Intro to research papers is always a tough one because it requires both writing skills and research knowledge. However, there are some tips that can help you with this task. To begin with, know how to write a good introduction for the research papers. If composing and editing is not your strong point, it makes sense to seek professional assistance.

Don’t worry about sources. No matter how much you read and research, you will not be able to source something. An example will serve to illustrate a specific topic and allow you to understand the paper better. Make sure the example agrees with the topic of your research paper as well. For instance, if the paper is on hunger in Africa, it is obvious that the topic will be about hunger & poverty, and not a business or economics. Use a simple example when needed.

Long sentences are annoying

Try to keep your sentences to four sentences minimum. Sentences that go beyond four words are considered extremely long. An example is:

“In recent years, the government has been involved in a series of controversial cases regarding the constitutionality of its borrowing powers, the executive branch’s power over the departments of defense and treasury, and the legislative branch’s oversight of agencies of foreign policy.”

This sentence is quite clear, but it does not say anything regarding the exact positions of the subjects.

Explain your thesis

The first few sentences of your introduction should clearly indicate what your thesis statement is. The thesis is, what is the main focus of your research paper. If you cannot clearly state your thesis in the introductory paragraphs, your readers will have to work hard to figure out what it is. If possible, use references to support the main points of your thesis in the conclusion of each of your paragraphs.

Make sure you include a list of references and a link to your thesis statement in the footer. Also include a table of contents so your readers can easily find the section they want to read. Do not forget to include a bibliography at the end of each of your paragraphs. A mind map or worksheet to track your research sources and notes is also an ideal addition to your paper.

Be consistent

In all of your writing, make sure to be consistent in your use of both words and sentences. Each sentence should be related to your thesis statement. Do not confuse the thesis statement with the main topic of your paper. For example, if your paper is on the relationship between immigration and poverty, do not write sentences such as “The increase in the number of immigrants from the Western countries is responsible for the increase in the poverty rate among native-born persons.”