding your reader to the end of your paper.
These six items are emphasized more or less, depending on your field. For example, a physics research paper might emphasize methodology. An English journal article might highlight the overview.
Three tips for writing your introduction
We don’t just want you to learn how to write an introduction for a research paper. We want you to learn how to make it shine.
There are three things you can do that will make it easier to write a great introduction. You can:
- Write your introduction last. An introduction summarizes all of 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.
- 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 reader and leave them wanting more.
- 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 out loud to catch awkward phrases. Before you finish your paper, be sure to proofread, too. Mistakes can seem unprofessional.
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- How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples
How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples
Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on September 14, 2022.
A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.
The main goals of an introduction are to:
- Catch your reader’s attention.
- Give background on your topic.
- Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.
This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.
The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.
Table of contents
Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.
Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.
Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.
The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.
Examples: Writing a good hook
Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.
- Braille was an extremely important invention.
- The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.
The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly why the topic is important.
- The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
- The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.
Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.
- Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
- Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.
Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.
Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:
- Historical, geographical, or social context
- An outline of the debate you’re addressing
- A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
- Definitions of key terms
The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.
How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:
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Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.
This is the most important part of your introduction. A good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.
The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.
Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.
As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.
For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.
When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.
It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.
You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.
Checklist: Essay introduction
My first sentence is engaging and relevant.
I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.
I have defined any important terms.
My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.
Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.
You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.
- Argumentative
- Literary analysis
This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.
The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.
This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).
In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.
Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:
- An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
- Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
- A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.
The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .
The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.
To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.
A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.
The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:
- It gives your writing direction and focus.
- It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.
Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.
The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.
The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.
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Citing Sources in the Introduction
It is important to cite sources in the introduction section of your paper as evidence of the claims you are making. There are ways of citing sources in the text so that the reader can find the full reference in the literature cited section at the end of the paper, yet the flow of the reading is not badly interrupted. Below are some example of how this can be done: "Smith (1983) found that N-fixing plants could be infected by several different species of Rhizobium." "Walnut trees are known to be allelopathic (Smith 1949, Bond et al. 1955, Jones and Green 1963)." "Although the presence of Rhizobium normally increases the growth of legumes (Nguyen 1987), the opposite effect has been observed (Washington 1999)." Note that articles by one or two authors are always cited in the text using their last names. However, if there are more than two authors, the last name of the 1st author is given followed by the abbreviation et al. which is Latin for "and others".
From: https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/imrad-reports-introductions
What is a "good" introduction?
This is where you describe briefly and clearly why you are writing the paper. The introduction supplies sufficient background information for the reader to understand and evaluate the experiment you did. It also supplies a rationale for the study.
Goals: • Present the problem and the proposed solution • Presents nature and scope of the problem investigated • Reviews the pertinent literature to orient the reader • States the method of the experiment • State the principle results of the experiment
"Introduction Checklist" from: How to Write a Good Scientific Paper. Chris A. Mack. SPIE. 2018.
Introduction
Indicate the field of the work, why this field is important, and what has already been done (with proper citations).
Indicate a gap, raise a research question, or challenge prior work in this territory.
Outline the purpose and announce the present research, clearly indicating what is novel and why it is significant.
Avoid: repeating the abstract; providing unnecessary background information; exaggerating the importance of the work; claiming novelty without a proper literature search.
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Journal Article: Introduction
When to write the introduction.
- Introduction
Your paper’s introduction is an opportunity to provide readers with the background necessary to understand your paper : the status of knowledge in your field, the question motivating your work and its significance, how you sought to answer that question (methods), and your main findings. A well-written introduction will broaden your readership by making your findings accessible to a larger audience.
Introduction Formula
Clarity is achieved by providing information in a predictable order. Successful introductions are therefore composed of 4 ordered components which are referred to as the “introduction formula”.
- General Background. Introduce the general area of science in which your project takes place, highlighting the status of our understanding of that system.
- Specific Background. Narrow down to the sub-area that your paper will be addressing, and again highlight the extent of our understanding in this sub-area.
Tip: Give your readers the technical details they need to understand the system –nothing more. Your purpose is not to showcase the breadth of your knowledge but instead to give readers all the tools they need to understand your results and their significance.
- Knowledge Gap. After discussing what we know, articulate what we do not know, specifically focusing on the question that has motivated your work. The prior two components should serve as a set-up for this question. That is, the question motivating your work should be a logical next step given what you’ve described in the general and specific background.
- “Here we show…” Very briefly summarize your methods and findings. Note that you may end this section with a sentence or two on the implications/novelty of your results, although this is not essential given that you will more thoroughly address these points in the discussion section.
This content was adapted from from an article originally created by the MIT Biological Engineering Communication Lab .
Resources and Annotated Examples
Annotated example 1.
Introduction from an article published in Science Translational Medicine . 4 MB
Annotated Example 2
Introduction from an article published in Cell . 2 MB
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How to Write a Research Introduction
Last Updated: November 21, 2022 References Approved
This article was co-authored by Megan Morgan, PhD . Megan Morgan is a Graduate Program Academic Advisor in the School of Public & International Affairs at the University of Georgia. She earned her PhD in English from the University of Georgia in 2015. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 26 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,623,673 times.
The introduction to a research paper can be the most challenging part of the paper to write. The length of the introduction will vary depending on the type of research paper you are writing. An introduction should announce your topic, provide context and a rationale for your work, before stating your research questions and hypothesis. Well-written introductions set the tone for the paper, catch the reader's interest, and communicate the hypothesis or thesis statement.
Introducing the Topic of the Paper
- In scientific papers this is sometimes known as an "inverted triangle", where you start with the broadest material at the start, before zooming in on the specifics. [2] X Research source
- The sentence "Throughout the 20th century, our views of life on other planets have drastically changed" introduces a topic, but does so in broad terms.
- It provides the reader with an indication of the content of the essay and encourages them to read on.
- For example, if you were writing a paper about the behaviour of mice when exposed to a particular substance, you would include the word "mice", and the scientific name of the relevant compound in the first sentences.
- If you were writing a history paper about the impact of the First World War on gender relations in Britain, you should mention those key words in your first few lines.
- This is especially important if you are attempting to develop a new conceptualization that uses language and terminology your readers may be unfamiliar with.
- If you use an anecdote ensure that is short and highly relevant for your research. It has to function in the same way as an alternative opening, namely to announce the topic of your research paper to your reader.
- For example, if you were writing a sociology paper about re-offending rates among young offenders, you could include a brief story of one person whose story reflects and introduces your topic.
- This kind of approach is generally not appropriate for the introduction to a natural or physical sciences research paper where the writing conventions are different.
Establishing the Context for Your Paper
- It is important to be concise in the introduction, so provide an overview on recent developments in the primary research rather than a lengthy discussion.
- You can follow the "inverted triangle" principle to focus in from the broader themes to those to which you are making a direct contribution with your paper.
- A strong literature review presents important background information to your own research and indicates the importance of the field.
- By making clear reference to existing work you can demonstrate explicitly the specific contribution you are making to move the field forward.
- You can identify a gap in the existing scholarship and explain how you are addressing it and moving understanding forward.
- For example, if you are writing a scientific paper you could stress the merits of the experimental approach or models you have used.
- Stress what is novel in your research and the significance of your new approach, but don't give too much detail in the introduction.
- A stated rationale could be something like: "the study evaluates the previously unknown anti-inflammatory effects of a topical compound in order to evaluate its potential clinical uses".
Specifying Your Research Questions and Hypothesis
- The research question or questions generally come towards the end of the introduction, and should be concise and closely focused.
- The research question might recall some of the key words established in the first few sentences and the title of your paper.
- An example of a research question could be "what were the consequences of the North American Free Trade Agreement on the Mexican export economy?"
- This could be honed further to be specific by referring to a particular element of the Free Trade Agreement and the impact on a particular industry in Mexico, such as clothing manufacture.
- A good research question should shape a problem into a testable hypothesis.
- If possible try to avoid using the word "hypothesis" and rather make this implicit in your writing. This can make your writing appear less formulaic.
- In a scientific paper, giving a clear one-sentence overview of your results and their relation to your hypothesis makes the information clear and accessible. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
- An example of a hypothesis could be "mice deprived of food for the duration of the study were expected to become more lethargic than those fed normally".
- This is not always necessary and you should pay attention to the writing conventions in your discipline.
- In a natural sciences paper, for example, there is a fairly rigid structure which you will be following.
- A humanities or social science paper will most likely present more opportunities to deviate in how you structure your paper.
Research Introduction Help
Community Q&A
- Use your research papers' outline to help you decide what information to include when writing an introduction. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Consider drafting your introduction after you have already completed the rest of your research paper. Writing introductions last can help ensure that you don't leave out any major points. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Avoid emotional or sensational introductions; these can create distrust in the reader. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 49 Not Helpful 12
- Generally avoid using personal pronouns in your introduction, such as "I," "me," "we," "us," "my," "mine," or "our." ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 30 Not Helpful 7
- Don't overwhelm the reader with an over-abundance of information. Keep the introduction as concise as possible by saving specific details for the body of your paper. ⧼thumbs_response⧽ Helpful 23 Not Helpful 14
You Might Also Like
- ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185916
- ↑ https://www.aresearchguide.com/inverted-pyramid-structure-in-writing.html
- ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/introduction
- ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/PlanResearchPaper.html
- ↑ https://dept.writing.wisc.edu/wac/writing-an-introduction-for-a-scientific-paper/
- ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/planresearchpaper/
- ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3178846/
About This Article
To introduce your research paper, use the first 1-2 sentences to describe your general topic, such as “women in World War I.” Include and define keywords, such as “gender relations,” to show your reader where you’re going. Mention previous research into the topic with a phrase like, “Others have studied…”, then transition into what your contribution will be and why it’s necessary. Finally, state the questions that your paper will address and propose your “answer” to them as your thesis statement. For more information from our English Ph.D. co-author about how to craft a strong hypothesis and thesis, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No
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Learn How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper
Updated 14 Jun 2022
Though introduction to any writing is frequently associated with beginning, it's not that simple for an introduction to a research paper. Here you can find a guide on how to write an introduction for a research paper, which presents a topic to the reader. While creating an introduction students frequently get lost in the consistency of their thoughts. But following the structure and simple rules, you will succeed with your writing and get the desired mark.
What is a Research Paper Introduction?
An introduction is the initial part of a research paper and the part that a reader is likely to read first (at least when focusing deeply and reading it in detail). Hence, definitions, notions, and other information required for understanding the paper are presented/listed here.
Every research paper needs context so that readers can understand why you have created it. This is exactly what you can do in your research paper introduction. Of course, this can mean that your introduction is the hardest part of an essay to write first. So, it is essential that you take your time and make sure you get it right.
The introduction of writing is going to set out your rationale, which is what research will be based around. Your readers should be able to tell what they are reading right from the beginning and whether it interests them.
It is essential that you make the beginning of your research paper interesting and engage with your readers from the first line. This will make sure that people continue to read and learn about what you have found out. You should also state a hypothesis and the way you think your work will turn out in conclusion. You must always include an introduction to your paper.
Sana Shaikh
"Introductions need to be organized, succinct, and clear. Clear writing is essential when writing a research paper. Often, students work so hard in crafting an interesting hook that the rest of the introduction devolves into another direction. For students, I always recommend clearly identifying what your thesis is - what are you planning on focusing on for your paper? As a reader, do I know what the premise of the paper is before I continue reading? For research papers, engagement is in the pithiness of writing and the organizational structure. In introductions particularly, the statement of organization is vital. The statement of organization dictates how the rest of the paper will be structured and what the reader should look to when they are reading. For research papers, follow your passions. What interests you? What is a topic that keeps you up at night? What are you passionate about? Finding a topic that resonates with you is key when aiming to write ideas clearly." Sana Shaikh, PhD, Director of School Operations in Springfield Public Schools
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Writing an Introduction to a Research Paper – What to Include
So, what should you include in your introduction? We will give you a list below so that you can prepare a research paper introduction outline and follow it when you are writing.
