How to write the Introduction: Part 2

Summary

The video explains how to effectively write the introduction section of a scientific paper, focusing on readability and proper use of tenses. It covers the importance of organizing content into clear paragraphs, each focusing on one topic, and using transition words to ensure smooth flow. The script highlights the use of past tense for specific research findings, present perfect for general or cumulative findings, and present tense for facts. Examples are provided to illustrate these guidelines, helping viewers understand how to structure their writing clearly and cohesively.

Takeaways

• 📑 The introduction is the first section of a scientific paper, and its writing should be clear and well-structured.
• 📝 Paragraphs should focus on one topic, start with a topic sentence, and avoid irrelevant sentences.
• 📏 Paragraphs shouldn't be too short or too long; two to three paragraphs per page is a good balance.
• 📚 Transition words are essential for creating connections between sentences and paragraphs, making the text easier to follow.
• ⏳ In scientific writing, verb tenses are crucial: past simple for specific results, present simple for facts, and present perfect for general findings.
• 📄 Past tense is used for discussing specific studies or results, especially those done by the author or others.
• 💡 Present simple is used for stating facts or widely accepted knowledge.
• 🔎 Present perfect is used for discussing general trends or findings across multiple studies.
• 🧪 The introduction should clearly define the purpose of the study and summarize relevant background information.
• ✔️ A well-organized introduction makes use of appropriate paragraph structure and verb tenses to communicate ideas effectively.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the introduction section in a scientific paper?

The introduction section is the first part of a scientific paper and provides context for the research. It explains background information, previous studies, and the purpose of the current study.

Why are paragraphs important in scientific writing?

Paragraphs divide the writing into sections, making it easier for readers to follow and understand the content. They also help structure the paper, ensuring it’s easy to read.

What are the rules for writing clear paragraphs?

Each paragraph should have one topic, start with a topic sentence, have no irrelevant sentences, and be neither too long nor too short. The ideal length is 2-3 paragraphs per page.

What is the purpose of transition words in academic writing?

Transition words help create connections between sentences and paragraphs, making it easier for readers to follow the argument and the flow of the paper.

What are the three main verb tenses used in the introduction section of a scientific paper?

The three main tenses used are past tense for specific results and methods, present simple for facts and general truths, and present perfect for general findings or combinations of studies.

When should you use past tense in the introduction of a scientific paper?

Past tense is used when referring to specific results, findings, or methods from previous research or when describing your own experiment.

When is present simple tense used in the introduction?

Present simple is used to state facts or general truths, especially when referring to established knowledge or findings from other research presented as facts.

How is present perfect tense used in academic writing?

Present perfect is used to describe nonspecific findings or when summarizing results from multiple studies. It’s also common in passive constructions.

How should the statement of purpose be written in the introduction section?

The statement of purpose, which explains why the study was conducted, should be written in past tense as it describes what was done in the research.

What is the key takeaway for writing the introduction of a scientific paper?

Ensure paragraphs are organized around a single topic with clear topic sentences, use the correct verb tenses (past for methods, present for facts, present perfect for general findings), and use transition words to improve readability.