Most research paper introductions are too vague, too long, or both. Here's the 5-part formula used in top-tier journals, adapted for US undergraduate and graduate work.
Part 1, The big picture (2-3 sentences)
Open with the broad context of your topic. Why does this area of research matter? What's its societal, scientific, or theoretical significance? Don't start at the dawn of time, start at the relevant context.
Part 2, Narrow to the problem (3-4 sentences)
Move from the big picture to the specific problem you're addressing. Cite the existing research that establishes the problem. This is where your reader sees the funnel narrowing.
Part 3, Identify the gap (2-3 sentences)
What's NOT yet known? Where does the existing literature fall short? Be specific: 'Despite extensive research on X, Y under Z conditions has not been examined.' Strong gap statements win committee approval.
Part 4, State your research question + thesis (1-2 sentences)
Now state your research question explicitly: 'This paper asks whether...' Follow with your thesis: your tentative answer or prediction.
Part 5, Roadmap the paper (1-2 sentences)
Tell the reader what's coming: 'Section 2 reviews the literature on X. Section 3 describes methods. Section 4 presents findings. Section 5 discusses implications.' Boring but essential, readers need to know the structure.
Length and common mistakes
Total intro: 250-400 words for undergrad papers; 500-800 for graduate work. Common mistakes: (1) starting too broadly (the cosmos isn't relevant), (2) skipping the gap statement, (3) burying the research question in the middle.
Key takeaways
- Big picture → problem → gap → question → roadmap
- Don't start at the dawn of time
- Gap statement = the most important sentence
- Question must be explicit
- Roadmap the structure