what to include in a research paper introduction

How to Write a Research Paper Introduction (with Examples)

The research paper introduction section, along with the Title and Abstract, can be considered the face of any research paper. The following article is intended to guide you in organizing and writing the research paper introduction for a quality academic article or dissertation.

The research paper introduction aims to present the topic to the reader. A study will only be accepted for publishing if you can ascertain that the available literature cannot answer your research question. So it is important to ensure that you have read important studies on that particular topic, especially those within the last five to ten years, and that they are properly referenced in this section. 1 What should be included in the research paper introduction is decided by what you want to tell readers about the reason behind the research and how you plan to fill the knowledge gap. The best research paper introduction provides a systemic review of existing work and demonstrates additional work that needs to be done. It needs to be brief, captivating, and well-referenced; a well-drafted research paper introduction will help the researcher win half the battle.

The introduction for a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals:

• Present your research topic
• Capture reader interest
• Summarize existing research
• Position your own approach
• Define your specific research problem and problem statement
• Highlight the novelty and contributions of the study
• Give an overview of the paper’s structure

The research paper introduction can vary in size and structure depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or is a review paper. Some research paper introduction examples are only half a page while others are a few pages long. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all of the other sections of your paper; its length depends on the size of your paper as a whole.

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Table of Contents

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The introduction in a research paper is placed at the beginning to guide the reader from a broad subject area to the specific topic that your research addresses. They present the following information to the reader

• Scope: The topic covered in the research paper
• Context: Background of your topic
• Importance: Why your research matters in that particular area of research and the industry problem that can be targeted

The research paper introduction conveys a lot of information and can be considered an essential roadmap for the rest of your paper. A good introduction for a research paper is important for the following reasons:

• It stimulates your reader’s interest: A good introduction section can make your readers want to read your paper by capturing their interest. It informs the reader what they are going to learn and helps determine if the topic is of interest to them.
• It helps the reader understand the research background: Without a clear introduction, your readers may feel confused and even struggle when reading your paper. A good research paper introduction will prepare them for the in-depth research to come. It provides you the opportunity to engage with the readers and demonstrate your knowledge and authority on the specific topic.
• It explains why your research paper is worth reading: Your introduction can convey a lot of information to your readers. It introduces the topic, why the topic is important, and how you plan to proceed with your research.
• It helps guide the reader through the rest of the paper: The research paper introduction gives the reader a sense of the nature of the information that will support your arguments and the general organization of the paragraphs that will follow. It offers an overview of what to expect when reading the main body of your paper.

What are the parts of introduction in the research?

A good research paper introduction section should comprise three main elements: 2

• What is known: This sets the stage for your research. It informs the readers of what is known on the subject.
• What is lacking: This is aimed at justifying the reason for carrying out your research. This could involve investigating a new concept or method or building upon previous research.
• What you aim to do: This part briefly states the objectives of your research and its major contributions. Your detailed hypothesis will also form a part of this section.

How to write a research paper introduction?

The first step in writing the research paper introduction is to inform the reader what your topic is and why it’s interesting or important. This is generally accomplished with a strong opening statement. The second step involves establishing the kinds of research that have been done and ending with limitations or gaps in the research that you intend to address. Finally, the research paper introduction clarifies how your own research fits in and what problem it addresses. If your research involved testing hypotheses, these should be stated along with your research question. The hypothesis should be presented in the past tense since it will have been tested by the time you are writing the research paper introduction.

The following key points, with examples, can guide you when writing the research paper introduction section:

• Highlight the importance of the research field or topic
• Describe the background of the topic
• Present an overview of current research on the topic

Example: The inclusion of experiential and competency-based learning has benefitted electronics engineering education. Industry partnerships provide an excellent alternative for students wanting to engage in solving real-world challenges. Industry-academia participation has grown in recent years due to the need for skilled engineers with practical training and specialized expertise. However, from the educational perspective, many activities are needed to incorporate sustainable development goals into the university curricula and consolidate learning innovation in universities.

• Reveal a gap in existing research or oppose an existing assumption
• Formulate the research question

Example: There have been plausible efforts to integrate educational activities in higher education electronics engineering programs. However, very few studies have considered using educational research methods for performance evaluation of competency-based higher engineering education, with a focus on technical and or transversal skills. To remedy the current need for evaluating competencies in STEM fields and providing sustainable development goals in engineering education, in this study, a comparison was drawn between study groups without and with industry partners.

• State the purpose of your study
• Highlight the key characteristics of your study
• Describe important results
• Highlight the novelty of the study.
• Offer a brief overview of the structure of the paper.

Example: The study evaluates the main competency needed in the applied electronics course, which is a fundamental core subject for many electronics engineering undergraduate programs. We compared two groups, without and with an industrial partner, that offered real-world projects to solve during the semester. This comparison can help determine significant differences in both groups in terms of developing subject competency and achieving sustainable development goals.

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Paperpal Copilot is a generative AI-powered academic writing assistant. It’s trained on millions of published scholarly articles and over 20 years of STM experience. Paperpal Copilot helps authors write better and faster with:

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With Paperpal Copilot, create a research paper introduction effortlessly. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how Paperpal transforms your initial ideas into a polished and publication-ready introduction.

How to use Paperpal to write the Introduction section

Step 1: Sign up on Paperpal and click on the Copilot feature, under this choose Outlines > Research Article > Introduction

Step 2: Add your unstructured notes or initial draft, whether in English or another language, to Paperpal, which is to be used as the base for your content.

Step 3: Fill in the specifics, such as your field of study, brief description or details you want to include, which will help the AI generate the outline for your Introduction.

Step 4: Use this outline and sentence suggestions to develop your content, adding citations where needed and modifying it to align with your specific research focus.

Step 5: Turn to Paperpal’s granular language checks to refine your content, tailor it to reflect your personal writing style, and ensure it effectively conveys your message.

You can use the same process to develop each section of your article, and finally your research paper in half the time and without any of the stress.

The purpose of the research paper introduction is to introduce the reader to the problem definition, justify the need for the study, and describe the main theme of the study. The aim is to gain the reader’s attention by providing them with necessary background information and establishing the main purpose and direction of the research.

The length of the research paper introduction can vary across journals and disciplines. While there are no strict word limits for writing the research paper introduction, an ideal length would be one page, with a maximum of 400 words over 1-4 paragraphs. Generally, it is one of the shorter sections of the paper as the reader is assumed to have at least a reasonable knowledge about the topic. 2 For example, for a study evaluating the role of building design in ensuring fire safety, there is no need to discuss definitions and nature of fire in the introduction; you could start by commenting upon the existing practices for fire safety and how your study will add to the existing knowledge and practice.

When deciding what to include in the research paper introduction, the rest of the paper should also be considered. The aim is to introduce the reader smoothly to the topic and facilitate an easy read without much dependency on external sources. 3 Below is a list of elements you can include to prepare a research paper introduction outline and follow it when you are writing the research paper introduction. Topic introduction: This can include key definitions and a brief history of the topic. Research context and background: Offer the readers some general information and then narrow it down to specific aspects. Details of the research you conducted: A brief literature review can be included to support your arguments or line of thought. Rationale for the study: This establishes the relevance of your study and establishes its importance. Importance of your research: The main contributions are highlighted to help establish the novelty of your study Research hypothesis: Introduce your research question and propose an expected outcome. Organization of the paper: Include a short paragraph of 3-4 sentences that highlights your plan for the entire paper

Cite only works that are most relevant to your topic; as a general rule, you can include one to three. Note that readers want to see evidence of original thinking. So it is better to avoid using too many references as it does not leave much room for your personal standpoint to shine through. Citations in your research paper introduction support the key points, and the number of citations depend on the subject matter and the point discussed. If the research paper introduction is too long or overflowing with citations, it is better to cite a few review articles rather than the individual articles summarized in the review. A good point to remember when citing research papers in the introduction section is to include at least one-third of the references in the introduction.

The literature review plays a significant role in the research paper introduction section. A good literature review accomplishes the following: Introduces the topic – Establishes the study’s significance – Provides an overview of the relevant literature – Provides context for the study using literature – Identifies knowledge gaps However, remember to avoid making the following mistakes when writing a research paper introduction: Do not use studies from the literature review to aggressively support your research Avoid direct quoting Do not allow literature review to be the focus of this section. Instead, the literature review should only aid in setting a foundation for the manuscript.

Remember the following key points for writing a good research paper introduction: 4

• Avoid stuffing too much general information: Avoid including what an average reader would know and include only that information related to the problem being addressed in the research paper introduction. For example, when describing a comparative study of non-traditional methods for mechanical design optimization, information related to the traditional methods and differences between traditional and non-traditional methods would not be relevant. In this case, the introduction for the research paper should begin with the state-of-the-art non-traditional methods and methods to evaluate the efficiency of newly developed algorithms.
• Avoid packing too many references: Cite only the required works in your research paper introduction. The other works can be included in the discussion section to strengthen your findings.
• Avoid extensive criticism of previous studies: Avoid being overly critical of earlier studies while setting the rationale for your study. A better place for this would be the Discussion section, where you can highlight the advantages of your method.
• Avoid describing conclusions of the study: When writing a research paper introduction remember not to include the findings of your study. The aim is to let the readers know what question is being answered. The actual answer should only be given in the Results and Discussion section.

To summarize, the research paper introduction section should be brief yet informative. It should convince the reader the need to conduct the study and motivate him to read further. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, choose trusted AI academic writing assistants like Paperpal to effortlessly craft your research paper introduction and other sections of your research article.

1. Jawaid, S. A., & Jawaid, M. (2019). How to write introduction and discussion. Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia, 13(Suppl 1), S18.

2. Dewan, P., & Gupta, P. (2016). Writing the title, abstract and introduction: Looks matter!. Indian pediatrics, 53, 235-241.

3. Cetin, S., & Hackam, D. J. (2005). An approach to the writing of a scientific Manuscript1. Journal of Surgical Research, 128(2), 165-167.

4. Bavdekar, S. B. (2015). Writing introduction: Laying the foundations of a research paper. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 63(7), 44-6.

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Writing a Research Paper Introduction (with 3 Examples)

Nail your research paper's introduction! Learn to captivate and inform readers from the start—our guide shows how!

Ertugrul Portakal

Apr 12, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A catchy and informative introduction is essential in academic writing, especially if you want your readers to have background information about your paper. However, writing an interesting and informative introduction can sometimes be a time-consuming and tiring process. If you don't know where to start when crafting an introduction, no need to worry - we've got you covered!

In this article, we will explain step by step what an introduction is in academic writing and how to write it!

Ready? Let's start!

• An introduction is a paragraph that provides information about your entire paper and aims to attract and inform the reader.
• Before writing an introduction or even starting your paper, you need to research academic sources.
• The first one or two sentences of an introduction paragraph should be a hook to attract the reader's attention.
• Afterwards, you need to prepare the reader for your argument by giving background information about your topic.
• Finally, you should state your argument about your topic with a thesis statement.
• If you are writing a longer paper, you can inform your readers about the map of your paper.
• If you are looking for an AI assistant to support you throughout your writing process, TextCortex is designed for you with its advanced features.

What is an Introduction in a research paper?

In any academic writing, including essays and research papers, an introduction is the first paragraph that the reader will encounter. This paragraph should both attract the reader's attention and give them the necessary information about the paper. In any academic paper, the introduction paragraph constitutes 10% of the paper's total word count. For example, if you are preparing a 3,000-word paper, your introduction paragraph should consist of approximately 300 words. You should also write sentences within these 300 words that will attract the reader's attention and provide them with information about the paper.

Importance of an Introduction Paragraph

The biggest function of an introduction paragraph is to prepare the reader for the author's thesis statement. A traditional introduction paragraph begins with a few sentences or questions that will catch the reader's attention. After attracting the reader's attention, necessary background information on the subject is given. Finally, the author explains to the readers what the whole paper is about by stating the thesis. A thesis statement is the final sentence that summarizes the main points of your paper and conveys your claim.

First Things First: Preliminary Research

When working on any academic writing type, it is essential to start by researching your topic thoroughly before beginning to type. What sets academic writing apart from other writing types is the requirement for it to be written using accurate information from reliable sources.

Researching academic sources can be a time-consuming and unnecessary process. One has to read through hundreds of pages, review dozens of articles and verify the accuracy of each source. However, if you're looking to reduce your workload and maximize efficiency by automating repetitive tasks such as literature review, ZenoChat is the perfect solution for you. With its web search feature, ZenoChat can use the entire internet as a data source. Additionally, by activating the "scholar" option of the ZenoChat web search feature, you can ensure that it only uses academic sources when generating output.

How to Create an Introduction for Academic Writing?

Creating an introduction paragraph that is interesting, informative, and conveys your thesis is an easier process than it seems. As long as you have sufficient information about your topic and an outline , you can write engaging introductions by following a few simple steps. Let's take a closer look at how to write an introduction for academic writing.

1-) Start with a Catchy Hook

Your first sentence is one of the factors that most influence a reader's decision to read your paper. This sentence determines the tone of your paper and attracts the reader's attention. For this reason, we recommend that you start your introduction paragraph with a strong and catchy hook sentence.

• Avoid long and complex sentences
• Use clear and concise sentences
• Write a sentence that will spark the reader's curiosity
• You can ask questions that will encourage the reader to read the remaining paragraph
• Avoid fact or overly broad sentences
• Avoid using dictionary definitions as your hook

2-) Give Background Information

After writing a strong hook sentence, you need to provide basic information about your topic so that the reader can understand what they will learn about when they read your paper. In this section, you can benefit from opinions that support or oppose your argument. Additionally, this section should refer to the body paragraphs of your writing.

• You can write a background information sentence for each body paragraph.
• The information here should be concise and compact
• Avoid talking about your evidence and results unless necessary.

3-) State Your Thesis 

After attracting the reader's attention and providing background information, it is time to present your approach and argument towards the topic with a thesis statement. A thesis statement usually comprises one or two sentences and communicates the paper's argument to the reader. A well-written thesis statement should express your stance on the topic.

• Avoid merely stating a fact
• Claim your argument

4-) Tell Reader About Your Paper

Although you need to move on to body paragraphs after the thesis statement in short papers, it will be useful to add a few sentences that will guide the reader in your longer papers. This way, your readers can better understand which arguments they will encounter on which pages and the course of your paper. That leads the reader to clearly understand and follow your content.

Let’s Wrap it Up

Writing an interesting and informative introduction is usually a long process that requires a lot of rewriting. You may need to rewrite a sentence dozens of times so that your words and sentences clearly describe your paper and argument. Fortunately, you can generate state-of-the-art introductions using AI tools and use them with a little editing.

When it comes to text generation, paraphrasing, and grammar & spelling checking, TextCortex is the way to go with its advanced LLMs and customization options. With TextCortex, you can generate all writing types, including introduction, from scratch, rewrite your existing texts, change their tone of voice, or fix their grammar. TextCortex is available as a web application and browser extension. The TextCortex browser extension is integrated with 30,000+ websites and apps. So, you can complete your AI-driven writing tasks anywhere and anytime.

Let's examine a few sample introductions generated by TextCortex.

Example Introduction #1

“Should social media platforms be banned from collecting their users' data?”

Example Introduction #2

“Do electric vehicles decrease overall emissions?”

Example Introduction #3

“Is graffiti an act of vandalism or the creation of art?”

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What is a "good" introduction?

Citing sources in the introduction, "introduction checklist" from: how to write a good scientific paper. chris a. mack. spie. 2018..

• LITERATURE CITED
• Bibliography of guides to scientific writing and presenting
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This is where you describe briefly and clearly why you are writing the paper. The introduction supplies sufficient background information for the reader to understand and evaluate the experiment you did. It also supplies a rationale for the study.

• Present the problem and the proposed solution
• Presents nature and scope of the problem investigated
• Reviews the pertinent literature to orient the reader
• States the method of the experiment
• State the principle results of the experiment

It is important to cite sources in the introduction section of your paper as evidence of the claims you are making. There are ways of citing sources in the text so that the reader can find the full reference in the literature cited section at the end of the paper, yet the flow of the reading is not badly interrupted. Below are some example of how this can be done:     "Smith (1983) found that N-fixing plants could be infected by several different species of Rhizobium."     "Walnut trees are known to be allelopathic (Smith 1949,  Bond et al. 1955, Jones and Green 1963)."     "Although the presence of Rhizobium normally increases the growth of legumes (Nguyen 1987), the opposite effect has been observed (Washington 1999)." Note that articles by one or two authors are always cited in the text using their last names. However, if there are more than two authors, the last name of the 1st author is given followed by the abbreviation et al. which is Latin for "and others". 

From:  https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/imrad-reports-introductions

• Indicate the field of the work, why this field is important, and what has already been done (with proper citations).
• Indicate a gap, raise a research question, or challenge prior work in this territory.
• Outline the purpose and announce the present research, clearly indicating what is novel and why it is significant.
• Avoid: repeating the abstract; providing unnecessary background information; exaggerating the importance of the work; claiming novelty without a proper literature search. 
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How to write an effective introduction for your research paper

Last updated

20 January 2024

Reviewed by

However, the introduction is a vital element of your research paper . It helps the reader decide whether your paper is worth their time. As such, it's worth taking your time to get it right.

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about writing an effective introduction for your research paper.

• The importance of an introduction in research papers

The primary purpose of an introduction is to provide an overview of your paper. This lets readers gauge whether they want to continue reading or not. The introduction should provide a meaningful roadmap of your research to help them make this decision. It should let readers know whether the information they're interested in is likely to be found in the pages that follow.

Aside from providing readers with information about the content of your paper, the introduction also sets the tone. It shows readers the style of language they can expect, which can further help them to decide how far to read.

When you take into account both of these roles that an introduction plays, it becomes clear that crafting an engaging introduction is the best way to get your paper read more widely. First impressions count, and the introduction provides that impression to readers.

• The optimum length for a research paper introduction

While there's no magic formula to determine exactly how long a research paper introduction should be, there are a few guidelines. Some variables that impact the ideal introduction length include:

Field of study

Complexity of the topic

Specific requirements of the course or publication

A commonly recommended length of a research paper introduction is around 10% of the total paper’s length. So, a ten-page paper has a one-page introduction. If the topic is complex, it may require more background to craft a compelling intro. Humanities papers tend to have longer introductions than those of the hard sciences.

The best way to craft an introduction of the right length is to focus on clarity and conciseness. Tell the reader only what is necessary to set up your research. An introduction edited down with this goal in mind should end up at an acceptable length.

• Evaluating successful research paper introductions

A good way to gauge how to create a great introduction is by looking at examples from across your field. The most influential and well-regarded papers should provide some insights into what makes a good introduction.

Dissecting examples: what works and why

We can make some general assumptions by looking at common elements of a good introduction, regardless of the field of research.

A common structure is to start with a broad context, and then narrow that down to specific research questions or hypotheses. This creates a funnel that establishes the scope and relevance.

The most effective introductions are careful about the assumptions they make regarding reader knowledge. By clearly defining key terms and concepts instead of assuming the reader is familiar with them, these introductions set a more solid foundation for understanding.

To pull in the reader and make that all-important good first impression, excellent research paper introductions will often incorporate a compelling narrative or some striking fact that grabs the reader's attention.

Finally, good introductions provide clear citations from past research to back up the claims they're making. In the case of argumentative papers or essays (those that take a stance on a topic or issue), a strong thesis statement compels the reader to continue reading.

Common pitfalls to avoid in research paper introductions

You can also learn what not to do by looking at other research papers. Many authors have made mistakes you can learn from.

We've talked about the need to be clear and concise. Many introductions fail at this; they're verbose, vague, or otherwise fail to convey the research problem or hypothesis efficiently. This often comes in the form of an overemphasis on background information, which obscures the main research focus.

Ensure your introduction provides the proper emphasis and excitement around your research and its significance. Otherwise, fewer people will want to read more about it.

• Crafting a compelling introduction for a research paper

Let’s take a look at the steps required to craft an introduction that pulls readers in and compels them to learn more about your research.

Step 1: Capturing interest and setting the scene

To capture the reader's interest immediately, begin your introduction with a compelling question, a surprising fact, a provocative quote, or some other mechanism that will hook readers and pull them further into the paper.

As they continue reading, the introduction should contextualize your research within the current field, showing readers its relevance and importance. Clarify any essential terms that will help them better understand what you're saying. This keeps the fundamentals of your research accessible to all readers from all backgrounds.

Step 2: Building a solid foundation with background information

Including background information in your introduction serves two major purposes:

It helps to clarify the topic for the reader

It establishes the depth of your research

The approach you take when conveying this information depends on the type of paper.

For argumentative papers, you'll want to develop engaging background narratives. These should provide context for the argument you'll be presenting.

For empirical papers, highlighting past research is the key. Often, there will be some questions that weren't answered in those past papers. If your paper is focused on those areas, those papers make ideal candidates for you to discuss and critique in your introduction.

Step 3: Pinpointing the research challenge

To capture the attention of the reader, you need to explain what research challenges you'll be discussing.

