examples of introduction to a research paper

Top Research Paper Introduction Examples to Ace Your Grades

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• 1. What is a Research Paper Introduction?
• 2. What are the Key Features of a Research Paper Introduction?
• 3. What to Include in the Research Paper Introduction?
• 4. Research Paper Introduction Example – A Detailed Illustration
• 5. Research Paper Introduction Examples
• 6. Things to Keep in Mind Before Writing the Research Paper Introduction
• 7. Summing Up

Research paper writing is an essential part of the academic process. Writing a research paper entails several stages, including selecting a topic, gathering information, analyzing data, and presenting findings. However, the introduction of a research paper is a crucial section as it sets the tone for the rest of the document. In this blog, we will elaborate on the key components of a research paper introduction and share some fascinating comprehensive research paper introduction examples, which will provide insight into writing an effective introduction for your research paper. In the meantime, if you feel like you need an expert to help you with your coursework, don’t hesitate to connect with our write paper service .

What is a Research Paper Introduction?

A research paper introduction is the opening section of a research paper that provides an overview of the research. It reflects more than just introducing the topic of the study. The introduction gives a comprehensive yet concise overview of the research topic and tries to establish its significance in front of the readers.

In a research paper introduction, the writer provides background information on the topic, states the research problem or question, and presents the thesis statement or main argument that will be supported in the rest of the paper. Writers may also provide a brief overview of the research methodology that will be used in the research, as well as any limitations or scope that should be considered. Overall, the goal of a research paper introduction is to provide the readers with enough information to understand the context of the research and why it is important, while also setting up the rest of the paper for success.

You might also be interested in getting a detailed understanding of how to write a research paper abstract .

What are the Key Features of a Research Paper Introduction?

A research paper introduction is a fundamental part of both the research paper and the proposal. It goes beyond providing a brief overview of the research paper topics , as it includes crucial elements such as background, aims, objectives, and research questions.

• The introduction must answer the ‘why’ questions related to the research, such as why the study is being conducted, why it is important, and why this particular topic was chosen.
• Additionally, the introduction helps to identify knowledge gaps and addresses them throughout the paper.
• To ensure effectiveness, it is important to use concise and clear language when presenting the introduction.

What to Include in the Research Paper Introduction?

According to a structured research paper outline , there are several key components that you should include in the research paper introduction to effectively set the stage for your research and engage your audience. Here are the fundamental elements to include in the introduction:

• Introduction to the Topic/ Hook

The hook is the opening sentence or phrase of your introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and draws them in. It should be interesting, relevant, and perhaps even surprising. A good hook could be a provocative question, a startling statistic, a relevant quote, or an anecdote that sets the stage for your research.

• Research Background

The research background provides context for your study by explaining the background of the subject you are researching. This could include explaining why the topic is important, what has been done on the topic in the past, and any relevant background information that the reader needs to know. The purpose of the background section is to provide context and establish the relevance of the research.

• Problem Statement

The problem statement is a specific, focused, and concise statement that outlines the research problem or questions that your study aims to address. The problem statement should make it clear what you are researching and exemplify its importance.

The research rationale explains the justification for your study and why it is important to address the research problem. This component should explain the significance and relevance of your research in the context of the larger field or industry.

The research aim is a general statement that describes the overall goal of your study. It should be broad enough to encompass the scope of your research but specific enough to provide direction for your research objectives.

• Research Objectives

The research objectives are specific, measurable, and achievable goals that you aim to accomplish through your research. They should be closely linked to your research problem and aim and should provide a clear roadmap for your research.

A research hypothesis is a statement that predicts the relationship between two or more variables in your study. It should be testable and provide a clear direction for your research. Not all research papers will have a hypothesis, but they are common in quantitative research.

• Research Questions

Research questions are specific, focused questions that you aim to answer through your research. They should be closely linked to your research problem and aim and should guide your research methodology and analysis.

• Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the central argument or research question of your paper. It should be clear and concise and should summarize the main argument or research question that you will support with evidence and analysis in the body of your paper.

• Methodology

You may briefly outline the methodology and approach that you will use in your research. You can also provide the research limitations or scope. The methodology section should provide an idea of how you will conduct your research and what you hope to accomplish.

• Significance

Finally, you must explain the significance of your research and what it can contribute to the field. This could include implications for practice, policy, or future research. The significance section should make it clear why your research is important and what impact it could have on the field.

Overall, these components work together to provide a clear and compelling introduction to your research paper, outlining the context, purpose, and direction of your study.

Research Paper Introduction Example – A Detailed Illustration

Below we have curated a detailed research paper introduction example that covers all the components discussed above for aiding you with better comprehension.

Topic: The impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses

Introduction:

The minimum wage is a highly debated topic in politics and economics. While minimum wage laws aim to improve the standard of living for workers, they also have potential consequences for small businesses, which often have limited resources. The purpose of this research paper is to examine the impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses.

Research Background:

Minimum wage laws have been a topic of debate for decades, with proponents arguing that they improve the standard of living for workers and opponents claiming that they lead to job loss and increased prices. In recent years, several states and cities in the United States have increased their minimum wage rates, which has raised concerns about the impact on small businesses.