What are the parts of the introduction in research?
The introduction of a research paper may contain a few other parts/elements such as the chief goal(s) and objectives of the research, a brief but informative outline of the following content, explained, concept definitions, a brief history of the research into the topic, recent related discoveries, etc.
Start with Announcing Your Topic
There are many research topics . The topic is the fundament of any writing you prepare. Regarding, the angle you look at your topic, it will reflect different aspects. It’s better to begin with outlining your topic. There is no secret on how to start a research paper intro: you should just state your topic and add some connected with topic issues that bothers you a lot. This is a perfect strategy to intrigue the reader.
It is recommended to start with general info and then narrowing down to specific aspects. Try not to deepen into a state of things in the beginning, but explain your view on the topic. If you are going to use some difficult expressions in the central part of an essay, make them clear to any reader and point out their connection with your topic.
Review the Literature
Developing a statement in the main body, you will need some literature sources to refer to. While your idea can sound a bit subjectively, if you maintain it with citations extracted from works of famous scientists, authors, or philosophers, you will prove your point. Don’t neglect modern time scholars that are being deeply concerned about the issue or opinion you stated. The introduction should briefly state what the literature will be about.
Stress on Rationale
The rationale is the key element of your beginning. Once you stated the topic, it’s time to prove it’s relevant and gives readers food for thought. The rationale serves as an indicator of both the importance of your essay and your attitude to the issue. The rationale should be laconic and precise to show the reader the significance of your research.
State Your Thesis
The thesis statement marks the conclusive part of the introduction for the research paper or research summary and transition to the actual research. This sentence supports all the things you have written before and collects all your ideas in a logical and concise saying. If your subject is too complicated, you should make the thesis statement comprehensible with it. The thesis is what runs through your paper. That’s why the intro where a thesis is stated sets the tone for the entire work.
Your thesis should:
- Give general info on topic
- Be engaging and precise
- Reflect the significance of raised issue
If all these are ready, the only thing left is to make the outline for research paper structure.
ORDER RESEARCH PAPER
Conclude With the Outline
When all the important work is done, it’s time for the outline of the research paper’s structure. Not every mentor requires the structure overview in the introduction, but sometimes students are asked to stress on few aspects of their future research. This is not about the detailed depiction of every part of your work. The outline is a short paragraph, which consists of 3 or 4 sentences and represents your plan for the entire paper. You can also look for some essay introduction examples to grab some ideas.
View an Example of an Introduction in Research Paper
Sometimes, it is best to explore an example of an introduction in a research paper in order to understand it better. Check out the example that we have created:
Did you know that there are currently over 2.3 million Americans incarcerated for their crimes? While it is widely believed that prison should be the punishment for crime, statistics find that 77 percent of prisoners will re-offend once they are released. This suggests that prison is not working to reduce recidivism. My research paper aims to demonstrate that prison does not work as a way to prevent crime and that alternatives should be considered, such as restorative justice and other community sentencing.
Writing Tips for Students Who Want to Know all About Introduction
Dr. Elizabeth M. Minei
"A strong introduction to a research paper should probably be written last. The introduction needs to include: 1) what the topic is focused on, 2) how the research was conducted(method), 3) what the findings are (generally), 4) and how the paper contributes to the overall field. These items are often unanswerable until the paper is complete. An introduction should also absolutely have a few sentences that specifically detail what they will read in the upcoming pages. Research Papers are NOT like fiction writing where you might want to sustain the mystery—instead,you want to show them the payoff up front. If the reader gets to the end of the introduction and does not know what to expect in the rest of the paper, you may have missed the mark." Dr. Elizabeth M. Minei, PhD, Associate Professor at Baruch College, Founder and C.E.O. of EMinei Consulting
So, how to write an intro for a research paper?
- Define and Explain Concepts
Is writing including concepts that are going to be complicated for the average reader to understand? If the answer is yes, this means that you should take your time to explain them as best as you can in your introduction. This includes any jargon or terms that you think will be important to know before reading your findings and analysis.
- Start with a Quotation
You want to capture your reader’s attention right from the beginning. If you are not sure how to do that effectively, think about including a quotation that captures the heart of the topic. This will be particularly true if your essay is for social subjects, such as English, History, and humanities. It is going to help create a picture in the reader’s head, and they will remember this when they are reading your work. Depending on the subject of your paper, it could also include a striking statistic.
- Communicate your Structure
Readers need to know not only why you are conducting a particular research topic, but also how you intend to do it. It means that your introduction should set out the structure that will be followed in your article. It will allow a reader to easily navigate between different parts and make sure that it all makes sense.
Need Additional Help?
As you see, writing research papers introduction is not that challenging if you follow the guide. But sometimes even the smartest students fail in choosing a competitive topic and building a solid thesis. Even if you consider your topic important, it can seem questionable for your professor. How to write an introduction for a research paper and make it flawless?
We present you with professional help from writers who are full of new ideas to reflect them in your assignment! Browsing “how to write a research paper introduction” and trying to write a paper on your own you may lose those precious hours of your time. Asking us for help, you will get rid of your constant worries. Can you write my research papers ? Yes, we can! Presenting only top-notch content, we help many students achieve the desired outcome and improve their academic performance. Our writers don’t tolerate plagiarism - real professionals create their writings from scratch. We believe that even the most complicated task has the simplest solution and our paper writers can always find it. If you doubt, place your order and get assured we don’t mouth empty words!
How do you write a good intro?
Writing a good intro requires matching well the information in it with the rest of the paper – it must “serve” the needs of the rest of the paper. It should introduce the reader smoothly into the topic and facilitate an easy read (without requiring the excessive aid of external sources).
How do you write an introduction for a research paper?
In case you have difficulties starting with the introduction first, a fairly universal advice is to write it last (apart from the thesis, goals, and objectives). Thus, after writing other sections (that have a clearer/ more rigid structure) you’ll be able to decide both on the type of content that would match better the rest of your paper but also on the word count you can dedicate to this section.
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How to Write an Introduction for a Psychology Paper
Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author and educational consultant focused on helping students learn about psychology.
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Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.
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- Writing Tips
The purpose of an introduction in a psychology paper is to justify the reasons for writing about your topic. Your goal in this section is to introduce the topic to the reader, provide an overview of previous research on the topic, and identify your own hypothesis .
Before you begin:
Start Your Psychology Paper Introduction by Researching Your Topic
Search a journal database, such as PsychInfo or ERIC, to find articles on your subject. Once you have located an article, look at the reference section to locate other studies cited in the article. As you take notes from these articles, be sure to write down where you found the information.
A simple note detailing the author's name, journal, and date of publication can help you keep track of sources and avoid plagiarism.
Create a Detailed Outline
This is often one of the most boring and onerous steps, so students tend to skip outlining and go straight to writing. Creating an outline might seem tedious, but it can be an enormous time-saver down the road and will make the writing process much easier. Start by looking over the notes you made during the research process and consider how you want to present all of your ideas and research.
Introduce the Topic
Once you are ready to write your introduction, your first task is to provide a brief description of the research question. What is the experiment or study attempting to demonstrate? What phenomena are you studying? Provide a brief history of your topic and explain how it relates to your current research.
As you are introducing your topic, consider what makes it important. Why should it matter to your reader? The goal of your introduction is not only to let your reader know what your paper is about, but also to justify why it is important for them to learn more.
If your paper tackles a controversial subject and is focused on resolving the issue, it is important to summarize both sides of the controversy in a fair and impartial way. Consider how your paper fits in with the relevant research on the topic.
Summarize Previous Research
The second task of your introduction is to provide a well-rounded summary of previous research that is relevant to your topic. So, before you begin to write this summary, it is important to research your topic thoroughly.
Finding appropriate sources amid thousands of journal articles can be a daunting task, but there are several steps you can take to simplify your research. If you have completed the initial steps of researching and keeping detailed notes, writing your introduction will come much easier.
It is important to give the reader a good overview of the historical context of the issue you are writing about, but do not feel like you have to provide an exhaustive review of the subject. Focus on hitting the main points, and try to include the most relevant studies. You might describe the findings of previous research and then explain how the current study differs or expands upon earlier research.
Provide Your Hypothesis
Once you have summarized the previous research, explain areas where the research is lacking or potentially flawed. What is missing from previous studies on your topic? What research questions have yet to be answered? Your hypothesis should lead to these questions.
At the end of your introduction, offer your hypothesis and describe what you expected to find in your experiment or study.
Tips for Writing Your Psychology Paper Intro
- Use 3x5 inch note cards to write down notes and sources.
- Look in professional psychology journals for examples of introductions.
- Remember to cite your sources.
- Maintain a working bibliography with all of the sources you might use in your final paper. This will make it much easier to prepare your reference section later on.
- Use a copy of the APA style manual to ensure that your introduction and references are in proper APA format .
American Psychological Association. Information Recommended for Inclusion in Manuscripts That Report New Data Collections Regardless of Research Design . Published 2020.
By Kendra Cherry Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author and educational consultant focused on helping students learn about psychology.
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How To Do An Introduction For A Pathology Paper
by Prof. Stephen Gallik | Mar 2, 2023 | Pathology
Pathology is the study of the structure and function of the body’s organs and tissues. It is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disease. A pathology paper is a scientific document that reports on the findings of a pathological investigation. The paper should be concise and well-organized, and it should clearly state the purpose of the investigation and the main findings . The introduction is the most important part of the paper, as it should grab the reader’s attention and give an overview of the content. The introduction should start with a general statement about the topic of the paper, followed by a more specific statement about the purpose of the paper. The introduction should then provide an overview of the main points that will be discussed in the paper. The body of the paper should provide a detailed discussion of the findings of the investigation. The discussion should be based on the evidence presented in the paper, and it should be clear and concise. The conclusion should summarize the main points of the paper and state the implications of the findings. The conclusion should also offer suggestions for further research.
How Do You Write An Introduction And Conclusion For A Research Paper?
To write an introduction and conclusion for a research paper , you will need to first determine what your thesis or main argument is. Once you have done this, you can then begin to craft your introduction. The introduction should give the reader an overview of your paper and introduce your thesis. After the introduction, you will need to write a body, which will develop your argument further. Finally, you will need to write a conclusion, which will summarise your paper and offer a final thoughts on your argument.
Writing an introduction to a research paper can be a difficult task for students. The goal of this guide is to help you create an excellent introduction . An introduction is a document that can take up to a few pages to complete. The length of a piece of paper is determined by how large it is as a whole. If your research lacks a clear introduction, your readers may struggle to follow it. The introduction will help them gain a better understanding of the topic and prepare them for future research. The introduction of a research paper should contain at least six essential elements. The three things you can do to make your introduction easier to write are as follows.
What Is Introduction And Conclusion In Research?
The introduction should serve as a starting point for your essay, provide context for your topic, and highlight your focus. You should also include a link to engage your readers’ curiosity. Your essay will be completed with a strong conclusion that allows you to move your ideas further into the future while providing you with a sense of closure.
The Importance Of Introductions And Conclusions In Essays
The introduction typically introduces the essay’s main ideas, whereas the conclusion summarizes and summarizes the essay’s ideas. Furthermore, introduction and conclusion can provide a broader understanding of the essay while also tying together the essay’s main points. In an introduction, you should outline the main ideas and provide a general overview of the essay. This should also serve as the starting point for the rest of the essay. It is critical to have a good introduction in order to assist the reader in understanding what the essay is about. The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay in order to assist the reader in understanding the overall concept of the essay. In addition to providing a broader perspective, they should link the essay’s major ideas. A good conclusion will help the reader understand what the essay is about and provide a summary of the main ideas. Aside from providing a broader view of the essay, it will also serve as a link to the key points.
How To Start A Pathophysiology Paper
There is no one answer to this question as it depends on the focus of the paper. However, some tips on how to start a pathophysiology paper include introducing the topic and providing an overview of the pathophysiology of the chosen condition. It is also important to discuss how the condition affects the body and the symptoms that result from it. Additionally, the paper should discuss treatment options and prognosis.
