Introduction Section in Scientific Research

What Is the Introduction?

The introduction is the opening section of a scientific manuscript that presents the research topic, explains the background information, highlights the scientific problem or knowledge gap, and states the purpose of the study.

The introduction guides the reader from general information about the topic toward the specific research question or hypothesis. It helps readers understand:

• Why the study is important
• What is already known
• What is still unknown
• Why the current study was conducted

The introduction is considered one of the most important sections because it creates the first scientific impression on editors, reviewers, and readers.

What Must the Introduction Contain?

A professional introduction usually contains:

1. General background about the topic.
2. Definition of the disease/problem/topic.
3. Epidemiology or prevalence if relevant.
4. Clinical or scientific importance of the topic.
5. Brief overview of current evidence.
6. What is already known in the literature.
7. Limitations or gaps in previous studies.
8. The research problem.
9. The rationale of the study.