For argumentative papers, this involves articulating why the argument you'll be making is important. What is its relevance to current discussions or problems? What is the potential impact of people accepting or rejecting your argument?

For empirical papers, explain how your research is addressing a gap in existing knowledge. What new insights or contributions will your research bring to your field?

Step 4: Clarifying your research aims and objectives

We mentioned earlier that the introduction to a research paper can serve as a roadmap for what's within. We've also frequently discussed the need for clarity. This step addresses both of these.

When writing an argumentative paper, craft a thesis statement with impact. Clearly articulate what your position is and the main points you intend to present. This will map out for the reader exactly what they'll get from reading the rest.

For empirical papers, focus on formulating precise research questions and hypotheses. Directly link them to the gaps or issues you've identified in existing research to show the reader the precise direction your research paper will take.

Step 5: Sketching the blueprint of your study

Continue building a roadmap for your readers by designing a structured outline for the paper. Guide the reader through your research journey, explaining what the different sections will contain and their relationship to one another.

This outline should flow seamlessly as you move from section to section. Creating this outline early can also help guide the creation of the paper itself, resulting in a final product that's better organized. In doing so, you'll craft a paper where each section flows intuitively from the next.

Step 6: Integrating your research question

To avoid letting your research question get lost in background information or clarifications, craft your introduction in such a way that the research question resonates throughout. The research question should clearly address a gap in existing knowledge or offer a new perspective on an existing problem.

Tell users your research question explicitly but also remember to frequently come back to it. When providing context or clarification, point out how it relates to the research question. This keeps your focus where it needs to be and prevents the topic of the paper from becoming under-emphasized.

Step 7: Establishing the scope and limitations

So far, we've talked mostly about what's in the paper and how to convey that information to readers. The opposite is also important. Information that's outside the scope of your paper should be made clear to the reader in the introduction so their expectations for what is to follow are set appropriately.

Similarly, be honest and upfront about the limitations of the study. Any constraints in methodology, data, or how far your findings can be generalized should be fully communicated in the introduction.

Step 8: Concluding the introduction with a promise

The final few lines of the introduction are your last chance to convince people to continue reading the rest of the paper. Here is where you should make it very clear what benefit they'll get from doing so. What topics will be covered? What questions will be answered? Make it clear what they will get for continuing.

By providing a quick recap of the key points contained in the introduction in its final lines and properly setting the stage for what follows in the rest of the paper, you refocus the reader's attention on the topic of your research and guide them to read more.

• Research paper introduction best practices

Following the steps above will give you a compelling introduction that hits on all the key points an introduction should have. Some more tips and tricks can make an introduction even more polished.

As you follow the steps above, keep the following tips in mind.

Set the right tone and style

Like every piece of writing, a research paper should be written for the audience. That is to say, it should match the tone and style that your academic discipline and target audience expect. This is typically a formal and academic tone, though the degree of formality varies by field.

Kno w the audience

The perfect introduction balances clarity with conciseness. The amount of clarification required for a given topic depends greatly on the target audience. Knowing who will be reading your paper will guide you in determining how much background information is required.

Adopt the CARS (create a research space) model

The CARS model is a helpful tool for structuring introductions. This structure has three parts. The beginning of the introduction establishes the general research area. Next, relevant literature is reviewed and critiqued. The final section outlines the purpose of your study as it relates to the previous parts.

Master the art of funneling

The CARS method is one example of a well-funneled introduction. These start broadly and then slowly narrow down to your specific research problem. It provides a nice narrative flow that provides the right information at the right time. If you stray from the CARS model, try to retain this same type of funneling.

Incorporate narrative element

People read research papers largely to be informed. But to inform the reader, you have to hold their attention. A narrative style, particularly in the introduction, is a great way to do that. This can be a compelling story, an intriguing question, or a description of a real-world problem.

Write the introduction last

By writing the introduction after the rest of the paper, you'll have a better idea of what your research entails and how the paper is structured. This prevents the common problem of writing something in the introduction and then forgetting to include it in the paper. It also means anything particularly exciting in the paper isn’t neglected in the intro.

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How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper

How to write an introduction for a research paper? Eventually (and with practice) all writers will develop their own strategy for writing the perfect introduction for a research paper. Once you are comfortable with writing, you will probably find your own, but coming up with a good strategy can be tough for beginning writers.

The Purpose of an Introduction

Your opening paragraphs, phrases for introducing thesis statements, research paper introduction examples, using the introduction to map out your research paper.

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• First write your thesis.Your thesis should state the main idea in specific terms.
• After you have a working thesis, tackle the body of your paper before you write the rest of the introduction. Each paragraph in the body should explore one specific topic that proves, or summarizes your thesis. Writing is a thinking process. Once you have worked your way through that process by writing the body of the paper, you will have an intimate understanding of how you are supporting your thesis. After you have written the body paragraphs, go back and rewrite your thesis to make it more specific and to connect it to the topics you addressed in the body paragraph.
• Revise your introduction several times, saving each revision. Be sure your introduction previews the topics you are presenting in your paper. One way of doing this is to use keywords from the topic sentences in each paragraph to introduce, or preview, the topics in your introduction.This “preview” will give your reader a context for understanding how you will make your case.
• Experiment by taking different approaches to your thesis with every revision you make. Play with the language in the introduction. Strike a new tone. Go back and compare versions. Then pick the one that works most effectively with the body of your research paper.
• Do not try to pack everything you want to say into your introduction. Just as your introduction should not be too short, it should also not be too long. Your introduction should be about the same length as any other paragraph in your research paper. Let the content—what you have to say—dictate the length.

The first page of your research paper should draw the reader into the text. It is the paper’s most important page and, alas, often the worst written. There are two culprits here and effective ways to cope with both of them.

First, the writer is usually straining too hard to say something terribly BIG and IMPORTANT about the thesis topic. The goal is worthy, but the aim is unrealistically high. The result is often a muddle of vague platitudes rather than a crisp, compelling introduction to the thesis. Want a familiar example? Listen to most graduation speakers. Their goal couldn’t be loftier: to say what education means and to tell an entire football stadium how to live the rest of their lives. The results are usually an avalanche of clichés and sodden prose.

The second culprit is bad timing. The opening and concluding paragraphs are usually written late in the game, after the rest of the thesis is finished and polished. There’s nothing wrong with writing these sections last. It’s usually the right approach since you need to know exactly what you are saying in the substantive middle sections of the thesis before you can introduce them effectively or draw together your findings. But having waited to write the opening and closing sections, you need to review and edit them several times to catch up. Otherwise, you’ll putting the most jagged prose in the most tender spots. Edit and polish your opening paragraphs with extra care. They should draw readers into the paper.

After you’ve done some extra polishing, I suggest a simple test for the introductory section. As an experiment, chop off the first few paragraphs. Let the paper begin on, say, paragraph 2 or even page 2. If you don’t lose much, or actually gain in clarity and pace, then you’ve got a problem.

There are two solutions. One is to start at this new spot, further into the text. After all, that’s where you finally gain traction on your subject. That works best in some cases, and we occasionally suggest it. The alternative, of course, is to write a new opening that doesn’t flop around, saying nothing.

What makes a good opening? Actually, they come in several flavors. One is an intriguing story about your topic. Another is a brief, compelling quote. When you run across them during your reading, set them aside for later use. Don’t be deterred from using them because they “don’t seem academic enough.” They’re fine as long as the rest of the paper doesn’t sound like you did your research in People magazine. The third, and most common, way to begin is by stating your main questions, followed by a brief comment about why they matter.

Whichever opening you choose, it should engage your readers and coax them to continue. Having done that, you should give them a general overview of the project—the main issues you will cover, the material you will use, and your thesis statement (that is, your basic approach to the topic). Finally, at the end of the introductory section, give your readers a brief road map, showing how the paper will unfold. How you do that depends on your topic but here are some general suggestions for phrase choice that may help:

• This analysis will provide …
• This paper analyzes the relationship between …
• This paper presents an analysis of …
• This paper will argue that …
• This topic supports the argument that…
• Research supports the opinion that …
• This paper supports the opinion that …
• An interpretation of the facts indicates …
• The results of this experiment show …
• The results of this research show …

Comparisons/Contrasts

• A comparison will show that …
• By contrasting the results,we see that …
• This paper examines the advantages and disadvantages of …

Definitions/Classifications

• This paper will provide a guide for categorizing the following:…
• This paper provides a definition of …
• This paper explores the meaning of …
• This paper will discuss the implications of …
• A discussion of this topic reveals …
• The following discussion will focus on …

Description

• This report describes…
• This report will illustrate…
• This paper provides an illustration of …

Process/Experimentation

• This paper will identify the reasons behind…
• The results of the experiment show …
• The process revealed that …
• This paper theorizes…
• This paper presents the theory that …
• In theory, this indicates that …

Quotes, anecdotes, questions, examples, and broad statements—all of them can used successfully to write an introduction for a research paper. It’s instructive to see them in action, in the hands of skilled academic writers.

Let’s begin with David M. Kennedy’s superb history, Freedom from Fear: The American People in Depression and War, 1929–1945 . Kennedy begins each chapter with a quote, followed by his text. The quote above chapter 1 shows President Hoover speaking in 1928 about America’s golden future. The text below it begins with the stock market collapse of 1929. It is a riveting account of just how wrong Hoover was. The text about the Depression is stronger because it contrasts so starkly with the optimistic quotation.

“We in America today are nearer the final triumph over poverty than ever before in the history of any land.”—Herbert Hoover, August 11, 1928 Like an earthquake, the stock market crash of October 1929 cracked startlingly across the United States, the herald of a crisis that was to shake the American way of life to its foundations. The events of the ensuing decade opened a fissure across the landscape of American history no less gaping than that opened by the volley on Lexington Common in April 1775 or by the bombardment of Sumter on another April four score and six years later. The ratcheting ticker machines in the autumn of 1929 did not merely record avalanching stock prices. In time they came also to symbolize the end of an era. (David M. Kennedy, Freedom from Fear: The American People in Depression and War, 1929–1945 . New York: Oxford University Press, 1999, p. 10)

Kennedy has exciting, wrenching material to work with. John Mueller faces the exact opposite problem. In Retreat from Doomsday: The Obsolescence of Major War , he is trying to explain why Great Powers have suddenly stopped fighting each other. For centuries they made war on each other with devastating regularity, killing millions in the process. But now, Mueller thinks, they have not just paused; they have stopped permanently. He is literally trying to explain why “nothing is happening now.” That may be an exciting topic intellectually, it may have great practical significance, but “nothing happened” is not a very promising subject for an exciting opening paragraph. Mueller manages to make it exciting and, at the same time, shows why it matters so much. Here’s his opening, aptly entitled “History’s Greatest Nonevent”:

On May 15, 1984, the major countries of the developed world had managed to remain at peace with each other for the longest continuous stretch of time since the days of the Roman Empire. If a significant battle in a war had been fought on that day, the press would have bristled with it. As usual, however, a landmark crossing in the history of peace caused no stir: the most prominent story in the New York Times that day concerned the saga of a manicurist, a machinist, and a cleaning woman who had just won a big Lotto contest. This book seeks to develop an explanation for what is probably the greatest nonevent in human history. (John Mueller, Retreat from Doomsday: The Obsolescence of Major War . New York: Basic Books, 1989, p. 3)

In the space of a few sentences, Mueller sets up his puzzle and reveals its profound human significance. At the same time, he shows just how easy it is to miss this milestone in the buzz of daily events. Notice how concretely he does that. He doesn’t just say that the New York Times ignored this record setting peace. He offers telling details about what they covered instead: “a manicurist, a machinist, and a cleaning woman who had just won a big Lotto contest.” Likewise, David Kennedy immediately entangles us in concrete events: the stunning stock market crash of 1929. These are powerful openings that capture readers’ interests, establish puzzles, and launch narratives.

Sociologist James Coleman begins in a completely different way, by posing the basic questions he will study. His ambitious book, Foundations of Social Theory , develops a comprehensive theory of social life, so it is entirely appropriate for him to begin with some major questions. But he could just as easily have begun with a compelling story or anecdote. He includes many of them elsewhere in his book. His choice for the opening, though, is to state his major themes plainly and frame them as a paradox. Sociologists, he says, are interested in aggregate behavior—how people act in groups, organizations, or large numbers—yet they mostly examine individuals:

A central problem in social science is that of accounting for the function of some kind of social system. Yet in most social research, observations are not made on the system as a whole, but on some part of it. In fact, the natural unit of observation is the individual person…  This has led to a widening gap between theory and research… (James S. Coleman, Foundations of Social Theory . Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1990, pp. 1–2)

After expanding on this point, Coleman explains that he will not try to remedy the problem by looking solely at groups or aggregate-level data. That’s a false solution, he says, because aggregates don’t act; individuals do. So the real problem is to show the links between individual actions and aggregate outcomes, between the micro and the macro.

The major problem for explanations of system behavior based on actions and orientations at a level below that of the system [in this case, on individual-level actions] is that of moving from the lower level to the system level. This has been called the micro-to-macro problem, and it is pervasive throughout the social sciences. (Coleman, Foundations of Social Theory , p. 6)

Explaining how to deal with this “micro-to-macro problem” is the central issue of Coleman’s book, and he announces it at the beginning.

Coleman’s theory-driven opening stands at the opposite end of the spectrum from engaging stories or anecdotes, which are designed to lure the reader into the narrative and ease the path to a more analytic treatment later in the text. Take, for example, the opening sentences of Robert L. Herbert’s sweeping study Impressionism: Art, Leisure, and Parisian Society : “When Henry Tuckerman came to Paris in 1867, one of the thousands of Americans attracted there by the huge international exposition, he was bowled over by the extraordinary changes since his previous visit twenty years before.” (Robert L. Herbert, Impressionism: Art, Leisure, and Parisian Society . New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 1988, p. 1.) Herbert fills in the evocative details to set the stage for his analysis of the emerging Impressionist art movement and its connection to Parisian society and leisure in this period.

David Bromwich writes about Wordsworth, a poet so familiar to students of English literature that it is hard to see him afresh, before his great achievements, when he was just a young outsider starting to write. To draw us into Wordsworth’s early work, Bromwich wants us to set aside our entrenched images of the famous mature poet and see him as he was in the 1790s, as a beginning writer on the margins of society. He accomplishes this ambitious task in the opening sentences of Disowned by Memory: Wordsworth’s Poetry of the 1790s :

Wordsworth turned to poetry after the revolution to remind himself that he was still a human being. It was a curious solution, to a difficulty many would not have felt. The whole interest of his predicament is that he did feel it. Yet Wordsworth is now so established an eminence—his name so firmly fixed with readers as a moralist of self-trust emanating from complete self-security—that it may seem perverse to imagine him as a criminal seeking expiation. Still, that is a picture we get from The Borderers and, at a longer distance, from “Tintern Abbey.” (David Bromwich, Disowned by Memory: Wordsworth’s Poetry of the 1790s . Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1998, p. 1)

That’s a wonderful opening! Look at how much Bromwich accomplishes in just a few words. He not only prepares the way for analyzing Wordsworth’s early poetry; he juxtaposes the anguished young man who wrote it to the self-confident, distinguished figure he became—the eminent man we can’t help remembering as we read his early poetry.

Let us highlight a couple of other points in this passage because they illustrate some intelligent writing choices. First, look at the odd comma in this sentence: “It was a curious solution, to a difficulty many would not have felt.” Any standard grammar book would say that comma is wrong and should be omitted. Why did Bromwich insert it? Because he’s a fine writer, thinking of his sentence rhythm and the point he wants to make. The comma does exactly what it should. It makes us pause, breaking the sentence into two parts, each with an interesting point. One is that Wordsworth felt a difficulty others would not have; the other is that he solved it in a distinctive way. It would be easy for readers to glide over this double message, so Bromwich has inserted a speed bump to slow us down. Most of the time, you should follow grammatical rules, like those about commas, but you should bend them when it serves a good purpose. That’s what the writer does here.

The second small point is the phrase “after the revolution” in the first sentence: “Wordsworth turned to poetry after the revolution to remind himself that he was still a human being.” Why doesn’t Bromwich say “after the French Revolution”? Because he has judged his book’s audience. He is writing for specialists who already know which revolution is reverberating through English life in the 1790s. It is the French Revolution, not the earlier loss of the American colonies. If Bromwich were writing for a much broader audience—say, the New York Times Book Review—he would probably insert the extra word to avoid confusion.

The message “Know your audience” applies to all writers. Don’t talk down to them by assuming they can’t get dressed in the morning. Don’t strut around showing off your book learnin’ by tossing in arcane facts and esoteric language for its own sake. Neither will win over readers.

Bromwich, Herbert, and Coleman open their works in different ways, but their choices work well for their different texts. Your task is to decide what kind of opening will work best for yours. Don’t let that happen by default, by grabbing the first idea you happen upon. Consider a couple of different ways of opening your thesis and then choose the one you prefer. Give yourself some options, think them over, then make an informed choice.

Whether you begin with a story, puzzle, or broad statement, the next part of the introduction should pose your main questions and establish your argument. This is your thesis statement—your viewpoint along with the supporting reasons and evidence. It should be articulated plainly so readers understand full well what your paper is about and what it will argue.

After that, give your readers a road map of what’s to come. That’s normally done at the end of the introductory section (or, in a book, at the end of the introductory chapter). Here’s John J. Mearsheimer presenting such a road map in The Tragedy of Great Power Politics . He not only tells us the order of upcoming chapters, he explains why he’s chosen that order and which chapters are most important:

The Plan of the Book The rest of the chapters in this book are concerned mainly with answering the six big questions about power which I identified earlier. Chapter 2, which is probably the most important chapter in the book, lays out my theory of why states compete for power and why they pursue hegemony. In Chapters 3 and 4, I define power and explain how to measure it. I do this in order to lay the groundwork for testing my theory… (John J. Mearsheimer, The Tragedy of Great Power Politics . New York: W. W. Norton, 2001, p. 27)

As this excerpt makes clear, Mearsheimer has already laid out his “six big questions” in the introduction. Now he’s showing us the path ahead, the path to answering those questions.

At the end of the introduction, give your readers a road map of what’s to come. Tell them what the upcoming sections will be and why they are arranged in this particular order.

After having written your introduction it’s time to move to the biggest part: body of a research paper.

Back to How To Write A Research Paper .

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How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper

Table of Contents

Writing an introduction for a research paper is a critical element of your paper, but it can seem challenging to encapsulate enormous amount of information into a concise form. The introduction of your research paper sets the tone for your research and provides the context for your study. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective introduction that grabs the reader's attention and captures the essence of your research paper.

Understanding the Purpose of a Research Paper Introduction

The introduction acts as a road map for your research paper, guiding the reader through the main ideas and arguments. The purpose of the introduction is to present your research topic to the readers and provide a rationale for why your study is relevant. It helps the reader locate your research and its relevance in the broader field of related scientific explorations. Additionally, the introduction should inform the reader about the objectives and scope of your study, giving them an overview of what to expect in the paper. By including a comprehensive introduction, you establish your credibility as an author and convince the reader that your research is worth their time and attention.

Key Elements to Include in Your Introduction

When writing your research paper introduction, there are several key elements you should include to ensure it is comprehensive and informative.

• A hook or attention-grabbing statement to capture the reader's interest.  It can be a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic, or a compelling anecdote that relates to your research topic.
• A brief overview of the research topic and its significance. By highlighting the gap in existing knowledge or the problem your research aims to address, you create a compelling case for the relevance of your study.
• A clear research question or problem statement. This serves as the foundation of your research and guides the reader in understanding the unique focus of your study. It should be concise, specific, and clearly articulated.
• An outline of the paper's structure and main arguments, to help the readers navigate through the paper with ease.

Preparing to Write Your Introduction

Before diving into writing your introduction, it is essential to prepare adequately. This involves 3 important steps:

• Conducting Preliminary Research: Immerse yourself in the existing literature to develop a clear research question and position your study within the academic discourse.
• Identifying Your Thesis Statement: Define a specific, focused, and debatable thesis statement, serving as a roadmap for your paper.
• Considering Broader Context: Reflect on the significance of your research within your field, understanding its potential impact and contribution.

By engaging in these preparatory steps, you can ensure that your introduction is well-informed, focused, and sets the stage for a compelling research paper.

Structuring Your Introduction

Now that you have prepared yourself to tackle the introduction, it's time to structure it effectively. A well-structured introduction will engage the reader from the beginning and provide a logical flow to your research paper.

Starting with a Hook

Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing hook that captivates the reader's interest. This hook serves as a way to make your introduction more engaging and compelling. For example, if you are writing a research paper on the impact of climate change on biodiversity, you could start your introduction with a statistic about the number of species that have gone extinct due to climate change. This will immediately grab the reader's attention and make them realize the urgency and importance of the topic.

