How to Write a Research Paper Introduction

The introduction of a research paper has to accomplish several things simultaneously: capture the reader's attention, establish the research context, identify the gap in existing knowledge your paper addresses, and state your thesis or research question. Doing all of this in a few paragraphs is a craft in itself — but there's a reliable three-part structure that makes it manageable.

Part one is the hook and context (the 'funnel' approach). Start broad — with the general topic, its significance, or an interesting statistic or claim that establishes why this area matters. Then progressively narrow your focus toward the specific question or problem your paper addresses. By the end of the context section, the reader should understand the landscape your research inhabits.

Part two is the literature gap. Briefly acknowledge what existing research has established and then identify what it has not addressed, or where it has been contradictory, limited, or incomplete. This gap is the justification for your research — it shows why your paper needs to exist. Keep this focused: a few sentences is often sufficient.

Part three is the thesis or research statement. State clearly what your paper argues, investigates, or aims to demonstrate. In empirical research papers, this includes your methodology and the structure of the paper ('This paper first... then... and concludes by...'). The last sentence of your introduction should leave the reader clear on exactly what they're about to read.