How do I Write a Research Paper Introduction?

Writing a research paper introduction might be a daunting task, but it is one that can be accomplished with a little practice and research. Many writers focus on the body of their paper before ever writing their introduction and conclusion. A few key pointers might assist you in creating an effective research paper introduction, such as building a good foundation for the introduction, deciding on a theme for your paper, developing that theme into a thesis statement and catching the reader’s attention.

As with most good writing, starting with a good foundation might ensure a successful finished product. In order to develop a great research paper introduction, you should have extensive knowledge about your topic. To do this, gather research from reputable sources and review it. You will see what applies, what does not and what will become useful in building your paper. Most importantly, it will give you a general idea of what your paper will cover.

This general idea of what your paper will cover is your theme. Your theme helps you decide which side of an argument you want to take or what information you want to focus on in your paper. The theme acts as your compass to guide your further research and subsequently complete your outline. Your outline does not need to be specific, it just needs to be enough to guide your writing. At this point, you also might begin to think of your paper and information in general terms, identifying what the basic point of your paper is.

Using this information, you might begin to develop a thesis statement, which sums up your paper in just a few words. Going into detail about your specific arguments, research or other information in your thesis statement is not necessary. The thesis simply states, in an eloquent manner, what it is that you want your readers to take away from your paper. Many people feel this is the most important part of the research paper introduction.

After you have good foundation knowledge of your topic, an outline and a thesis statement, you might begin work on your research paper introduction. Many times, the thesis statement appears at the end of the introductory paragraph. To start off the introductory paragraph, you might decide to use a quote, anecdote or little-known fact about your topic. This serves to grab the attention of your readers, causing them to want to read more.