Research Problem:

The research problem for this study is to determine how minimum wage laws impact small businesses. Specifically, we aim to answer the question: What are the potential consequences of minimum wage laws for small businesses?

Research Rationale:

Understanding the impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses is important for several reasons. Small businesses are often the engine of economic growth, and any negative consequences of minimum wage laws could have far-reaching implications for local and national economies. Additionally, the political debate around minimum wage laws is often focused on the impact on workers, with less attention paid to the potential consequences for small businesses.

Research Aim:

This study aims to determine the impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses. Specifically, we aim to identify the potential consequences of minimum wage laws for small businesses and explore strategies that small businesses can use to mitigate these consequences.

Research Objectives:

The objectives of this study are as follows:

• To review the existing literature on the impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses.
• To analyze the potential consequences of minimum wage laws for small businesses, including changes in employment, pricing, and profitability.
• To identify strategies that small businesses can use to mitigate the potential negative consequences of minimum wage laws.

Research Hypothesis:

We hypothesize that minimum wage laws have a negative impact on small businesses, leading to job loss, increased prices, and reduced profitability. However, we also believe that small businesses can take steps to mitigate these negative consequences, such as increasing productivity and finding new revenue streams.

Research Questions:

• What is the existing literature on the impact of minimum wage laws on small businesses?
• How do minimum wage laws impact small businesses in terms of employment, pricing, and profitability?
• What strategies can small businesses use to mitigate the potential negative consequences of minimum wage laws?

Thesis Statement: “While minimum wage laws aim to improve the lives of low-wage workers, they often have unintended consequences for small businesses, including increased operating costs and reduced employment opportunities.”

Significance: The minimum wage laws are a widely debated policy issue with potential impacts on both workers and businesses. Understanding the effects of these laws on small businesses is crucial for policymakers and business owners alike, as it can inform decisions regarding minimum wage legislation and business practices.

Research Paper Introduction Examples

Below we have provided two elucidative research paper introduction examples to help understand how an introduction is typically written.

Title: Exploring the Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Sustainable Weight Loss and Improved Health Outcomes in Individuals with Obesity

Obesity is a major public health concern, with nearly 40% of American adults classified as obese. In recent years, the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically, leading to a rise in related health problems such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. While many factors contribute to the development of obesity, including genetics and environmental factors, dietary habits and physical activity levels are two of the most important modifiable risk factors. However, traditional weight loss interventions such as diet and exercise programs have had limited success in producing sustained weight loss. As a result, there is a need for innovative approaches to weight management that address the underlying behavioral and psychological factors that contribute to obesity. This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in promoting sustainable weight loss and improving overall health outcomes in individuals with obesity. Through a comprehensive review of the existing literature and a randomized controlled trial, this study aims to contribute to the development of more effective weight management strategies that can have a significant impact on public health.

Breakdown: In this example, the hook is the statistic on the prevalence of obesity and its related health problems. The background provides context on the contributing factors to obesity and the limitations of traditional weight loss interventions. The research problem is the need for innovative approaches to weight management that address behavioral and psychological factors. The research rationale is the potential impact of these approaches on public health. The research aim is to explore the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions. The research objectives are to conduct a literature review and a randomized controlled trial. The research hypothesis is that mindfulness-based interventions will lead to sustained weight loss and improved health outcomes. The research questions are what is the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in promoting weight loss and improving health outcomes in individuals with obesity? Lastly, the thesis statement is that this study aims to contribute to the development of more effective weight management strategies that can have a significant impact on public health.

Title: The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Academic Achievement

Education is a fundamental right for all children, and quality early childhood education (ECE) has been shown to have a significant impact on a child’s academic achievement. Research indicates that children who participate in high-quality ECE programs perform better in school, have better social skills, and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college. However, not all children have access to high-quality ECE programs, and there is a significant achievement gap between children from low-income families and their peers. This research paper aims to explore the impact of early childhood education on academic achievement, with a focus on the factors that contribute to successful ECE programs and how to ensure that all children have access to high-quality ECE. The research problem is the achievement gap between children from low-income families and their peers, and the research objectives are to identify the characteristics of effective ECE programs, examine the impact of ECE on academic achievement, and explore policies that promote access to high-quality ECE for all children. By understanding the impact of early childhood education on academic achievement, this research can inform policies and practices that promote equity and opportunity for all children.

Note: In both examples, the introduction is written in a single paragraph, however, there is no hard and fast rule about how many paragraphs a research paper introduction should be written in. Some introductions can be effectively written in a single paragraph, while others may require more than one paragraph to adequately introduce the topic and set the stage for the research.

The most important consideration is to ensure that the introduction is clear, concise, and effectively sets up the research to follow. If that can be accomplished in a single paragraph, then that is perfectly acceptable. However, if multiple paragraphs are necessary to fully introduce the topic and research objectives, then that is also acceptable.

