What is Research Paper Introduction?

Introduction in the research paper is the first paragraph that provides a detailed background of the topic
it could also be referred to as the formal presentation of the topic or subject.

The introduction is often the most important chapter of your paper because it lays out what you want to
accomplish and how. The introduction should have a broad view of the topic, establishing how it
relates broadly with other topics in its field. It’s also an opportunity for you to state why this research
matters by explaining both background information as well as stating hypotheses or questions that will
be answered through your study (or at least addressed).
It should provide an overview of what approach you will take with your methodology before providing
some brief details as to how this study could yield results that can contribute value to society.

Objectives of writing a research paper introduction

 The main objective of the introduction part of a research paper is to make the reader familiar
with the content and purpose of writing a research paper. As a Research paper introduction is
the first section of a research paper that has a great effect on the reader’s mind. Therefore, you
should edit and proofread the introduction after writing it.
 One of the main objectives of the introduction is to give a description of the problem that will
be addressed. In this section, the researcher might discuss the nature of the research, the
purpose of the research, the significance of the research problem, and the research
question(s) to be addressed.
 Another objective of the introduction section in the research paper is to capture the attention of
the reader. It is the paragraph in a research paper that makes the reader familiar with the subject
by providing an overview of the topic.

For example, Globalization is a phenomenon that has bought drastic changes in industries. It has
changed the way marketing has been done by firms.

In the Introduction…

 The problem statement outlines the concern that needs to be addressed.

 The research aim describes the purpose of the study.
 The objectives indicate how that aim will be achieved.
 The rationale explains why you are performing the study.
 The significance tells the reader how the findings affect the topic/broad field. In other words,
the significance is about how much the findings matter.

Importance of introduction in the research paper

The introduction has great significance in the research paper. Introduction in the research paper is very
much essential, as it helps the researcher in stating their objective.

 The introduction section in the researcher paper consists of the research paper hook which
provides the researcher with ease in grabbing the attention of the reader.
 It enables you to avoid any kind of confusion and misunderstanding.
 An introduction section enables us to highlight the issue.
  By providing an effective introduction you can make the reader feel connected.
 The introduction section in a research paper is important as it enables to clearly state the
objective of conducting the investigation on a particulars topic.
 It helps you to demonstrate the importance of the research topics or problem that has been
addressed in the research paper.
 It enables you to explain the way research on a particular topic has filled the gap in the
literature.
 An effective introduction in the research paper helps you in developing a good impression on
the reader.

Techniques of writing introduction in research paper

 You should write this introduction in the last after completion of all other parts. As after
completing other parts of the research paper you will develop little idea about the content that
you need to add in the introduction for matching it with the other sections of the research paper
 While writing the introduction section in the research paper you need to mainly concentrate on
the tone you are using.
 While drafting an introduction you need to highlight the main issue because of which you are
performing an investigation on a specific topic.
 You should provide the reader with a hint of the questions that you want to get answered.

The procedure of writing an introduction in a research paper

 Defining of the topic of research: It is an initial phase where you need to provide background
information or an overview of your research topic. The beginning sentences in a research paper
should represent the issue on which a complete research project is based.
 Consideration related to keywords: the keywords are those words that represent the different
aspects of the investigation.

For example, if you are writing a research paper on the impact of globalization on business
function, then in the introduction section you need to provide a definition or explanation about
globalization.

 Definition of key terms in a research paper: It is essentials for you to define the complex
term which you will use in a research paper. As it is the strategy that will help you in ensuring
clarity throughout the research paper. By providing the definition of complex terms you can
ensure that the reader has understood what you want to convey. Defining the key terms is very
much crucial particularly when you are describing new concepts in your research paper.
 Introduction to the topic using quotation: You should include the quotation that should be
related to the topic. Using the quotation in the introduction section will help you in capturing
the attention of the reader. While you are writing a quote you need to make sure it is short and
simple.

