How to Write the Introduction and Literature Review Section of a Research Paper
The introduction and literature review to an empirical research study set the stage for the reader. The sections are often considered the most difficult to write. This article provides steps to writing the introduction and literature review sections of an academic research paper.
1 Describe the problem you are researching
Describe the problem you are researching. Use the first few sentences or paragraph to describe the problem, issue or question your research project is focusing on.
2 Begin the literature review
Begin the literature review by describing the current research on your topic. The literature review usually starts general and gradually progresses into published research most related to your specific project's emphasis.
3 Describe the general themes
Describe the general themes in the research related to your topic. Also be sure to note any gaps in the published research, particularly if your project addresses the gaps.
4 Indicate the specific hypotheses or questions
Indicate the specific hypotheses or questions your project is focusing on. The literature review should move from what is currently published and known about the topic to what your project is going to add to the topic.
5 Include your particular project's
Include why your particular project's focus is important and how it differs from previous research on the topic.
6 Revise and rewrite several times
Revise and rewrite several times. This section of the project should take at least as long as the remaining sections of the paper combined. Have other intelligent people proofread the paper, and indicate what sections do not flow well or make sense to them.
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