Ultimately, the length and structure of the introduction should be determined by the needs of the research and the expectations of the target audience.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before starting to write the introduction of a research paper, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Understand the assignment requirements: Make sure you fully understand the assignment requirements and guidelines for the research paper, including the required length, format, and citation style.
• I dentify your audience: Consider who your target audience is and what they are expecting to learn from your research paper. This will help you tailor your introduction to meet their needs.
• Conduct thorough research: Before writing the introduction, ensure that you have conducted thorough research on the topic. This will help you understand the background and context of the research and provide a strong foundation for your introduction.
• Develop a clear thesis statement: Your thesis statement is the backbone of your research paper and should be clear, concise, and specific. Develop a strong thesis statement that sets the tone for the rest of the paper.
• Create an outline: An outline can help you organize your thoughts and ideas, and ensure that your introduction flows smoothly and logically.
• Write a draft: Once you have conducted research and created an outline, write a draft of your introduction. This will help you refine your ideas and identify any areas that need further development or clarification.
• In-text citations: It’s important to keep in mind the need for accurate and consistent in-text citations while writing the introduction and throughout your paper. Make sure to properly cite any sources you use, including direct quotes, paraphrased information, and any ideas or data that you have used. This not only ensures that you give credit where it is due, but it also helps to strengthen the credibility of your research.
• Revise and edit: After writing a draft of your introduction, revise and edit it to ensure that it is clear, concise, and effective. Make sure that the language and tone are appropriate for your audience, and that all necessary information is included.

Looking for some unique and engaging commemorative speech topics ?

A well-crafted introduction is just as important as the research itself, as it can greatly contribute to the success of the paper. To achieve a strong introduction, it is crucial to be concise yet compelling, maintain clarity in research problems and objectives, and organize the content effectively. This guide aims to assist in crafting an effective research paper introduction. However, if further concerns arise, you can seek help from our essay writing help. We have a team of experienced academic writers who can assist with various assignments, so let us know if you require any assistance.

Management Paper Blog Academic Writing Guides And Tips

• Three Research Paper Introduction Examples: Learn How to Initiate and Hook
• ManagementPaper
• Apr 13, 2021

A research paper introduction holds perhaps the most importance for a study to be successful. After a good research paper abstract , it is the introduction that builds the interest in a reader to continue reading the research paper. If the introduction turns out to be dull and drab, then the study would be a failed one.

A good research paper needs a lot of background study, which you often fail to do. To make your work easier, Management Paper is there for you to help you write yours efficiently.

Key Features of a Research Paper Introduction

• It forms the basic part of both the research paper as well as the research proposal .
• Apart from giving a general notion about the research paper topic , it includes important elements such as background, aim, objectives, questions and many more.
• It must contain the questions ‘WHY’: why is the research conducted, why it is important, why this chosen topic and so on is.
• It helps in pointing out the knowledge gaps and fills them up throughout the paper.
• Use precise and clear points.

The Most Commonly Included Elements in The Research Papers

There are different kinds of research papers like essays, reports, dissertations and journals. The introduction which is generally used in case of all other types of research paper except dissertations are similar in nature. Such an introduction is similar to a summary of the topic, defining the problem, stating the aims and objectives that are going to be established through the research.

But in case of dissertation, in a good research paper format the introduction is presented in great detail by dividing the section into the following parts:

• Research background
• Research problem
• Research rationale
• Research aim
• Research objectives
• Research hypothesis
• Research questions

Apart from this, many papers include time plan, scope and limitations of the research too. The experts from the team of Management Paper can help you with your paper writing and also make you understand the various aspects of a research paper.

Some Significant Examples of Research Paper Introduction

Research paper introduction example #1, topic: impact of leadership effectiveness on employees for the company amazon (dissertation).

The history and the various past events related to the topic are being mentioned in this section. Thsi supplies context to the paper and contains both relevant and important studies. Authenticating your information is a must by in-text citations.

The research problem states a specific area of concern, a bothering question, a difficulty which is to be eliminated or a condition that demands improvement. The missing knowledge about the topic is being found out through this and then only you can do further research about the problem.

The rationale answers the question of why the research is being conducted and thus states its importance.

The things that are expected to be achieved at the end of the research are generally mentioned here.

The objectives are the various goals or targets that are to be established and achieved throughout the study.

The research question points out the facts that are to be established through the paper and provides the research with a clear focus and purpose.

This is a specific predictive statement about the possible future outcome of the study which is mostly based upon the relationship between different variables or on a single variable.

Research Paper Introduction Example # 2

Topic: implementing online customer support service through chat portal at aldi, research paper introduction example # 3, topic: compare and contrast the policies for the aged people in various countries.

In both the second and the third example, the introduction is written in a single paragraph. In the first line itself you must introduce the topic. Try to avoid embellishments. Write any remarkable event about the topic then. Explain the problem and the purpose of the research. Try to build a reasonable thesis statement. Then with few lines, insert a smooth transition to make a shift from the introduction to the body.

 You can check out more examples from the page of Management paper, and can also avail paper writing service from them with ease. We do not compromise with quality and believe in time management.

