How To Write The Perfect Introduction To Your Research Paper (Prof. David Stuckler)

Summary

In this video, Professor David Stuckler offers a practical guide for writing a research paper's introduction. He introduces a three-part formula for crafting effective intros: identifying the key issue or debate, describing the research gap, and presenting the study’s contribution. Stuckler demonstrates this approach with examples from natural and social sciences, emphasizing the importance of clarity in presenting the research question and gap. The formula helps simplify the writing process and ensures that papers highlight their novelty, contributing to successful academic writing. The video also encourages viewers to join a Facebook group for more workshops and resources.

Takeaways

• 😀 The introduction should be written last, once you have clear clarity on your research and findings.
• 😀 The introduction follows a three-part formula: 1) The big debate or issue, 2) The gap in existing research, and 3) Your study’s contribution.
• 😀 Starting with the big debate or issue helps capture the reader's attention by addressing a burning, timely problem.
• 😀 Identifying the gap in current research is essential to show what is missing and why your study is important.
• 😀 Your research should be presented as the solution to the gap, clearly outlining your contribution to the field.
• 😀 If necessary, provide context and define terms to ensure accessibility for readers unfamiliar with your topic.
• 😀 The clearer your research question, the easier it will be for you to write a focused and impactful introduction.
• 😀 Be concise and avoid overcomplicating your introduction, ensuring it is easy to follow and impactful.
• 😀 Defining key terms early in the introduction helps to avoid confusion, especially when writing for a broad audience.
• 😀 A clear and novel contribution is crucial for getting your paper accepted; reviewers should immediately understand what’s new in your work.
• 😀 This three-part formula is versatile and works across natural and social sciences, streamlining the writing process.

Q & A

Why is the introduction considered the hardest section of any paper?

The introduction is seen as the hardest section because it requires clarity and structure to set the tone for the entire paper. It involves outlining the research question, identifying the gap in existing knowledge, and introducing the study's contribution, which can be challenging to express concisely and effectively.

What advice does Professor David Stuckler give about writing the introduction?

Professor Stuckler recommends saving the introduction for last, as it is easier to write when you have clarity about your research findings and how the paper fits together. Writing it after completing the rest of the paper ensures the introduction accurately reflects the content.

What is the 'three-part formula' for writing an introduction?

The three-part formula includes: 1) Introducing the big issue or debate, answering why the research is important; 2) Identifying the gap in existing research and what is already known; and 3) Introducing the new study and its contribution to addressing the identified gap.

Why is it important to describe the gap in existing research in the introduction?

Describing the gap helps to establish the relevance of the study and show that there is a clear need for the new research. It highlights what is missing in current knowledge and sets the stage for presenting the study's contribution.

What role does context play in the introduction, and when should it be provided?

Context is crucial for helping readers understand key terms and concepts, especially if they are not experts in the subject area. It should be provided when necessary, particularly to define important terms or explain the background of the issue being addressed.

How does Stuckler suggest introducing the research question in the introduction?

Stuckler suggests stating the research question clearly and directly, ensuring that it is relevant and linked to a significant topic. This allows the reader to understand what the paper will address right from the start.

How does Stuckler recommend handling the challenge of academic English, especially for non-native speakers?

Stuckler encourages focusing first on the structure and content of the paper. Once the main ideas are clear and well-organized, attention can shift to refining the language and style, making it easier for non-native speakers to express their research effectively.

What is the significance of identifying the novelty of the research in the introduction?

Identifying the novelty of the research is essential because it demonstrates the paper's contribution to the field. It helps to avoid confusion and ensures that reviewers and readers can clearly see why the study is important and worthy of publication.

How does the formula for writing an introduction apply to both natural and social sciences?

The three-part formula works across both disciplines by clearly presenting the big issue, the gap in existing research, and the study's contribution. While the style may vary slightly between fields, the overall structure remains effective in any scientific context.

What is Stuckler's approach to handling competing hypotheses in the introduction?

Stuckler advises presenting the competing hypotheses clearly, providing evidence for both, and then identifying the gap in research that the current study will address. This helps to establish the study's purpose and position within ongoing academic debates.