How do you start an introduction for a dissertation?

The introduction is an essential part of a dissertation that sets the tone for the entire research project. It is the first chapter that the reader encounters, and it needs to capture their attention and provide an overview of the research problem, objectives, and significance. The following are the steps and tips to consider when writing an introduction for a dissertation, along with an example:

1. Start with a Hook:
   The introduction should begin with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and encourages them to continue reading. The hook could be a relevant anecdote, a startling fact or statistic, or a thought-provoking question.

Example: Did you know that over 80% of teenagers experience stress at school, and it affects their mental and physical health? Stress is a significant problem among students, and it has far-reaching consequences that can last well into adulthood.

2. Provide Context:
   After the hook, it’s essential to provide context to the reader. This involves explaining the background of the research problem, the existing literature, and any gaps in knowledge that the study aims to address.

Example: Stress among students has been a topic of concern for researchers for several decades. Despite the considerable body of literature on the subject, there is still a lack of understanding about the underlying causes and the most effective interventions. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the factors that contribute to stress among high school students and identifying evidence-based strategies to address this issue.

3. State the Research Problem:
   The introduction should clearly state the research problem and the research questions that the study aims to answer. This helps the reader understand the purpose of the study and what to expect from the dissertation.

Example: The research problem for this study is to understand the factors that contribute to stress among high school students and identify evidence-based interventions to mitigate the effects of stress on their mental and physical health. The research questions that the study aims to answer are: What are the factors that contribute to stress among high school students, and how do these factors affect their mental and physical health? What evidence-based interventions can be used to address stress among high school students, and what are their effectiveness and feasibility?

4. Explain the Significance:
   The introduction should also explain the significance of the study and how it contributes to the field of research. This helps the reader understand why the study is important and relevant.

Example: This study has significant implications for educators, policymakers, and healthcare providers who are concerned about the mental and physical well-being of high school students. By identifying the factors that contribute to stress and the most effective interventions, this study can inform the development of evidence-based policies and practices that promote student health and academic success.

In conclusion, the introduction is a critical part of a dissertation that provides an overview of the research problem, objectives, and significance. It should start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and provide context, state the research problem and questions, and explain the significance of the study. By following these steps and tips, the introduction can effectively engage the reader and set the stage for the rest of the dissertation.