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Research Paper Introduction Examples

Looking for research paper introduction examples? Quotes, anecdotes, questions, examples, and broad statements—all of them can be used successfully to write an introduction for a research paper. It’s instructive to see them in action, in the hands of skilled academic writers.

Let’s begin with David M. Kennedy’s superb history, Freedom from Fear: The American People in Depression and War, 1929–1945 . Kennedy begins each chapter with a quote, followed by his text. The quote above chapter 1 shows President Hoover speaking in 1928 about America’s golden future. The text below it begins with the stock market collapse of 1929. It is a riveting account of just how wrong Hoover was. The text about the Depression is stronger because it contrasts so starkly with the optimistic quotation.

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“We in America today are nearer the final triumph over poverty than ever before in the history of any land.”—Herbert Hoover, August 11, 1928 Like an earthquake, the stock market crash of October 1929 cracked startlingly across the United States, the herald of a crisis that was to shake the American way of life to its foundations. The events of the ensuing decade opened a fissure across the landscape of American history no less gaping than that opened by the volley on Lexington Common in April 1775 or by the bombardment of Sumter on another April four score and six years later. The ratcheting ticker machines in the autumn of 1929 did not merely record avalanching stock prices. In time they came also to symbolize the end of an era. (David M. Kennedy, Freedom from Fear: The American People in Depression and War, 1929–1945 . New York: Oxford University Press, 1999, p. 10)

Kennedy has exciting, wrenching material to work with. John Mueller faces the exact opposite problem. In Retreat from Doomsday: The Obsolescence of Major War , he is trying to explain why Great Powers have suddenly stopped fighting each other. For centuries they made war on each other with devastating regularity, killing millions in the process. But now, Mueller thinks, they have not just paused; they have stopped permanently. He is literally trying to explain why “nothing is happening now.” That may be an exciting topic intellectually, it may have great practical significance, but “nothing happened” is not a very promising subject for an exciting opening paragraph. Mueller manages to make it exciting and, at the same time, shows why it matters so much. Here’s his opening, aptly entitled “History’s Greatest Nonevent”:

On May 15, 1984, the major countries of the developed world had managed to remain at peace with each other for the longest continuous stretch of time since the days of the Roman Empire. If a significant battle in a war had been fought on that day, the press would have bristled with it. As usual, however, a landmark crossing in the history of peace caused no stir: the most prominent story in the New York Times that day concerned the saga of a manicurist, a machinist, and a cleaning woman who had just won a big Lotto contest. This book seeks to develop an explanation for what is probably the greatest nonevent in human history. (John Mueller, Retreat from Doomsday: The Obsolescence of Major War . New York: Basic Books, 1989, p. 3)

In the space of a few sentences, Mueller sets up his puzzle and reveals its profound human significance. At the same time, he shows just how easy it is to miss this milestone in the buzz of daily events. Notice how concretely he does that. He doesn’t just say that the New York Times ignored this record setting peace. He offers telling details about what they covered instead: “a manicurist, a machinist, and a cleaning woman who had just won a big Lotto contest.” Likewise, David Kennedy immediately entangles us in concrete events: the stunning stock market crash of 1929. These are powerful openings that capture readers’ interests, establish puzzles, and launch narratives.

Sociologist James Coleman begins in a completely different way, by posing the basic questions he will study. His ambitious book, Foundations of Social Theory , develops a comprehensive theory of social life, so it is entirely appropriate for him to begin with some major questions. But he could just as easily have begun with a compelling story or anecdote. He includes many of them elsewhere in his book. His choice for the opening, though, is to state his major themes plainly and frame them as a paradox. Sociologists, he says, are interested in aggregate behavior—how people act in groups, organizations, or large numbers—yet they mostly examine individuals:

A central problem in social science is that of accounting for the function of some kind of social system. Yet in most social research, observations are not made on the system as a whole, but on some part of it. In fact, the natural unit of observation is the individual person…  This has led to a widening gap between theory and research… (James S. Coleman, Foundations of Social Theory . Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1990, pp. 1–2)

After expanding on this point, Coleman explains that he will not try to remedy the problem by looking solely at groups or aggregate-level data. That’s a false solution, he says, because aggregates don’t act; individuals do. So the real problem is to show the links between individual actions and aggregate outcomes, between the micro and the macro.

The major problem for explanations of system behavior based on actions and orientations at a level below that of the system [in this case, on individual-level actions] is that of moving from the lower level to the system level. This has been called the micro-to-macro problem, and it is pervasive throughout the social sciences. (Coleman, Foundations of Social Theory , p. 6)

Explaining how to deal with this “micro-to-macro problem” is the central issue of Coleman’s book, and he announces it at the beginning.

Coleman’s theory-driven opening stands at the opposite end of the spectrum from engaging stories or anecdotes, which are designed to lure the reader into the narrative and ease the path to a more analytic treatment later in the text. Take, for example, the opening sentences of Robert L. Herbert’s sweeping study Impressionism: Art, Leisure, and Parisian Society : “When Henry Tuckerman came to Paris in 1867, one of the thousands of Americans attracted there by the huge international exposition, he was bowled over by the extraordinary changes since his previous visit twenty years before.” (Robert L. Herbert, Impressionism: Art, Leisure, and Parisian Society . New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 1988, p. 1.) Herbert fills in the evocative details to set the stage for his analysis of the emerging Impressionist art movement and its connection to Parisian society and leisure in this period.

