When writing an academic paper, the first paragraph (Introduction) is particularly important because it is the bridge that leads the reader to the topic and methodology of your research. Therefore, its main tasks are to arouse the reader’s interest, provide the necessary background knowledge or summarise the results of already existing research, clarify your own research perspective, explain your research question in detail, and tell the reader about the structure of your paper. A good first paragraph makes it easier for the reader to understand and accept the content of subsequent chapters. Introductions are written differently depending on the type of essay or research methodology.
Introductory Introduction (Descriptive Introduction)
Primarily descriptive and designed to grab the reader’s attention.
It usually begins with a catchy question or thought-provoking event that allows the reader to quickly understand the topic of your paper and its importance. Interesting facts, a short story, or even a deep dive into the topic may capture the reader’s curiosity.
Discussive Introduction (Convictive Introduction)
Primarily a discussion, designed to lead the reader to think.
This type of introduction is usually centred around a controversial topic, and by comparing and contrasting viewpoints, it allows the reader to understand the seriousness and importance of the issue. However, it is important to note that this type of introduction should be concise and not too complicated.
Expository Introduction
This is a common approach to argumentative essays, favouring the revelation of the meaning and importance of existing research findings.
Comparative Introduction
The main focus is on comparison, which is more commonly used in empirical research. The purpose of this type of introduction is to guide the reader through the main achievements and shortcomings of the research so that they can evaluate it from different perspectives.
Of course, this is just one of the common ways of writing an introduction, and in practice it can be adapted appropriately to suit your own research paper. The key is that the introduction should be engaging enough to get the reader smoothly into the body of the text. With regard to the research question, you need to explain in detail how the research applies to other areas of study or answers specific questions. You also need to consider the central idea and structural design of your research paper to ensure that each paragraph in the introduction section leads effectively to the core argument of the paper.