Every nursing student is expected to write a Pathophysiology paper. This branch of medical practice focuses on disease management and injury management as part of patient care. Many nursing students consider nursing pathology paper to be a difficult task. It is best to consider using nursingwritingservices.com for your nursing writing services. NursingWritingServices.com offers online nursing paper writing service to you as a nursing paper writer. It includes an integrated plagiarism checker. Every day, we provide 100% original Nursing PICO projects.
Live chat with your writer guides on your expectations and suggestions as they work on your requests. It’s as simple as selecting from hundreds of writers and selecting your favorite to write the Nursing Pico. A good nursing paper reduces stress for a student and allows them to grow in their academic and general education programs. It is equally important that any Nursing Pathophysiology paper or other such document is written in a way that the intended reader understands. All you have to do is place an order, send all of the necessary files, and get the paper on your desk before the deadline. We begin with the most basic questions. Because we have experts who are specially trained in different fields of study, we can offer assignments in all fields of study.
Nursingwritingservices.com’s writers have extensive experience in nursing writing and have a firm understanding of what is expected from them. It is nothing more convenient than to assign your Picot tasks to an expert. The nursing assignment must be understood and explained in the simplest possible way by all of us.
How Do You Write A Pathophysiology Paper?
An admission paper should include information about your patient’s primary medical condition (the reason they were admitted). Your clinical research will most likely focus on the pathophysiology of the disease process, as well as how it affects your patients.
What Is The Introduction To Pathophysiology?
Pathophysiological research seeks to determine how normal mechanical, physical, and biochemical functions are affected by disease or a condition that may not qualify as a disease.
Is Intro To Pathophysiology Hard?
Pathophysiology is regarded as one of the most difficult courses nursing students will have to take during their education. Here are some suggestions to assist nursing students in making the most of this course. Take the time to read and reread the material. The best way to memorize this course is to go over it again and again.
Article On Pathology
Pathology is the study of the structure and function of the body’s organs and tissues. It is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Pathologists use a variety of techniques to examine tissues and organs. They often use microscopes to examine tissue samples . Pathologists also use laboratory tests to diagnose diseases.
The Journal of Pathology bridges the gap between basic biomedical science and clinical medicine. This journal provides high-impact research on the pathophysiological and pathogenetic mechanisms of human disease, as well as their mechanisms of action. To read this month’s Editor’s Choice article, please visit this link: every month, the Editor selects an article for free. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major contributor to invasive cervical cancer, according to a review of the scientific literature. Examining the pathogenesis and transmission pathways of SARS-caused coronaviruses in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV) provides insight into how these viruses circulate.
The Three Faces Of Pathology
Anatomical pathology , which investigates disease in organs and tissues, has a long history. This branch of medicine is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous, and urinary diseases. The field of clinical pathology studies the causes, diagnoses, and treatments of disease. Blood diseases, cancer, infectious diseases, and immune system disorders are just a few examples of diseases studied. A disease is classified as molecular pathology if it has characteristics that are specific to a disease. Cancer, genetic diseases, and genetic disorders are all studied in this area.
Fresh Pathology Term Paper Topic
There are many fresh pathology term paper topics to choose from. Some examples include: the study of a specific disease or disorder, the study of a specific organ or body system, the study of a specific cell type, and the study of a specific disease process.
The Difference Between Research Papers And Term Papers
A research paper, on the other hand, is typically a longer, more detailed piece of writing that focuses on a specific topic in greater depth than a term paper. A student will typically write it, which will usually be due at the end of the semester. Students write term papers that are typically shorter and concentrate on a single issue or topic that they have chosen themselves. They are written by a group of students in collaboration, and they are usually due at the end of the semester.
Writing Introductions
The introduction of a piece of writing is important because it sets the tone and gives the reader an idea of what to expect. A good introduction will make the reader want to keep reading, while a bad introduction will turn the reader off. There are a few things to keep in mind when writing an introduction: 1) Keep it short and to the point. 2) Start with a hook to grab the reader’s attention. 3) Give some background information on the topic. 4) Finally, state the main point or thesis of the piece.
You must have a strategy in place to get people to click on your article in order to promote it. It is a form of art to persuade readers to read an article in the first place. In this post, I will show you how to write effective introductions that turn casual web browsers into readers. If you start with something overly predictable or boring, you may lose readers. Assume that the reader already read the article and does not repeat the title. When writing about a reader, it is critical to use the word you at least once. Demonstrate the significance of the article in 1-2 sentences.
If you don’t write an effective blog post introduction , you run the risk of being labeled as a bad writer, as well as being overlooked by potential customers, subscribers, leads, and even potential supporters. You have two options for telling a story in your introduction: good or bad. Remember the tip about introducing yourself slowly and carefully? When you’re telling a story, you can still do so. Writing effective introductions is a challenge, and it takes practice and time. If you begin your post by explaining how frequently old pipes burst during the winter, your readers may be drawn in. The article must begin, and you must be able to read past the introduction to enjoy the material.
How Do You Write A Good Introduction?
In your essay introduction , three things should be mentioned: an opening hook that piques the reader’s interest, followed by an explanation of what you will be writing about. A summary of the reader’s background information. A thesis statement can be used to express your point or argument.
I received my Ph. D. from The Pennsylvania State University. My dissertation research was a study of the effect of experimentally-induced diabetes mellitus on aortic endothelial cell histamine metabolism. After receiving my degree, I took an Instructor position at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, where I team-taught human / mammalian physiology.
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Writing an Introduction for a Scientific Paper
Dr. michelle harris, dr. janet batzli, biocore.
This section provides guidelines on how to construct a solid introduction to a scientific paper including background information, study question , biological rationale, hypothesis , and general approach . If the Introduction is done well, there should be no question in the reader’s mind why and on what basis you have posed a specific hypothesis.
Broad Question : based on an initial observation (e.g., “I see a lot of guppies close to the shore. Do guppies like living in shallow water?”). This observation of the natural world may inspire you to investigate background literature or your observation could be based on previous research by others or your own pilot study. Broad questions are not always included in your written text, but are essential for establishing the direction of your research.
Background Information : key issues, concepts, terminology, and definitions needed to understand the biological rationale for the experiment. It often includes a summary of findings from previous, relevant studies. Remember to cite references, be concise, and only include relevant information given your audience and your experimental design. Concisely summarized background information leads to the identification of specific scientific knowledge gaps that still exist. (e.g., “No studies to date have examined whether guppies do indeed spend more time in shallow water.”)
Testable Question : these questions are much more focused than the initial broad question, are specific to the knowledge gap identified, and can be addressed with data. (e.g., “Do guppies spend different amounts of time in water <1 meter deep as compared to their time in water that is >1 meter deep?”)
Biological Rationale : describes the purpose of your experiment distilling what is known and what is not known that defines the knowledge gap that you are addressing. The “BR” provides the logic for your hypothesis and experimental approach, describing the biological mechanism and assumptions that explain why your hypothesis should be true.
The biological rationale is based on your interpretation of the scientific literature, your personal observations, and the underlying assumptions you are making about how you think the system works. If you have written your biological rationale, your reader should see your hypothesis in your introduction section and say to themselves, “Of course, this hypothesis seems very logical based on the rationale presented.”
- A thorough rationale defines your assumptions about the system that have not been revealed in scientific literature or from previous systematic observation. These assumptions drive the direction of your specific hypothesis or general predictions.
- Defining the rationale is probably the most critical task for a writer, as it tells your reader why your research is biologically meaningful. It may help to think about the rationale as an answer to the questions— how is this investigation related to what we know, what assumptions am I making about what we don’t yet know, AND how will this experiment add to our knowledge? *There may or may not be broader implications for your study; be careful not to overstate these (see note on social justifications below).
- Expect to spend time and mental effort on this. You may have to do considerable digging into the scientific literature to define how your experiment fits into what is already known and why it is relevant to pursue.
- Be open to the possibility that as you work with and think about your data, you may develop a deeper, more accurate understanding of the experimental system. You may find the original rationale needs to be revised to reflect your new, more sophisticated understanding.
- As you progress through Biocore and upper level biology courses, your rationale should become more focused and matched with the level of study e ., cellular, biochemical, or physiological mechanisms that underlie the rationale. Achieving this type of understanding takes effort, but it will lead to better communication of your science.
***Special note on avoiding social justifications: You should not overemphasize the relevance of your experiment and the possible connections to large-scale processes. Be realistic and logical —do not overgeneralize or state grand implications that are not sensible given the structure of your experimental system. Not all science is easily applied to improving the human condition. Performing an investigation just for the sake of adding to our scientific knowledge (“pure or basic science”) is just as important as applied science. In fact, basic science often provides the foundation for applied studies.
Hypothesis / Predictions : specific prediction(s) that you will test during your experiment. For manipulative experiments, the hypothesis should include the independent variable (what you manipulate), the dependent variable(s) (what you measure), the organism or system , the direction of your results, and comparison to be made.
If you are doing a systematic observation , your hypothesis presents a variable or set of variables that you predict are important for helping you characterize the system as a whole, or predict differences between components/areas of the system that help you explain how the system functions or changes over time.
Experimental Approach : Briefly gives the reader a general sense of the experiment, the type of data it will yield, and the kind of conclusions you expect to obtain from the data. Do not confuse the experimental approach with the experimental protocol . The experimental protocol consists of the detailed step-by-step procedures and techniques used during the experiment that are to be reported in the Methods and Materials section.
Some Final Tips on Writing an Introduction
- As you progress through the Biocore sequence, for instance, from organismal level of Biocore 301/302 to the cellular level in Biocore 303/304, we expect the contents of your “Introduction” paragraphs to reflect the level of your coursework and previous writing experience. For example, in Biocore 304 (Cell Biology Lab) biological rationale should draw upon assumptions we are making about cellular and biochemical processes.
- Be Concise yet Specific: Remember to be concise and only include relevant information given your audience and your experimental design. As you write, keep asking, “Is this necessary information or is this irrelevant detail?” For example, if you are writing a paper claiming that a certain compound is a competitive inhibitor to the enzyme alkaline phosphatase and acts by binding to the active site, you need to explain (briefly) Michaelis-Menton kinetics and the meaning and significance of Km and Vmax. This explanation is not necessary if you are reporting the dependence of enzyme activity on pH because you do not need to measure Km and Vmax to get an estimate of enzyme activity.
- Another example: if you are writing a paper reporting an increase in Daphnia magna heart rate upon exposure to caffeine you need not describe the reproductive cycle of magna unless it is germane to your results and discussion. Be specific and concrete, especially when making introductory or summary statements.
Where Do You Discuss Pilot Studies? Many times it is important to do pilot studies to help you get familiar with your experimental system or to improve your experimental design. If your pilot study influences your biological rationale or hypothesis, you need to describe it in your Introduction. If your pilot study simply informs the logistics or techniques, but does not influence your rationale, then the description of your pilot study belongs in the Materials and Methods section.
How will introductions be evaluated? The following is part of the rubric we will be using to evaluate your papers.
Introductions
What this handout is about.
This handout will explain the functions of introductions, offer strategies for creating effective introductions, and provide some examples of less effective introductions to avoid.
The role of introductions
Introductions and conclusions can be the most difficult parts of papers to write. Usually when you sit down to respond to an assignment, you have at least some sense of what you want to say in the body of your paper. You might have chosen a few examples you want to use or have an idea that will help you answer the main question of your assignment; these sections, therefore, may not be as hard to write. And it’s fine to write them first! But in your final draft, these middle parts of the paper can’t just come out of thin air; they need to be introduced and concluded in a way that makes sense to your reader.
Your introduction and conclusion act as bridges that transport your readers from their own lives into the “place” of your analysis. If your readers pick up your paper about education in the autobiography of Frederick Douglass, for example, they need a transition to help them leave behind the world of Chapel Hill, television, e-mail, and The Daily Tar Heel and to help them temporarily enter the world of nineteenth-century American slavery. By providing an introduction that helps your readers make a transition between their own world and the issues you will be writing about, you give your readers the tools they need to get into your topic and care about what you are saying. Similarly, once you’ve hooked your readers with the introduction and offered evidence to prove your thesis, your conclusion can provide a bridge to help your readers make the transition back to their daily lives. (See our handout on conclusions .)