Introducing Your Topic

Provide a brief overview, which should give the reader a general understanding of the subject matter and its significance. Explain the importance of the topic and its relevance to the field. This will help the reader understand why your research is significant and why they should continue reading. Continuing with the example of climate change and biodiversity, you could explain how climate change is one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity, how it affects ecosystems, and the potential consequences for both wildlife and human populations. By providing this context, you are setting the stage for the rest of your research paper and helping the reader understand the importance of your study.

Presenting Your Thesis Statement

The thesis statement should directly address your research question and provide a preview of the main arguments or findings discussed in your paper. Make sure your thesis statement is clear, concise, and well-supported by the evidence you will present in your research paper. By presenting a strong and focused thesis statement, you are providing the reader with the information they could anticipate in your research paper. This will help them understand the purpose and scope of your study and will make them more inclined to continue reading.

Writing Techniques for an Effective Introduction

When crafting an introduction, it is crucial to pay attention to the finer details that can elevate your writing to the next level. By utilizing specific writing techniques, you can captivate your readers and draw them into your research journey.

Using Clear and Concise Language

One of the most important writing techniques to employ in your introduction is the use of clear and concise language. By choosing your words carefully, you can effectively convey your ideas to the reader. It is essential to avoid using jargon or complex terminology that may confuse or alienate your audience. Instead, focus on communicating your research in a straightforward manner to ensure that your introduction is accessible to both experts in your field and those who may be new to the topic. This approach allows you to engage a broader audience and make your research more inclusive.

Establishing the Relevance of Your Research

One way to establish the relevance of your research is by highlighting how it fills a gap in the existing literature. Explain how your study addresses a significant research question that has not been adequately explored. By doing this, you demonstrate that your research is not only unique but also contributes to the broader knowledge in your field. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize the potential impact of your research. Whether it is advancing scientific understanding, informing policy decisions, or improving practical applications, make it clear to the reader how your study can make a difference.

By employing these two writing techniques in your introduction, you can effectively engage your readers. Take your time to craft an introduction that is both informative and captivating, leaving your readers eager to delve deeper into your research.

Revising and Polishing Your Introduction

Once you have written your introduction, it is crucial to revise and polish it to ensure that it effectively sets the stage for your research paper.

Self-Editing Techniques

Review your introduction for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure each paragraph introduces a new idea or argument with smooth transitions.

Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and awkward sentence structures.

Ensure that your introduction aligns with the overall tone and style of your research paper.

Seeking Feedback for Improvement

Consider seeking feedback from peers, colleagues, or your instructor. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improving your introduction. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to refine your introduction and make it more compelling for the reader.

Writing an introduction for a research paper requires careful thought and planning. By understanding the purpose of the introduction, preparing adequately, structuring effectively, and employing writing techniques, you can create an engaging and informative introduction for your research. Remember to revise and polish your introduction to ensure that it accurately represents the main ideas and arguments in your research paper. With a well-crafted introduction, you will capture the reader's attention and keep them inclined to your paper.

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Research Blog

How to write a research paper introduction (with examples).

I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

If you would like to learn more about research, check out this  Research Course .

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on crafting the perfect introduction for your research paper. In this blog, we’ll explore the crucial elements of a strong introduction, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and provide practical tips to effectively set the stage for your study’s objectives and significance. 

Table of Contents

Lack of a clear thesis statement, lack of clear objectives and scope, failure to establish the research significance, insufficient background information, inadequate literature review, ignoring the research gap, overly technical language, poor organization and flow, neglecting the audience, the importance of a good introduction.

A strong introduction sets the tone for the entire paper, guiding the reader through the research journey. It provides context, establishes relevance, and ensures the reader understands the importance of the study.

Starting a research project is exciting, but getting the introduction right is key. It’s like opening the door to your study and inviting readers in. However, there are some common missteps that can trip you up along the way.

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Common mistakes to avoid.

A thesis statement is the central argument or claim that guides the entire research paper. It is a concise summary of the main point or claim of the paper and is typically found at the end of the introduction. A clear thesis statement helps to focus the research, provide direction, and inform the reader of the paper’s purpose. Expert reviewers may even skip the rest of the introduction (as they are well versed in the topic) and focus only on your thesis statement, so it’s vital to make sure it is perfect!

When a research introduction lacks a clear thesis statement, several issues can arise:

• Ambiguity : Without a clear thesis, the reader may be confused about the paper’s purpose and the main argument. Do not talk in vague terms. Whenever possible, use terminology established in recent literature. Narrow down the key aspects of the association that you are investigating (the study sample, the outcome and predictor measures) as much as possible.
• Lack of Focus : The paper can become unfocused and meander through unrelated topics, making it difficult for the reader to follow the argument. Do not try to have more than 1-2 main aims in a paper. Even if you have done supplementary analysis, it is better to say so in the discussion. As a rule of thumb, try to answer one major question only!
• Weak Argumentation : A well-defined thesis provides a strong foundation for building arguments. Without it, the arguments may appear weak and unsupported.

Let's be more practical:

1- In this paper, I will discuss climate change.

• Problem: This statement is too broad and vague. It does not provide a clear direction or specific argument.

2- This paper argues that climate change, measured by global average temperature change, is primarily driven by human activities, such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, and proposes policy measures to mitigate its impact.(1)

• Strengths: – Specificity : It clearly states that the paper will focus on human activities as the main drivers of climate change. – Argument : It presents a specific claim that the paper will argue. – Direction : It hints at the structure of the paper by mentioning policy measures.

If you would like to learn more about introductions and other aspects of clinical research, check out the Medical Research Course from the Match Guy here .

Powerful Tips:

• Be Specific : Clearly define the main argument or claim. Avoid vague or broad statements.
• Be Concise : Keep the thesis statement concise, ideally one to two sentences.
• Provide Direction : Indicate the structure of the paper by hinting at the main points that will be discussed.
• Revise as Needed : Be prepared to revise the thesis statement as your research progresses and your understanding deepens.

Transform research ideas into published papers!

A clear statement of objectives and scope is crucial in a research paper introduction because it outlines what the study aims to achieve and defines the boundaries within which the research will be conducted.

Example of Lacking Clear Objectives and Scope: This paper examines the impacts of climate change on agriculture.

• Problem : This statement is too broad and vague. It does not specify what aspects of climate change or agriculture will be studied, nor does it define the geographical or temporal scope.

Example with Clear Objectives and Scope: This study aims to investigate the effects of rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns on crop yields in the Midwest United States from 2000 to 2010. The objectives are to (1) assess the impact of temperature changes on corn and soybean yields, (2) analyze how variations in precipitation affect crop growth, and (3) identify adaptive strategies employed by farmers in the region.(2)

Powerful tips:

• Be Specific : Clearly state what the study aims to achieve and avoid vague or broad statements.
• Identify Key Areas : Outline the main areas or aspects that the research will focus on.
• Set Boundaries : Define the geographical, temporal, and conceptual boundaries of the research.
• List Objectives : Clearly articulate specific research objectives or questions that the study will address.
• Stay Realistic : Ensure that the objectives and scope are achievable within the constraints of the research project.
• Make it flow : Make sure you are not repeating the same concepts as the thesis statement, as these two sections are often presented back-to-back in the final paragraph of the introduction! Remember: the thesis statement is your hypothesis or question, and your objectives are ‘how’ you are going to test your thesis.

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This mistake can result in the research appearing trivial or irrelevant, diminishing its potential impact. When the significance of the research is not well-established, readers may struggle to understand the value of the study and why they should care about it.

Example of Failure to Establish Research Significance: This study investigates the effects of social media usage on sleep patterns among teenagers.

• Problem : The significance of studying social media’s impact on sleep patterns is not explained. The reader may wonder why this research is important or what implications it has.

Example with Established Research Significance: This study investigates the effects of social media usage on sleep patterns among teenagers. Understanding this relationship is crucial because insufficient sleep is linked to numerous health issues, including decreased academic performance, heightened stress levels, and increased risk of mental health problems. With the pervasive use of social media among adolescents, identifying how it impacts sleep can inform strategies for promoting healthier habits and improving overall well-being in this vulnerable age group.(3)

• Link to Broader Issues : Connect the research topic to broader issues or trends that highlight its relevance and importance.
• Explain Practical Implications : Discuss the potential practical applications or benefits of the research findings.
• Address Gaps in Knowledge : Identify gaps in the existing literature that the research aims to fill.
• Highlight Potential Impact : Emphasize the potential impact of the research on the field, society, or specific populations.
• Use Concrete Examples : Provide concrete examples or scenarios to illustrate the significance of the research.

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Insufficient background information in the introduction of a research paper refers to failing to provide enough context for the reader to understand the research problem and its significance. Background information sets the stage for the research by offering necessary details about the topic, relevant theories, previous studies, and key terms.

This may lead to:

• Reader Confusion : Without adequate context, readers may struggle to understand the research question, its importance, and how it fits into the broader field of study.
• Weak Justification : Insufficient background can undermine the rationale for the research, making it difficult to justify why the study is necessary or valuable.
• Misinterpretation : Lack of context can lead to misinterpretation of the research objectives, methods, and findings.

Example of Insufficient Background Information: In recent years, many researchers have studied the effects of social media on teenagers. This paper explores the relationship between social media use and anxiety among teenagers.

• Problem : This introduction lacks specific details about the previous research, the theoretical framework, and key terms. It does not provide enough context for the reader to understand why the study is important.

Example of Adequate Background Information: Social media platforms have become an integral part of teenagers’ daily lives, with studies showing that 95% of teens have access to a smartphone and 45% are online almost constantly. Previous research has linked excessive social media use to various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. However, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unclear. This paper explores the impact of social media use on anxiety levels among teenagers, focusing on the roles of social comparison and cyberbullying.(4)

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• Review Relevant Literature : Summarize key studies and theories related to your topic.
• Provide Context : Explain the broader context of your research problem.
• Define Key Terms : Ensure that any specialized terms or concepts are clearly defined.
• Identify the Research Gap : Highlight what is not yet known or understood about your topic.
• Be Concise : Provide enough information to set the stage without overwhelming the reader with details.

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This mistake can occur when the literature review is too brief, lacks depth, omits key studies, or fails to critically analyze previous work. An inadequate literature review can undermine the foundation of the research by failing to provide the necessary context and justification for the study.

Inadequate Literature Review: There has been some research on the relationship between exercise and mental health. This paper will investigate this relationship further.

• Problem : This review is too general and does not provide sufficient detail about the existing research or how it informs the current study.

Example with Adequate Literature Review: Research has consistently shown that regular physical activity has positive effects on mental health. For example, a study by Gujral et al. (2019) demonstrated that aerobic exercise can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Similarly, Smith and Lee (2020) found that strength training also contributes to improved mood and reduced stress levels. However, much of the existing research has focused on adult populations, with relatively few studies examining these effects in adolescents. Additionally, the specific types of exercise that are most beneficial for different mental health outcomes have not been thoroughly investigated. This study aims to explore the effects of various types of exercise on the mental health of high school students, thereby addressing these gaps in the literature.(5-6)

• Be Comprehensive : Review a broad range of studies related to the research topic to provide a thorough context.
• Be Specific : Cite specific studies, including their methodologies, findings, and relevance to the current research.
• Be Critical : Analyze and evaluate the existing research, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and gaps.
• Be Structured : Organize the literature review logically, grouping studies by themes or findings to create a coherent narrative.
• Be Relevant : Focus on the most relevant studies that directly relate to the research question and objectives.

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Ignoring the research gap in a research paper introduction means failing to identify and articulate what specific aspect of the topic has not been explored or adequately addressed in existing literature. The research gap is a critical component because it justifies the necessity and originality of the study. Without highlighting this gap, the research may appear redundant or lacking in significance.

How huge is this mistake?

• Lack of Justification : The study may not appear necessary or relevant, diminishing its perceived value.
• Redundancy : The research may seem to duplicate existing studies, offering no new insights or contributions to the field. Even if you are using methodology similar to previous studies, it is important to note why you are doing so e.g., few studies have used that specific methodology, and you would like to validate it in your sample population!
• Reader Disinterest : Readers may lose interest if they do not see the unique contribution or purpose of the research.

Example of Ignoring the Research Gap: Many studies have examined the effects of exercise on mental health. This paper looks at the relationship between physical activity and depression.

• Problem : This introduction does not specify what aspect of the relationship between physical activity and depression has not been studied, failing to highlight the unique contribution of the research.

Example of Identifying the Research Gap: Numerous studies have demonstrated the general benefits of physical activity on mental health, particularly its role in alleviating symptoms of depression. However, there is limited research on how different types of exercise (e.g., aerobic vs. anaerobic) specifically impact depression levels among various age groups. This study investigates the differential effects of aerobic and anaerobic exercise on depression in young adults, aiming to fill this gap in the literature.(6)

• Conduct a Thorough Literature Review : Understand the current state of research in your field to identify what has been studied and where gaps exist.
• Be Specific : Clearly articulate what specific aspect has not been covered in existing studies.
• Link to Your Study : Explain how your research will address this gap and contribute to the field.
• Use Evidence : Support your identification of the gap with references to previous studies.
• Emphasize Significance : Highlight why filling this gap is important for advancing knowledge or practical applications.

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Overly technical language refers to the excessive use of jargon, complex terms, and highly specialized language that may be difficult for readers, especially those not familiar with the field, to understand. While technical language is sometimes necessary in academic writing, overusing it in the introduction can create several problems:

• Reader Alienation : Readers may find the text intimidating or inaccessible, leading to disengagement.
• Lack of Clarity : The main points and significance of the research can become obscured by complex terminology.
• Reduced Impact : The research may fail to communicate its importance effectively if readers struggle to understand the introduction.

Example of Overly Technical Language: The present study examines the metacognitive strategies employed by individuals in the domain of second language acquisition, specifically focusing on the interaction between declarative and procedural memory systems in the process of syntactic parsing.

• Problem : This sentence is loaded with jargon (“metacognitive strategies,” “second language acquisition,” “declarative and procedural memory systems,” “syntactic parsing”), which can be overwhelming and confusing for readers not familiar with these terms.

Example with Simplified Language: This study looks at the thinking strategies people use when learning a second language. It focuses on how different types of memory, such as the knowledge of facts and the skills for doing things, help in understanding sentence structures.(7)

• Know Your Audience : Tailor the language to the intended audience, ensuring it is accessible to both specialists and non-specialists.
• Define Term s: When technical terms are necessary, provide clear definitions or explanations.
• Use Analogies : Simplify complex concepts using analogies or examples that are easy to understand.
• Avoid Jargon : Limit the use of jargon and specialized terms, especially in the introduction.
• Seek Feedback : Ask peers or non-experts to read the introduction and provide feedback on clarity and accessibility.

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Poor organization and flow in a research paper introduction refer to a lack of logical structure and coherence that makes the introduction difficult to follow. This can occur when ideas are presented in a haphazard manner, transitions between sections are weak or non-existent, and the overall narrative is disjointed. A well-organized introduction should smoothly guide the reader from the general context to the specific objectives of the study.

Example of Poor Organization and Flow: “Climate change affects agriculture in various ways. Many studies have looked at the impact on crop yields. This paper will discuss the economic implications of these changes. Climate models predict increased variability in weather patterns, which will affect water availability. Researchers have found that higher temperatures reduce the growing season for many crops.”

• Problem : The ideas are presented in a scattered manner without clear connections. The mention of economic implications seems out of place, and there are abrupt shifts between topics.

Example with Good Organization and Flow: Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture by altering weather patterns, impacting crop yields, and affecting water availability. Numerous studies have shown that increased temperatures can shorten the growing season for many crops, leading to reduced yields. Additionally, climate models predict increased variability in weather patterns, which complicates water management for farmers. These changes not only affect food production but also have substantial economic implications for agricultural communities. This paper will examine the economic impacts of climate-induced changes in agriculture, focusing on crop yield variability and water resource management.(1)

• Create an Outline : Before writing, outline the main points you want to cover in the introduction.
• Think in terms of an inverted triangle : Begin broadly to introduce basic concepts related to your topic. As you progress through the introduction, you can introduce more and more specific topics until you have enough information to justify your thesis statement
• Use Transitional Phrases : Employ transitional phrases and sentences to connect ideas and sections smoothly.
• Follow a Logical Sequence : Present information in a logical order, moving from general context to specific objectives.
• Maintain Focus : Stay focused on the main topic and avoid introducing unrelated ideas.
• Revise for Coherence : Review and revise the introduction to ensure that it flows well and that each part contributes to the overall narrative.

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Neglecting the audience refers to failing to consider the background, knowledge level, and interests of the intended readers when writing the introduction of a research paper. This mistake can manifest in several ways, such as using overly technical language for a general audience, providing insufficient background information for readers unfamiliar with the topic, or failing to engage the readers’ interest.

Example of Neglecting the Audience: For experts in genomic sequencing, this study explores the epigenetic modifications resulting from CRISPR-Cas9 interventions, focusing on the methylation patterns and histone modifications observed in gene-edited cells.

• Problem : This introduction assumes a high level of expertise in genomic sequencing and epigenetics, which may alienate readers without this background.

Example with Audience Consideration: CRISPR-Cas9 is a groundbreaking tool in genetic research that allows scientists to edit DNA with precision. However, altering genes can lead to unexpected changes in how genes are expressed, known as epigenetic modifications. This study investigates these changes by looking at specific markers on DNA, such as methylation patterns, and how they affect gene activity in cells that have been edited using CRISPR-Cas9. Our goal is to understand the broader implications of gene editing on cellular functions, which is crucial for advancing medical research and treatments.(8)

• Identify the Audience : Determine who the intended readers are (e.g., experts, students, general public) and tailor the language and content accordingly. Read papers from the journals you are considering for submission. Professional editors curate the language used in these papers and are a great starting point to identify the level of expertise of your audience!
• Simplify Language : Use clear and straightforward language, avoiding jargon and technical terms unless they are necessary and well-explained.
• Provide Background Information : Include sufficient background information to help readers understand the context and significance of the research.
• Engage the Reader : Start with an engaging introduction that highlights the relevance and importance of the research topic.
• Anticipate Questions : Consider what questions or concerns the audience might have and address them in the introduction

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By following these guidelines and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an introduction that not only grabs the attention of your readers but also sets the stage for a compelling and impactful research paper.

Final Tips:

• Revise and refine your introduction multiple times to ensure clarity and coherence.
• Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors to identify areas for improvement.
• Keep your audience in mind and tailor your language and content to their needs and interests.
• Stay focused on your research objectives and ensure that every part of your introduction contributes to achieving them.
• Be confident in the significance of your research and its potential impact on your field or community.

Let your introduction be more than just words on a page. It’s a doorway to understanding. To help you along, we’ve created a practical course on writing and publishing research projects. It’s 100% risk-free, with a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied. Try it out now by clicking here .

Wishing you success on your research journey!

Marina Ramzy Mourid, Hamza Ibad, MBBS

Dr. Ibad graduated from the Aga Khan University Medical College and completed a post-doctoral research fellowship at Johns Hopkins in the Department of Radiology (Musculoskeletal Division). Dr. Ibad’s research and clinical interests include deep-learning applications for automated image interpretation, osteoarthritis, and sarcopenia-related health outcomes.

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About thematchguy, become a researcher in the united states, interested in learning more about literature search with examples from published literature, the comprehensive research course, the systematic review course, the medical statistics course, how to find research positions in the us.

1. Abbass K, Qasim MZ, Song H, Murshed M, Mahmood H, Younis I. A review of the global climate change impacts, adaptation, and sustainable mitigation measures. Environ Sci Pollut Res. 2022;29(28):42539-42559. doi:10.1007/s11356-022-19718-6

2. Cai X, Wang D, Laurent R. Impact of climate change on crop yield: a case study of rainfed corn in central illinois. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology. 2009;48(9):1868-1881. doi:10.1175/2009JAMC1880.1

3. Van Den Eijnden RJJM, Geurts SM, Ter Bogt TFM, Van Der Rijst VG, Koning IM. Social media use and adolescents’ sleep: a longitudinal study on the protective role of parental rules regarding internet use before sleep. IJERPH. 2021;18(3):1346. doi:10.3390/ijerph18031346

4. Schmitt, M. (2021). Effects of social media and technology on adolescents: What the evidence is showing and what we can do about it. Journal of Family and Consumer Sciences Education, 38(1), 51-59.

5. Gujral S, Aizenstein H, Reynolds CF, Butters MA, Erickson KI. Exercise effects on depression: Possible neural mechanisms. General Hospital Psychiatry. 2017;49:2-10. doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2017.04.012

6. Smith PJ, Merwin RM. The role of exercise in management of mental health disorders: an integrative review. Annu Rev Med. 2021;72(1):45-62. doi:10.1146/annurev-med-060619-022943

7. Sun Q, Zhang LJ. Understanding learners’ metacognitive experiences in learning to write in English as a foreign language: A structural equation modeling approach. Front Psychol. 2022;13:986301. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.986301

8. Kolanu ND. Crispr–cas9 gene editing: curing genetic diseases by inherited epigenetic modifications. Glob Med Genet. 2024;11(01):113-122. doi:10.1055/s-0044-1785234

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How to Write a Strong Introduction to a Research Paper

by Suzanne Davis | Jun 17, 2021 | Writing Essays and Papers , Writing Process

What makes an introduction powerful?

