Q: What is the background to the study when writing a research paper?

The background is part of the Introduction section of a research paper and should include essential information for setting up your study goals and hypothesis. It should cover the knowledge in the field and identify gaps in current literature. This will allow your research study to be placed in context and will adequately highlight the novelty and significance of the study.

Since your study wants to highlight the problems faced by grade 11 students in the Phillipines under the federal government, your study background could be a general introduction to what the education system is like in Phillippines under the federal structure. You could cite existing literature that deals with federalism and its challenges to education. From there, you could gradually narrow down the discussion to the problems faced specifically by grade 11 students under this system. However, note that this is just an example and there can be various other ways of approaching the topic. 

Related reading:

• How can I write the introduction section for my article?
• The secret to writing the introduction and methods section of a manuscript
• What is the best way to write an effective introduction?
• How to write the background of your study