What is the background of a study?

The background of a study is the first section of the paper and establishes the context underlying the
research. It contains the rationale, the key problem statement, and a brief overview of research
questions that are addressed in the rest of the paper.
The background forms the crux of the study because it introduces an unaware audience to the research
and its importance in a clear and logical manner. At times, the background may even explore whether
the study builds on or refutes findings from previous studies.
Any relevant information that the readers need to know before delving into the paper should be made
available to them in the background.

How is a background different from the introduction?

The introduction of your research paper is presented before the background. Let’s find out what factors
differentiate the background from the introduction.

 The introduction only contains preliminary data about the research topic and does not state the
purpose of the study. On the contrary, the background clarifies the importance of the study in
detail.
 The introduction provides an overview of the research topic from a broader perspective, while
the background provides a detailed understanding of the topic.
 The introduction should end with the mention of the research questions, aims, and objectives of
the study. In contrast, the background follows no such format and only provides essential
context to the study.

How should one write the background of a research paper?

The length and detail presented in the background varies for different research papers, depending on
the complexity and novelty of the research topic. At times, a simple background suffices, even if the
study is complex.
Before writing and adding details in the background, take a note of these additional points:

 Start with a strong beginning: Begin the background by defining the research topic and then
identify the target audience.
 Cover key components: Explain all theories, concepts, terms, and ideas that may feel
unfamiliar to the target audience thoroughly.
 Take note of important prerequisites: Go through the relevant literature in detail. Take notes
while reading and cite the sources.
 Maintain a balance: Make sure that the background is focused on important details, but also
appeals to a broader audience.
 Include historical data: Current issues largely originate from historical events or findings. If
the research borrows information from a historical context, add relevant data in the background.
 Explain novelty: If the research study or methodology is unique or novel, provide an
explanation that helps to understand the research better.
 Increase engagement: To make the background engaging, build a story around the central
theme of the research

Avoid these mistakes while writing the background:

  Ambiguity: Don’t be ambiguous. While writing, assume that the reader does not understand
any intricate detail about your research.
 Unrelated themes: Steer clear from topics that are not related to the key aspects of your
research topic.
 Poor organization: Do not place information without a structure. Make sure that the
background reads in a chronological manner and organize the sub-sections so that it flows well.

Conceptual Framework in Research

In research, a conceptual framework is a theoretical structure that provides a framework for

understanding a particular phenomenon or problem. It is a key component of any research project and
helps to guide the research process from start to finish.

A conceptual framework provides a clear understanding of the variables, relationships, and

assumptions that underpin a research study. It outlines the key concepts that the study is investigating
and how they are related to each other. It also defines the scope of the study and sets out the research
questions or hypotheses.

Theoretical Framework

A theoretical framework is an overarching set of concepts, ideas, and assumptions that help to explain
and interpret a phenomenon. It provides a theoretical perspective on the phenomenon being studied and
helps researchers to identify the relationships between different concepts. For example, a theoretical
framework for a study on the impact of social media on mental health might draw on theories of
communication, social influence, and psychological well-being.

Conceptual Model

A conceptual framework provides a clear understanding of the variables, relationships, and

assumptions that underpin a research study. It outlines the key concepts that the study is investigating
and how they are related to each other. It also defines the scope of the study and sets out the research
questions or hypotheses.

A conceptual model is a visual or written representation of a complex system or phenomenon. It helps

to identify the main components of the system and the relationships between them. For example, a
conceptual model for a study on the factors that influence employee turnover might include factors
such as job satisfaction, salary, work-life balance, and job security, and the relationships between them.