It’s an important question because an introduction is the first impression readers have of your research paper.  A strong introduction tells your readers not only what you will prove or show— it makes them want to read it .

You want to write an introduction that engages your reader, conveys the importance of your topic, and how and what you plan to demonstrate. These elements are what moves your audience, so they feel a desire to finish your research paper.

A powerful introduction says to the reader, “You must read me!”

3 Key Components of  Strong Introductions

So what are the key parts a good introduction should have? 1) a  compelling hook, 2) important background information and  3) a provable and specific thesis statement.  If you put those 3 pieces together you’ll have an effective introduction.

#1 Compelling Hook

A hook is the first 1 or 2 sentences of your paper.  It is meant to grab your readers’ attention, so they want to see what comes next.  If you want to learn about hooks check out my blog post, “7 Sensational Types of Essay Hooks.” https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/7-sensational-types-of-essay-hooks/   There you’ll find more details about hooks and how to use them in your essays.

Here are 5 that work well in academic writing.

Powerful Statement /Declaration

With his hook, you begin with a sentence that makes a firm claim. For example, “Every day Facebook invades its users’ privacy.”  This sentence forces readers to reflect on whether or not they agree with this statement.  To do that they need to read your research paper.

In this case, most people have already formed an opinion about Facebook, and here you’ll either challenge or deepen their perspectives.

Fact/ Statistic

This hook is popular because people love to learn facts and statistics.  Studies can be very persuasive.  We regard studies as evidence or proof and place great value on statistics.  When readers see statistics, they want to know more about how it will relate to what you write.  However, make sure the facts you use come from a credible source.

Intriguing Question

When you start your paper or essay with a question, people will want to learn the answer to it.  They are naturally curious, so an intriguing question makes them want to continue reading. Make sure this question connects to what you will write about. An off-topic question is confusing.

Striking Quotation

Quotations are very popular. They can be inspiring and thought-provoking.  You can use quotations from famous people, experts, characters, or even people mentioned in your paper.  For example, if you are writing a case study you could select a quotation from one of the participants in the study. Quotations work well when they connect with the rest of your academic essay or paper. Make sure the relationship between the quotation and your writing is clear.

Simile/Metaphor 

In this hook, you take 2 different things and state how they are similar or the same. For example,  “Facebook is a digital version of prison people want to be in.” This sentence takes 2 different things “Facebook” and “prison” and claims they are alike. The comparison of Facebook being like a digital version of prison is a strong visual.  Your readers will want to see how you show a connection between these 2 things.

Both similes and metaphors accomplish the same thing in your hook. The difference is that a simile uses the words “like” and “as” to make the comparison, “Writing a novel is like running a marathon.”   A metaphor states one thing is another, “Writing a novel is running a marathon.”

#2 Important Background Information

The next group of sentences in your introduction express the circumstance and/or relevant information about your topic.  A lot of times you will see writers describe a problem, an issue or provide historical context.

Include the information people need to know to understand your topic and why it matters.  If you are writing about Facebook and privacy, people would want to see what the situation is and why privacy matters.  A good question to ask here is, “What is the context?” 

Also, start with general information first, and in the following sentences be more specific.  Those specific sentences lead to the most important piece of your introduction: your thesis statement.

#3 Provable and Specific Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a sentence that describes what you will prove or show in your research paper. Think of it as the point of view (POV) or opinion you have about your topic.  It also guides how you will organize your essay or paper.

A strong thesis statement is clear and specific and one you can prove. For example, Children should not use digital devices until they are at least 3 years old because it lowers their attention span, limits social interaction, and causes sleep problems.

This thesis statement sets up the organization of your paper.  Each of the 3 effects of children using digital devices is part of the body. These sections of the body would go toward proving your thesis statement.

• Body Part A: Digital devices lower a child’s attention span.
• Body Part B:  Digital devices limit a child’s social interaction with others.
• Body Part C : Digital devices cause sleep problems.

So how do you create a thesis statement?

• Examine your topic, and briefly research it. I suggest reading any class notes you have and reading some background sources on your topic. What do people say about your topic?
• Ask yourself, “What do I think about this topic?”
• Brainstorm ideas and review them. What are the ideas that you can find research on?
• Write a sentence that connects your topic to what you will show, reveal, or prove about it . (Do not use the first person “I think” or “I feel” in your thesis statement).
• Evaluate your thesis statement. Is it specific? Can you prove it with evidence?

Write A Strong Introduction

There are different ways you can approach writing an introduction.  You could write the body of your paper first and then write the introduction.  You could write the thesis statement first and then write the hook and background information.

I like to write a thesis statement first, write the body of my paper, and then the conclusion. Afterward, I go back and write the rest of my introduction.

Some people like to begin with a hook and write a strong introduction before anything else.  Write the way that suits you best.  As long as you include a compelling hook, important background information, and a provable and specific thesis statement, you’ll have an impressive introduction.

Want help finding the perfect research paper topic? 

Sign-up below and get the free quick guide, Nail Your Research Paper Topic! 

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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > How to write an introduction for a research paper

How to write an introduction for a research paper

Beginnings are hard. Beginning a research paper is no exception. Many students—and pros—struggle with how to write an introduction for a research paper.

This short guide will describe the purpose of a research paper introduction and how to create a good one.

What is an introduction for a research paper?

Introductions to research papers do a lot of work.

It may seem obvious, but introductions are always placed at the beginning of a paper. They guide your reader from a general subject area to the narrow topic that your paper covers. They also explain your paper’s:

• Scope: The topic you’ll be covering
• Context: The background of your topic
• Importance: Why your research matters in the context of an industry or the world

Your introduction will cover a lot of ground. However, it will only be half of a page to a few pages long. The length depends on the size of your paper as a whole. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all of the other sections of your paper.

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Why is an introduction vital to a research paper?

The introduction to your research paper isn’t just important. It’s critical.

Your readers don’t know what your research paper is about from the title. That’s where your introduction comes in. A good introduction will:

• Help your reader understand your topic’s background
• Explain why your research paper is worth reading
• Offer a guide for navigating the rest of the piece
• Pique your reader’s interest

Without a clear introduction, your readers will struggle. They may feel confused when they start reading your paper. They might even give up entirely. Your introduction will ground them and prepare them for the in-depth research to come.

What should you include in an introduction for a research paper?

Research paper introductions are always unique. After all, research is original by definition. However, they often contain six essential items. These are:

• An overview of the topic. Start with a general overview of your topic. Narrow the overview until you address your paper’s specific subject. Then, mention questions or concerns you had about the case. Note that you will address them in the publication.
• Prior research. Your introduction is the place to review other conclusions on your topic. Include both older scholars and modern scholars. This background information shows that you are aware of prior research. It also introduces past findings to those who might not have that expertise.
• A rationale for your paper. Explain why your topic needs to be addressed right now. If applicable, connect it to current issues. Additionally, you can show a problem with former theories or reveal a gap in current research. No matter how you do it, a good rationale will interest your readers and demonstrate why they must read the rest of your paper.
• Describe the methodology you used. Recount your processes to make your paper more credible. Lay out your goal and the questions you will address. Reveal how you conducted research and describe how you measured results. Moreover, explain why you made key choices.
• A thesis statement. Your main introduction should end with a thesis statement. This statement summarizes the ideas that will run through your entire research article. It should be straightforward and clear.
• An outline. Introductions often conclude with an outline. Your layout should quickly review what you intend to cover in the following sections. Think of it as a roadmap, guiding your reader to the end of your paper.

These six items are emphasized more or less, depending on your field. For example, a physics research paper might emphasize methodology. An English journal article might highlight the overview.

Three tips for writing your introduction

We don’t just want you to learn how to write an introduction for a research paper. We want you to learn how to make it shine.

There are three things you can do that will make it easier to write a great introduction. You can:

• Write your introduction last. An introduction summarizes all of the things you’ve learned from your research. While it can feel good to get your preface done quickly, you should write the rest of your paper first. Then, you’ll find it easy to create a clear overview.
• Include a strong quotation or story upfront. You want your paper to be full of substance. But that doesn’t mean it should feel boring or flat. Add a relevant quotation or surprising anecdote to the beginning of your introduction. This technique will pique the interest of your reader and leave them wanting more.
• Be concise. Research papers cover complex topics. To help your readers, try to write as clearly as possible. Use concise sentences. Check for confusing grammar or syntax . Read your introduction out loud to catch awkward phrases. Before you finish your paper, be sure to proofread, too. Mistakes can seem unprofessional.

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Starting Your Research Paper: Writing an Introductory Paragraph

• Choosing Your Topic
• Define Keywords
• Planning Your Paper
• Writing an Introductory Paragraph

The Dreaded Introductory Paragraph

Writing the introductory paragraph can be a frustrating and slow process -- but it doesn't have to be.  If you planned your paper out, then most of the introductory paragraph is already written.  Now you just need a beginning and an end.

Here's an introductory paragraph for a paper I wrote.  I started the paper with a factoid, then presented each main point of my paper and then ended with my thesis statement.

  Breakdown:

• << Previous: Planning Your Paper
• Last Updated: Feb 12, 2024 12:16 PM
• URL: https://libguides.astate.edu/papers

4 Step approach to writing the Introduction section of a research paper

Study Background & Introduction

Yateendra Joshi

If you want others to cite your paper, you should make sure they read it first. Let us assume that the title and the abstract of your paper have convinced your peers that they should see your paper. It is then the job of the Introduction section to ensure that they start reading it and keep reading it, to pull them in and to show them around as it were, guiding them to the other parts of the paper (Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion).

What is the function of the Introduction section?

Put simply, the Introduction should answer the question ‘Why:’ why you choose that topic for research; why it is important; why you adopted a particular method or approach; and so on. You can also think of the Introduction as the section that points out the gap in knowledge that the rest of the paper will fill, or the section in which you define and claim your territory within the broad area of research.

The other job the Introduction should do is to give some background information and set the context. You can do this by describing the research problem you considered or the research question you asked (in the main body of the paper, you will offer the solution to the problem or the answer to the question) and by briefly reviewing any other solutions or approaches that have been tried in the past.

Remember that a thesis or a dissertation usually has a separate chapter titled ‘Review of literature,’ but a research paper has no such section; instead, the Introduction includes a review in brief.

Now that you have given the background and set the context, the last part of the Introduction should specify the objectives of the experiment or analysis of the study described in the paper. This concluding part of the Introduction should include specific details or the exact question(s) to be answered later in the paper.

The 4-step approach to writing the Introduction section 

As a rule of thumb, this section accounts for about 10% of the total word count of the body of a typical research paper, or about 400 words spread over three paragraphs in a 4000-word paper. 1 With that, let us now understand how to write the Introduction section step-by-step:

1. Provide background information and set the context.

This initial part of the Introduction prepares the readers for more detailed and specific information that is given later. The first couple of sentences are typically broad.

Below are some examples:

• A paper on organic matter in soil can begin thus: ‘Sustainable crop production is a function of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, which, in turn, are markedly affected by the organic matter in soil.’
• A paper that discusses the possible beneficial role of bacteria in treating cancer can begin as follows: ‘The role of bacteria as anticancer agent was recognized almost hundred years back.’
• A paper on lithium batteries can introduce the study with the following sentence: ‘The rapid growth of lithium ion batteries and their new uses, such as powering electric cars and storing electricity for grid supply, demands more reliable methods to understand and predict battery performance and life.’

At the same time, the introductory statement should not be too broad: note that in the examples above, the Introduction did not begin by talking about agriculture, cancer, or batteries in general, but by mentioning organic matter in soil, the role of bacteria, and lithium ion batteries.

Once the first sentence has introduced the broad field, the next sentence can point to the specific area within that broad field. As you may have noticed, the papers in the examples mentioned above introduced the subfield by mentioning 1) remission of some types cancer following accidental infection by Streptococcus pyogenes , 2) organic matter in soil as a source of nutrients for plants and of energy for microorganisms, and 3) imaging techniques to visualize the 3-dimensional structure of the materials and components of batteries on nanoscale.

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2. Introduce the specific topic of your research and explain why it is important.

As you can see from the above examples, the authors are moving toward presenting the specific topic of their research. So now in the following part, you can bring in some statistics to show the importance of the topic or the seriousness of the problem.

Here are some examples:

• A paper on controlling malaria by preventive measures, can mention the number of people affected, the number of person-hours lost, or the cost of treating the disease.
• A paper on developing crops that require little water can mention the frequency of severe droughts or the decrease in crop production because of droughts.
• A paper on more efficient methods of public transport can mention the extent of air pollution due to exhausts from cars and two-wheelers or the shrinking ratio between the number of automobiles and road length.

Another way to emphasize the importance of the research topic is to highlight the possible benefits from solving the problem or from finding an answer to the question: possible savings, greater production, longer-lasting devices, and so on. This approach emphasizes the positive.

For example, instead of saying that X dollars are lost because of malaria every year, say that X dollars can be saved annually if malaria is prevented, or X millions litres of water can be saved by dispensing with irrigation, or X person-hours can be saved in the form of avoided illnesses because of improved air quality or reduced pollution.

3. Mention past attempts to solve the research problem or to answer the research question.

As mentioned earlier, a formal review of literature is out of place in the Introduction section of a research paper; however, it is appropriate to indicate any earlier relevant research and clarify how your research differs from those attempts. The differences can be simple: you may have repeated the same set of experiments but with a different organism, or elaborated (involving perhaps more sophisticated or advanced analytical instruments) the study with a much larger and diverse sample, or a widely different geographical setting.

Here are two examples:

• ‘Although these studies were valuable, they were undertaken when the draft genome sequence had not been available and therefore provide little information on the evolutionary and regulatory mechanisms.’
• ‘Plant response is altered by insect colonization and behaviour but these aspects have been studied mostly in sole crops, whereas the present paper examines the relationship between crops and their pests in an intercropping system.’

4. Conclude the Introduction by mentioning the specific objectives of your research.

The earlier paragraphs should lead logically to specific objectives of your study. Note that this part of the Introduction gives specific details: for instance, the earlier part of the Introduction may mention the importance of controlling malaria whereas the concluding part will specify what methods of control were used and how they were evaluated. At the same time, avoid too much detail because those belong to the Materials and Methods section of the paper.

If, for example, your research was about finding the right proportions of two metals in an alloy and you tested ten different proportions, you do not have to list all the ten proportions: it is enough to say that the proportions varied from 50:50 to 10:90.

Here are two more examples:

• ‘We aimed to assess the effectiveness of four disinfection strategies on hospital-wide incidence of multidrug-resistant organisms and Clostridium difficile ’
• ‘We aimed (1) to assess the epidemiological changes before and after the upsurge of scarlet fever in China in 2011; (2) to explore the reasons for the upsurge and the epidemiological factors that contributed to it; and (3) to assess how these factors could be managed to prevent future epidemics.’

There are different ways of constructing the objectives. Using questions 2 , hypotheses, and infinitives are the more common constructions (both examples in the previous paragraph use infinitives), each of which is illustrated below with some fictitious text:

• ‘Do some genes in wheat form gene networks? If they do, to what extent as compared to rice?’
• ‘Do the regulatory elements in the promoters of those genes display any conserved motifs?’
• ‘Finally, and more specifically, do those genes in wheat display any tissue- or organ-specific expression pattern?’

‘We decided to test the following four hypotheses related to employees of information-technology companies:

H1: Career stages influence work values.

H2: Career stages influence the level of job satisfaction.

H3: Career stages do not influence organizational commitment.’

Using infinitives

‘To examine the response of Oryza sativa to four different doses of nitrogen in terms of 1) biomass production, 2) plant height, and 3) crop duration.’

Compared to two other sections of a typical research paper, namely Methods and Results, Introduction and Discussion are more difficult to write. However, the 4-step approach described in this article should ease the task.

A final tip: although the Introduction is the first section of the main text of your paper, you don’t have to write that section first. You can write it, or at least revise it, after you have written the rest of the paper: this will make the Introduction not only easier to write but also more compelling.

To learn in more detail the guidelines to write a great Introduction section, check out this course: How to write a strong introduction for your research paper

References:

1. Araújo C G. 2014. Detailing the writing of scientific manuscripts: 25-30 paragraphs. Arquivos Brasileiros de Cardiologia 102 (2): e21–e23

2. Boxman R and Boxman E. 2017. Communicating Science: a practical guide for engineers and physical scientists , pp. 7–9. Singapore: World Scientific. 276 pp.

Related reading:

• The secret to writing the introduction and methods section of a manuscript

Tips for writing the perfect IMRAD manuscript

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Home » Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Research Paper

Definition:

Research Paper is a written document that presents the author’s original research, analysis, and interpretation of a specific topic or issue.

It is typically based on Empirical Evidence, and may involve qualitative or quantitative research methods, or a combination of both. The purpose of a research paper is to contribute new knowledge or insights to a particular field of study, and to demonstrate the author’s understanding of the existing literature and theories related to the topic.

Structure of Research Paper

The structure of a research paper typically follows a standard format, consisting of several sections that convey specific information about the research study. The following is a detailed explanation of the structure of a research paper:

The title page contains the title of the paper, the name(s) of the author(s), and the affiliation(s) of the author(s). It also includes the date of submission and possibly, the name of the journal or conference where the paper is to be published.

The abstract is a brief summary of the research paper, typically ranging from 100 to 250 words. It should include the research question, the methods used, the key findings, and the implications of the results. The abstract should be written in a concise and clear manner to allow readers to quickly grasp the essence of the research.

Introduction

The introduction section of a research paper provides background information about the research problem, the research question, and the research objectives. It also outlines the significance of the research, the research gap that it aims to fill, and the approach taken to address the research question. Finally, the introduction section ends with a clear statement of the research hypothesis or research question.

Literature Review

The literature review section of a research paper provides an overview of the existing literature on the topic of study. It includes a critical analysis and synthesis of the literature, highlighting the key concepts, themes, and debates. The literature review should also demonstrate the research gap and how the current study seeks to address it.

The methods section of a research paper describes the research design, the sample selection, the data collection and analysis procedures, and the statistical methods used to analyze the data. This section should provide sufficient detail for other researchers to replicate the study.

The results section presents the findings of the research, using tables, graphs, and figures to illustrate the data. The findings should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with reference to the research question and hypothesis.

The discussion section of a research paper interprets the findings and discusses their implications for the research question, the literature review, and the field of study. It should also address the limitations of the study and suggest future research directions.

The conclusion section summarizes the main findings of the study, restates the research question and hypothesis, and provides a final reflection on the significance of the research.

The references section provides a list of all the sources cited in the paper, following a specific citation style such as APA, MLA or Chicago.

How to Write Research Paper

You can write Research Paper by the following guide:

• Choose a Topic: The first step is to select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. Brainstorm ideas and narrow down to a research question that is specific and researchable.
• Conduct a Literature Review: The literature review helps you identify the gap in the existing research and provides a basis for your research question. It also helps you to develop a theoretical framework and research hypothesis.
• Develop a Thesis Statement : The thesis statement is the main argument of your research paper. It should be clear, concise and specific to your research question.
• Plan your Research: Develop a research plan that outlines the methods, data sources, and data analysis procedures. This will help you to collect and analyze data effectively.
• Collect and Analyze Data: Collect data using various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. Analyze data using statistical tools or other qualitative methods.
• Organize your Paper : Organize your paper into sections such as Introduction, Literature Review, Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion. Ensure that each section is coherent and follows a logical flow.
• Write your Paper : Start by writing the introduction, followed by the literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and follows the required formatting and citation styles.
• Edit and Proofread your Paper: Review your paper for grammar and spelling errors, and ensure that it is well-structured and easy to read. Ask someone else to review your paper to get feedback and suggestions for improvement.
• Cite your Sources: Ensure that you properly cite all sources used in your research paper. This is essential for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism.

Research Paper Example

Note : The below example research paper is for illustrative purposes only and is not an actual research paper. Actual research papers may have different structures, contents, and formats depending on the field of study, research question, data collection and analysis methods, and other factors. Students should always consult with their professors or supervisors for specific guidelines and expectations for their research papers.

Research Paper Example sample for Students:

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health among Young Adults

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults. A literature review was conducted to examine the existing research on the topic. A survey was then administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Introduction: Social media has become an integral part of modern life, particularly among young adults. While social media has many benefits, including increased communication and social connectivity, it has also been associated with negative outcomes, such as addiction, cyberbullying, and mental health problems. This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults.

Literature Review: The literature review highlights the existing research on the impact of social media use on mental health. The review shows that social media use is associated with depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health problems. The review also identifies the factors that contribute to the negative impact of social media, including social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Methods : A survey was administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The survey included questions on social media use, mental health status (measured using the DASS-21), and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis.

Results : The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Discussion : The study’s findings suggest that social media use has a negative impact on the mental health of young adults. The study highlights the need for interventions that address the factors contributing to the negative impact of social media, such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Conclusion : In conclusion, social media use has a significant impact on the mental health of young adults. The study’s findings underscore the need for interventions that promote healthy social media use and address the negative outcomes associated with social media use. Future research can explore the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health. Additionally, longitudinal studies can investigate the long-term effects of social media use on mental health.