Note that what constitutes a good introduction may vary widely based on the kind of paper you are writing and the academic discipline in which you are writing it. If you are uncertain what kind of introduction is expected, ask your instructor.
Why bother writing a good introduction?
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. The opening paragraph of your paper will provide your readers with their initial impressions of your argument, your writing style, and the overall quality of your work. A vague, disorganized, error-filled, off-the-wall, or boring introduction will probably create a negative impression. On the other hand, a concise, engaging, and well-written introduction will start your readers off thinking highly of you, your analytical skills, your writing, and your paper.
Your introduction is an important road map for the rest of your paper. Your introduction conveys a lot of information to your readers. You can let them know what your topic is, why it is important, and how you plan to proceed with your discussion. In many academic disciplines, your introduction should contain a thesis that will assert your main argument. Your introduction should also give the reader a sense of the kinds of information you will use to make that argument and the general organization of the paragraphs and pages that will follow. After reading your introduction, your readers should not have any major surprises in store when they read the main body of your paper.
Ideally, your introduction will make your readers want to read your paper. The introduction should capture your readers’ interest, making them want to read the rest of your paper. Opening with a compelling story, an interesting question, or a vivid example can get your readers to see why your topic matters and serve as an invitation for them to join you for an engaging intellectual conversation (remember, though, that these strategies may not be suitable for all papers and disciplines).
Strategies for writing an effective introduction
Start by thinking about the question (or questions) you are trying to answer. Your entire essay will be a response to this question, and your introduction is the first step toward that end. Your direct answer to the assigned question will be your thesis, and your thesis will likely be included in your introduction, so it is a good idea to use the question as a jumping off point. Imagine that you are assigned the following question:
Drawing on the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass , discuss the relationship between education and slavery in 19th-century America. Consider the following: How did white control of education reinforce slavery? How did Douglass and other enslaved African Americans view education while they endured slavery? And what role did education play in the acquisition of freedom? Most importantly, consider the degree to which education was or was not a major force for social change with regard to slavery.
You will probably refer back to your assignment extensively as you prepare your complete essay, and the prompt itself can also give you some clues about how to approach the introduction. Notice that it starts with a broad statement and then narrows to focus on specific questions from the book. One strategy might be to use a similar model in your own introduction—start off with a big picture sentence or two and then focus in on the details of your argument about Douglass. Of course, a different approach could also be very successful, but looking at the way the professor set up the question can sometimes give you some ideas for how you might answer it. (See our handout on understanding assignments for additional information on the hidden clues in assignments.)
Decide how general or broad your opening should be. Keep in mind that even a “big picture” opening needs to be clearly related to your topic; an opening sentence that said “Human beings, more than any other creatures on earth, are capable of learning” would be too broad for our sample assignment about slavery and education. If you have ever used Google Maps or similar programs, that experience can provide a helpful way of thinking about how broad your opening should be. Imagine that you’re researching Chapel Hill. If what you want to find out is whether Chapel Hill is at roughly the same latitude as Rome, it might make sense to hit that little “minus” sign on the online map until it has zoomed all the way out and you can see the whole globe. If you’re trying to figure out how to get from Chapel Hill to Wrightsville Beach, it might make more sense to zoom in to the level where you can see most of North Carolina (but not the rest of the world, or even the rest of the United States). And if you are looking for the intersection of Ridge Road and Manning Drive so that you can find the Writing Center’s main office, you may need to zoom all the way in. The question you are asking determines how “broad” your view should be. In the sample assignment above, the questions are probably at the “state” or “city” level of generality. When writing, you need to place your ideas in context—but that context doesn’t generally have to be as big as the whole galaxy!
Try writing your introduction last. You may think that you have to write your introduction first, but that isn’t necessarily true, and it isn’t always the most effective way to craft a good introduction. You may find that you don’t know precisely what you are going to argue at the beginning of the writing process. It is perfectly fine to start out thinking that you want to argue a particular point but wind up arguing something slightly or even dramatically different by the time you’ve written most of the paper. The writing process can be an important way to organize your ideas, think through complicated issues, refine your thoughts, and develop a sophisticated argument. However, an introduction written at the beginning of that discovery process will not necessarily reflect what you wind up with at the end. You will need to revise your paper to make sure that the introduction, all of the evidence, and the conclusion reflect the argument you intend. Sometimes it’s easiest to just write up all of your evidence first and then write the introduction last—that way you can be sure that the introduction will match the body of the paper.
Don’t be afraid to write a tentative introduction first and then change it later. Some people find that they need to write some kind of introduction in order to get the writing process started. That’s fine, but if you are one of those people, be sure to return to your initial introduction later and rewrite if necessary.
Open with something that will draw readers in. Consider these options (remembering that they may not be suitable for all kinds of papers):
- an intriguing example —for example, Douglass writes about a mistress who initially teaches him but then ceases her instruction as she learns more about slavery.
- a provocative quotation that is closely related to your argument —for example, Douglass writes that “education and slavery were incompatible with each other.” (Quotes from famous people, inspirational quotes, etc. may not work well for an academic paper; in this example, the quote is from the author himself.)
- a puzzling scenario —for example, Frederick Douglass says of slaves that “[N]othing has been left undone to cripple their intellects, darken their minds, debase their moral nature, obliterate all traces of their relationship to mankind; and yet how wonderfully they have sustained the mighty load of a most frightful bondage, under which they have been groaning for centuries!” Douglass clearly asserts that slave owners went to great lengths to destroy the mental capacities of slaves, yet his own life story proves that these efforts could be unsuccessful.
- a vivid and perhaps unexpected anecdote —for example, “Learning about slavery in the American history course at Frederick Douglass High School, students studied the work slaves did, the impact of slavery on their families, and the rules that governed their lives. We didn’t discuss education, however, until one student, Mary, raised her hand and asked, ‘But when did they go to school?’ That modern high school students could not conceive of an American childhood devoid of formal education speaks volumes about the centrality of education to American youth today and also suggests the significance of the deprivation of education in past generations.”
- a thought-provoking question —for example, given all of the freedoms that were denied enslaved individuals in the American South, why does Frederick Douglass focus his attentions so squarely on education and literacy?
Pay special attention to your first sentence. Start off on the right foot with your readers by making sure that the first sentence actually says something useful and that it does so in an interesting and polished way.
How to evaluate your introduction draft
Ask a friend to read your introduction and then tell you what he or she expects the paper will discuss, what kinds of evidence the paper will use, and what the tone of the paper will be. If your friend is able to predict the rest of your paper accurately, you probably have a good introduction.
Five kinds of less effective introductions
1. The placeholder introduction. When you don’t have much to say on a given topic, it is easy to create this kind of introduction. Essentially, this kind of weaker introduction contains several sentences that are vague and don’t really say much. They exist just to take up the “introduction space” in your paper. If you had something more effective to say, you would probably say it, but in the meantime this paragraph is just a place holder.
Example: Slavery was one of the greatest tragedies in American history. There were many different aspects of slavery. Each created different kinds of problems for enslaved people.
2. The restated question introduction. Restating the question can sometimes be an effective strategy, but it can be easy to stop at JUST restating the question instead of offering a more specific, interesting introduction to your paper. The professor or teaching assistant wrote your question and will be reading many essays in response to it—he or she does not need to read a whole paragraph that simply restates the question.
Example: The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass discusses the relationship between education and slavery in 19th century America, showing how white control of education reinforced slavery and how Douglass and other enslaved African Americans viewed education while they endured. Moreover, the book discusses the role that education played in the acquisition of freedom. Education was a major force for social change with regard to slavery.
3. The Webster’s Dictionary introduction. This introduction begins by giving the dictionary definition of one or more of the words in the assigned question. Anyone can look a word up in the dictionary and copy down what Webster says. If you want to open with a discussion of an important term, it may be far more interesting for you (and your reader) if you develop your own definition of the term in the specific context of your class and assignment. You may also be able to use a definition from one of the sources you’ve been reading for class. Also recognize that the dictionary is also not a particularly authoritative work—it doesn’t take into account the context of your course and doesn’t offer particularly detailed information. If you feel that you must seek out an authority, try to find one that is very relevant and specific. Perhaps a quotation from a source reading might prove better? Dictionary introductions are also ineffective simply because they are so overused. Instructors may see a great many papers that begin in this way, greatly decreasing the dramatic impact that any one of those papers will have.
Example: Webster’s dictionary defines slavery as “the state of being a slave,” as “the practice of owning slaves,” and as “a condition of hard work and subjection.”
4. The “dawn of man” introduction. This kind of introduction generally makes broad, sweeping statements about the relevance of this topic since the beginning of time, throughout the world, etc. It is usually very general (similar to the placeholder introduction) and fails to connect to the thesis. It may employ cliches—the phrases “the dawn of man” and “throughout human history” are examples, and it’s hard to imagine a time when starting with one of these would work. Instructors often find them extremely annoying.
Example: Since the dawn of man, slavery has been a problem in human history.
5. The book report introduction. This introduction is what you had to do for your elementary school book reports. It gives the name and author of the book you are writing about, tells what the book is about, and offers other basic facts about the book. You might resort to this sort of introduction when you are trying to fill space because it’s a familiar, comfortable format. It is ineffective because it offers details that your reader probably already knows and that are irrelevant to the thesis.
Example: Frederick Douglass wrote his autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave , in the 1840s. It was published in 1986 by Penguin Books. In it, he tells the story of his life.
And now for the conclusion…
Writing an effective introduction can be tough. Try playing around with several different options and choose the one that ends up sounding best to you!
Just as your introduction helps readers make the transition to your topic, your conclusion needs to help them return to their daily lives–but with a lasting sense of how what they have just read is useful or meaningful. Check out our handout on conclusions for tips on ending your paper as effectively as you began it!
Works consulted
We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.
Douglass, Frederick. 1995. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself . New York: Dover.
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How to Write a Research Introduction: from Pure Title to Hook Sentence
It is not a secret that most people judge a book by the cover, so if you want your research paper to be read from A to Z, it is important to write a powerful introduction in research paper.
The first paragraph of your work must be catchy, inspiring and interesting, motivating the audience to go on reading. In this article you will learn everything about writing a research paper introduction and achieving outstanding writing results!
Following tips from AssignmentPay's expert team will help you to understand how a research paper introduction should look like and how to help readers enjoy your paper. In case you don’t have enough time or energy to write a research paper introduction, you can always pay for research paper - just contact and get outstanding assistance within a chosen period of time!
What is introduction in research paper?
A good introduction should lead the reader from a generalized topic to a particular aspect. It helps to establish the main idea, context, research importance and summarizes background data on the topic, providing the main goal of the work. In addition it contains hypothesis, a set of discussed questions and used methodology.
Your introduction should also highlight potential results or explain research structure and organization.
If you want to learn how to write a research paper introduction , you should answer three general questions:
- What is it?
- Why should you read it?
- What do you want your reader to think about it/ react to?
What should be in the introduction of a research paper?
Research paper introduction can be one of the most difficult parts to complete. The size of this section depends on the work type you are asked to complete.
Your introduction should define the topic, consist of a context and rationale, as well as of a hypothesis and research questions. A thoughtful introduction sets a tone for the whole paper, grabs attention of the reader and provides thesis statement and hypothesis.
3 Overarching Goals of a Good Introduction
- To make sure you provide a clear and understandable summary of previous works on the subject to give a better understanding of the problem;
- To explain why your own research fills in the gaps in literature and adds insufficient details to the topic;
- To note all sorts of contributions (including policy, theoretical and empirical ones) of the research.
How to write an Introduction?
The best way to get started if you lack information or ideas on writing an introduction is to learn about it online. Following tips of professional writers and tutors you will be able to create an outstanding work, which won’t leave anyone indifferent.
Below you will find the most relevant tips for writing a great research paper introduction.