There are several situations when it is appropriate to use a conceptual framework:

 To guide the research: A conceptual framework can be used to guide the research process by
providing a clear roadmap for the research project. It can help researchers identify key variables
and relationships, and develop hypotheses or research questions.
 To clarify concepts: A conceptual framework can be used to clarify and define key concepts
and terms used in a research project. It can help ensure that all researchers are using the same
language and have a shared understanding of the concepts being studied.
  To provide a theoretical basis: A conceptual framework can provide a theoretical basis for a
research project by linking it to existing theories or conceptual models. This can help
researchers build on previous research and contribute to the development of a field.
 To identify gaps in knowledge: A conceptual framework can help identify gaps in existing
knowledge by highlighting areas that require further research or investigation.
 To communicate findings: A conceptual framework can be used to communicate research
findings by providing a clear and concise summary of the key variables, relationships, and
assumptions that underpin the research project.

Characteristics of Conceptual Framework

Key characteristics of a conceptual framework are:

 Clear definition of key concepts: A conceptual framework should clearly define the key
concepts and terms being used in a research project. This ensures that all researchers have a
shared understanding of the concepts being studied.
 Identification of key variables: A conceptual framework should identify the key variables that
are being studied and how they are related to each other. This helps to organize the research
project and provides a clear focus for the study.
 Logical structure: A conceptual framework should have a logical structure that connects the
key concepts and variables being studied. This helps to ensure that the research project is
coherent and consistent.
 Based on existing theory: A conceptual framework should be based on existing theory or
conceptual models. This helps to ensure that the research project is grounded in existing
knowledge and builds on previous research.
 Testable hypotheses or research questions: A conceptual framework should include testable
hypotheses or research questions that can be answered through empirical research. This helps to
ensure that the research project is rigorous and scientifically valid.
 Flexibility: A conceptual framework should be flexible enough to allow for modifications as
new information is gathered during the research process. This helps to ensure that the research
project is responsive to new findings and is able to adapt to changing circumstances.

Methodology

Methodology is “an articulated, theoretically informed approach to the production of data”

(Ellen, 1984, p. 9). It refers to the study and critical analysis of data production techniques. It
is the “strategy, plan of action, process or design” that informs one’s choice of research
methods (Crotty, 1998, p. 3). It “is concerned with the discussion of how a particular piece of
research should be undertaken” (Grix, 2004, p. 32). It guides the researcher in deciding what
type of data is required for a study and which data collection tools will be most appropriate for
the purpose of his/her study.

Methods
Methods are specific means of collecting and analyzing data, such as questionnaires and open
ended interviews. What methods to use for a research project will depend on the design of that
project and the researcher’s theoretical mindset.
7 Characteristics of Quantitative Research Methods

Seven characteristics discriminate qualitative methods of research from qualitative ones. I enumerate
the characteristics of quantitative research methods in the following list.

1. Contain Measurable Variables

Data gathering instruments contain items that solicit measurable characteristics of the population.
These measurable characteristics are referred to as the variables of the study, such as age, the number
of children, educational status, and economic status.

2. Use Standardized Research Instruments

The data collection instruments include questionnaires, polls, or surveys. Standardized, pre-tested
instruments guide data collection, thus ensuring the accuracy, reliability and validity of data. Pre-
testing helps identify areas in the research instruments that need revisions. It makes sure that
respondents provide the expected answers or satisfy the intent of the researcher to meet the research
objectives.

3. Assume a Normal Population Distribution

For more reliable data analysis of quantitative data, a normal population distribution curve is preferred
over a non-normal distribution. This requires a large population, the numbers of which depend on how
the characteristics of the population vary. This requires adherence to the principle of random sampling
to avoid researcher bias in interpreting the results that defeat the purpose of the research.

4. Present Data in Tables, Graphs, or Figures

The data obtained using quantitative methods are organized using tables, graphs, or figures that merge
large numbers of data to show trends, relationships, or differences among variables. This fosters
understanding of the readers or clients of the research investigation.

5. Use Repeatable Method

Researchers can repeat the quantitative method to verify or confirm the findings in another setting. This
reinforces the validity of groundbreaking discoveries or findings, thus eliminating the possibility of
spurious or erroneous conclusions.