Limitations : The study has some limitations, including the use of self-report measures and a cross-sectional design. The use of self-report measures may result in biased responses, and a cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causality.

Implications: The study’s findings have implications for mental health professionals, educators, and policymakers. Mental health professionals can use the findings to develop interventions that address the negative impact of social media use on mental health. Educators can incorporate social media literacy into their curriculum to promote healthy social media use among young adults. Policymakers can use the findings to develop policies that protect young adults from the negative outcomes associated with social media use.

References :

• Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2019). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive medicine reports, 15, 100918.
• Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Escobar-Viera, C. G., Barrett, E. L., Sidani, J. E., Colditz, J. B., … & James, A. E. (2017). Use of multiple social media platforms and symptoms of depression and anxiety: A nationally-representative study among US young adults. Computers in Human Behavior, 69, 1-9.
• Van der Meer, T. G., & Verhoeven, J. W. (2017). Social media and its impact on academic performance of students. Journal of Information Technology Education: Research, 16, 383-398.

Appendix : The survey used in this study is provided below.

Social Media and Mental Health Survey

• How often do you use social media per day?
• Less than 30 minutes
• 30 minutes to 1 hour
• 1 to 2 hours
• 2 to 4 hours
• More than 4 hours
• Which social media platforms do you use?
• Others (Please specify)
• How often do you experience the following on social media?
• Social comparison (comparing yourself to others)
• Cyberbullying
• Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
• Have you ever experienced any of the following mental health problems in the past month?
• Do you think social media use has a positive or negative impact on your mental health?
• Very positive
• Somewhat positive
• Somewhat negative
• Very negative
• In your opinion, which factors contribute to the negative impact of social media on mental health?
• Social comparison
• In your opinion, what interventions could be effective in reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health?
• Education on healthy social media use
• Counseling for mental health problems caused by social media
• Social media detox programs
• Regulation of social media use

Thank you for your participation!

Applications of Research Paper

Research papers have several applications in various fields, including:

• Advancing knowledge: Research papers contribute to the advancement of knowledge by generating new insights, theories, and findings that can inform future research and practice. They help to answer important questions, clarify existing knowledge, and identify areas that require further investigation.
• Informing policy: Research papers can inform policy decisions by providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers. They can help to identify gaps in current policies, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and inform the development of new policies and regulations.
• Improving practice: Research papers can improve practice by providing evidence-based guidance for professionals in various fields, including medicine, education, business, and psychology. They can inform the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards of care that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
• Educating students : Research papers are often used as teaching tools in universities and colleges to educate students about research methods, data analysis, and academic writing. They help students to develop critical thinking skills, research skills, and communication skills that are essential for success in many careers.
• Fostering collaboration: Research papers can foster collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers by providing a platform for sharing knowledge and ideas. They can facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships that can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems.

When to Write Research Paper

Research papers are typically written when a person has completed a research project or when they have conducted a study and have obtained data or findings that they want to share with the academic or professional community. Research papers are usually written in academic settings, such as universities, but they can also be written in professional settings, such as research organizations, government agencies, or private companies.

Here are some common situations where a person might need to write a research paper:

• For academic purposes: Students in universities and colleges are often required to write research papers as part of their coursework, particularly in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. Writing research papers helps students to develop research skills, critical thinking skills, and academic writing skills.
• For publication: Researchers often write research papers to publish their findings in academic journals or to present their work at academic conferences. Publishing research papers is an important way to disseminate research findings to the academic community and to establish oneself as an expert in a particular field.
• To inform policy or practice : Researchers may write research papers to inform policy decisions or to improve practice in various fields. Research findings can be used to inform the development of policies, guidelines, and best practices that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
• To share new insights or ideas: Researchers may write research papers to share new insights or ideas with the academic or professional community. They may present new theories, propose new research methods, or challenge existing paradigms in their field.

Purpose of Research Paper

The purpose of a research paper is to present the results of a study or investigation in a clear, concise, and structured manner. Research papers are written to communicate new knowledge, ideas, or findings to a specific audience, such as researchers, scholars, practitioners, or policymakers. The primary purposes of a research paper are:

• To contribute to the body of knowledge : Research papers aim to add new knowledge or insights to a particular field or discipline. They do this by reporting the results of empirical studies, reviewing and synthesizing existing literature, proposing new theories, or providing new perspectives on a topic.
• To inform or persuade: Research papers are written to inform or persuade the reader about a particular issue, topic, or phenomenon. They present evidence and arguments to support their claims and seek to persuade the reader of the validity of their findings or recommendations.
• To advance the field: Research papers seek to advance the field or discipline by identifying gaps in knowledge, proposing new research questions or approaches, or challenging existing assumptions or paradigms. They aim to contribute to ongoing debates and discussions within a field and to stimulate further research and inquiry.
• To demonstrate research skills: Research papers demonstrate the author’s research skills, including their ability to design and conduct a study, collect and analyze data, and interpret and communicate findings. They also demonstrate the author’s ability to critically evaluate existing literature, synthesize information from multiple sources, and write in a clear and structured manner.

Characteristics of Research Paper

Research papers have several characteristics that distinguish them from other forms of academic or professional writing. Here are some common characteristics of research papers:

• Evidence-based: Research papers are based on empirical evidence, which is collected through rigorous research methods such as experiments, surveys, observations, or interviews. They rely on objective data and facts to support their claims and conclusions.
• Structured and organized: Research papers have a clear and logical structure, with sections such as introduction, literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. They are organized in a way that helps the reader to follow the argument and understand the findings.
• Formal and objective: Research papers are written in a formal and objective tone, with an emphasis on clarity, precision, and accuracy. They avoid subjective language or personal opinions and instead rely on objective data and analysis to support their arguments.
• Citations and references: Research papers include citations and references to acknowledge the sources of information and ideas used in the paper. They use a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Peer-reviewed: Research papers are often peer-reviewed, which means they are evaluated by other experts in the field before they are published. Peer-review ensures that the research is of high quality, meets ethical standards, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
• Objective and unbiased: Research papers strive to be objective and unbiased in their presentation of the findings. They avoid personal biases or preconceptions and instead rely on the data and analysis to draw conclusions.

Advantages of Research Paper

Research papers have many advantages, both for the individual researcher and for the broader academic and professional community. Here are some advantages of research papers:

• Contribution to knowledge: Research papers contribute to the body of knowledge in a particular field or discipline. They add new information, insights, and perspectives to existing literature and help advance the understanding of a particular phenomenon or issue.
• Opportunity for intellectual growth: Research papers provide an opportunity for intellectual growth for the researcher. They require critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, which can help develop the researcher’s skills and knowledge.
• Career advancement: Research papers can help advance the researcher’s career by demonstrating their expertise and contributions to the field. They can also lead to new research opportunities, collaborations, and funding.
• Academic recognition: Research papers can lead to academic recognition in the form of awards, grants, or invitations to speak at conferences or events. They can also contribute to the researcher’s reputation and standing in the field.
• Impact on policy and practice: Research papers can have a significant impact on policy and practice. They can inform policy decisions, guide practice, and lead to changes in laws, regulations, or procedures.
• Advancement of society: Research papers can contribute to the advancement of society by addressing important issues, identifying solutions to problems, and promoting social justice and equality.

Limitations of Research Paper

Research papers also have some limitations that should be considered when interpreting their findings or implications. Here are some common limitations of research papers:

• Limited generalizability: Research findings may not be generalizable to other populations, settings, or contexts. Studies often use specific samples or conditions that may not reflect the broader population or real-world situations.
• Potential for bias : Research papers may be biased due to factors such as sample selection, measurement errors, or researcher biases. It is important to evaluate the quality of the research design and methods used to ensure that the findings are valid and reliable.
• Ethical concerns: Research papers may raise ethical concerns, such as the use of vulnerable populations or invasive procedures. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines and obtain informed consent from participants to ensure that the research is conducted in a responsible and respectful manner.
• Limitations of methodology: Research papers may be limited by the methodology used to collect and analyze data. For example, certain research methods may not capture the complexity or nuance of a particular phenomenon, or may not be appropriate for certain research questions.
• Publication bias: Research papers may be subject to publication bias, where positive or significant findings are more likely to be published than negative or non-significant findings. This can skew the overall findings of a particular area of research.
• Time and resource constraints: Research papers may be limited by time and resource constraints, which can affect the quality and scope of the research. Researchers may not have access to certain data or resources, or may be unable to conduct long-term studies due to practical limitations.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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ON YOUR 1ST ORDER

Set The Stage: How To Write A Research Paper Introduction

By Laura Brown on 31st March 2024

Are you planning to start with your research paper introduction? Your answer must be Yes! This is the reason you have landed on this page. By this time, you may also have completed your proposal. If, not, you may need a guide to write a research proposal .

But, if you are done with it and now looking forward to your research proposal, the first step would be to understand how to write an introduction of a research paper. Let’s not wait anymore and directly dig into the guide. We have prepared 9 simple steps with which you can master writing an introduction to a research paper!

Step 1: Provide An Overview

As you plan to comprehend the steps on how to write a research paper introduction, let’s kick things off by giving your readers a bird’s-eye view of your research.

Provide a brief overview of what your paper will cover and highlight the key topics and areas of focus. This sets the stage for what’s coming up and gives your readers a roadmap they can follow.

Social media has become an integral part of daily life for millions worldwide. Its pervasive influence extends beyond social interactions to various aspects of society, including mental health. This paper aims to explore the complex relationship between social media usage and mental well-being, shedding light on its multifaceted impact.

Step 2: Discuss The Significance

Next, you need to describe why your research matters. It is essential to discuss the significance of your topic. So, you need to highlight its relevance and importance in the broader context.

For this, you can explain why your readers should care about your research! Moreover, you should tell your readers how it contributes to existing knowledge or addresses a gap in the literature.

The significance of this research lies in the growing concern over the potential effects of excessive social media use on mental health. With the rise of social media platforms, concerns about increased stress, anxiety, and depression have emerged, prompting a need for comprehensive analysis and understanding.

Step 3: Identify Your Research Problems

Once you are done with significance, it’s time to pinpoint the specific problems or questions your research aims to address.

Here, you need to identify the challenges, gaps, or uncertainties in the current understanding of your topic that you are planning to resolve or explore. This part can be used to clarify the purpose of your study.

Despite the abundance of research on social media and mental health, gaps and inconsistencies persist. This study seeks to address key research problems, such as the nuanced effects of different social media platforms, the role of user behavior, and the influence of societal norms and perceptions.

Step 4: Outline The Objectives

To outline the objectives of your study, you should clearly state what you aim to achieve through your research. No matter if it’s to answer specific questions, test hypotheses, or provide insights into a particular phenomenon.

Remember that your objectives serve as guiding principles for your study and they will go on to shape the direction and focus of your research. If you feel like facing difficulty while identifying the objectives of your research, our research paper writing service has always got your back.

Our objectives are twofold: first, to examine the various ways in which social media impacts mental health, including both positive and negative effects; and second, to identify strategies for promoting mental well-being in the digital age.

Step 5: Define The Scope

The fifth step is to define the scope of your research. Now this is a critical step which will define where you can go as a researcher.

You should specify the boundaries and limitations of your study. Also, mention the specific aspects or variables you will focus on and those you will exclude. With this, you can define on how you will be managing your research.

Defining your scope also allows you to conduct a thorough investigation within the constraints of your resources and time frame.

This study focuses primarily on the psychological implications of social media use among young adults aged 18-30. We acknowledge that other demographic groups may experience unique challenges, but for the purpose of this paper, we will concentrate on this demographic due to its high social media engagement and susceptibility to mental health issues.

Step 6: Acknowledge Limitations

It’s essential to acknowledge any potential limitations or constraints that may affect your research. You should always be transparent about factors such as time, resources, or access to data that could impact the scope or outcomes of your study.

Think about it in depth and check out for the lack of resources that can really impact your research!

By acknowledging these limitations upfront, you can demonstrate a realistic and honest approach to your research. It will pave the way for highlighting opportunities for future inquiry or refinement.

It’s important to recognise the limitations of this study, including the reliance on self-reported data, the potential for selection bias, and the dynamic nature of social media platforms. These limitations may impact the generalisability of our findings and should be considered in interpreting the results.

Step 7: Propose Methodology

As you plan on how to write an intro for a research paper, methodology stands tall at the seventh step. Outline the methodology you plan to use to conduct your research, be it primary or secondary research . You need to discuss the specific techniques, procedures, or approaches you are going to employ to gather and analyse data.

Whether your methodology involves qualitative interviews, quantitative surveys, or experimental design, provide a rationale for your chosen approach and explain how it aligns with your research objectives.

Our methodology will involve a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys to assess social media usage patterns and mental health outcomes with qualitative interviews to explore individual experiences and perceptions. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between social media and mental well-being.

Step 8: Present Your Thesis Statement

Now finally it’s time to introduce your thesis statement, which succinctly summarises the main argument or central claim of your research paper.

Make sure that you are writing a clear, concise, and debatable thesis statement. Do not forget to mention the key insights or conclusions you intend to support throughout your paper.

You may ask why is it necessary to provide a thesis statement so early. It is essential so that you can provide readers with a roadmap for understanding the overarching purpose and focus of your research.

This paper argues that while social media can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health, its overall effect depends on various factors, including individual differences, usage patterns, and platform design. By examining these factors, we aim to provide insights into how social media can be leveraged to promote mental well-being in today’s digital society.

Step 9: Describe The Structure

Finally, the last step on how to make an introduction in a research paper involves describing the structure of your research paper. You need to provide an overview of the structure of your research paper.

• Briefly outline the main sections or chapters of your paper
• Explain how they contribute to your overall argument or analysis.
• Consider including subsections or key points within each section
• Give your readers a preview of the content that is coming.

Remember that it is a crucial step! Describing the structure of your paper helps your readers navigate through the document and understand the logical progression of your ideas.

The paper is structured as follows: first, we will review the existing literature on social media and mental health to provide context for our study. Next, we will present our methodology and findings, followed by a discussion of the implications for research and practice. Finally, we will conclude with recommendations for future research and interventions.

Concluding On How To Write A Research Paper Introduction

Coming up with an introduction for your research paper is a simple task! Students often consider it a challenging one, but if you are able to divide it into smaller chunks, you will be able to attempt it smoothly.

We have divided the whole process of how to write an introduction in a research paper into 9 simple steps. This is our take on how students should proceed with it. What’s your say? Did you find this post valuable? Do not forget to share your views with us.

Let Us Answer Your Queries

How long should an introduction be in a research paper.

The introduction is typically 10% of your complete research. You need to keep it short. For a research paper of around 10,000 words, you need to write a 1000-word introduction.

How do I write an introduction for a research paper?

Writing an introduction to your research paper is quite simple. All you need is to begin with background information, state the research problem, and highlight the significance. Then present the thesis statement, and outline the paper’s structure in a clear and engaging manner.

How to write a good introduction for a research paper?

If you are willing to write a good introduction for your research paper, follow these 3 tips. – State your research problem clearly. – Start your intro with an engaging hook-up line. – Demonstrate the significance of your research to your field of study.

Laura Brown, a senior content writer who writes actionable blogs at Crowd Writer.

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Learn How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper

Updated 24 Jul 2024

Though introduction to any writing is frequently associated with beginning, it's not that simple for an introduction to a research paper. Here you can find a guide on how to write an introduction for a research paper, which presents a topic to the reader. While creating an introduction students frequently get lost in the consistency of their thoughts. But following the structure and simple rules, you will succeed with your writing and get the desired mark.

What is a Research Paper Introduction?

An introduction is the initial part of a research paper and the part that a reader is likely to read first (at least when focusing deeply and reading it in detail). Hence, definitions, notions, and other information required for understanding the paper are presented/listed here.

Every research paper needs context so that readers can understand why you have created it. This is exactly what you can do in your research paper introduction. Of course, this can mean that your introduction is the hardest part of an essay to write first. So, it is essential that you take your time and make sure you get it right.

The introduction of writing is going to set out your rationale, which is what research will be based around. Your readers should be able to tell what they are reading right from the beginning and whether it interests them.

It is essential that you make the beginning of your research paper interesting and engage with your readers from the first line. This will make sure that people continue to read and learn about what you have found out. You should also state a hypothesis and the way you think your work will turn out in conclusion. You must always include an introduction to your paper.

Sana Shaikh

"Introductions need to be organized, succinct, and clear. Clear writing is essential when writing a research paper. Often, students work so hard in crafting an interesting hook that the rest of the introduction devolves into another direction. For students, I always recommend clearly identifying what your thesis is - what are you planning on focusing on for your paper? As a reader, do I know what the premise of the paper is before I continue reading? For research papers, engagement is in the pithiness of writing and the organizational structure. In introductions particularly, the statement of organization is vital. The statement of organization dictates how the rest of the paper will be structured and what the reader should look to when they are reading. For research papers, follow your passions. What interests you? What is a topic that keeps you up at night? What are you passionate about? Finding a topic that resonates with you is key when aiming to write ideas clearly." Sana Shaikh, PhD, Director of School Operations in Springfield Public Schools

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Writing an Introduction to a Research Paper – What to Include

So, what should you include in your introduction? We will give you a list below so that you can prepare a research paper introduction outline and follow it when you are writing.

What are the parts of the introduction in research?

The introduction of a research paper may contain a few other parts/elements such as the chief goal(s) and objectives of the research, a brief but informative outline of the following content, explained, concept definitions, a brief history of the research into the topic, recent related discoveries, etc.

Start with Announcing Your Topic

There are many research topics . The topic is the fundament of any writing you prepare. Regarding, the angle you look at your topic, it will reflect different aspects. It’s better to begin with outlining your topic. There is no secret on how to start a research paper intro: you should just state your topic and add some connected with topic issues that bothers you a lot. This is a perfect strategy to intrigue the reader.

It is recommended to start with general info and then narrowing down to specific aspects. Try not to deepen into a state of things in the beginning, but explain your view on the topic. If you are going to use some difficult expressions in the central part of an essay, make them clear to any reader and point out their connection with your topic.

Review the Literature

Developing a statement in the main body, you will need some literature sources to refer to. While your idea can sound a bit subjectively, if you maintain it with citations extracted from works of famous scientists, authors, or philosophers, you will prove your point. Don’t neglect modern time scholars that are being deeply concerned about the issue or opinion you stated. The introduction should briefly state what the literature will be about.

Stress on Rationale

The rationale is the key element of your beginning. Once you stated the topic, it’s time to prove it’s relevant and gives readers food for thought. The rationale serves as an indicator of both the importance of your essay and your attitude to the issue. The rationale should be laconic and precise to show the reader the significance of your research.

State Your Thesis

The thesis statement marks the conclusive part of the introduction for the research paper or research summary and transition to the actual research. This sentence supports all the things you have written before and collects all your ideas in a logical and concise saying. If your subject is too complicated, you should make the thesis statement comprehensible with it. The thesis is what runs through your paper. That’s why the intro where a thesis is stated sets the tone for the entire work.

Your thesis should:

• Give general info on topic
• Be engaging and precise
• Reflect the significance of raised issue

If all these are ready, the only thing left is to make the outline for research paper structure.

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Conclude With the Outline

When all the important work is done, it’s time for the outline of the research paper’s structure. Not every mentor requires the structure overview in the introduction, but sometimes students are asked to stress on few aspects of their future research. This is not about the detailed depiction of every part of your work. The outline is a short paragraph, which consists of 3 or 4 sentences and represents your plan for the entire paper. You can also look for some essay introduction examples to grab some ideas.

View an Example of an Introduction in Research Paper

Sometimes, it is best to explore an example of an introduction in a research paper in order to understand it better. Check out the example that we have created:

Did you know that there are currently over 2.3 million Americans incarcerated for their crimes? While it is widely believed that prison should be the punishment for crime, statistics find that 77 percent of prisoners will re-offend once they are released. This suggests that prison is not working to reduce recidivism. My research paper aims to demonstrate that prison does not work as a way to prevent crime and that alternatives should be considered, such as restorative justice and other community sentencing.

Writing Tips for Students Who Want to Know all About Introduction

Dr. Elizabeth M. Minei

"A strong introduction to a research paper should probably be written last. The introduction needs to include: 1) what the topic is focused on, 2) how the research was conducted(method), 3) what the findings are (generally), 4) and how the paper contributes to the overall field. These items are often unanswerable until the paper is complete. An introduction should also absolutely have a few sentences that specifically detail what they will read in the upcoming pages. Research Papers are NOT like fiction writing where you might want to sustain the mystery—instead,you want to show them the payoff up front. If the reader gets to the end of the introduction and does not know what to expect in the rest of the paper, you may have missed the mark." Dr. Elizabeth M. Minei, PhD, Associate Professor at Baruch College, Founder and C.E.O. of EMinei Consulting

So, how to write an intro for a research paper?