Select the Topic
This step may be obvious but it plays a crucial part in writing a great research paper. If you select an irrelevant, boring or too general topic, you risk losing motivation and dropping the assignment somewhere in the middle.
Make a list of the matters you are interested in, conduct a research to see whether chosen variants have much credible data online. Cross out options, which can’t be backed with reliable sources or don’t stir up your interest.
Background Information
As any book or movie, introduction aims to set the background and give your assignment a certain context, allowing the reader to see how your work complements previous researches on the similar topic.
That is why first paragraphs of the introduction should explain historical background, describing the first work in the field and other researches that influenced the modern situation.
However, huge amounts of information can make it difficult to fit into several paragraphs, so be careful and provide only the most important information.
Rationale for your work
Rationale is an explanation why you are using a certain film, book or method in your work. The basic elements of a rationale are:
- Target audience and citation of literature;
- Summary of the paper and its educational importance;
- Goals of using the research and how it can be applied on practice;
- Potential problems and how they can be solved;
- Alternative sources, which the student can explore.
Hook Sentence
A hook sentence is your chance to catch interest of the reader and make him want to learn more after reading the introduction in research paper. Your hook may include:
- A literary quote;
- Statistics or facts;
- A rhetorical question;
- Simile or metaphor;
- Anecdote or joke;
- Quote of a famous person.
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Writing a Thesis Statement
If you want to understand how to write an introduction, you should remember about including a thesis statement to your work. Actually, without it your introduction will be meaningless and your teacher will surely ask you to rewrite the whole section.
You need to write a thesis statement, when you are working on the outline. In such a way, you will be able to understand what arguments and sources to use. These few sentences may predetermine the whole course of your future work.
A good thesis statement includes such qualities, as:
- Background information on the topic;
- Precision and engagement;
- Importance of the discussed issue.
‘Downloading books online without any fee is bad and you need to avoid it’. It is a very weak example of a thesis statement, which is not able to stir interest of the audience and prevents from continuing reading.
‘Every time you download a book online without paying for it, huge work and efforts of authors remain unrecognized and make them lose thousands of dollars. It may eventually harm economy and overall wellbeing of the society’.
This example is much better, because it dives deeper into the problem and explains why the issue is relevant not only to a regular person but to the nation as a whole.
Tips for writing Good introduction
Importance of a good introduction is impossible to overestimate, because you will never have another chance to make a positive first impression.
First paragraphs of your research paper give the audience information on quality of chosen arguments, your personal style, as well as on validity of conclusions. If your introduction is weak and lacks structure, it may make the reader want to put your research paper aside.
On contrary, a concise and properly structured introduction will surely make the readers notice your writing and analytical skills, and make them want to go on reading.
Below you will find a few most important tips on writing a powerful introduction, engaging the reader and arising interest of the audience.
- Remain brief. Too long introduction will bore the reader and you will most likely lose the audience. Always stick to the outline and make your introduction short and straight to the point;
- Always define your problem. Your introduction should end up with a hypothesis, question or a thesis statement. By the end of your introduction the reader must know what you are trying to achieve by writing the paper. Remember, your discussion and conclusion sections will refer to the introduction, supporting your thesis statement;
- Organization. When working on body paragraphs you may notice that they go in different directions. There is nothing wrong until you adjust your introduction to the new course. A good advice is to work on your introduction only when all other sections are ready. It doesn’t work for all the students, so choose the rhythm and sequence depending on your own preferences.
Once your introduction is ready, you can proceed with conclusions and bibliography.
Research Paper Introduction Examples
Some students don’t know how to get started or are scared to fail, so they don’t want to try. One of the most simple and free solutions is getting familiar with examples online.
You can download samples of research paper introductions, choose the one you like and write your own paragraphs with ease!
Not every student can boast writing skills, so there is absolutely nothing wrong in searching for tips online. If you lack time or don’t want to risk your grades, Assignmentpay.com experts are always there to help. Place an order, providing us with specific guidelines and receive a flawless research paper introduction before the indicated deadline.
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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Research Paper
Few things strike more fear in academics than the accursed research paper , a term synonymous with long hours and hard work. Luckily there’s a secret to help you get through them. As long as you know how to write a research paper properly, you’ll find they’re not so bad . . . or at least less painful.
In this guide we concisely explain how to write an academic research paper step by step. We’ll cover areas like how to start a research paper, how to write a research paper outline, how to use citations and evidence, and how to write a conclusion for a research paper.
But before we get into the details, let’s take a look at what a research paper is and how it’s different from other writing .
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What is a research paper?
A research paper is a type of academic writing that provides an in-depth analysis, evaluation, or interpretation of a single topic, based on empirical evidence. Research papers are similar to analytical essays, except that research papers emphasize the use of statistical data and preexisting research, along with a strict code for citations.
Research papers are a bedrock of modern science and the most effective way to share information across a wide network. However, most people are familiar with research papers from school; college courses often use them to test a student’s knowledge of a particular area or their research skills in general.
Considering their gravity, research papers favor formal, even bland language that strips the writing of any bias. Researchers state their findings plainly and with corresponding evidence so that other researchers can consequently use the paper in their own research.
Keep in mind that writing a research paper is different from writing a research proposal . Essentially, research proposals are to acquire the funding needed to get the data to write a research paper.
How long should a research paper be?
The length of a research paper depends on the topic or assignment. Typically, research papers run around 4,000–6,000 words, but it’s common to see short papers around 2,000 words or long papers over 10,000 words.
If you’re writing a paper for school, the recommended length should be provided in the assignment. Otherwise, let your topic dictate the length: Complicated topics or extensive research will require more explanation.
How to write a research paper in 9 steps
Below is a step-by-step guide to writing a research paper, catered specifically for students rather than professional researchers. While some steps may not apply to your particular assignment, think of this as more of a general guideline to keep you on track.
1 Understand the assignment
For some of you this goes without saying, but you might be surprised at how many students start a research paper without even reading the assignment guidelines.
So your first step should be to review the assignment and carefully read the writing prompt. Specifically, look for technical requirements such as length , formatting requirements (single- vs. double-spacing, indentations, etc.) and citation style . Also pay attention to the particulars, such as whether or not you need to write an abstract or include a cover page.
Once you understand the assignment, the next steps in how to write a research paper follow the usual writing process , more or less. There are some extra steps involved because research papers have extra rules, but the gist of the writing process is the same.
2 Choose your topic
In open-ended assignments, the student must choose their own topic. While it may seem simple enough, choosing a topic is actually the most important decision you’ll make in writing a research paper, since it determines everything that follows.
Your top priority in how to choose a research paper topic is whether it will provide enough content and substance for an entire research paper. You’ll want to choose a topic with enough data and complexity to enable a rich discussion. However, you also want to avoid general topics and instead stick with topics specific enough that you can cover all the relevant information without cutting too much.
Try not to be robotic about choosing your topic, though; it’s still best to pick something that you’re personally interested in. Ideally, you’ll find a topic that satisfies both requirements, something that provides a suitable amount of content and also keeps you engaged.
3 Gather preliminary research
The sooner you start researching, the better—after all, it’s called a research paper for a reason.
To refine your topic and prepare your thesis statement, find out what research is available for your topic as soon as possible. Early research can help dispel any misconceptions you have about the topic and reveal the best paths and approaches to find more material.
Typically, you can find sources either online or in a library. If you’re searching online, make sure you use credible sources like science journals or academic papers. Some search engines—mentioned below in the Tools and resources section—allow you to browse only accredited sources and academic databases.
Keep in mind the difference between primary and secondary sources as you search. Primary sources are firsthand accounts, like published articles or autobiographies; secondary sources are more removed, like critical reviews or secondhand biographies.
When gathering your research, it’s better to skim sources instead of reading each potential source fully. If a source seems useful, set it aside to give it a full read later. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck poring over sources that you ultimately won’t use, and that time could be better spent finding a worthwhile source.
Sometimes you’re required to submit a literature review , which explains your sources and presents them to an authority for confirmation. Even if no literature review is required, it’s still helpful to compile an early list of potential sources—you’ll be glad you did later.
4 Write a thesis statement
Using what you found in your preliminary research, write a thesis statement that succinctly summarizes what your research paper will be about. This is usually the first sentence in your paper, making it your reader’s introduction to the topic.
A thesis statement is the best answer for how to start a research paper. Aside from preparing your reader, the thesis statement also makes it easier for other researchers to assess whether or not your paper is useful to them for their own research. Likewise, you should read the thesis statements of other research papers to decide how useful they are to you.
A good thesis statement mentions all the important parts of the discussion without disclosing too many of the details. If you’re having trouble putting it into words, try to phrase your topic as a question and then answer it .
For example, if your research paper topic is about separating students with ADHD from other students, you’d first ask yourself, “Does separating students with ADHD improve their learning?” The answer—based on your preliminary research—is a good basis for your thesis statement.
5 Determine supporting evidence
At this stage of how to write an academic research paper, it’s time to knuckle down and do the actual research. Here’s when you go through all the sources you collected earlier and find the specific information you’d like to use in your paper.
Normally, you find your supporting evidence by reading each source and taking notes. Isolate only the information that’s directly relevant to your topic; don’t bog down your paper with tangents or unnecessary context, however interesting they may be. And always write down page numbers , not only for you to find the information later, but also because you’ll need them for your citations.
Aside from highlighting text and writing notes, another common tactic is to use bibliography cards . These are simple index cards with a fact or direct quotation on one side and the bibliographical information (source citation, page numbers, subtopic category) on the other. While bibliography cards are not necessary, some students find them useful for staying organized, especially when it’s time to write an outline.
6 Write a research paper outline
A lot of students want to know how to write a research paper outline. More than informal essays, research papers require a methodical and systematic structure to make sure all issues are addressed, and that makes outlines especially important.
First make a list of all the important categories and subtopics you need to cover—an outline for your outline! Consider all the information you gathered when compiling your supporting evidence and ask yourself what the best way to separate and categorize everything is.
Once you have a list of what you want to talk about, consider the best order to present the information. Which subtopics are related and should go next to each other? Are there any subtopics that don’t make sense if they’re presented out of sequence? If your information is fairly straightforward, feel free to take a chronological approach and present the information in the order it happened.
Because research papers can get complicated, consider breaking your outline into paragraphs. For starters, this helps you stay organized if you have a lot of information to cover. Moreover, it gives you greater control over the flow and direction of the research paper. It’s always better to fix structural problems in the outline phase than later after everything’s already been written.
Don’t forget to include your supporting evidence in the outline as well. Chances are you’ll have a lot you want to include, so putting it in your outline helps prevent some things from falling through the cracks.
7 Write the first draft
Once your outline is finished, it’s time to start actually writing your research paper. This is by far the longest and most involved step, but if you’ve properly prepared your sources and written a thorough outline, everything should run smoothly.
If you don’t know how to write an introduction for a research paper, the beginning can be difficult. That’s why writing your thesis statement beforehand is crucial. Open with your thesis statement and then fill out the rest of your introduction with the secondary information—save the details for the body of your research paper, which comes next.
The body contains the bulk of your research paper. Unlike essays , research papers usually divide the body into sections with separate headers to facilitate browsing and scanning. Use the divisions in your outline as a guide.
Follow along your outline and go paragraph by paragraph. Because this is just the first draft, don’t worry about getting each word perfect . Later you’ll be able to revise and fine-tune your writing, but for now focus simply on saying everything that needs to be said. In other words, it’s OK to make mistakes since you’ll go back later to correct them.
One of the most common problems with writing long works like research papers is connecting paragraphs to each other. The longer your writing is, the harder it is to tie everything together smoothly. Use transition sentences to improve the flow of your paper, especially for the first and last sentences in a paragraph.
Even after the body is written, you still need to know how to write a conclusion for a research paper. Just like an essay conclusion , your research paper conclusion should restate your thesis , reiterate your main evidence , and summarize your findings in a way that’s easy to understand.
Don’t add any new information in your conclusion, but feel free to say your own personal perspective or interpretation if it helps the reader understand the big picture.
