Introduction
Welcome to our guide on how to write an effective research introduction. In this article, we will discuss the key components of a research introduction, including background information, the problem statement, and the justification for the research. We will also highlight common pitfalls that junior researchers tend to encounter and provide examples of how to write these sections properly.
Background Information
The background information section of a research introduction provides the necessary context for the study. It helps the reader understand the significance of the research topic and its relevance to the existing body of knowledge. When writing this section, junior researchers often make the mistake of providing too much general information or failing to connect it to the specific research topic.
Example of a pitfall:
Uncontrolled hypertension is a common health condition that affects a significant proportion of the population. It is important to control hypertension to prevent complications such as heart disease and stroke.
Example of a proper approach:
Despite advancements in medical treatments, a considerable proportion of individuals with hypertension continue to have uncontrolled blood pressure levels. According to recent studies conducted in the United States, the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension among adults aged 18-64 is estimated to be around 30%. This alarming statistic highlights the need for further research to identify the underlying factors contributing to the low proportion of controlled hypertension.
Problem Statement
The problem statement section of a research introduction clearly defines the research problem or gap in knowledge that the study aims to address. Junior researchers often struggle with formulating a concise and focused problem statement, leading to ambiguity or lack of clarity in their research objectives.
Example of a pitfall:
This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to uncontrolled hypertension among adults.
Example of a proper approach:
The primary objective of this study is to identify the socio-economic, behavioral, and healthcare-related factors associated with the low proportion of controlled hypertension among adults in a specific urban community. By understanding these factors, interventions can be developed to improve hypertension management and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Justification of the Research
The justification section of a research introduction explains why the study is important and how it fills a gap in the existing knowledge. Junior researchers often struggle to articulate the significance of their research, resulting in a lack of compelling reasons for conducting the study.
Example of a pitfall:
This study is important because hypertension is a common condition.
Example of a proper approach:
This study is of utmost importance due to the persistently low proportion of controlled hypertension among adults, which has significant implications for public health. By identifying the factors contributing to uncontrolled hypertension, healthcare professionals and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to improve blood pressure control rates, ultimately reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the population.
Conclusion
Writing an effective research introduction requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the purpose of each section. By providing relevant background information, formulating a concise problem statement, and justifying the research, junior researchers can set the stage for a compelling and impactful study. Avoiding common pitfalls, such as providing vague or generic statements, will ensure that the research introduction effectively engages the reader and highlights the significance of the study.
Remember, a well-written research introduction is crucial for capturing the reader’s interest, establishing the research’s importance, and setting the foundation for a successful study.