David Bromwich writes about Wordsworth, a poet so familiar to students of English literature that it is hard to see him afresh, before his great achievements, when he was just a young outsider starting to write. To draw us into Wordsworth’s early work, Bromwich wants us to set aside our entrenched images of the famous mature poet and see him as he was in the 1790s, as a beginning writer on the margins of society. He accomplishes this ambitious task in the opening sentences of Disowned by Memory: Wordsworth’s Poetry of the 1790s :

Wordsworth turned to poetry after the revolution to remind himself that he was still a human being. It was a curious solution, to a difficulty many would not have felt. The whole interest of his predicament is that he did feel it. Yet Wordsworth is now so established an eminence—his name so firmly fixed with readers as a moralist of self-trust emanating from complete self-security—that it may seem perverse to imagine him as a criminal seeking expiation. Still, that is a picture we get from The Borderers and, at a longer distance, from “Tintern Abbey.” (David Bromwich, Disowned by Memory: Wordsworth’s Poetry of the 1790s . Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1998, p. 1)

That’s a wonderful opening! Look at how much Bromwich accomplishes in just a few words. He not only prepares the way for analyzing Wordsworth’s early poetry; he juxtaposes the anguished young man who wrote it to the self-confident, distinguished figure he became—the eminent man we can’t help remembering as we read his early poetry.

Let us highlight a couple of other points in this passage because they illustrate some intelligent writing choices. First, look at the odd comma in this sentence: “It was a curious solution, to a difficulty many would not have felt.” Any standard grammar book would say that comma is wrong and should be omitted. Why did Bromwich insert it? Because he’s a fine writer, thinking of his sentence rhythm and the point he wants to make. The comma does exactly what it should. It makes us pause, breaking the sentence into two parts, each with an interesting point. One is that Wordsworth felt a difficulty others would not have; the other is that he solved it in a distinctive way. It would be easy for readers to glide over this double message, so Bromwich has inserted a speed bump to slow us down. Most of the time, you should follow grammatical rules, like those about commas, but you should bend them when it serves a good purpose. That’s what the writer does here.

The second small point is the phrase “after the revolution” in the first sentence: “Wordsworth turned to poetry after the revolution to remind himself that he was still a human being.” Why doesn’t Bromwich say “after the French Revolution”? Because he has judged his book’s audience. He is writing for specialists who already know which revolution is reverberating through English life in the 1790s. It is the French Revolution, not the earlier loss of the American colonies. If Bromwich were writing for a much broader audience—say, the New York Times Book Review—he would probably insert the extra word to avoid confusion.

The message “Know your audience” applies to all writers. Don’t talk down to them by assuming they can’t get dressed in the morning. Don’t strut around showing off your book learnin’ by tossing in arcane facts and esoteric language for its own sake. Neither will win over readers.

Bromwich, Herbert, and Coleman open their works in different ways, but their choices work well for their different texts. Your task is to decide what kind of opening will work best for yours. Don’t let that happen by default, by grabbing the first idea you happen upon. Consider a couple of different ways of opening your thesis and then choose the one you prefer. Give yourself some options, think them over, then make an informed choice.

Using the Introduction to Map out Your Writing

Whether you begin with a story, puzzle, or broad statement, the next part of the research paper introduction should pose your main questions and establish your argument. This is your thesis statement—your viewpoint along with the supporting reasons and evidence. It should be articulated plainly so readers understand full well what your paper is about and what it will argue.

After that, give your readers a road map of what’s to come. That’s normally done at the end of the introductory section (or, in a book, at the end of the introductory chapter). Here’s John J. Mearsheimer presenting such a road map in The Tragedy of Great Power Politics . He not only tells us the order of upcoming chapters, he explains why he’s chosen that order and which chapters are most important:

The Plan of the Book The rest of the chapters in this book are concerned mainly with answering the six big questions about power which I identified earlier. Chapter 2, which is probably the most important chapter in the book, lays out my theory of why states compete for power and why they pursue hegemony. In Chapters 3 and 4, I define power and explain how to measure it. I do this in order to lay the groundwork for testing my theory… (John J. Mearsheimer, The Tragedy of Great Power Politics . New York: W. W. Norton, 2001, p. 27)

As this excerpt makes clear, Mearsheimer has already laid out his “six big questions” in the research paper introduction. Now he’s showing us the path ahead, the path to answering those questions.

At the end of the research paper introduction, give your readers a road map of what’s to come. Tell them what the upcoming sections will be and why they are arranged in this particular order.

Learn how to write an introduction for a research paper .

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Research Paper Introduction Example: Academic Writing Insight

How to write an introductory paragraph for research paper.

The writing of the research paper is a multi-aspect process. Because this type of academic assignment consists of several parts. If you fail to complete one of the levels, you will fail the whole paper.

