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
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Provide general background information on your research topic.
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Describe the broader field of study and key developments or debates related to your research.
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Help the reader understand the context in which your research is situated.
2. Research Problem
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Clearly define the problem or gap in the literature that your dissertation will address.
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Explain why the problem is significant and needs further investigation.
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This section should set the stage for your research, demonstrating the relevance and importance of your study.
3. Research Aim and Objectives
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State the main aim of your dissertation clearly. What do you want to achieve through your research?
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Break down this aim into specific, manageable objectives. These objectives will guide your research process.
4. Research Questions or Hypotheses
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Present the key research questions or hypotheses that your dissertation will explore.
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These should be derived from the research problem and should focus on answering the central issues you are investigating.
5. Justification for the Study
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Discuss why your research is important and how it will contribute to the field.
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Address the gap in existing knowledge that your research will fill.
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Justify the significance of your study in terms of its potential impact on theory, practice, or policy.
6. Overview of Dissertation Structure
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Provide a roadmap of your dissertation’s structure.
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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.