8 Cite your sources correctly
Citations are part of what sets research papers apart from more casual nonfiction like personal essays . Citing your sources both validates your data and also links your research paper to the greater scientific community. Because of their importance, citations must follow precise formatting rules . . . problem is, there’s more than one set of rules!
You need to check with the assignment to see which formatting style is required. Typically, academic research papers follow one of two formatting styles for citing sources:
- MLA (Modern Language Association)
- APA (American Psychological Association)
The links above explain the specific formatting guidelines for each style, along with an automatic citation generator to help you get started.
In addition to MLA and APA styles, you occasionally see requirements for CMOS (The Chicago Manual of Style), AMA (American Medical Association) and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).
Citations may seem confusing at first with all their rules and specific information. However, once you get the hang of them, you’ll be able to properly cite your sources without even thinking about it. Keep in mind that each formatting style has specific guidelines for citing just about any kind of source, including photos , websites , speeches , and YouTube videos .
9 Edit and proofread
Last but not least, you want to go through your research paper to correct all the mistakes by proofreading . We recommend going over it twice: once for structural issues such as adding/deleting parts or rearranging paragraphs and once for word choice, grammatical, and spelling mistakes. Doing two different editing sessions helps you focus on one area at a time instead of doing them both at once.
To help you catch everything, here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind while you edit:
Structural edit:
- Is your thesis statement clear and concise?
- Is your paper well-organized, and does it flow from beginning to end with logical transitions?
- Do your ideas follow a logical sequence in each paragraph?
- Have you used concrete details and facts and avoided generalizations?
- Do your arguments support and prove your thesis?
- Have you avoided repetition?
- Are your sources properly cited?
- Have you checked for accidental plagiarism?
Word choice, grammar, and spelling edit:
- Is your language clear and specific?
- Do your sentences flow smoothly and clearly?
- Have you avoided filler words and phrases ?
- Have you checked for proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation?
Some people find it useful to read their paper out loud to catch problems they might miss when reading in their head. Another solution is to have someone else read your paper and point out areas for improvement and/or technical mistakes.
Revising is a separate skill from writing, and being good at one doesn’t necessarily make you good at the other. If you want to improve your revision skills, read our guide on self-editing , which includes a more complete checklist and advanced tips on improving your revisions.
Technical issues like grammatical mistakes and misspelled words can be handled effortlessly if you use a spellchecker with your word processor, or even better, a digital writing assistant that also suggests improvements for word choice and tone, like Grammarly (we explain more in the Tools and resources section below).
Tools and resources
If you want to know more about how to write a research paper, or if you want some help with each step, take a look at the tools and resources below.
Google Scholar
This is Google’s own search engine, which is dedicated exclusively to academic papers. It’s a great way to find new research and sources. Plus, it’s free to use.
Zotero is a freemium, open-source research manager, a cross between an organizational CMS and a search engine for academic research. With it, you can browse the internet for research sources relevant to your topic and share them easily with colleagues. Also, it automatically generates citations.
FocusWriter
Writing long research papers is always a strain on your attention span. If you have trouble avoiding distractions during those long stretches, FocusWriter might be able to help. FocusWriter is a minimalist word processor that removes all the distracting icons and sticks only to what you type. You’re also free to choose your own customized backgrounds, with other special features like timed alarms, daily goals, and optional typewriter sound effects.
Google Charts
This useful and free tool from Google lets you create simple charts and graphs based on whatever data you input. Charts and graphs are excellent visual aids for expressing numeric data, a perfect complement if you need to explain complicated evidential research.
Grammarly goes way beyond grammar, helping you hone word choice, checking your text for plagiarism, detecting your tone, and more. For foreign-language learners, it can make your English sound more fluent, and even those who speak English as their primary language benefit from Grammarly’s suggestions.
Research paper FAQs
A research paper is a piece of academic writing that analyzes, evaluates, or interprets a single topic with empirical evidence and statistical data.
When will I need to write a research paper in college?
Many college courses use research papers to test a student’s knowledge of a particular topic or their research skills in general. While research papers depend on the course or professor, you can expect to write at least a few before graduation.
How do I determine a topic for my research paper?
If the topic is not assigned, try to find a topic that’s general enough to provide ample evidence but specific enough that you’re able to cover all the basics. If possible, choose a topic you’re personally interested in—it makes the work easier.
Where can I conduct research for my paper?
Today most research is conducted either online or in libraries. Some topics might benefit from old periodicals like newspapers or magazines, as well as visual media like documentaries. Museums, parks, and historical monuments can also be useful.
How do I cite sources for a research paper?
The correct formatting for citations depends on which style you’re using, so check the assignment guidelines. Most school research reports use either MLA or APA styles, although there are others.
This article was originally written by Karen Hertzberg in 2017. It’s been updated to include new information.
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Writing a Research Paper
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The pages in this section provide detailed information about how to write research papers including discussing research papers as a genre, choosing topics, and finding sources.
The Research Paper
There will come a time in most students' careers when they are assigned a research paper. Such an assignment often creates a great deal of unneeded anxiety in the student, which may result in procrastination and a feeling of confusion and inadequacy. This anxiety frequently stems from the fact that many students are unfamiliar and inexperienced with this genre of writing. Never fear—inexperience and unfamiliarity are situations you can change through practice! Writing a research paper is an essential aspect of academics and should not be avoided on account of one's anxiety. In fact, the process of writing a research paper can be one of the more rewarding experiences one may encounter in academics. What is more, many students will continue to do research throughout their careers, which is one of the reasons this topic is so important.
Becoming an experienced researcher and writer in any field or discipline takes a great deal of practice. There are few individuals for whom this process comes naturally. Remember, even the most seasoned academic veterans have had to learn how to write a research paper at some point in their career. Therefore, with diligence, organization, practice, a willingness to learn (and to make mistakes!), and, perhaps most important of all, patience, students will find that they can achieve great things through their research and writing.
The pages in this section cover the following topic areas related to the process of writing a research paper:
- Genre - This section will provide an overview for understanding the difference between an analytical and argumentative research paper.
- Choosing a Topic - This section will guide the student through the process of choosing topics, whether the topic be one that is assigned or one that the student chooses themselves.
- Identifying an Audience - This section will help the student understand the often times confusing topic of audience by offering some basic guidelines for the process.
- Where Do I Begin - This section concludes the handout by offering several links to resources at Purdue, and also provides an overview of the final stages of writing a research paper.
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How to Write a Research Paper Introduction Paragraph
04 Feb 2022
Quick Navigation
❓What Is an Introduction Paragraph for Research Paper?
✒️How to Write a Research Paper Introduction?
- State Your Research Theme
- Be Original
- Explain Key Terms
- Size Is Important
- Refer to the Keywords
- Follow the Rules of Logic
🚨Common Mistakes and How not to Slip Up
📑Research Paper Introduction Examples
Just like the alphabet begins with the letter “A,” any essay begins with an introduction. When you’re ready to write a research paper, you should start with an opening section. These are not common sentences but ones that form the entire thesis you will explore in the body paragraphs of a research project. You should guide the reader through the topic and present the importance of your university research and its results.
What Is an Introduction Paragraph for Research Paper?
Writing a research paper is a mandatory task in almost any educational specialty. You will definitely have to face this kind of task at some point. We know how difficult it can be to collect your thoughts and start doing work by arranging an introduction. That is why we are ready to come to your aid and tell you in detail the rules, as well as share some useful tips on writing the opening passage.
The research paper introductions are pieces of information placed at the beginning of the paper. The size of this section depends on the general requirements for the work and usually is about 350-450 words. Moreover, everything you write in the introduction should attract the reader’s curiosity. This part of your work is designed to help the reader identify whether he or she wants to read the paper.
You can get acquainted with the example of an abstract for a research paper . That is why it is incredibly important to approach the writing of this section responsibly and make sure that you manage to clearly and interestingly position your research topic. A well-written research paper introduction will make you more likely to get a high score.
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How to Write a Research Paper Introduction?
After writing your research paper, you will have a broad picture of your entire research and analysis. Being an expert in the research niche of your scientific paper, you will be able to come to valid conclusions and also highlight the main points of your work. This will help you to create an outline, identify the key notions, and include them in the introduction. To increase interest in reading your project, you should also define a hook that can catch the reader.
However, the problem with writing the first section is the difficulty in determining the importance of information. While investigating, you will probably feel that all the data you provide is essential. But to write a good introduction, you need to be concise. Your general erudition of background information, combined with specific knowledge of the general subject area, will help you write a great introduction. There are a few simple guides that can help to make your research paper introduction shine:
1. State Your Research Theme
The first sentences should be common about the general topic, and then you should add some details about your topic. This is called the inverted triangle, when you start a research paper with a broad theme and then narrow it down. Be concise in your presentation of the research problem to avoid any kind of ambiguity. Your study should be presented as a direct continuation of the introduction. It is crucial to keep the narrative logical.
2. Be Original
If you write a dissertation paper in humanities, you can start the introduction with a quotation or even an anecdote. If your academic area is science or medicine, you can write extremely interesting data or even shocking statistics. Such an approach will help you develop an attractive research paper introduction. However, be careful with fact checking and sources. All the statistics you provide must correspond to reality. According to the methodology, shocking research should be done either by you personally or by reputable institutions.
3. Explain Key Terms
You should provide a list of the notions you used and the definitions that you based on to avoid reader confusion. In science, there is a phenomenon when one term can have different interpretations due to the background. Whenever you find yourself in trouble, ask us to write my research paper , and we’ll come to help. Moreover, the glossary will show your knowledge level in the scientific context and help expand the audience that your article may be useful too.
4. Size Is Important
It would help if you chose your ideal length for the introduction. It should be short enough to be readable and gain the reader's attention and long enough to explain all the main features of your essay. And, of course, remember that the size of the introduction should be directly proportional to the size of your study. You need to briefly describe the main sections that your subject includes to guide your reader.
5. Refer to the Keywords
The keywords should be used in the introduction to give a general overview of the research questions. These could be separate words or word combinations which describe your topic. This trick aims to write a research paper that is easier to find. In addition, they help the reader quickly understand the direction of your research, showing the problem and the subject of investigation.
6. Follow the Rules of Logic
You should be consistent in the writing process. As we mentioned in one of the other sections, your work must be holistic. Each new thought should be a continuation of the previous one. A well-elaborated outline may help in solving this research problem. The first passage should logically introduce the reader to the subject and also give a preview of what will be described next. Logical links between sentences will make your text coherent.
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Common Mistakes and How not to Slip Up
As you can already understand, writing a decent introduction is quite a difficult task. You should always keep in mind the purpose of your university research to stay on the topic. We are going to see the most common research problem to be aware of when writing.
- An extended introduction
When you conduct scientific research, each word you write carries a large amount of necessary information. However, working out a quality introduction, you find out that the size is very limited, and you need to spend time filtering out unnecessary information.
- Lack of a hook
Good introductions are not limited to just a list of data you have received. It is this paragraph that presents the first impression. Try to make it informative and catchy. If you face some problems elaborating witty hooks for a paper, consult a writing service that can provide you with professional advice.
- Inconsistent Data
The problem of inconsistency in the presentation of information appears when you first write the introduction and then the main body of the study. To avoid the error of lack of previous research, follow our advice. Study the background of the hypothesis you have chosen and then describe the results of your research.
Research Paper Introduction Examples
The theory is good, but the practice is quite different. Read our examples to get good ideas from other researchers about how to write an excellent introduction.
Contemporary literary marketing has become digital because of the demands of the online era. Popular best-selling authors such as J. K. Rowling or Dan Brown profit from the internet and use it as a source for advertising to show the audience their creations. On the other hand, many writers find digital literature harmful and destructive for their livelihood because many users can get their books without paying for them. However, more studies reveal that the business side of the book industry is not far from the negative. This research paper will define whether the culture of digital book consumption has to be changed due to the creations of writers becoming worthless due to online piracy and because people have stopped valuing non-digitized books.
The second sample of introduction paragraph is on the topic: “Behavioral Study of the Phenomenon of Obedience”.