Introduction is not a Literal Beginning

As you know, the hardest part is just to begin the paper. And what should do student at the beginning? Not writing an outline. And not working on the introduction. He should make massive research on his topic . You cannot start writing an introduction without having a personal view on the issue that you are going to study. You have to prepare for introduction writing though analyzing facts available online and making notes. If it’s hard to do it yourself, the  online essay help service by Edusson.com will solve this problem instantly!

Why do We Need an Introduction?

The key aim of the introduction is to introduce to the reader the purpose of your research. Just imagine any academic writing starting from the main body section. You cannot pour on the reader your evidence, ideas, and arguments without an explanation of what are you writing about. In the introduction, you must clearly indicate the hypothesis you want to prove or deny. You must explain the necessity of your research, its urgency, and significance for your study, and, finally, hook readers to continue reading it!

What Information Can I Get From my Search for the Introduction?

It depends on the discipline you are writing the research paper on. If your field of study is Humanities, it is likely that you can find a relevant quote, aphorism, or anecdote to introduce your topic to the reader. In case you study tech, social, and medical sciences quotes are irrelevant. More precise and specific facts will fit such an introduction. There is a general rule for all specialties too. You must find a fact that will intrigue a reader. You must hook him.

Attract the Reader in Any Case

Imagine that your research paper is a product that you want to sell and be paid for it. Figuratively, it is true because your aim is to be rewarded with high mark. The first thing salesmen do to sell their product is a promotion of it. They put effort into and use various methods to hook clients. So, what should research paper writers  do to attract a reader? Even if you write a research paper, and the style of writing is formal, it is still necessary and possible to draw his attention. For example, your research paper topic is “How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?”. After a hasty internet search, you can find out that there are many legendary musicians like Radiohead that gave up being dependent on music labels and started to issue their LPs by themselves, online. Also, there is a site Pledge Music which is a popular crowdfunding platform for modern musicians. Such popular synth-pop band as IAMX raises money there to record and promote their albums. These two facts prove that digital downloading somehow affects the music industry, and it is urgent to research this topic to learn the character of this effect. Connect with a professional writer in 5 simple steps. Start now Please provide as many details about your writing struggle as possible. Next What's the area of study of your paper? English Business and Entrepreneurship Nursing History African-American Studies Accounting Anthropology Architecture Art, Theatre and Film Biology Business and Entrepreneurship Chemistry Communication Strategies Computer Science Criminology Economics Education English Engineering Environmental Issues Ethics Finance Geography Healthcare History International and Public Relations Law and Legal Issues Linguistics Literature Management Marketing Mathematics Music Nursing Nutrition Other Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religion and Theology Sociology Sport Technology Tourism Next How many pages do you need? Next When is it due? 01 AM 02 AM 03 AM 04 AM 05 AM 06 AM 07 AM 08 AM 09 AM 10 AM 11 AM 12 AM 01 PM 02 PM 03 PM 04 PM 05 PM 06 PM 07 PM 08 PM 09 PM 10 PM 11 PM 12 PM Next What's your e-mail? Next Done!

Writing a Thesis Statement

Research paper writing is one of the most challenging tasks for students. To write your research papers in a relevant way, it is important to add new information and to connect the text with the research topic. For example, a research paper introduction example can help you learn how to create an introduction that grabs the attention of the reader. The introduction should not only explain the topic but should also provide enough detail to set up the body of the paper. This can be done by providing background information, presenting a hypothesis, or discussing existing research on the topic. Adding new information will make the introduction more interesting and will lead the reader to the body of the paper.

What do you feel when you watch a good teaser for the movie? You feel hooked, intrigued, and eager to watch the story till the end. The same result you must achieve with the thesis statement in a research paper. You must indicate the highlights of your essay, and leave an open question, a mystery, which the reader will want to learn for sure. To provide a worthy example of a research paper thesis statement let’s return to the discussed above topic “How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?”. A thesis statement is a point that you will have to defend. It mandatorily must not be general. For example, if you declare this statement during the conversation, it will surely provoke a conflict and make all people differ in their attitude and take a side. Wrong way: “Downloading music from the internet is bad and we must fight it.” It leaves too many questions to answer. And this statement is way too objective, it does not reflect the controversy of your topic. The truth is that there are no absolutely good or totally bad phenomena. And your thesis statement must show the reality.

Right way: “The culture of digital music consumption must be changed because the creations of musicians become worthless due to activity of web pirates and people stop valuing music according to its merit .”

In this example of thesis, I’ve narrowed my argument to the consequences of digital music downloads on the culture of music consumption. I’ve also focused on the fact that the main harm to the music industry present web pirates.  It induces readers to assume that I will argue against them in the main body. To check if you have created a debatable thesis statement for the research paper, you must figure out whether it is debatable. It means that you must make the reader argue either for or against this statement. Wrong way : “The music industry has changed because of the era of the internet.” It is a statement, but not a thesis statement. It is a general truth. There is no point to argue with that fact. You can narrate about that, but not argue and make research to provide proper evidence to prove your point.

