Your introduction is your reader's first impression of your research—it sets expectations, establishes significance, and creates momentum for the chapters ahead. A well-crafted introduction can make the difference between engaged readers and committee members who struggle through your work.
Purpose of the Introduction
Your introduction should accomplish several goals: Hook readers and capture their interest. Contextualize your research within the broader field. Establish the significance and urgency of your topic. State your research problem, purpose, and questions clearly. Preview your methodological approach and dissertation structure.
Essential Elements
1. Opening Hook: Start with a compelling statement, surprising statistic, relevant quote, or provocative question. Avoid clichéd openings like 'Since the beginning of time...'
2. Background/Context: Provide sufficient background for readers to understand the problem. Move from general context to specific focus.
3. Problem Statement: Clearly articulate the problem your research addresses. What is the gap, need, or issue?
4. Purpose Statement: State the purpose of your study in one clear sentence. 'The purpose of this [qualitative/quantitative/mixed methods] study is to...'
5. Research Questions/Hypotheses: List your specific questions or hypotheses. These drive your entire dissertation.
6. Significance: Explain why your research matters—theoretically, practically, and/or methodologically.
7. Definitions: Define key terms that might be ambiguous or discipline-specific.
8. Scope and Delimitations: Clarify what your study includes and excludes.
9. Chapter Overview: Briefly preview what each subsequent chapter covers.
Writing Strategies
Write it last (or revise heavily): Your introduction should align perfectly with what follows. Many students write a draft introduction first, then substantially revise after completing other chapters.
Use signposting: Guide readers through your logic with clear transitions and preview statements.
Be concise but complete: Include everything necessary, but avoid unnecessary elaboration—save details for appropriate later chapters.
Example Structure
Paragraphs 1-2: Hook and broad context. Paragraphs 3-4: Specific context and background. Paragraph 5: Problem statement. Paragraph 6: Purpose and research questions. Paragraphs 7-8: Significance. Paragraph 9: Scope and definitions. Paragraph 10: Chapter overview.
