How to Write a Research Paper Introduction (With Example)

The introduction is the first thing a reader, a reviewer and an editor see. A clear introduction tells them quickly what your paper is about and why it deserves attention. Many scholars find it the hardest part to write. This guide gives a simple structure for a research paper introduction, a sample paragraph and a checklist.

What an introduction should do

A good introduction answers five questions:

1. What is the topic? Set the context in a few lines.
2. Why does it matter? Show the importance or the problem.
3. What is already known? Summarise the main earlier studies briefly.
4. What is missing? State the gap in knowledge.
5. What will this paper do? Give your aim, question or hypothesis.

A four-step structure

Many introductions follow a funnel that moves from broad to specific.

1. Broad context: one or two sentences about the general area.
2. Narrow to the problem: what issue within that area needs study.
3. The gap: what earlier studies have not covered.
4. Your contribution: your objective, and in one line how you approach it.

Sample paragraph (imaginary, for practice)

This sample is imaginary. Use it only to understand the pattern, and never cite or copy it.

Online learning platforms are now widely used in colleges. Earlier studies have examined student access and satisfaction. However, fewer studies have looked at how first-generation learners use these platforms outside class hours. This study therefore examines the weekly usage patterns of first-generation undergraduate students and the factors linked to regular use.

Notice the pattern: context, earlier work, gap, aim.

Tips for writing a strong introduction

• Write simply. Short sentences are easier to follow.
• Cite as you go. Support claims with references from reliable sources.
• Be specific about the gap. “Little research exists” is weak. Say what exactly is missing.
• State your aim in one clear sentence.
• Match the journal. Read two recent papers from your target journal and notice how long and how structured their introductions are.
• Revise at the end. Make sure the introduction promises only what the paper delivers.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Starting too broad, such as with the history of the whole field.
• Listing studies one by one without linking them.
• Hiding the aim at the end of a long page.
• Using claims with no citation.
• Copying phrases from other papers, which can lead to plagiarism. Our guide on types of plagiarism and how to avoid it explains how to stay safe.

Checklist before you finish

• Does the first paragraph make the topic clear?
• Is the gap stated in a sentence or two?
• Is the aim or research question easy to find?
• Are all sources cited and listed in the references?
• Does the introduction match the results and the conclusion?

Where the introduction fits in your research journey

The introduction works best when your earlier steps are strong. See how to write a research synopsis for PhD, how to write a literature review and how to write an abstract. Before you submit, learn how to spot predatory journals. Our course Research & Publication Ethics and the for researchers page cover these topics in a structured way. For academic journals and publishing support, visit our sister company Mantech Publications, and for student learning resources see bhavyagyan.in.

Conclusion

A good introduction moves from the broad topic to a clear gap and a clear aim. Keep it simple, cite your sources, state what is missing and say what your paper will do. Revise it after you finish the paper so that it matches what you actually found.

For questions about our courses, contact us or see all courses. You can also read about Bhavya Gyan Academy or visit our FAQs.

Related reading: How to write an abstract · How to write a literature review

Before you write: How to choose a research topic for PhD

• #research paper introduction
• #how to write introduction
• #research writing
• #research scholars
• #academic writing