Right way: “Free music download sites must become commercial because recording a music is a full-time job of musicians and every work must be rewarded.” Now it is debatable. Opponents can argue that product that music product is not principal way to earn money for musicians, and internet is a the most effective way to promote their creation and lure audience to visit their concerts, what is a real way to earn money.

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Research paper Introduction Writing Tips

Research paper introduction is an essential part of your writing and it must be created according to certain rules. It is true that when you write any kind of text you can push yourself too hard and cross the borders of norms. Because academic styles of writing are referred to as creative writing as well. You look for information, then analyze it, come up with thoughts, and ideas, and reflect it in a coherent text. The next tips will show you how to fulfill the purpose of the research paper introduction and get rid of the creative mess.

• Size matters. Before a tutor starts reading the article, he reviews it visually. If the size of the introduction is too large, it will make a bad impression on your paper. Just remember, all you have to present in the introduction is: the definition of the topic idea and its urgency, an explanation of the aim of the research, facts to hook the reader, and a thesis statement.
• Be logical. Your introduction will be really strong if it contains key ideas only in a few sentences. To reach such a result it is important to satisfy the logical connection of the thoughts. Your goal is to make the reader understand in the end of the introduction what exactly you attempted to achieve in a research paper and why this problem is worth profound research.
• Make it the last part. Many successful students first work on the whole outline, write the body of the paper and only then form the introduction. That’s because a person becomes more sure in what direction his research goes only after at least a shallow search and analysis of sources.
• Review previous studies on your topic. Every person can study the same topic in a different way. Before you start your own research, you must become aware of the discoveries other scholars made on this issue. Any result will be a reliable background for future work. Note that it is better to indicate recent developments in the primary research rather than a lengthy report.

Research Paper Introduction Example

Finally, when we have analyzed all highlights of introduction writing we can gather all parts of it in one, ultimate part of a paper. Let’s refresh the exemplary topic of it:  “How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?”. Now, have a look at the research paper introduction example: “The musical marketing turns to be digital according to demands of current online epoche. Such underground, but worldwide famous bands like Radiohead and IAMX gain profit from the internet and use it as a primary source to show the audience their creation. On the other hand, many artists find the digital era harmful and destructive to their creativity because there are many sites that offer their products for free, giving no profit to the creator. Currently, there are more and more studies that reveal the business side of the music industry is far from the positive side. This research paper will define whether the culture of digital music consumption must be changed because the creations of musicians become worthless due to the activity of web pirates and because people have stopped valuing music according to its merit.”

As you see, all main components are preserved in the example above. The first sentences hook readers, the mid part of the introduction prove the reason for the research, and the thesis statement puts a debatable argument that needs further analysis and the right solution.

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Integrity is a Key

After you created the final paper, be decisive to make necessary changes and corrections, especially before the submission. It usually happens that at the end of the research, a writer can face with inconsistencies in all sections of his writing. If the whole paper does not sound like a cohesive text, make improvements. If your main part does not answer the question raised in the introduction nothing obstructs you from adjusting its sense to the ideas from the main body. A paper with cohesive text deserves a high mark, so rule your writing!

Now You’re a Winner

I suppose that before you came across this article you underestimated the value of a worthy introductive paragraph. In fact, I have not introduced you to another meaningful feature of it. You know that all academic essays must end with a conclusive paragraph. There is an assumption that this is the hardest part of research paper completion. In fact, if you have succeeded in making of impressive introduction, you will significantly facilitate the process of conclusion writing. You don’t think it is easy for you? Ask professionals “ write an essay for me ” because writing your essay does not have to be a difficult job.

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Research Paper Introduction Example

Research papers are popular academic assignments. Various forms of research papers are currently in use in many professional fronts in terms of doing research and analyzing some problems. For most, this is a chance for one to do thorough research and think critically over issues. At times, we go ahead and make use of other people’s research just so to build ours. In such instances, an opportunity is granted to us, so we get to make our research contributions and insights to some specific problems you find to be of interest of you. In addition, it also offers an opportunity for you to shape your skills in academics, some being far much important that they will be of great use in the future. Some of these abilities can be:

• Coming up with questions for your research
• Managing time
• Managing research
• Organizing details in a logical manner
• Bringing out clearly introspections about the research
• Verifying arguments with evidence collected in the field

Research papers are of two types:

• Analytical Research Papers

These types of papers mostly start by the writer going straight to pose a question; in which case it’s usually a research question, which the writer hasn’t taken any sides. These types of papers are generally practiced in ways to explore and evaluate issues. The goal of the writers is not usually to convince their readers that their ideas are the true ones and that the others are quite wrong but rather just to analyze and interpret the sources, be it primary or secondary. In this type of writing, the thesis statement in normally open as compared to the other kind of research paper.

• Argumentative Research Papers

This begins with the student making a research paper introduction, and in this case, the thesis statement is usually solid. The writer approaches the topic with an already predetermined stance on what is and isn’t. The writer has to be so persuasive just so to win the audience. In this type of research paper when it comes to topic selection, the student only has to go for something that creates a lot of controversies and gives room for debate. The whole research paper revolves around the student supporting his/her stance with tangible evidence.

