Q: How can I write an introduction to my study?

Your Introduction section must set the context for your research and also explain to readers the significance of your research question. In other words, your Introduction must justify the need for conducting your study. It must also specify whether any previous work has been done on your research topic or on a closely related topic in the field, what the previous studies have achieved, and how your research aims to address the problem.

While writing your Introduction section, ensure that it:

• Describes why you have undertaken the study
• Explains how the research will make a significant contribution to the field
• States the research question clearly
• Provides a background of the problem that your research aims to understand or resolve
• Summarizes what is currently known about the topic through existing literature and citing studies that are relevant

The following articles will equip you with more tips on writing an effective Introduction section: 

• 4 Step approach to writing the introduction section of a research paper
• How is an introduction written in a research paper
• The secret to writing the introduction and methods section of a manuscript
• Manuscript structure: How to convey your most important ideas through your paper