Modern theories tend to associate misbehavior and intentional actions that harm others with personal characteristics. The psychologists and doctors in a survey predicted that only a small portion of people (about 1-3%) would intentionally harm someone after being told to do so. A good example of this phenomenon is a recent war trial with Adolph Eichmann, who claimed he was only following orders to carry out Nazi war crimes. Therefore, is it possible that people can harm others by only “following orders?” Are people capable of betraying their moral convictions if ordered to do so? During the experiment, we will see whether someone can continue administering painful electric shocks that harm another person simply because he or she is told to do so. It is expected that very few will continue and that most of the participants will not obey the order.
Writing an engaging introduction is not less important than conducting research papers or providing a high-quality context in your issue. In fact, a great intro is even more important for your success! An opening paragraph that attracts attention and keeps the reader engaged is the key to success with this academic work.
The intro is the first thing that a reader sees. It is exactly what helps him or her gets the first impression of your work, which carries their opinion about the merits of your paper while they finish reading it. That’s why it’s so important to get it done right.
How do you create flawless intros for your research papers? These tips and examples in this article should help you deal with this assignment effortlessly while avoiding common mistakes. However, it also requires practice. We encourage students to practice writing as much as they can to master these skills and never face difficulties with writing academic papers again!
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Quick Guide on How to Write a Research Paper: Tips and Tricks
All You Need to Know about Writing a Research Paper
Research papers are a vital aspect of academia and require careful planning, execution, and communication of findings. They are used to demonstrate your knowledge on a particular topic, provide an original contribution to the field, and showcase your research and analytical skills.
This comprehensive guide on how to write a research paper will provide you with all the necessary information to help you write a well-structured and informative paper. We will discuss the various steps to writing a research paper, from creating an introduction to crafting a compelling conclusion. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a first-time writer, this article will equip you with the tools you need to produce a high-quality research paper.
How to Write a Good Research Paper with Useful Steps
Working on research papers can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. So, if you were staring at a blank page, unsure how to write an academic research paper that will stand out, don't worry; we've got you covered!
In the following paragraphs, we've gathered some helpful information and tips to guide you through the process step by step. So, if you're ready to take on the challenge of how to write a good research paper, read on for our useful steps and tips below.
How to Write an Intro for a Research Paper
It's time to address the question of the day - how to write an intro for a research paper. It's a challenge that many students and researchers struggle with as they embark on their writing journey. As the intro sets the tone for your paper, it's crucial to grab your reader's attention and provide them with a clear understanding of what your paper is about. Here are a few tips and points to keep in mind during the writing process when crafting an effective intro:
- Start with a hook - Use a thought-provoking sentence or question to draw your reader in and interest them in reading more.
- Provide background information - Give your reader context and background information about the topic you'll discuss in your research paper.
- State your thesis - Your thesis statement appears in the intro, so it should be concise and clearly summarize your research paper's main argument. Your intro should include it, so your reader knows what to expect.
- Preview your main points - Provide a brief overview of the main points you will cover in your research paper, but avoid going into too much detail.
- Be concise and engaging - Your intro should be brief and to the point, highlighting the most critical aspects of your research paper.
By following these tips and remembering how to write a thesis for a research paper, you can craft an engaging and informative intro that sets the stage for the rest of your paper.
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How to Write a Literature Review for a Research Paper
If you are a high school or a college student, you're often asked to write a research paper essay. Sometimes everyone gets bored from all these entire paper struggles, and all you want to do is just say, ' write me a research paper ' and have the whole essay done in a blink. But other times, you challenge yourself to do the perfect paper and its final draft independently. If it's that time, we are here to help you learn how to write a literature review for a research paper.
Here we gathered useful tips and tricks for you to create your research paper topic and review it perfectly:
- Identify the scope of your review - Determine the scope of your literature review by selecting a specific research question or topic to investigate. Your topic should be one where you can find adequate information; you might need preliminary research to determine this.
- Conduct a comprehensive search - Conduct a thorough search of academic databases, online journals, published articles, and other relevant sources to find helpful studies and articles.
- Organize your findings - Organize your findings by grouping studies by themes or concepts relevant to your research question.
- Analyze and synthesize the literature - Analyze and synthesize the literature by identifying common themes, patterns, and gaps in the research.
- Critique the literature - Critique the literature by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the studies you reviewed, and provide suggestions for future research.
- Write clearly and concisely - Write your literature review clearly and concisely, making sure to use appropriate academic language and to link your findings back to your research question.
How to Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper
The conclusion is critical to a research paper, as it summarizes the study's key findings, interpretations, and implications. The conclusion should tie together all the main points of the research paper and leave a lasting impression on the reader. With other tips for research paper, we also listed some essential points for writing an effective conclusion:
- Summarize your main points - Provide a brief summary of the key points of your assignment, highlighting the most important findings and conclusions.
- Restate your thesis - Always restate your thesis statements in a new way, linking them back to the research question you posed in the introduction.
- Discuss the implications of your findings - Discuss the broader implications of your findings and explain how they contribute to the field of study.
- Make recommendations - Offer suggestions for future research, highlighting areas that could benefit the further investigation.
- Reflect on your research process - Reflect on your research process and discuss any limitations or challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
- End with a strong closing statement - End your conclusion with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on your reader and provides a sense of closure.
By following these tips on how to write a conclusion for a research paper, you can create a well-organized, informative, and impactful conclusion that adds value to your study.
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Extra Tips for Research Paper
Now that you know the main points of in-depth research for academic writing, we want to help you learn how to write a research paper fast. As a student who always has some task to do, it's essential to know some tricks that can help you quickly create a research paper outline or research notes. But if you don't find yourself in the mood for writing, you can always ask experts to ' write my college paper ,' and you are guaranteed a good thesis statement alongside a perfect paper.
How Should a Research Paper Look?
You know all the necessary information on how to do a research paper, but do you know how should a research paper look? If not, we're here to guide you through the formatting details.
The major general formatting components for research papers are:
- Title Page - The information to include at the beginning of the research paper consists of the paper's title, the author's name, and the name of the institution to which the author is affiliated.
- Abstract - A brief summary of your findings.
- Body - Including headings and subheadings for organizing content and citations of researched sources
- References Page - Include all the sources you cited in your paper.
It is necessary to save all of these components as a single document rather than separate documents.
In format, it's important to consider correct margins, pagination, and headings too. Let's go through some tips on how to do it:
- To format your paper correctly, adjust the top, bottom, and side margins to 1 inch.
- Maintain double spacing throughout the text.
- Use a readable font like Times New Roman or Arial in size between 10 and 12 points.
- Use consecutive pagination for the entire paper, including the title page and reference section, with page numbers appearing flush right in the header.
Now you can say that you have a full-depth knowledge of writing a research paper, including the content and formatting guidelines. But you know you can always use magic words, ' write my thesis paper for me ,' and professional writers will do the job for you.
How to Write an Abstract for a Research Paper?
The abstract is a crucial component and one of the main steps to a research paper that is perfectly written as it provides a concise summary of the entire paper. To write a good abstract, it's important to be concise and straightforward, conveying as much information as possible within the space of a single paragraph. One effective approach is to section the abstract or write its components separately.
This paragraph outlines the four components of an abstract: the introduction, methodology, results, and conclusion.
Introduction :
The introduction of the abstract should identify the research focus and explain the significance of the research. It should address the question, 'What?' and typically consists of two to three sentences summarizing the article.
Methodology:
To adequately cover the methodology section in your abstract, allocate three to four sentences. In this section, you should describe the following:
- The research design
- The study population or subjects
- The study setting and any other variables that may have impacted the results
- The subject selection process
- The tools and techniques employed to arrive at the conclusions
- The validation of the findings
The results section, also referred to as the findings, serves as the climax of the abstract. It provides an answer to the primary focus of the study. It includes not only the results but also a statement about their significance and how they differ (if at all) from the hypotheses presented in the third sentence.
Conclusion:
The conclusion serves as the last segment of the abstract and addresses the question, 'So what?' This section interprets the results discussed in the previous sections and highlights the broader implications of the findings. It describes what the outcomes signify for the field or the long term and may include recommendations based on the research.
Knowing how to write an abstract for a research paper can help you craft a perfect essay. Even if you're writing your dissertation paper, knowing all these tips and tricks will always be handy. But you know you can use your powerful tool words: ' write my dissertation for me ' and consider it done.
Final Advice
If you've ever wondered how to write a research essay and are now reading this, your curiosity has been sated. With this research paper guide, you can learn about writing a perfect paper, formatting it, and adjusting to the instructions. If you want to learn more about this topic, check out the example of experimental research title about food , and you'll find some relevant points there too.
International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) Call for Papers | Open Access | Double Blind Peer Reviewed
ISSN: 2319-7064
How to Write and Publish a Good Research Paper?
Publishing a research paper can be a significant step in advancing your academic career and sharing your findings with the scientific community. To be noted, Publishing a great research paper requires several essential steps that need to be carefully planned and executed. Here are some tips that can help you publish a great research paper. Here are some steps you can follow to publish a research paper:
- Choose a suitable journal: Before starting to write, choose a journal that is a good fit for your research topic and methodology. Consider the scope, audience, and impact factor of the journal.
- Read the author guidelines: Each journal has its own set of guidelines that authors must follow. These guidelines may include specific formatting requirements, word limits, and submission instructions.
- Choose a good topic: Choose a topic that is relevant, interesting, and original. Make sure the topic is also feasible and has enough research material to support your argument.
- Write your paper: Follow the structure of a research paper, which typically includes an abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and free of grammatical errors.
- Conduct thorough research: Conduct thorough research on your topic and collect as much relevant data as possible. You can use various sources such as books, journals, articles, and websites.
- Write a clear and concise abstract: The abstract is the first part of your paper that readers will see, so it should be clear and concise. It should provide a summary of your research and its main findings.
- Write a comprehensive introduction: The introduction should provide background information about your research topic, state the problem or question you are addressing, and explain why your research is important.
- Develop a solid methodology: Your research methodology should be clearly defined and explained in detail. This should include the research design, data collection, and data analysis methods.
- Analyze your data: The data you collect should be analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques. The results should be presented clearly and accurately.
- Write a logical discussion: The discussion should provide an interpretation of your results and relate them to the research problem or question. It should also acknowledge any limitations of your study.
- Conclusion and implications: Your conclusion should summarize your findings and explain their implications for future research. You should also suggest areas for further research.
- Review and edit your paper: Review and edit your paper multiple times to ensure it is error-free, well-structured, and coherent.
- Submit your paper: Follow the submission instructions provided by the journal. This may include submitting your paper online, attaching any required documents, and paying any fees.
- Peer review: After submission, the journal will send your paper to peer reviewers who will evaluate the quality and validity of your research. Address any comments or concerns from the reviewers and make necessary revisions.
- Acceptance and publication: If your paper is accepted, the journal will inform you of the publication date and any further instructions. Congratulations, you have now published your research paper!
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of publishing a great research paper that will make a valuable contribution to your field of study.
It is important to note that publishing a research paper can be a time-consuming and challenging process. However, it can also be a rewarding experience and help advance your academic career.
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How to write an introduction to a term paper 2023
How to properly write the introduction to the term paper. Read more in this article. Download a sample and an example of a template for the introduction of the term paper can be found here.
How to write an introduction to a term paper
A sample structure of the introduction to the term paper, relevance of the term paper, the object of the term paper, the subject of the term paper, problematics of the course work, purpose of course work, objectives of the course work, research methods used, introduction to the term paper: a template, examples of course paper introduction.
- Introduction to auditing
- Introduction to Banking
- Introduction to Marketing
- Introduction to accounting
- Introduction to the World Economy
Download sample introductions for term papers
Frequently asked questions.
Earlier in our blog an article about term paper design according to State Standard 2023 , which describes the general requirements for all its sections. Let's dwell on how to write the introduction to the term paper . Because this is an important part, which always draws attention to the supervisor and the certification committee.