• Define and Explain Concepts

Is writing including concepts that are going to be complicated for the average reader to understand? If the answer is yes, this means that you should take your time to explain them as best as you can in your introduction. This includes any jargon or terms that you think will be important to know before reading your findings and analysis.

• Start with a Quotation

You want to capture your reader’s attention right from the beginning. If you are not sure how to do that effectively, think about including a quotation that captures the heart of the topic. This will be particularly true if your essay is for social subjects, such as English, History, and humanities. It is going to help create a picture in the reader’s head, and they will remember this when they are reading your work. Depending on the subject of your paper, it could also include a striking statistic.

• Communicate your Structure

Readers need to know not only why you are conducting a particular research topic, but also how you intend to do it. It means that your introduction should set out the structure that will be followed in your article. It will allow a reader to easily navigate between different parts and make sure that it all makes sense.

Need Additional Help?

As you see, writing research papers introduction is not that challenging if you follow the guide. But sometimes even the smartest students fail in choosing a competitive topic and building a solid thesis. Even if you consider your topic important, it can seem questionable for your professor. How to write an introduction for a research paper and make it flawless?

We present you with professional help from writers who are full of new ideas to reflect them in your assignment! Browsing “how to write a research paper introduction” and trying to write a paper on your own you may lose those precious hours of your time. Asking us for help, you will get rid of your constant worries. Can you write my research papers ? Yes, we can! Presenting only top-notch content, we help many students achieve the desired outcome and improve their academic performance. Our writers don’t tolerate plagiarism - real professionals create their writings from scratch. We believe that even the most complicated task has the simplest solution and our paper writers can always find it. If you doubt, place your order and get assured we don’t mouth empty words!

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How do you write a good intro?

Writing a good intro requires matching well the information in it with the rest of the paper – it must “serve” the needs of the rest of the paper. It should introduce the reader smoothly into the topic and facilitate an easy read (without requiring the excessive aid of external sources).

How do you write an introduction for a research paper?

In case you have difficulties starting with the introduction first, a fairly universal advice is to write it last (apart from the thesis, goals, and objectives). Thus, after writing other sections (that have a clearer/ more rigid structure) you’ll be able to decide both on the type of content that would match better the rest of your paper but also on the word count you can dedicate to this section.

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Frequently asked questions

What should i include in a research paper introduction.

The introduction of a research paper includes several key elements:

• A hook to catch the reader’s interest
• Relevant background on the topic
• Details of your research problem

and your problem statement

• A thesis statement or research question
• Sometimes an overview of the paper

Frequently asked questions: Writing a research paper

A research project is an academic, scientific, or professional undertaking to answer a research question . Research projects can take many forms, such as qualitative or quantitative , descriptive , longitudinal , experimental , or correlational . What kind of research approach you choose will depend on your topic.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .

However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:

• Researchability
• Feasibility and specificity
• Relevance and originality

Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them.

In general, they should be:

• Focused and researchable
• Answerable using credible sources
• Complex and arguable
• Feasible and specific
• Relevant and original

All research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

Your research objectives indicate how you’ll try to address your research problem and should be specific:

Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.

They summarize the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.

Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .

The main guidelines for formatting a paper in Chicago style are to:

• Use a standard font like 12 pt Times New Roman
• Use 1 inch margins or larger
• Apply double line spacing
• Indent every new paragraph ½ inch
• Include a title page
• Place page numbers in the top right or bottom center
• Cite your sources with author-date citations or Chicago footnotes
• Include a bibliography or reference list

To automatically generate accurate Chicago references, you can use Scribbr’s free Chicago reference generator .

The main guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style are as follows:

• Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman
• Set 1 inch page margins
• Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page
• Center the paper’s title
• Use title case capitalization for headings
• Cite your sources with MLA in-text citations
• List all sources cited on a Works Cited page at the end

To format a paper in APA Style , follow these guidelines:

• Use a standard font like 12 pt Times New Roman or 11 pt Arial
• If submitting for publication, insert a running head on every page
• Apply APA heading styles
• Cite your sources with APA in-text citations
• List all sources cited on a reference page at the end

No, it’s not appropriate to present new arguments or evidence in the conclusion . While you might be tempted to save a striking argument for last, research papers follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the results and discussion sections if you are following a scientific structure). The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

The conclusion of a research paper has several key elements you should make sure to include:

• A restatement of the research problem
• A summary of your key arguments and/or findings
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

Don’t feel that you have to write the introduction first. The introduction is often one of the last parts of the research paper you’ll write, along with the conclusion.

This is because it can be easier to introduce your paper once you’ve already written the body ; you may not have the clearest idea of your arguments until you’ve written them, and things can change during the writing process .

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis —a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

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You can find all the citation styles and locales used in the Scribbr Citation Generator in our publicly accessible repository on Github .

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How to Write the Thesis Or Dissertation Introduction – Guide

Published by Carmen Troy at August 31st, 2021 , Revised On June 7, 2024

What would you tell someone if they asked you to introduce yourself? You’d probably start with your name, what you do for a living…etc., etc., etc. Think of your dissertation as the same. How would you go about it if you had to introduce it to the world for the first time?

Keep this forefront in your mind for the remainder of this guide: you are introducing your research to the world that doesn’t even know it exists. Every word, phrase and line you write in your introduction will stand for the strength of your dissertation’s character.

This is not very different from how, in real life, if someone fails to introduce themselves properly (such as leaving out what they do for a living, where they live, etc.) to a stranger, it leaves a lasting impression on the stranger.

Don’t leave your dissertation a stranger among other strangers. Let’s review the little, basic concepts we already have at the back of our minds, perhaps, to piece them together in one body: an introduction.

What Goes Inside an Introduction

The exact ingredients of a dissertation or thesis introduction chapter vary depending on  your chosen research topic, your university’s guidelines, and your academic subject – but they are generally mixed in one sequence or another to introduce an academic argument.

The critical elements of an excellent dissertation introduction include a definition of the selected research topic , a reference to previous studies on the subject, a statement of the value of the subject for academic and scientific communities, a clear aim/purpose of the study, a list of your objectives, a reference to viewpoints of other researchers and a justification for the research.

Steps of Writing a Dissertation Introduction

• Research background
• Significance of the research 
• Research problem 
• Research questions 
• The research aims and objectives 
• Limitations of the research 
• Outline of dissertation

1. Research Background – Writing a Dissertation Introduction

This is the very first section of your introduction. Building a background of your chosen topic will help you understand more about the topic and help readers know why the general research area is problematic, interesting, central, important, etc.

Your research background should include significant concepts related to your dissertation topic. This will give your supervisor and markers an idea that you’ve investigated the research problem thoroughly and know the various aspects of your topic.

The introduction to a dissertation shouldn’t talk only about other research work in the same area, as this will be discussed in the literature review section. Moreover, this section should not include the research design  and  data collection method(s) .

All about  research strategy  should be covered in the  methodology chapter . Research background only helps to build up your research in general.

For instance, if your research is based on job satisfaction measures of a specific country, the content of the introduction chapter will generally be about job satisfaction and its impact.

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2.     Significance of the Research

As a researcher, you must demonstrate how your research will provide value to the scientific and academic communities. If your dissertation is based on a specific company or industry, you need to explain why that industry and company were chosen.

If you’re comparing, explain why you’re doing so and what this research will yield. Regardless of your chosen research topic, explain thoroughly in this section why this research is being conducted and what benefits it will serve.

The idea here is to convince your supervisor and readers that the concept should be researched to find a solution to a problem.

3.     Research Problem

Once you’ve described the main research problem  and the importance of your research, the next step would be to present your  problem statement , i.e., why this research is being conducted and its purpose.

This is one of the essential aspects of writing a dissertation’s introduction. Doing so will help your readers understand what you intend to do in this research and what they should expect from this study.

Presenting the research problem competently is crucial in persuading your readers to read other parts of the dissertation paper . This research problem is the crux of your dissertation, i.e., it gives a direction as to why this research is being carried out, and what issues the study will consider. The research problem should be a clear and concise statement that identifies the gap in the existing knowledge that your research aims to fill. It should be specific enough to guide your research, but broad enough to allow for a comprehensive investigation.

For example, if your dissertation is based on measuring the job satisfaction of a specific organisation, your research problem should talk about the problem the company is facing and how your research will help the company to solve that.

If your dissertation is not based on any specific organisation, you can explain the common issues that companies face when they do not consider job satisfaction as a pillar of business growth and elaborate on how your research will help them realise its importance.

Citing too many references in the introduction chapter isn’t recommended because here, you must explain why you chose to study a specific area and what your research will accomplish. Any citations only set the context, and you should leave the bulk of the literature for a later section.

4.     Research Question(s)

The central part of your introduction is the research question , which should be based on your research problem and the dissertation title. Combining these two aspects will help you formulate an exciting yet manageable research question. Your research question is what your research aims to answer and around which your dissertation will revolve. The research question should be specific and concise.

Your research question is what your research aims to answer and around which your dissertation will revolve. The research question should be specific and concise.

It should be a one- or two-line question you’ve set out to answer through your dissertation. For the job satisfaction example, a sample research question could be, how does job satisfaction positively impact employee performance?

Look up dissertation introduction examples online or ask your friends to get an idea of how an ideal research question is formed. Or you can review our dissertation introduction example here  and  research question examples here .

Once you’ve formed your research question, pick out vital elements from it, based on which you will then prepare your theoretical framework  and literature review. You will come back to your research question again when  concluding your dissertation .

Sometimes, you might have to formulate a hypothesis in place of a research question. The hypothesis is a simple statement you prove with your  results ,  discussion and analysis .

A sample hypothesis could be job satisfaction is positively linked to employee job performance . The results of your dissertation could be in favour of this dissertation or against it.

Tip: Read up about what alternative, null, one-tailed and two-tailed hypotheses are so you can better formulate the hypothesis for your dissertation. Following are the definitions for each term, as retrieved from Trochim et al.’s Research Methods: The Essential Knowledge Base (2016):

• Alternative hypothesis (H 1 ): “A specific statement of prediction that usually states what you expect will happen in your study.”
• Null hypothesis (H 0 ): “The hypothesis that describes the possible outcomes other than the alternative hypothesis. Usually, the null hypothesis predicts there will be no effect of a program or treatment you are studying.”
• One-tailed hypothesis: “A hypothesis that specifies a direction; for example, when your hypothesis predicts that your program will increase the outcome.”
• Two-tailed hypothesis: “A hypothesis that does not specify a direction. For example, if you hypothesise that your program or intervention will affect an outcome, but you are unwilling to specify whether that effect will be positive or negative, you are using a two-tailed hypothesis.”

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Interesting read: 10 ways to write a practical introduction fast .

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Uk’s best academic support services. how would you know until you try, 5.     research aims and objectives.

Next, the research aims and objectives. Aims and objectives are broad statements of desired results of your dissertation . They reflect the expectations of the topic and research and address the long-term project outcomes.

These statements should use the concepts accurately, must be focused, should be able to convey your research intentions and serve as steps that communicate how your  research question  will be answered.

You should formulate your aims and objectives based on your topic, research question, or hypothesis. These are simple statements and are an extension of your research question.

Through the aims and objectives, you communicate to your readers what aspects of research you’ve considered and how you intend to answer your research question.

Usually, these statements initiate with words like ‘to explore’, ‘to study’, ‘to assess’, ‘to critically assess’, ‘to understand’, ‘to evaluate’ etc.

You could ask your supervisor to provide some thesis introduction examples to help you understand better how aims and objectives are formulated. More examples are here .

Your aims and objectives should be interrelated and connect to your research question and problem. If they do not, they’ll be considered vague and too broad in scope.

Always ensure your research aims and objectives are concise, brief, and relevant.

Once you conclude  your dissertation , you will have to revert back to address whether your research aims and objectives have been met.

You will have to reflect on how your dissertation’s findings , analysis, and discussion related to your aims and objectives and how your research has helped in achieving them.

6.     Research Limitations

This section is sometimes a part of the  dissertation methodology section ; however, it is usually included in the introduction of a dissertation.

Every research has some limitations. Thus, it is normal for you to experience certain limitations when conducting your study.

You could experience  research design limitations, data limitations or even financial limitations. Regardless of which type of limitation you may experience, your dissertation would be impacted. Thus, it would be best if you mentioned them without any hesitation.

When including this section in the introduction, make sure that you clearly state the type of constraint you experienced. This will help your supervisor understand what problems you went through while working on your dissertation.

However, one aspect that you should take care of is that your results, in no way, should be influenced by these restrictions. The results should not be compromised, or your dissertation will not be deemed authentic and reliable.

After you’ve mentioned your research limitations, discuss how you overcame them to produce a perfect dissertation .

Also, mention that your limitations do not adversely impact your results and that you’ve produced research with accurate results the academic community can rely on.

Also read:   How to Write Dissertation Methodology .

7.     Outline of the Dissertation

Even though this isn’t a mandatory sub-section of the introduction chapter, good introductory chapters in dissertations outline what’s to follow in the preceding chapters.

It is also usual to set out an  outline of the rest of the dissertation . Depending on your university and academic subject, you might also be asked to include it in your research proposal .

Because your tutor might want to glance over it to see how you  plan your dissertation and what sections you’d include; based on what sections you include and how you intend to research and cover them, they’d provide feedback for you to improve.

Usually, this section discusses what sections you plan to include and what concepts and aspects each section entails. A standard dissertation consists of five sections : chapters, introduction,  literature review ,  methodology ,  results  and  discussion , and  conclusion .

Some  dissertation assignments do not use the same chapter for results and discussion. Instead, they split it into two different chapters, making six chapters. Check with your supervisor regarding which format you should follow.

When discussing the  outline of your dissertation , remember that you’d have to mention what each section involves. Discuss all the significant aspects of each section to give a brief overview of what your dissertation contains. This is precisely what our dissertation outline service  provides.

Writing a dissertation introduction might seem complicated, but it is not if you understand what is expected of you. To understand the required elements and make sure that you focus on all of them.

Include all the aspects to ensure your supervisor and other readers can easily understand how you intend to undertake your research.

“If you find yourself stuck at any stage of your dissertation introduction, get introduction writing help from our writers! At ResearchProspect, we offer a dissertation writing service , and our qualified team of writers will also assist you in conducting in-depth research for your dissertation.

Topic Discussion versus Topic Introduction

Discussing and introducing a topic are two highly different aspects of dissertation introduction writing. You might find it easy to discuss a topic, but introducing it is much trickier.

The introduction is the first thing a reader reads; thus, it must be to the point, informative, engaging, and enjoyable. Even if one of these elements is missing, the reader will not be motivated to continue reading the paper and will move on to something different.

So, it’s critical to fully understand how to write the introduction of a dissertation before starting the actual write-up.

When writing a dissertation introduction, one has to explain the title, discuss the topic and present a background so that readers understand what your research is about and what results you expect to achieve at the end of the research work.

As a standard practice, you might work on your dissertation introduction chapter several times. Once when you’re working on your proposal and the second time when writing your actual dissertation.

“Want to keep up with the progress of the work done by your writer? ResearchProspect can deliver your dissertation order in three parts; outline, first half, and final dissertation delivery. Here is the link to our online order form .

Many academics argue that the Introduction chapter should be the last section of the dissertation paper you should complete, but by no means is it the last part you would think of because this is where your research starts from.

Write the draft introduction as early as possible. You should write it at the same time as the proposal submission, although you must revise and edit it many times before it takes the final shape.

Considering its importance, many students remain unsure of how to write the introduction of a dissertation. Here are some of the essential elements of how to write the introduction of a dissertation that’ll provide much-needed dissertation introduction writing help.

Here are some guidelines for you to learn to write a flawless first-class dissertation paper.

Dissertation Introduction Samples & Examples

Check out some basic samples of dissertation introduction chapters to get started.

FAQs about Dissertation Introduction

How to write a dissertation introduction.

• Capture the attention of your reader 
• Add the following sections:
• Learn from others

What is the purpose of an introduction chapter?

It’s used to introduce key constructs, ideas, models and/or theories etc. relating to the topic; things that you will be basing the remainder of your dissertation on.

How do you start an introduction in a dissertation?

There is more than one way of starting a dissertation’s introductory chapter. You can begin by stating a problem in your area of interest, review relevant literature, identify the gap, and introduce your topic. Or, you can go the opposite way, too. It’s all entirely up to your discretion. However, be consistent in the format you choose to write in.

How long should a dissertation introduction be?

It can range from 1000 to 2000 words for a master’s dissertation , but for a higher-level dissertation, it mostly ranges from 8,000 to 10,000 words ’ introduction chapter. In the end, though, it depends on the guidelines provided to you by your department.

Dissertation Introduction Checklist

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Dissertation Methodology is the crux of dissertation project. In this article, we will provide tips for you to write an amazing dissertation methodology.

Appendices or Appendixes are used to provide additional date related to your dissertation research project. Here we explain what is appendix in dissertation

Not sure how to write the findings of a dissertation. Here are some comprehensive guidelines for you to learn to write a flawless findings chapter.

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• F. Reed Johnson   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-7572-2150 1 ,
• Wiktor Adamowicz 2 &
• Catharina Groothuis-Oudshoorn 3  

This paper provides an introduction to statistical analysis of choice data using example data from a simple discrete-choice experiment (DCE). It describes the layout of the analysis dataset, types of variables contained in the dataset, and how to identify response patterns in the data indicating data quality. Model-specification options include linear models with continuous attribute levels and non-linear continuous and categorical attribute levels. Advantages and disadvantages of conditional logit, mixed logit, and latent-class analysis are discussed and illustrated using the example DCE data. Readers are provided with links to various software programs for analyzing choice data. References are provided on topics for which there currently is limited consensus and on more advanced techniques to guide readers interested in exploring choice-modeling challenges in greater depth. Supplementary materials include the simulated example data used to illustrate modeling approaches, together with R and Matlab code to reproduce the estimates shown.

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Johnson, F.R., Adamowicz, W. & Groothuis-Oudshoorn, C. What Can Discrete-Choice Experiments Tell Us about Patient Preferences? An Introduction to Quantitative Analysis of Choice Data. Patient (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40271-024-00705-7

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Open Access

Peer-reviewed

Research Article

Research on sustainable green building space design model integrating IoT technology

Roles Conceptualization, Formal analysis, Methodology, Resources, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

* E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected]

Affiliations College of Art, Shandong Management University, Jinan, Shandong, China, Shandong Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd., Jinan, Shandong, China

Roles Conceptualization, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Software, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Shandong Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd., Jinan, Shandong, China

• Yuchen Wang, 

• Published: April 29, 2024
• https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982
• Reader Comments

"How can the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology enhance the sustainability and efficiency of green building (G.B.) design?" is the central research question that this study attempts to answer. This investigation is important because it examines how green building and IoT technology can work together. It also provides important information about how to use contemporary technologies for environmental sustainability in the building sector. The paper examines a range of IoT applications in green buildings, focusing on this intersection. These applications include energy monitoring, occupant engagement, smart building automation, predictive maintenance, renewable energy integration, and data analytics for energy efficiency enhancements. The objective is to create a thorough and sustainable model for designing green building spaces that successfully incorporates IoT, offering industry professionals cutting-edge solutions and practical advice. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data analysis with qualitative case studies and literature reviews. It evaluates how IoT can improve energy management, indoor environmental quality, and resource optimization in diverse geographic contexts. The findings show that there has been a noticeable improvement in waste reduction, energy and water efficiency, and the upkeep of high-quality indoor environments after IoT integration. This study fills a major gap in the literature by offering a comprehensive model for IoT integration in green building design, which indicates its impact. This model positions IoT as a critical element in advancing sustainable urban development and offers a ground-breaking framework for the practical application of IoT in sustainable building practices. It also emphasizes the need for customized IoT solutions in green buildings. The paper identifies future research directions, including the investigation of advanced IoT applications in renewable energy and the evaluation of IoT’s impact on occupant behavior and well-being, along with addressing cybersecurity concerns. It acknowledges the challenges associated with IoT implementation, such as the initial costs and specialized skills needed.

Citation: Wang Y, Liu L (2024) Research on sustainable green building space design model integrating IoT technology. PLoS ONE 19(4): e0298982. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982

Editor: Sathishkumar Veerappampalayam Easwaramoorthy, Sunway University, MALAYSIA

Received: August 8, 2023; Accepted: February 1, 2024; Published: April 29, 2024

Copyright: © 2024 Wang, Liu. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Data Availability: All relevant data are within the paper and its Supporting Information files.

Funding: The authors received no specific funding for this work.

Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

1. Introduction

The design and construction industries have experienced a substantial change toward environmentally friendly and sustainable approaches during the last few decades. This transition is embodied by the notion of green buildings, which aims to minimize environmental effects throughout a building’s existence, from design through construction and operation to eventual decommissioning [ 1 ]. Green Building (G.B.) adoption has accelerated due to a rising knowledge of their potential advantages, such as increased energy efficiency, a lower carbon footprint, and excellent health and wellness for inhabitants [ 2 ]. Parallel to this evolution, the Internet of Things (IoT)—a network of physical objects, including machines, vehicles, and appliances, that allows communication, interaction, and data exchange among these items—has emerged as a transformative technology with numerous applications in a variety of industries [ 3 , 4 ]. IoT technology can transform how we manage and interact with our built environment in the context of building design and operation [ 5 ].