6. Can Predict Outcomes

Quantitative models or formula derived from data analysis can predict outcomes. If-then scenarios can
be constructed using complex mathematical computations with the aid of digital computers or
computer-controlled robots commonly referred to as artificial intelligence or AI.

7. Use Measuring Devices

Advanced digital or electronic instruments are used to measure or gather quantitative data from the
field. The instruments ensure an objective and accurate collection of data provided that these are
calibrated. Calibration means that the instruments used by the researcher matches the measurements of
a reference instrument that is considered a standard.

When to Use Quantitative or Qualitative Research

The methods used by researchers may either be quantitative or qualitative. The decision to select the
method largely depends on the researcher’s judgment and the nature of the research topic. Some
research topics are better studied using quantitative methods, while others are more appropriately
explored using qualitative methods.
CHARACTERISTICS OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
-Stating the problem helps the researcher clarify various essential elements of research such
as the major variables, the general and specific objectives, and the appropriate
methodology.
-The opening paragraph of the part of research paper contains the general problem of the
study
-It must be restated with specific details on the participants, setting, and period of study.

ELEMENTS OF THE STATEMENT OF THE GENERAL PROBLEM:

1. Main tasks – they satisfy the question, “what to do” with the major variables such as to
associates, to relate, to assess, to measure, to determine, and etc.
2. main or major variables
3. participants subjects or respondents
4. the specific setting
5. coverage date of the conduct of study
6. for development research, the intended outputs such as an intervention program module,
policies, among others.

Examples of a general problem:

1. the main problem of this research is to look into the influence of video games and the utilization
of social media on the language proficiency of the freshmen students of Leyte National High
School for the first semester of academic year 2014-2015.
The result of this investigation will be the basis of the formulation of the guidelines. In the
development, organization, and implementation of effective study habits.

2. This study aims to assess the behavioral traits of senior high school students and to relate them
to the productivity level in reviewing lessons and passing the long examinations. This study is to
be conducted during the first semester of SY 2016-2017 in the Division of Palo, Leyte
Researchable questions are questions of value, opinions, or policy raised to gather data. The basic form
of a research question involves the use of question words such as who, what, where, when, why and
how.

Types of research question

Factor-isolating questions. (“what is this?”) they are sometimes called factor naming questions. They
isolate, categorize, describe or name factors and situations.

Examples:
1. What is the profile of school managers in terms of:
1.1 age;
1.2 management experience;
a. educational attainment;
b. management training;
c. home atmosphere
2. what is the level of description of the study habits of senior high school students in terms of:
2.1 review time;
2.2 place of review;
2.3 techniques in studying?

3. What is the level of school effectiveness in terms of:

3.1 teacher’s performance;
3.2 school performance;
a. drop-out rate;
b. completion rate?

4. What is the extent of transactional and transformational leadership behaviors of secondary

school participants as perceived by:
4.1 principal respondents;
4.2 teachers;
4.3 PTA officers?

5. How are the following laboratory-related factors be described in terms of:

5.1 adequacy, usability, and availability of equipment’s;
5.2 facilities;
5.3 laboratory manu

Factor-relating questions. (“what is happening here?”) their goal is to determine the relationship
among factors that have been identified. These are usually questions for a non-experimental type of
research.
Examples:
1. how does the study habits influence the achievement level of the Grade 11 students in their
major subjects?

2. What is the significant association between the nature and economic status of the family and
the social status of the junior students?
a. Intrapersonal competency;
b. Interpersonal competency;
c. School effectiveness?

QUANTITAVE REASEARCH METHODOLOGY

Essential elements of the research methodology:

1. Research design – it is very important aspect of research methodology which describes the
research mode (whether it is quantitative or qualitative research, or if the researcher will use a
specific research type e.g., descriptive, survey, historical, case or experimental).