The introduction to the course project is usually small (up to 5 pages). For example, Moscow State University in its recommendations for term papers refers to GOST R 7.0.11-2011 , according to which the size of the introduction should be up to 5% of the total work. but includes an explanation of why this topic was chosen, how it is important for science and society as a whole, how the study will be conducted. In the statement of the key points of research and is the essence of the introduction to the term paper .
So, if the institution does not impose special requirements, the structure of the introduction of course work looks like this :
- introductory part (2-5 paragraphs), which may contain a historical summary, listing the scientists who have previously studied this topic, the information base on which the author relied, the problem that prompted this research;
- the relevance of the study in 1-2 paragraphs. It explains why this topic is important, why it is necessary to raise it;
- research goal;
- the hypothesis, which will be tested in the process, then will be either confirmed or disproved;
- tasks - reflect the main stages of the work. The first task in any work is usually a literature analysis of the topic;
- methods - answer the question of what tools, techniques, resources will be used to solve the problems;
- the base of the study - the place of the study (university or an outside organization);
- sample - study participants, subjects;
- work structure.
Below is the introduction to the term paper: a case study in clinical psychology on "Deformations of the semantic sphere of military personnel :
Coursework introduction sample - download
In addition, you can use a neural network for term papers to get the work done in a couple of days .
The relevance of a scientific work means its relevance, its usefulness for science. It is necessary to prove that the topic requires attention and should be studied. It is especially appreciated when a student expresses a personal opinion in this section. Try to formulate why you were affected by this topic, what has already been done before you to study it, what problems there are now and how they can be overcome.
The object is a fact, a phenomenon, a process, a subject put forward for study. The object of the study answers the question, "What (whom) are we studying?
The subject of the study can be a problem related to the object or some property of the object, its feature, characteristic, something that affects and changes the object. The object has many different subjects, but only one subject is taken for study in the course work. It is around it that the study unfolds. The subject of the study can be contained in the theme of the work or fully coincide with it.
The research problem, like the subject, is closely related to the topic. The problem can refer to some controversial idea or situation. The problem is described in the introduction. At the end of the study, you should find ways to solve it. You need to study the literature about the problem and find out how they have tried to solve it before, what options have been suggested, what you can suggest.
The goal is closely related to the object, subject, problem, and hypothesis. We already have a subject and a problem related to it. The goal is responsible for what we are going to do with it, what we want to achieve, why we raised this topic in the first place. The goal usually sounds almost like the topic of a term paper. Important: There can only be one goal per term paper.
But the objectives, in contrast to the goal, should be several. Both theoretical and practical. Tasks represent stages on the way to achieving the goal.
If there are theoretical and practical tasks, the methods must match. Theoretical methods - the use of already available information in the literature, the construction of logical relationships and inferences based on it. And practical - testing the hypothesis in practice, on real examples.
The introduction should be formatted according to the same requirements that apply to the main body. If your institution does not provide otherwise, the introduction must be as follows:
- up to 5 pages in size;
- font 14 Times New Roman;
- indents 1.25;
- margins: left 3 cm, right 1 cm, top and bottom 2 cm;
- 1.5 cm line spacing;
- width alignment.
When creating the introduction you need to be guided by the requirements of the supervisor, university standards and general rules for writing research papers. Above discussed the content of the introduction coursework . Let's structure the information in a ready template on the example of pedagogical discipline, which can be filled with your information.
Coursework introduction example
When using the introduction template, don't forget about originality. To increase the level of uniqueness, it is best to use a neural network for writing term papers . And also read the article, which has as many as 16 ways to bypass the anti-plagiarism and increase originality .
- How many pages should be the introduction to the term paper? The correct introduction of the term paper should be 1-5 pages, unless otherwise required by the supervisor.
- Is it necessary to write tasks in the introduction of the term paper? Yes, in the introduction to the term paper you need to add a list of tasks.
- Is it necessary to indicate the introduction to the term paper in the table of contents? Yes, the introduction to the term paper should be included in the table of contents.
Now you know how to write the introduction in term paper 2023, what the introduction should have a structure. You have a sample term paper introduction that you can download and use. And to write a term paper in a couple of days, use Retext.AI neural network .
How to use ChatGPT to summarize an article
Save time when you know how to use ChatGPT to summarize an article
Knowing how to use ChatGPT to summarize an article is useful when you’re in a rush and looking for the key points of an article. You might be a fast reader, but no one can compete with an AI. It can also often help to understand more complicated subject matter if it’s presented in smaller chunks. Of course, it’s always worth going back and reading the article properly when you have more time, to make sure you get the full gist of it.
We know you would never summarize one of our lovingly-written articles on Tom’s Guide, but for other sites and sources, here’s how to use ChatGPT to summarize an article.
And we’ll keep it brief, we promise.
How to use ChatGPT to summarize an article
- Log in and select the chat bar
- Type TLDR and link to the article
- Press send Read on to see detailed instructions for each step.
As of the time of writing the main ways to use ChatGPT to summarize an article are on the new Bing with ChatGPT (which you may not have access to yet) or on OpenAI’s own website , where you can make a free account and then sign in. One thing to bear in mind is the openai.com version of the chatbot is limited to information pre-September 2021. Both methods use the same command, TLDR, which is internet speak for “Too long, didn’t read”. Make sure to put this before the text you wish to summarize.
How to use ChatGPT to summarize an article - on ChatGPT.com
1. log in and select the chat bar.
Login to https://chat.openai.com and select the chat bar at the bottom of the page.
2. Type TLDR and link to the article
Type in TLDR and then paste a link to the article you wish to summarize.
3. Press send
Select the send button (or press enter) and then wait for ChatGPT's response. Rest assured, the chatbot can skim the article much quicker than you can.
How to use Bing with ChatGPT to summarize an article
- Select chat
- Enter TLDR and the article link
- Press enter and wait Read on to see detailed instructions for each step.
1. Select chat
Navigate to the Bing homepage in your browser of choice, select chat .
2. Enter TLDR and the article link
Enter TLDR and then copy and paste the link to the article that you want summed up.
3. Press enter and wait
Press enter and then wait for Bing to prepare its response.
There you go, remember of course that just because an AI has summarized an article, it won't have altered the information at all. That means if the information isn't accurate to begin with, it won't be accurate in the summary. Your best bet is to stick to trusted sources like Tom’s Guide!
If you want some more AI assistance why not check out the 7 best ChatGPT tips to get the most out of the chatbot , how to use ChatGPT for travel advice or how to use the Dall-E 2 AI image generator .
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Andy is Tom’s Guide’s Trainee Writer, which means that he currently writes about pretty much everything we cover. He has previously worked in copywriting and content writing both freelance and for a leading business magazine. His interests include gaming, music and sports- particularly Formula One, football and badminton. Andy’s degree is in Creative Writing and he enjoys writing his own screenplays and submitting them to competitions in an attempt to justify three years of studying.
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The five steps in this article will help you put together an effective introduction for either type of research paper. Table of contents Step 1: Introduce your topic Step 2: Describe the background Step 3: Establish your research problem Step 4: Specify your objective (s) Step 5: Map out your paper Research paper introduction examples
Add a relevant quotation or surprising anecdote to the beginning of your introduction. This technique will pique the interest of your reader and leave them wanting more. 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.
Frequently asked questions about the essay introduction Step 1: Hook your reader Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook. Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader's curiosity.
This is where you describe briefly and clearly why you are writing the paper. The introduction supplies sufficient background information for the reader to understand and evaluate the experiment you did. It also supplies a rationale for the study. Goals: • Present the problem and the proposed solution. • Presents nature and scope of the ...
Introduction; Abstract; Purpose. Your paper's introduction is an opportunity to provide readers with the background necessary to understand your paper: the status of knowledge in your field, the question motivating your work and its significance, how you sought to answer that question (methods), and your main findings. A well-written ...
How to Write a Research Introduction: 10 Steps (with Pictures) Essays Research Papers How to Write a Research Introduction Download Article parts 1 Introducing the Topic of the Paper 2 Establishing the Context for Your Paper 3 Specifying Your Research Questions and Hypothesis + Show 1 more... Other Sections Questions & Answers Related Articles
How to write an introduction paragraph in 6 steps 1 Decide on the overall tone and formality of your paper Often what you're writing determines the style: The guidelines for how to write an introduction for a report are different from those for how to write an English essay introduction.
The introduction needs to include: 1) what the topic is focused on, 2) how the research was conducted (method), 3) what the findings are (generally), 4) and how the paper contributes to the overall field. These items are often unanswerable until the paper is complete.
Start Your Psychology Paper Introduction by Researching Your Topic Search a journal database, such as PsychInfo or ERIC, to find articles on your subject. Once you have located an article, look at the reference section to locate other studies cited in the article.
Writing an introduction to a research paper can be a difficult task for students. The goal of this guide is to help you create an excellent introduction. An introduction is a document that can take up to a few pages to complete. ... A good introduction will make the reader want to keep reading, while a bad introduction will turn the reader off ...
The introduction to a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals: Present your topic and get the reader interested Provide background...
This section provides guidelines on how to construct a solid introduction to a scientific paper including background information, study question, biological rationale, hypothesis, and general approach. If the Introduction is done well, there should be no question in the reader's mind why and on what basis you have posed a specific hypothesis.
In many academic disciplines, your introduction should contain a thesis that will assert your main argument. Your introduction should also give the reader a sense of the kinds of information you will use to make that argument and the general organization of the paragraphs and pages that will follow.
A good introduction should lead the reader from a generalized topic to a particular aspect. It helps to establish the main idea, context, research importance and summarizes background data on the topic, providing the main goal of the work. In addition it contains hypothesis, a set of discussed questions and used methodology.
Unlike essays, research papers usually divide the body into sections with separate headers to facilitate browsing and scanning. Use the divisions in your outline as a guide. Follow along your outline and go paragraph by paragraph. Because this is just the first draft, don't worry about getting each word perfect.
It should begin by providing your reader a general understanding of the overall topic. The middle of the introduction should narrow down the topic so your reader understands the relevance of the topic and what you plan to accomplish in your paper. Finally, direct your reader to your main point by stating your thesis clearly.
Therefore, with diligence, organization, practice, a willingness to learn (and to make mistakes!), and, perhaps most important of all, patience, students will find that they can achieve great things through their research and writing. The pages in this section cover the following topic areas related to the process of writing a research paper:
You can also think of the Introduction as the section that points out the gap in knowledge that the rest of the paper will fill, or the section in which you define and claim your territory within the broad area of research. The other job the Introduction should do is to give some background information and set the context.
Be concise in your presentation of the research problem to avoid any kind of ambiguity. Your study should be presented as a direct continuation of the introduction. It is crucial to keep the narrative logical. 2. Be Original If you write a dissertation paper in humanities, you can start the introduction with a quotation or even an anecdote.
In the following paragraphs, we've gathered some helpful information and tips to guide you through the process step by step. So, if you're ready to take on the challenge of how to write a good research paper, read on for our useful steps and tips below. How to Write an Intro for a Research Paper. It's time to address the question of the day ...
In conclusion, a good thesis paper should have several key attributes that make it efficacious and prosperous. These attributes include a clear and focused research question, a vigorous thesis ...
Choose a good topic: Choose a topic that is relevant, interesting, and original. Make sure the topic is also feasible and has enough research material to support your argument. Write your paper: Follow the structure of a research paper, which typically includes an abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that ...
How To Write A History Essay Introduction Example (Writing Service Video Guide), ★★★ Link in 1st Comment ★★★My briefly review about my experience of using wr...
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Download Free How To Write A Introduction For Research Paper Exampleten years, from the importance of computing software to the NHS becoming more involved in research. The expectations of grant-awarding bodies, ethics committees and publishers have evolved and increased in many senses. This new edition is designed for trainee clinicians, not only
How to write an introduction to a term paper. The introduction should be formatted according to the same requirements that apply to the main body. If your institution does not provide otherwise, the introduction must be as follows: up to 5 pages in size; font 14 Times New Roman;
As of the time of writing the main ways to use ChatGPT to summarize an article are on the new Bing with ChatGPT (which you may not have access to yet) or on OpenAI's own website, where you can ...