The introduction is where you sketch out the background of your study, including why you have investigated the question that you have and how it relates to earlier research that has been done in the field. It may help to think of an introduction as a telescoping focus, where you begin with the broader context and gradually narrow to the specific problem addressed by the report. A typical (and very useful) construction of an introduction proceeds as follows:
- Open with two or three sentences placing your study subject in context.
- Follow with a description of the problem and its history, including previous research.
- Describe how your work addresses a gap in existing knowledge or ability (here's where you'll state why you've undertaken this study).
- State what information your article will address.