2. Respondents of the study – describes the target population and the sample frame.

3. Instrument of the study – describes the specific type of research instrument that will be used ass
questionnaire, checklist, questionnaire-checklist, interview schedule, teacher-made test

4. Establishing and validating reliability – the instrument must pass the validity and reliability test
before it is utilized.

5. Statistical treatment – one of the many ways of establishing the objectivity of research findings is
by subjecting the data to different but appropriate statistical formulas and processes

The scope and Delimitation of the study is a section in a where the researcher engages in the
discussion of the research areas, research questions, objectives, population and study area covered
(which also implies those not covered) in the study to show that you know where your research fits in
its scholarly community and that you know what you can accomplish (Trinity Washington University,
2014).

Scope of study can therefore be in terms of geography, scholarship, study population/demographics and
time.
According to Simon and Goes (2013), the scope of the study refers to the parameters under which the
study will be operating. This means specifying the domain of the research and clearly stating what the
researcher is studying including the factors that are within the accepted range of the research
(Simon and Goes, 2013).

This may mean clarifying the subjects, extent of coverage of the concepts employed in the study
objectives and the time frame to set the reach of the study in the context. In this regard, the scope of
the study is a detailed exposition of the study to ensure that the breadth, depth and detail of the
study are compatible and sufficient to address the stated study objectives (University of Cyprus,
2006) within available time in manners that will optimize available resources. Identifying the
scope of the study not only helps to show the coverage of a study, but it also enhances the credibility,
validity and reliability of the study and makes other scholars to know within which subject, context,
time and remit they can assess and replicate your research.

In some literature, the scope of the study is also known as the delimitation of the study. In
this sense, they are the boundaries, a researcher, set on the study and can be said to be within the
researcher’s control (Baron, 2009). Therefore, the delimitation of the study entails the choice of
research questions researchers’ ask, the details of research objectives, the theoretical
position(s)researchers choose to adopt and the population relevant for the research (Baron, 2009).

According to Pajares (2007), writing out the delimitation of the study is an attempt to explain the
activities the researcher will not be undertaking (in terms of, for example, literature, population
and methodology) and then the justification of why this is so. Justification is very important here
because all aspects of a research must be justified.

Justification is also embedded in all sections. In this case, in the delimitation/scope of the study,
the researcher must justify why he/she is setting/determining the scope of the study and what
factors determine the scope.

Limitations of the study are issues and challenges that researchers face during the study
that may influence or impact the results and interpretations of those results (Price and Murnan,
2004). According to Baron (2009), limitations are factors, usually beyond the researcher’s
control, that may affect the results of the study or how the results are interpreted. All studies,
regardless of how well-planned or well-conducted they are, have one limit or another. This limit
can be on the issues of the theoretical or methodological choice for the study, or in terms of
problems faced during the process of data collection.

The significance of a study is its importance. It refers to the contribution(s) to and impact of the
study on a research field. The significance also signals who benefits from the research findings and
how.

Purpose of writing the significance of a study

A study’s significance should spark the interest of the reader. Researchers will be able to appreciate
your work better when they understand the relevance and its (potential) impact.

How to Write the Definition of Terms in Chapter 1 of a Research?

Definition of terms works just like a glossary but have a different twist. It is placed on the last part of Chapter 1
to tell the meaning of the terms used throughout the said chapter.

Here are some guidelines in writing the Definition of terms:

Two types of definition of terms to use on your research. - Conceptual meaning (Lexical) and Operational
meaning - Conceptual terms/meanings are based on what a dictionary or an encyclopedia tells. –
 On the other hand, Operational terms/meanings are based on how the researchers used a term on their
study. - The terms should be arranged alphabetically and should be defined lexically and/or operationally.
Other researches use only one kind of definition

Note! On your Research, USE OPERATIONAL Meaning.

References

University of Southern California (2015). Quantitative methods. Retrieved on 3 January, 2015 from http://goo.gl/GMiwt
https://www.academia.edu
https://www.researchgate.net