Let’s start at the beginning. You have a dissertation to write and hopefully by this point you have chosen your subject, have a working title and have resourced your reference material. You should also have a plan! From the outset this probably seemed like a mammoth task and to be fair it is. It’s the one thing that you have been anticipating and the moment has arrived. It seems like the end is a million miles away as you are only just at your introduction but you will get there and the feeling at the end will be one of euphoria no doubt.
How will you Introduce your Dissertation?
It will help to look at other dissertations that have been written and look at how they are introduced. It may be that your tutor has examples that they can share with you to assist you with the structure or you could use online sources like this dissertation introduction example. It will seem much easier to construct and articulate yours once you have looked at a few examples. You won’t be copying or plagiarising anything you are just looking for structure and phrases – your dissertation is going to be on a completely different subject anyway.
Make sure it is the Right Length
A common mistake made is a rambling introduction that wanders off the point. You need to keep it brief and stay focused on the purpose it serves. You have much more opportunity to expand on your subject at future points in your dissertation. You will also need to be mindful that a couple of sentences aren’t going to be a lengthy enough introduction – make sure you find the right balance. Again if you have looked at other dissertation examples you will have a clearer idea on how many words your intro should be.
It’s not a Story
It is important to ensure you don’t write this like you are telling a story. This is a research paper, a formulated demonstration of all that you have studied and learnt. Not an autobiography or a work of fiction so ensure that the writing reflects this. Don’t be anecdotal.
Don’t Leave it until the End to Write
That might seem a strange piece of advice but it is in fact a common mistake. Don’t leave it until the end to write an introduction! Many people do actually run out of time and don’t get this crucial part finished or completed at the standard it deserves. Make sure you write your introduction at the start. This is where you are going to make your first impression so give it time and thought. Having already researched a few you should be in a good position to put together a really strong introduction that impresses your examiner and more importantly engages them.