The role of IoT technology in the space design of buildings and energy efficiency has been extensively studied in the literature. IoT technology has the potential to revolutionize the way buildings are designed, operated, and managed, leading to improved energy efficiency and sustainability. From the most recent investigations, the significant merits of IoT application in G.B. design can be drawn as follows.

• Smart Building Automation: IoT integrates various building systems, such as lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), and security, into a unified network. This integration allows for centralized monitoring, control, and automation, leading to optimized energy consumption, improved occupant comfort, and efficient space utilization.
• Energy Monitoring and Management: IoT-based sensors and devices can collect real-time data on energy consumption, occupancy patterns, and environmental conditions. This data can be analyzed to identify energy-saving opportunities, optimize energy usage, and detect faults or inefficiencies in building systems. Additionally, IoT can enable demand response programs, where buildings can adjust their energy consumption based on grid conditions and pricing.
• Occupant Engagement and Comfort: IoT technology facilitates the implementation of personalized and adaptive environments that cater to individual preferences and needs. Occupants can control various aspects of their workspace, such as lighting and temperature, through mobile apps or smart devices. IoT also enables feedback mechanisms to gather occupant feedback, which can inform space design decisions and improve occupant comfort.
• Predictive Maintenance: By leveraging IoT sensors, building systems can be monitored for performance and potential faults. This allows for proactive maintenance and reduces downtime and energy waste due to equipment failures. Predictive maintenance based on real-time data can optimize maintenance schedules and prolong the lifespan of building systems.
• Integration with Renewable Energy Sources: IoT technology can facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into the building’s energy infrastructure. Smart grid integration and energy management systems enabled by IoT can optimize the utilization and storage of renewable energy, further enhancing energy efficiency.
• Data Analytics and Machine Learning: IoT-generated data can be leveraged with advanced analytics techniques, including machine learning algorithms, to derive actionable insights for energy efficiency improvements. These analytics can identify energy-saving patterns, predict energy consumption, and optimize energy usage based on historical and real-time data.

Overall, the literature suggests that IoT technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the space design of buildings and improving energy efficiency by enabling intelligent building automation, energy monitoring and management, occupant engagement, predictive maintenance, integration with renewable energy sources, and advanced data analytics.

Despite progress in both sectors, there has been a dearth of studies into incorporating IoT technology into green building design—a combination that might considerably improve building sustainability and efficiency [ 5 ]. IoT-enabled devices, for example, can allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy use, predictive maintenance, and automatic demand response, all of which can help with energy efficiency and conservation [ 6 ].

Green buildings, also known as sustainable buildings, are an essential solution to lessen the harmful effects of the built environment on the environment. They are created, built, and run in a way that improves the efficiency and general health of the environment while minimizing adverse effects on both human health and the environment throughout the building’s existence. Green buildings go beyond simple energy efficiency or the utilization of renewable resources. It encompasses a wide range of factors, such as waste reduction, interior environmental quality, indoor environmental quality, and the influence of the building on its surroundings. Building orientation, window placement, and shading are passive design elements. Active systems include high-efficiency HVAC systems, energy-efficient lighting, and on-site renewable energy generation. Energy efficiency is still central to green building design [ 7 ].

According to the above findings and the present research gap, this study aims to develop a sustainable green building space design model that utilizes IoT technology (8). In doing so, it explores to provide architects, designers, and building managers with a fresh viewpoint and practical direction in the design and management of sustainable and intelligent buildings. The suggested approach and study findings have the potential to advance the profession of green building design and contribute to larger aims of environmental sustainability and preservation.

The primary goals of this research are as follows: Understanding the importance of IoT in sustainable green building design, which entails investigating various uses of IoT technology to improve the sustainability of building designs, such as energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall environmental effect and creating an integrated IoT and green building design model that takes into account variables like building orientation, material selection, interior environmental quality, energy management, and waste reduction. Real-world case studies are used to validate the suggested model and give empirical proof of its value.

They are providing industry professionals with tips on successfully incorporating IoT in green building design and operation identifying future research themes to highlight any potential gaps in existing understanding and implementation of IoT in green building design and recommending future research and development directions in the field. Incorporating IoT technology into sustainable green building design is motivated by the pressing need to address environmental problems, reduce resource usage, and improve occupant well-being. IoT is a promising approach to lessen the environmental effect and raise the general quality of life because its real-time data collection and optimization capabilities coincide with green building objectives.

2. Related works: Overview of G.B. and IoT

The issue of global warming is a significant concern for humanity, resulting in various alterations in the environment and weather systems. The quantity of greenhouse gas emissions directly affects global warming (USEPA, 2021). Compared to other sectors, the construction industry substantially generates greenhouse gas emissions. In the European Union, the construction industry is responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions (European Commission, 2021). According to the International Energy Agency (International Energy Agency, 2021), the construction industry ranks first among other sectors in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 35% of total energy consumption and 38% of total CO 2 emissions. Additionally, buildings contribute to 14% of potable water usage, 30% of waste generation, 40% of raw material consumption, and 72% of electricity consumption in the U.S. (Bergman, 2013). Furthermore, it is worth noting that 75% of buildings in the E.U. are energy-inefficient (European Commission, 2021). Researchers have identified green buildings (G.B.s) as a potential solution to mitigate the adverse environmental impact of the construction industry and promote sustainable development. G.B.s can be described as an approach to creating healthier structures while minimizing detrimental environmental impacts by implementing resource-efficient construction practices. Compared to traditional buildings, G.B.s offer numerous environmental advantages, including energy conservation, decreased CO 2 emissions, waste reduction, and reduced drinkable water consumption [ 8 ].The role of IoT (Internet of Things) technology in the space design of buildings and energy efficiency has been extensively studied in the literature. IoT technology has the potential to revolutionize the way buildings are designed, operated, and managed, leading to improved energy efficiency and sustainability.

Another important consideration is water efficiency. Butler and Davies (2011) state that green buildings frequently include water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and greywater recycling systems. Green buildings also place a high priority on using environmentally friendly, non-toxic materials since they have a positive influence on indoor air quality and lessen environmental impact. Last but not least, green buildings’ site selection, design, and landscaping are all geared at reducing their adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystem and fostering biodiversity [ 9 ].

Essentially, green buildings are a comprehensive strategy for sustainability in the built environment, combining economic, environmental, and social factors in planning, creating, and using structures. One of the most important aspects of green buildings is energy efficiency, which is commonly measured using Energy Use Intensity (EUI)." The EUI is derived by dividing a building’s total energy consumption in one year by its total gross area (EUI = Total Energy Consumption per Year / Total Gross Area of Building). Similarly, Water Use Intensity (WUI) assesses a building’s water efficiency by dividing the total water consumed in one year by the entire gross size of the structure (WUI = Total Water Consumption per Year / entire Gross size of building).

Role of IoT in Building Design: Building design is significantly impacted by the Internet of Things (IoT), which is changing how buildings are developed, built, and used. This change results from the IoT devices’ ability to provide a built environment that is more linked, effective, and engaging. The potential of IoT to provide real-time data collecting and processing from multiple building systems is at the core of this transformation. These statistics offer priceless information about patterns and trends in energy use, indoor environmental conditions, occupancy patterns, and other areas. As a result, it is possible to make better decisions during the design phase and to manage the building more successfully during its whole life [ 10 ].

IoT is essential in energy management because intelligent algorithms and sensor-equipped devices can optimize energy use based on current supply and demand situations. According to Morandi et al. (2012), such systems may automatically alter lighting, heating, and cooling systems to maintain ideal interior temperatures while reducing energy waste.

Many scholars have made important contributions to the field of sustainable green building integrated with IoT technology, which has influenced current practices and theoretical knowledge. For example, Smith et al. (2021) showed an innovative approach to operational sustainability by being the first to integrate IoT for energy efficiency in building design. Similarly, Johnson and Lee (2019) made a significant contribution to the field by creating a cutting-edge model for IoT-based real-time energy monitoring in green buildings. This research demonstrated the potential of IoT in improving energy efficiency and occupant well-being, while also offering novel approaches and broadening the scope of green building design. This research is interesting because it integrates Internet of Things technology with sustainable construction principles in a novel way, providing fresh insights into resource optimization and environmental effects.

IoT also supports the shift to design focused more on the user. Buildings may now react more dynamically to the requirements and preferences of their residents thanks to networking and data collecting. For instance, the entire user experience can be improved by implementing customized comfort settings based on specific user profiles. Table 1 presents a global standard of IoT technology. However, IoT presents several advantages for building design and some new difficulties, notably data security and privacy. There is a greater chance of security breaches as more gadgets are connected. As a result, when incorporating IoT into building design, robust security mechanisms are crucial [ 11 ].

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https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.t001

3. Research organization

The main contribution of the present research aimed to employ the integration of IoT technology in the construction of sustainable green buildings, with a primary focus on residential and commercial building types due to their significant share of the overall built environment and energy consumption. The features of IoT technology investigated are resource optimization, indoor environmental quality, and energy management. Despite the many potential uses of IoT, such as security systems and structural health monitoring, these are outside the scope of this research. Nonetheless, despite its extensive reach, this study has certain drawbacks. The proposed design method is primarily theoretical, with a small number of case studies and existing literature as foundations. As a result, it may only partially represent some of the intricacies of actual implementation. Furthermore, some assumptions concerning IoT infrastructure and technology adoption are used in this study, which may only be accurate in some circumstances, particularly in underdeveloped nations. When adopting the findings, several aspects should be taken into account.

3.1. Green building space design models and IoT

Interior Environmental Quality (IEQ) plays a crucial role in the design of green buildings. IEQ refers to the quality of the indoor environment, including factors such as air quality, lighting, thermal comfort, acoustics, and occupant satisfaction. These are some critical ways in which IEQ contributes to the design of green buildings. (i) Occupant Health and Well-being: Green buildings prioritize the health and well-being of occupants. IEQ factors such as good indoor air quality, ample natural lighting, comfortable temperatures, and low noise and pollutants help create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. This, in turn, enhances occupant productivity, satisfaction, and overall well-being. CO2 Monitoring : IoT sensors measure indoor CO2. Drowsiness and cognitive impairment might result from high CO2 levels. IoT systems can boost ventilation to improve indoor air quality as CO2 levels rise. (ii) Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): Green buildings focus on maintaining high indoor air quality. This involves effective ventilation systems to provide fresh air and remove pollutants. Strategies such as air filtration, use of low-emitting materials, and proper maintenance practices minimize the presence of allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other indoor pollutants, ensuring healthier air for occupants.

Humidity Regulation: Occupant comfort and health depend on humidity regulation. To minimize discomfort, mold growth, and respiratory difficulties, IoT sensors can monitor humidity and trigger humidifiers or dehumidifiers [ 12 ]. (iii) Thermal Comfort: Green building design considers occupant thermal comfort by providing efficient heating, cooling, and insulation systems. Well-insulated buildings, proper temperature control, and individual occupant controls help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year. IoT sensors monitor home temperatures and modify HVAC systems. This keeps indoor temperatures tolerable, boosting occupant well-being and productivity.

This reduces energy consumption and enhances occupant satisfaction. (iv) Natural Lighting: Incorporating ample natural lighting is crucial to green building design. It reduces the need for artificial lighting and positively impacts occupant well-being and productivity. Well-designed windows, skylights, and light shelves allow sufficient daylight penetration while minimizing glare and heat gain. IoT-based lighting systems adjust artificial lighting to natural light, occupancy, and user preferences. This saves energy and makes indoor spaces bright and comfortable.

(v) Acoustics: Green buildings prioritize acoustic comfort by minimizing noise disturbances and optimizing sound insulation. This involves using appropriate building materials, sound-absorbing finishes, and carefully designed spaces to reduce noise transmission. Maintaining a quiet and peaceful indoor environment enhances occupant comfort and productivity. (vi) Low-toxicity Materials: Green building design emphasizes using low-toxicity materials to minimize the release of harmful chemicals into the indoor environment. Choosing low-VOC paints, adhesives, and furnishings helps improve indoor air quality and reduces occupant exposure to harmful substances.

(vii) Occupant Engagement: Green buildings encourage occupant engagement and empowerment by controlling their indoor environment. Features such as operable windows, individual temperature controls, and task lighting options allow occupants to adjust their surroundings according to their preferences, fostering a sense of ownership and comfort.

Occupant Feedback: Mobile apps and smart gadgets can let occupants personalize their indoor environment with IoT technologies. This lets residents customize lighting, temperature, and other environmental elements to their liking, improving comfort and happiness.

Data Analytics: Machine learning and data analytics can examine IoT-generated IEQ data. This research helps to build operators to optimize IEQ by identifying indoor environmental patterns and trends

Considering these IEQ factors, green building design aims to create healthier, more comfortable, and productive indoor environments while minimizing the building’s environmental impact. Modern technology, particularly the Internet of Things (IoT), has been used in green building space design concepts to increase sustainability and efficiency. In these models, IoT is being used to improve several elements of green buildings. Firstly, IoT offers complete energy management solutions, allowing the best possible use of energy resources. Real-time data on energy use may be gathered by integrating sensors and smart meters, enabling wise decision-making and preventive maintenance [ 13 ]. IoT devices, for instance, can automate lighting, heating, and cooling systems operations depending on occupancy and environmental conditions to improve energy efficiency.

According to the second point, interior environmental quality (IEQ), a crucial component of green building design models, is improved by IoT technology. IoT devices can maintain proper IEQ by monitoring temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and light intensity. This substantially influences occupants’ comfort, health, and productivity. In green buildings, IoT also makes water management more effortless. Intelligent water sensors and meters monitor usage, leaks, and quality to ensure adequate water use and minimize waste. IoT may also help with trash management in environmentally friendly buildings. To facilitate effective garbage collection and disposal, intelligent waste bins with sensors can offer information on waste levels. Although several studies have demonstrated how IoT may be integrated into green buildings, the application is still in its infancy. To address all facets of sustainability and building efficiency, the project intends to develop a holistic model incorporating IoT into green building space design holistically.

3.1.1. A comparative analysis of the current publications on this subject.

Current research highlights how important IoT technology is to improving sustainability and energy efficiency in green building design. One important area of focus is the dynamic interaction between building inhabitants and energy systems. Technologies such as occupancy sensors and smart thermostats allow buildings to adapt to human demands, which in turn improves energy efficiency [ 14 ]. According to Lyu et al. [ 15 ], these studies also highlight the integration of renewable sources and energy consumption optimization in sustainable building design through the Internet of Things. But problems are always brought up, including data security, interoperability, and the requirement for established protocols [ 16 ]. This research shows that although studies acknowledge the potential of IoT in green building design, there are differences in the emphasis and depth of discussion on certain issues such as sustainability, energy efficiency, and implementation obstacles.

4. Methodology

4.1. research design.

This study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative research procedures, because it gives a more holistic view and allows for more excellent knowledge of the issue under consideration [ 17 ]. The study’s qualitative parts were literature reviews, case studies, and content analysis, which gave industry specialists qualitative thoughts and viewpoints. Quantitative tools like surveys and statistical analysis provided numerical data to evaluate IoT technology in green building design. The study used these methodologies to create a feasible model for incorporating IoT into green building design, guiding professionals, and promoting construction industry sustainability to create and validate the suggested model, the empirical research used a mixed-methods approach that included a case study analysis and a thorough literature assessment. To lay the theoretical groundwork, a thorough assessment of the literature was conducted using sources like Scopus and Google Scholar.

Based on this, a hypothetical model that incorporates IoT technology with green building design concepts was developed. The following step involved conducting five case studies across several nations, including the USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, and Germany. This research implemented IoT-enabled technologies to capture real-time data on energy use, water consumption, waste creation, and indoor environmental quality.

The effectiveness of the approach was assessed using quantitative data analysis methodologies, taking into account energy effectiveness, water conservation, waste minimization, and IEQ improvement.

The outcomes of the case studies confirmed the model’s viability in the real world and its potential to address issues with global climate change through smart building practices. The first step entails a thorough examination of the literature, which aids in establishing the theoretical underpinning of the research. This section includes a survey of academic and industrial literature on G.B.s, IoT, and the incorporation of IoT in G.B. design.

Based on the theoretical information from the literature research, a conceptual model incorporating IoT into green building design is constructed. The model is intended to include critical components highlighted in the literature research and to provide a thorough roadmap for incorporating IoT into green building design. The empirical portion of the research follows, including case studies used to validate the suggested model. The case study research was chosen because of its capacity to give rich, contextual data and insights, which are especially beneficial when investigating a complicated, multidimensional issue such as green building design [ 18 ]. Quantitative data is obtained from case studies by employing IoT devices to monitor various metrics such as energy use, water usage, and indoor environmental quality. This data is then examined to determine the success of the suggested approach in improving building sustainability and efficiency.

4.2. Data collection and analysis

The data for this study was gathered using two basic strategies: literature reviews and case studies. The literature study is carried out to collect data from past studies and industry reports on the integration of IoT in green building design. Electronic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar are employed to find relevant material. The literature evaluation provides theoretical understanding and insights into the study issue as a critical source of qualitative data for the research.

4.2.1. Case studies.

Case studies give factual and quantitative data for the study. Buildings that use IoT technology are chosen as case studies. Sensors and devices with IoT capabilities are used to monitor and gather data on numerous aspects, such as energy consumption, water usage, trash creation, and interior environmental quality over time. Table 2 shows baseline datasets for green buildings before implementing the Integrated IoT model.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.t002

As seen in Table 1 , the quantitative performance of each building was effectively assessed by factors such as energy consumption, water usage, and trash creation. Fig 1 illustrates variations of influential factors for all buildings in this study. The influence of the IoT-integrated green building design model on occupant comfort and well-being may be seen in the interior environmental quality, which is measured using metrics such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, and CO 2 levels.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.g001

4.2.2 Data analysis.

Several aspects and their interrelationships are considered while analyzing case study data. Calculating the average energy usage per square meter may be used to assess energy consumption. This is accomplished by dividing total energy use by building size. Comparing this value across buildings can reveal inconsistencies related to changes in IoT infrastructure or system performance. Another critical element to consider is water usage. Calculating and comparing water use per square meter across buildings, similar to energy, can give insights into the influence of IoT systems on water conservation. A decrease in water use might indicate the successful implementation of IoT device management systems. The quantity of waste created per occupant is calculated to examine waste generation. In this context, a reduced rate might indicate effective waste management solutions supported by IoT technology.

Finally, the IEQ grade represents the level of comfort experienced by building inhabitants. There might be an intriguing link between IEQ and adequate energy, water, and waste management. Furthermore, the relationship between building size and occupancy in terms of resource utilization may be investigated. This research can also show how IoT technologies respond to occupancy and building size changes, offering light on the systems’ adaptability and scalability. In Fig 2 , a graphical illustration of buildings was depicted.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.g002

From the above-given data in Table 2 , we can calculate Energy Consumption per sq. m Water Usage per sq. m., and Waste Generation per occupant:

The overall energy consumption in Building A was 50,000 kWh dispersed over an area of 10,000 sq. m., resulting in an energy consumption rate of 5.0 kWh per sq. m. Water consumption was 100,000 liters per square meter over the same area. With 200 passengers, the total waste output of 500 kg equals 2.5 kilograms per person. Similar computations can be performed for various structures. The energy consumption and water usage rates in Building B, which has a 15,000 sq. m. area and 300 inhabitants, are the same as in Building A, 5.0 kWh per sq. m. and 10.0 liters per sq. m., respectively. At the same time, waste generation per occupant is still 2.5 kg. Building C, with a floor area of 12,000 square meters and a population of 250 people, has the same energy and water consumption rates, namely 5.0 kWh per square meter and 10.0 liters per square meter. The waste generation per passenger, however, is lower at 2.4 kg. Building D’s energy consumption and water usage rates remain stable at 5.0 kWh per square meter and 10.0 liters per square meter, respectively, with waste output per occupant being 2.5 kg. Finally, with a 14,000 sq. m. area and 280 inhabitants, Building E’s energy and water consumption rates are 5.0 kWh per sq. m. and 10.0 liters per sq. m., respectively. At the same time, waste output per occupant is 2.5 kg, echoing the trends found in the previous buildings.

Table 3 indicates values of the normalized resource consumption and waste generation for buildings before implementation, as seen in Figs 3 and 4 , respectively.

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https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.g004

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.t003

5. Development of an integrated iot and green building design model

5.1. framework development.