Selecting a Topic for Your Research Paper Introduction

Topic selection is a sine qua non for any academic writing whatsoever. It is the basic requirement that gives you a sense of direction on what you’re expected to do research and finally write about. Once you have a topic, you can choose to take a different angle that will give different views and approaches to the topic. The research paper introduction format structure requires that you capitalize each word in the title to bring out its prominence and for easy viewing.

There is no secret behind topics and coming up with topics and titles to fit them. In some special situations you’ll find that the instructor has already outlined the topic for you and now it’s up to you to do the research and maybe come up with a title. Most topics given to you by the instructor are usually about your discipline and finding sources to come up with a full paper wouldn’t be that hard.

When given a chance to select a topic of your own, it’s always advisable to seek ideas from your peers, family and even the internet. For the internet option, maybe go for what’s trending as such a topic will have quite many readers waiting to read published research papers on the same. For instance; Nuclear energy, Depression, Drug abuse, World epidemics and many others that are in correspondence with your field of study. Based on the topic, its good idea to start with a general overview of what the topic entails, only then will you now start going deeper and deeper to some of the core details that will make your paper stand out.

For the research paper introduction, give shallow details about your topic and don’t go deeper. Leave the details for the body text. Make clarifications in case you end to apply any complex expressions to your paper. Read more articles on example of introduction in research paper with topic selection guides to help you out.

Importance of a Research Paper Introduction

A research paper introduction plays a big role in the research paper, roughly 25-30%. Here, the writer makes us aware of the purpose of the research. Without a research paper introduction, your readers are but lost sheep, leave alone them even reading your paper to the end. In all academic writings, the order is very much valued. Picture a situation where anybody would just write the way they see fit, total chaos.

Before you go ahead and start explaining your research findings and defending them, you first need to make your reader aware of what you’re talking about. Let’s take a case of maybe an argumentative research paper. The research paper introduction gives the reader an opportunity to know your stance and read on knowing what to expect.

The research paper introduction has some key components that you as a research paper writer need to be so keen on. These components form the backbone of your research paper. There is the hypothesis, the hook sentence, and the thesis statement. The hypothesis is what you are going to use to persuade your audience over. You can state your hypothesis and bring out clearly either your support or opposition for it.

Then here comes the hooking line. Go for something catchy; a sentence that will keep the audience intrigued or at times something humorous. Your readers could use something funny once in a while in your writing, the hook statement may be it. The hook sentence can be some funny joke, works of poetry, a piece of advice, philosophical quote or even a wise saying. Ensure it is as appealing as possible if you want the audience to keep reading your paper.

Here are the introduction of research paper example hook statements;

• A piece of advice;

“When you want something from someone, give them something instead.”

• Powerful quote

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

• Rhetorical question

“What does it mean to have all the money in the world and don’t get to spend it?”

One thing about hook sentences is that they bring the reader into your world and in so doing try to imagine what you were thinking about when coming up with such. Check out online some of the research paper introduction example hook sentences and get a better idea of what it’s all about.

Research Paper Introduction Thesis Statement

Is it even a research paper introduction if you fail to mention the thesis statement? From our discussions above it’s so evident that the research paper introduction forms the foundation of your research paper. Writers take their time to do research and profound analysis on given topics, and the instructor can be able to deduce how good a paper is going to be by just reading the thesis statement. All we’re saying is that a lot is at stake the moment you don’t satisfy your reader with an intriguing thesis. For argumentative research papers, the thesis statement is usually solid, brings out your predetermined stance based on the controversy and your support or opposition for the argument. For an analytical research paper introduction, the thesis statement is usually fluid, gives no room for debate or persuasion. Instead, it`s just an exercise in evaluation and analysis of information sources. The tone of your research paper be it argumentative or analytical, is set by the thesis statement.

A good thesis statement should have the following attributes; Give the reader a picture of what you’re going to talk about, it should be concise and bring in the readers to your talk. Supporting your thesis statement is also a factor you need to put into consideration when making declarations.

Examples of research paper introduction paragraph with thesis statements;

• Work and Life

“To achieve a better work-life balance and boost productivity, corporations need to provide their employees with more work from home opportunities and fewer hour workdays.”

• Diversity in our Work

“In a bid to boost productivity in our working areas, we need to deploy diversity. It not only comes with richer ideas and better cooperation but also a sense of belonging between people of different ethnicities.”

• Women for Political Power

“We need more women in political power, and this can only happen if more women run for office. We need to seek alternatives to educate women on ways to approach various political fronts based on whom, why, when and how they can support each other’s political careers.”

The above research paper introduction paragraph sample on thesis statements is just to give you an idea of how to approach it. If you’re still not sure of what to do, just go ahead and consult with your lecturer, teacher or relevant instructor to understand more.

So far we can all agree that writing a research paper introduction is not that demanding like you previously deemed it to be. Just follow the set rules and come up with something that’s quite appealing to both you and your reader. Do you still have any questions on research paper introduction? Kindly ask, and we shall try our best to help you.