Writing an introduction for a research paper in APA style is an essential part of the overall paper. The introduction typically aims to gain the reader’s interest and provide background information related to the research topic. Here are the key elements to include in an APA style paper introduction and tips for writing it effectively.
The Hook. The first sentence, or hook, aims to grab the reader’s attention. You can use a relevant quote, statistic, anecdote, hypothetical situation, or rhetorical question. Keep it brief and make sure it connects logically to the rest of the introduction. For example, for a paper on workplace distractions, the hook could state “On average, employees lose 2 hours per day to distractions at work according to a recent study by XYZ Consulting.”
Background Information. Provide 2-3 brief paragraphs that give context and background for the research topic. Explain the scope and importance of the issue. Define key terms relevant to understanding the topic. Outline the current state of research and thinking on the subject to demonstrate a need for further investigation. End this section by stating your specific purpose and research questions or hypotheses. For the workplace distractions paper, you could discuss how technologies and an always-on culture contribute to increased distractions, the costs to businesses, and lack of research on effective policies.
Thesis Statement. Clearly articulate the central argument or purpose of the paper in one concise sentence, usually at the end of the introductory paragraph. For a non-experimental research paper, the thesis should state the variable(s) that will be examined and the relationship(s) that will be investigated. Avoid vague or overly broad topics. With the workplace distractions paper, a thesis could be “This study examines the relationship between self-imposed work distractions from smartphones and laptops and employee productivity and morale.”
Citation of Previous Research. Mention the seminal or most relevant previous research on this topic to establish context and demonstrate the need for further study. Cite 1-3 respected sources, such as peer-reviewed articles or books, in-text citations in the introduction. Their key findings or conclusions are briefly summarized in your own words to support the thesis statement and research question(s). For the paper on workplace distractions, you could reference a 2015 study that found a correlation between phone and laptop use during meetings and lower rates of recall and decision-making.
Remaining Introduction Tips:
Paragraphs should be 3-5 sentences and logically flow from general to specific.
Avoid lengthy background info – keep the focus narrow and introduction relatively short.
Use past tense verbs for established facts and present tense for current theories and your research purpose.
Employ a formal, objective tone without personal opinions or value claims.
Check introduction flows seamlessly into the method section in the next paragraph.
Limit self-citation and do not discuss results/conclusions.
Have someone else proofread for clarity, conciseness and readability.
The introduction aims to orient the reader, establish context, and foreground the research questions or hypotheses that will be addressed. With a compelling hook, concise literature review and clear thesis, writers lay the foundation for discussing their methodology and findings. Carefully crafted according to APA style, the introduction primes audience understanding and investment in the paper’s contribution.