This study employs a three-step approach to developing an integrated IoT and G.B. design model. To begin, green building design concepts must be defined. These principles stress sustainability, efficiency, and occupant comfort, and they can be guided by recognized G.B. standards like LEED(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building et al. Method), or Green Star [ 19 ]. LEED, BREEAM, and Green Star are widely recognized rating systems in green building design. LEED is a rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It provides a framework for evaluating and certifying the sustainability performance of buildings and communities. LEED assesses various aspects of a building, including energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site development. Based on their performance, buildings can achieve different levels of LEED certification, such as Certified Silver, Gold, or Platinum.

Additionally, BREEAM is an assessment method and certification system created by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the United Kingdom. Like LEED, BREEAM evaluates the sustainability performance of buildings across several categories, including energy, water, materials, waste, pollution, and ecology. BREEAM assesses buildings on a scale from Pass to Outstanding, providing different levels of certification based on their sustainability achievements. Moreover, Green Star is an Australian rating system developed by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). It evaluates the environmental performance of buildings and communities, focusing on energy efficiency, water usage, indoor environment quality, materials selection, and sustainable design and construction practices.

Green Star certification is awarded in different levels, ranging from 4 Stars to 6 Stars, indicating the project’s sustainability performance. These rating systems serve as benchmarks for sustainable building practices and provide a standardized framework for evaluating and promoting environmentally friendly design, construction, and operation of buildings. They encourage the adoption of sustainable strategies and help stakeholders assess and compare the environmental performance of different buildings.

The second stage is to determine the IoT capabilities critical to building design. Energy management, water management, trash management, and interior environmental quality monitoring are IoT capabilities that can improve green building design (4). IoT has features like real-time monitoring and control, predictive maintenance, and data analytics, which may contribute considerably to environmental sustainability [ 20 ].

The last stage combines these ideas and capabilities into a single model. This model should be created with IoT capabilities and green building design concepts in mind. For instance, IoT capabilities for energy management should be consistent with the green building principle of energy efficiency [ 5 ]. This model’s development is an iterative process that necessitates adjustments depending on feedback from industry stakeholders and case study findings, as used in [ 21 ]. The collected data were subjected to analysis using IBM SPSS v23.0 software. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and reliability tests were performed to examine the data. Subsequently, the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach was employed to test the hypotheses and research model.

Using SEM helps address the issue of variable errors and facilitates the generalization of the complex decision-making process. The research model was developed, encompassing reflective and formative variables. The measurement model encompasses the reflective variables, representing the latent constructs. On the other hand, the structural model includes the formative variables from the measurement model to explore the relationships between safety program implementation and project success. Incorporating IoT into G.B. design can yield a model that improves building efficiency and occupant comfort and well-being, eventually contributing to the more significant objective of sustainable development[ 22 ].

5.2. Application and usability of the model

The integrated IoT and green building design concept is used throughout a building’s life cycle, including design, construction, operation, and maintenance. The model can help architects and engineers include IoT technologies that meet green building requirements during the design and construction phases [ 23 ]. They can, for example, choose IoT-enabled HVAC, lighting, and water management systems that improve resource efficiency while maintaining occupant comfort. Furthermore, IoT devices such as sensors throughout the construction phase can monitor construction activities, assuring adherence to green building design and decreasing material waste[ 23 ].

The model’s value endures during the operation and maintenance period. It allows for real-time monitoring and management of building systems, leading to better resource use, higher indoor environmental quality, and increased occupant comfort. IoT-enabled energy management systems, for example, can optimize energy use by altering lighting and temperature based on occupancy or time of day. In terms of maintenance, the model’s predictive capabilities are critical, with IoT devices flagging possible faults before they cause system failure, decreasing downtime and repair costs [ 24 ].

Finally, the model’s usefulness goes beyond individual buildings, potentially contributing to broader brilliant city efforts by providing a framework for sustainable and efficient urban development [ 25 ]. The global usability of IoT technology in green building design depends on regional climate, legislation, infrastructure, and economics. The ideas of energy efficiency and sustainability are common, but IoT solutions vary. Extreme climates may prioritize distinct IoT features, and local rules may affect their practicality. Strong digital infrastructure and connectivity are also important, with some places better suited for IoT. Economic factors and finance affect integration speed [ 8 ]. Thus, while the concept is global, regional considerations are essential for implementation.

5.3 Case study analysis

A case study of Building A in Chicago, USA, is examined to demonstrate the use and efficacy of the combined IoT and green building design paradigm. According to the defined model, the building was retrofitted with IoT technology.

5.3.1 Pre-implementation analysis.

Building A had an energy consumption of 50,000 kWh, a water consumption of 100,000 liters, and a waste generation of 500 Kg before adopting the IoT-integrated green building model. Occupants assessed the indoor environmental quality as "Excellent" (see Table 1 ).

5.3.2 Model Implementation.

Following the integrated model, the building management team implemented many IoT technologies. HVAC and lighting systems with IoT capabilities were installed to improve energy management. Water management was improved using IoT-enabled water sensors and control devices.–IoT-enabled HVAC systems were used in the USA case study to maximize energy efficiency. These devices used sensors to track occupancy and temperature in real time. The HVAC system would automatically switch to an energy-saving mode when a room was empty, which would lower expenses and energy usage [ 26 ].

UK Case Study : IoT-Based Lighting Systems . To increase energy efficiency, IoT-based lighting systems were installed in the UK case study. Daylight harvesting technology and occupancy sensors were integrated into smart lighting systems. Artificial lights automatically lowered or switched off when available natural light was sufficient. Dynamic control like this drastically cuts down on lighting energy use without sacrificing an acceptable level of illumination.

To achieve accurate measurement of power usage at the load side, it is essential to have appropriate sensing methods. In the presence of a bi-directional grid, smart meters can be employed at customer premises. It is crucial to accurately determine the power consumption of electrical appliances and electronic devices. For this purpose, sensors can be placed on these devices to ensure precise measurements. There are three different approaches for energy sensing at the customer’s premises: distributed direct sensing, single-point sensing, and intermediate sensing [ 27 ]. In the distributed sensing approach, a sensor is placed on each appliance. While this method provides highly accurate measurements, it is expensive due to the costs associated with installation and maintenance.

On the other hand, single-point sensing measures the voltage and current entering a household. Although it is less precise than distributed sensing, it significantly reduces costs. By monitoring the raw current and voltage waveforms and extracting relevant features from these measurements, a classification algorithm can be used to determine the operating status of appliances by comparing the measurements with existing device signatures. Intermediate sensing falls between direct and single-point sensing.

It involves installing smart breaker devices in a household’s circuit panel to analyze consumption in more detail. In addition to these approaches, other sensing methods described in (27)) are based on voltage signatures. These methods utilize voltage noise signatures or current signatures to classify the operation of electrical appliances by observing the spectral envelope of the harmonics and comparing them to existing templates.

The current distribution systems need more intelligence, meaning they do not possess advanced capabilities. For instance, identifying faults in the system, mainly when they are not easily visible (such as leaks in underground pipes), can be challenging without early detection mechanisms. Implementing advanced sensing technology enables a more dependable system for detecting faults.

Australian Case Study : Water Sensors and Control Devices . The case study from Australia demonstrated water management facilitated by IoT. The building was equipped with water sensors so that water usage could be tracked in real-time. Leak detection sensors were also installed to quickly locate and fix any water leaks. Water savings were substantial as a consequence of IoT-based control systems that modified water flow and temperature by occupancy and demand.

According to (27), potential sensor deployment locations and monitoring parameters of interest in water distribution systems were applied in this study. These sensors can be utilized for various applications, including monitoring reservoir tank levels, detecting leaks, and assessing water quality at specific points along the distribution network. In Metje et al.’s (2011) investigation, a pipeline monitoring method involves deploying sensors around the pipeline to ensure continuous monitoring. Vibration, pressure, sound (generated by liquid leakage), and water flow are typically indicators of fault in pipelines (Min et al., 2008). The water distribution system is depicted in Fig 5 . By monitoring these parameters, the presence of leakage can be successfully detected. In Stoianov et al.’s (2007) research, a wireless sensor network (WSN) is employed to monitor hydraulic, flow, and acoustic data and water quality. Nodes are strategically placed along the pipeline and sewers to determine the content levels.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.g005

Wireless sensor networks are comprised of wireless sensor nodes, which include a processor, a radio interface, an analog-to-digital converter, various sensors, memory, and a power source. The overall structure of a wireless sensor node is depicted in Fig 6 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.g006

Singapore Case Study on IoT-Based Water Quality Assurance . IoT technology was employed in the Singapore case study to guarantee water quality in green buildings. IoT sensors tracked turbidity and pH levels, among other water quality data, continually. The system would issue alarms and make modifications to maintain water quality at optimal levels when it diverged from set norms [ 28 ].

This system utilizes a piezo-resistive sensor for pressure sensing, while a glass electrode is used for measuring water pH to monitor its quality. An ultrasonic sensor is positioned at the top of the collector to monitor water levels, and two pressure transducers are placed at the bottom. Vibration data is collected using dual-axis accelerometers.

The gathered data is then subjected to analysis to detect leaks. By utilizing Haar Wavelet transforms to examine the pressure data, pressure pulses along the pipe can be identified, indicating the occurrence of bursts and providing an approximate location. Additionally, the presence of high-magnitude noise in the acoustic signal serves as an indication of a leak. Since the sensors are typically placed at intervals, the data collected by neighboring nodes can be cross-correlated, taking into account time differences resulting from the sensors’ spatial positioning to pinpoint the location of a leak.

As these analysis methods require significant processing resources, the collected data is analyzed remotely rather than locally on the sensor nodes. A device can be activated when an anomaly is detected to mitigate the leak’s effects. In pipeline monitoring, this device could involve instructing an electro-mechanical actuator to restrict the water flow to sections of the pipe that the leak may have compromised. Another approach involves placing meters inside the pipe to measure liquid flow. Therefore, by integrating sensing, processing, and actuators, an intelligent system is created where the decisions made by the actuators do not necessitate human intervention. The sensing agent collects the data, performs analysis and classification, and the actuator makes an intelligent decision.

5.3.3 Post-Implementation analysis.

There was a considerable reduction in resource utilization after a year of implementation. The energy usage was reduced to 40,000 kWh, a 20% decrease. Water consumption has also lowered by 15% to 85,000 liters. Waste generation has been reduced by 10% to 450 Kg. Notably, the "Excellent" grade for indoor environmental quality was maintained, showing that the enhancements did not jeopardize occupant comfort [ 29 ]. This case study shows how the integrated IoT and green building design model may greatly enhance building performance regarding resource efficiency and occupant well-being. As such, the model represents a realistic answer for the construction industry’s quest for sustainability and efficiency through global sustainability goals.

Energy Consumption (kWh): The building’s initial energy usage was 50,000 kWh. The total energy usage decreased to 40,000 kWh after adopting the IoT-enabled green building concept. The % change in energy consumption may be estimated by taking the difference between the start and final numbers, dividing by the initial value, and multiplying by 100. Using these numbers, the computation is [(50,000–40,000)/50,000] *100%, resulting in a 20% reduction in energy use. An overview of accumulated datasets is presented in Table 4 .

Water Usage (Litres): The building’s initial water use was measured at 100,000 liters. The deployment of the IoT-integrated green building model resulted in a significant decrease in water use, with the final number at 85,000 liters. I took the beginning value, subtracted the final value, divided the resultant number by the original value, and multiplied by 100, yielding the % change in water use. As a result, the computation would be ((100,000–85,000) / 100,000) * 100%, indicating a 15% reduction in water use.

Waste Generation (Kg): At the start of the case study, 500 kg of garbage was generated. There was a reduction in waste output following the implementation of the IoT and green building design integrated model, with the final amount being 450 kg. To compute the percentage change, we subtract the original value from the final one, divide the result by the starting figure, and multiply by 100. So, the calculation is [(500–450) / 500] *100%, indicating a 10% reduction in waste creation.

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6. Results and discussion

6.1 interpretation of results.

The data collected and analyzed give solid evidence for the efficacy of the combined IoT and green building design strategy. Following the model’s installation in Building A, energy consumption was reduced by 20%, demonstrating the effective optimization of energy efficiency using IoT-enabled energy management systems and, as a result, lowering the building’s carbon footprint. Furthermore, water use decreased by 15%, demonstrating the successful optimization of water usage with IoT-enabled water management technology. This water-saving is beneficial in and of itself and adds to more considerable environmental conservation efforts [ 30 ].

Similarly, the model resulted in a 10% reduction in waste production, implying that IoT-enabled waste management systems effectively improved waste monitoring and management, consistent with the model’s goal of reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability [ 31 ]. Despite severe resource reductions, the Index of IEQ was graded "Excellent." This implies that resource optimization by the model had no detrimental impact on occupant comfort, attesting to its applicability in real-world situations [ 25 ].

The case studies carried out in a variety of countries, such as the USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, and Germany, illuminated the concrete advantages of incorporating IoT technology into designs for green buildings. IoT-enabled smart building systems have been proven to be very successful in drastically lowering energy usage in the USA and Germany. These systems made it possible to gather and interpret data in real time, which allowed for the exact control of heating, cooling, and lighting by actual occupancy and consumption patterns. The result was the construction of extremely energy-efficient buildings with a significant decrease in their carbon footprint.

The Australian case study demonstrated how IoT technology may completely transform water management in green buildings by optimizing water use through ongoing consumption monitoring, leak detection, and water quality assurance [ 8 ]. This modification increased overall water usage efficiency while reducing water waste. Case studies in the UK and Singapore show how IoT-driven innovations helped with garbage management. Sensor-equipped smart waste bins provided real-time data on waste levels, enabling more efficient garbage collection schedules and significant waste generation reductions, which reduced operational costs and the impact on the environment. Furthermore, as the case studies [ 12 ] demonstrate, the incorporation of smart sensors and devices for temperature, lighting, and air quality controls greatly improved the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) within the buildings. Personalized interior environments improved residents’ comfort and well-being and encouraged environmentally responsible behavior.

Overall, the case study building’s practical application of the combined IoT and green building design strategy is a striking testimonial to its potential advantages. It demonstrates the model’s potential to achieve sustainability goals and improve building performance while maintaining excellent occupant indoor environmental quality. Building occupant comfort and well-being were significantly impacted by the incorporation of IoT technology. Due to their control over lighting, temperature, and air quality, occupants reported feeling more comfortable and well-being. Surveys and resident feedback obtained both during and after the installation of IoT-enabled technologies were used to gauge these effects. Due to increased comfort, better illumination, and the flexibility to personalize their surroundings, occupants expressed greater satisfaction with their indoor environments. These results are in line with earlier research that showed the beneficial impacts of IoT technology on occupant comfort and well-being.

6.2 Implications for green building and IoT industry

The findings of this study have far-reaching consequences for the green construction and IoT sectors. The findings highlight the potential for incorporating IoT into green building design to significantly improve building performance regarding energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, and indoor environmental quality. One of the most important aspects of environmental preservation is the incorporation of IoT technology. Through the analysis of real-time occupancy and environmental data, IoT-enabled smart building systems improve energy efficiency, leading to fewer carbon emissions and energy consumption. Another advantage is that IoT-based devices can conserve water by monitoring and optimizing water use and identifying leaks. This lessens the impact of water waste on the environment.

Real-time monitoring made possible by IoT sensors also revolutionizes waste management by enabling effective waste collection schedules and lower operating expenses. Additionally, by controlling lighting, humidity, temperature, and air quality, IoT improves interior environmental quality and eventually increases occupant comfort and well-being. Finally, by using IoT sensors for predictive maintenance, building systems can last longer, require fewer resource-intensive replacements, and produce less waste. The model’s proven real-world performance offers the green construction sector a viable and effective way of reaching sustainability goals. This integrated strategy encourages transitioning from traditional, resource-intensive building procedures to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach. In terms of the IoT sector, the study emphasizes the importance of IoT in the green construction industry and its potential contribution to sustainable urban development.

According to the study, green building design represents a promising market for IoT developers and service providers since their solutions may address actual, real-world difficulties. Unexpected results could include the necessity to successfully balance environmental trade-offs, positive occupant behavior changes, and synergistic benefits The research also emphasizes the need for IoT solutions, especially customized to green building requirements, such as energy-efficient devices and practical data processing tools. Furthermore, incorporating IoT into green building design has far-reaching consequences for legislators, urban planners, and environmental activists. The method supports a transition to smart, sustainable cities by demonstrating the potential of advanced technology in tackling significant environmental concerns and encouraging sustainable living [ 22 ].

7. Conclusion

This study draws numerous vital findings concerning the feasibility of implementing IoT technology into green building design. Resource optimization is one of the most successful outcomes. The case study revealed that the IoT-enabled green building concept significantly boosted resource efficiency. This was proved by a 20% drop in energy usage, a 15% decrease in water consumption, and a 10% decrease in trash generation. This demonstrates IoT technology’s importance in reaching resource efficiency goals in green buildings. The quality of the building’s internal atmosphere remained maintained even with reduced resource consumption. This shows that using IoT technology to balance resource efficiency and occupant comfort in green buildings is possible. Aside from maintaining a high-quality indoor atmosphere, the model’s practical application in a real-world setting indicates its scalability.

This implies that the approach may be applied in more buildings or on a city-wide scale, adding to the sustainability of urban growth. The results have consequences for the industry as well. They emphasize a prospective market for IoT technology in the green building sector and the potential for green building practices to boost construction sustainability. Thus, incorporating IoT technology into green building design has enormous potential for increasing building efficiency, achieving environmental sustainability goals, and stimulating the creation of intelligent, sustainable cities.

The research has practical implications in two main areas. Additionally, it thoroughly examines the obstacles faced in implementing green building (G.B.) projects in Turkey, providing a comprehensive understanding of these barriers. Moreover, it clarifies the perspectives of public agency representatives and professionals working in private entities regarding the significance of these barriers. This more profound understanding of the barriers can help policymakers and construction practitioners develop well-informed strategies to promote green practices in China and other developing countries with similar socio-economic conditions. Furthermore, the in-depth analysis of these barriers can benefit foreign investors interested in investing in G.B. projects in China. By better understanding the G.B. industry in China, they can make more realistic investment decisions.

However, it is essential to note that the study has limitations. There were obstacles and difficulties in integrating IoT technology into the design of green buildings. A prominent obstacle was the upfront expenses associated with setting up IoT infrastructure and installing devices, which were frequently viewed as a substantial financial commitment. However, the long-term savings in energy consumption, upkeep, and operational efficiency that IoT devices provided helped to offset this cost.

Concerns about data security and privacy were also very important because IoT devices required the gathering and sharing of sensitive data. Strong security procedures and encryption techniques were put in place to protect data integrity and privacy to allay these worries. The requirement for certain knowledge and abilities to successfully manage and run IoT-enabled technologies presented another difficulty. Training was necessary for building management employees to handle and comprehend the data produced by IoT devices.

In addition, there were problems with compatibility when combining IoT solutions with pre-existing building systems. Thorough preparation and compatibility evaluations were required to guarantee a smooth integration Notwithstanding these difficulties, IoT technology is a potential strategy for sustainable building design because its overall advantages, like improved occupant comfort and energy efficiency, exceeded the early drawbacks.

Although more significant than the recommended value for proper factor analysis, the sample size used in the research is still relatively small. Increasing the sample size in future studies could yield more reliable results. Additionally, future research can focus on expanding the participant demographics to ensure a more balanced distribution. While this study primarily focused on barriers to G.B. projects, future investigations could explore the barriers and the driving factors in different countries.

Furthermore, influential factors on IEQ will be analyzed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA). Ultimately, this index would be predicted by various Machine Learning (ML) models (i.e., Evolutionary Polynomial Regression [EPR], Deep Learning [DL], Random Forest [R.F.], Support Vector Machine [SVM]) through the process of G.B. design by IoT.

7.1 Future studies

Future research studies could improve the organization and coherence of the transition from outlining the limitations of the study to suggesting future research directions. Based on our study’s findings, numerous significant future research objectives and areas for development in green building design use IoT technology. First, sophisticated IoT applications, especially for optimizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, can improve energy efficiency. Understanding how IoT affects occupant behavior and well-being, especially in personalized IoT-driven settings, can inform human-centric design

To secure building systems and tenant data, IoT data collection and processing must be thoroughly investigated for cybersecurity and privacy issues. Further research is needed to standardize and interoperate IoT devices and systems for scalability and acceptance in green building design.

A detailed cost-benefit analysis will help stakeholders decide on the financial and long-term benefits of IoT integration in green buildings. Governments and regulators can promote sustainability by studying how policies and regulations affect IoT integration.

Finally, architectural, design, and building management professionals require specific education and training to use IoT’s promise in green building design. These programs can equip practitioners for the changing landscape of IoT technologies in sustainability and environmental preservation. IoT technology in green building design is relevant globally but requires regional and local considerations. Sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental preservation are universal values, but obstacles and priorities vary. Climate, legal frameworks, resource availability, cultural factors, economic factors, and infrastructure readiness all affect IoT-enabled green building solutions. Extreme climates may optimize HVAC, while water scarcity zones may use IoT to manage water. Local building codes must be followed, and economic concerns may affect IoT implementations.

Supporting information

S1 dataset..

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298982.s001

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