Introducing your research
Introductions set the scene and prepare the reader to see how and why your research is a contribution to the field. Your introduction should also be linked to your conclusion to demonstrate the progression of your arguments through your thesis.
As a guideline, introductions are usually around 10% of the word count of the thesis and should begin with the big picture and narrow down to the specifics of your own research. Consider working on the introduction and conclusion chapters together. Reviewing them together periodically will help you build a strong frame for your narrative.
Elements in an introduction
An introduction should provide readers with:
- Background/Context: Situates your research within the broader social or academic context
- Motivation: Establishes why your research is necessary
- Significance: Articulates the potential contribution your research will make and states the research aim
- Key concepts: Defines any concepts, methodologies or theories
- Overview or statement of organisation: Provides a summary of what the following chapters explore
Some researchers include a personal anecdote, tantalising statistics or a puzzle in their introductions. This is generally called a hook and, if included, should come before the broader context.
Analyse sample introductions
In this activity, you will identify the elements discussed above in three sample thesis excerpts.
For each excerpt:
1) Match the numbered sentences (1-4) with the elements identified above
2) Use the 'check' button at the bottom to see feedback
3) Navigate to the next excerpt using the arrow.
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