What Should Be Included in the Introduction of a Dissertation

What Should Be Included in the Introduction of a Dissertation

The introduction of your dissertation is a critical part of your writing, as it provides the first impression of your research and sets the tone for the entire study. Here’s a breakdown of what should be included in the introduction of your dissertation:

1. Background Information

  • Provide general background information on your research topic.

  • Describe the broader field of study and key developments or debates related to your research.

  • Help the reader understand the context in which your research is situated.

2. Research Problem

  • Clearly define the problem or gap in the literature that your dissertation will address.

  • Explain why the problem is significant and needs further investigation.

  • This section should set the stage for your research, demonstrating the relevance and importance of your study.

3. Research Aim and Objectives

  • State the main aim of your dissertation clearly. What do you want to achieve through your research?

  • Break down this aim into specific, manageable objectives. These objectives will guide your research process.

4. Research Questions or Hypotheses

  • Present the key research questions or hypotheses that your dissertation will explore.

  • These should be derived from the research problem and should focus on answering the central issues you are investigating.

5. Justification for the Study

  • Discuss why your research is important and how it will contribute to the field.

  • Address the gap in existing knowledge that your research will fill.

  • Justify the significance of your study in terms of its potential impact on theory, practice, or policy.

6. Overview of Dissertation Structure

  • Provide a roadmap of your dissertation’s structure.

  • Briefly describe what each chapter will cover, helping the reader understand the flow of the dissertation.

By ensuring these key elements are present, you can craft a clear and engaging introduction that provides a strong foundation for your dissertation.