by Shannon Lausch

Created on: July 18, 2009   Last Updated: July 20, 2009

It's common knowledge your introduction must state your thesis clearly and convincingly. But how do you begin the first few sentences of a research paper?

Your opening sentences should allow you to easily transition to a brief explanation of the problem or question your thesis seeks to solve. It should also grab the reader's attention. How do you accomplish both? The following seven strategies will help you think of possible ways to begin your research paper.

Research Introduction Strategy 1: Quote

Sometimes using a quote can be as hackneyed as beginning your research paper with a dictionary definition. To use a quote effectively, make sure (1) your quote supports or illustrates your topic and (2) you subsequently explain how it connects. Don't tack on a quote at the beginning without explanation.

Research Introduction Strategy 2: Question

Devise a thought-provoking question that will cause readers to stop and think rather than completely disregard it and move on. For inspiration, think of questions you had when you began your research. What inspired you to want to learn more about this topic?

Research Introduction Strategy 3: Statistic

While reading your research, did any of the results surprise you? Would it shock your readers as well? Statistics can be a powerful mechanism for grabbing your readers' attention. Be sure to explain how this statistic connects to your topic. The statistic can even contradict your thesis, so long as you explain how the statistic is flawed.

Research Introduction Strategy 4: Anecdote

People like reading about other people; therefore, brief stories about people is a powerful way to capture a reader's interest. If you're writing a research paper on a historical figure, describe a defining moment in that person's life. For other types of essays, pick a person (whether that be a scientist, a patient, a social worker, or an expert) and briefly describe one of their relevant experiences to your topic that can lead into your thesis.

Keep in mind that since it's a research paper, anecdotes should be short (about 3-4 sentences seems adequate). More importantly, never use an anecdote as stand-alone evidence; it's simply an entertaining method to grab people's interest.

Research Introduction Strategy 5: Contrast

Using a contrast technique typically entails describing a "before" and an "after" scenario or comparing "the way things should be" and "the way things are." For example: "Physical anthropologists considered Piltdown Man as the missing evolutionary link between humans and ape - until it was discovered to be a hoax."

Research Introduction Strategy 6: Staccato

Staccato refers to short bursts of text. Its purpose is to create flashing images in readers' minds or to pique interest with a vague, yet intriguing statement. For example: "Stars. Moons. Comets. Celestial objects have long captured our imaginations..."

Research Introduction Strategy 7: Direct Address

Direct address involves openly referring to the reader. Direct addresses oftentimes begin by asking the reader "Imagine you're _" or "Think about _" or "Consider _." Other times, you'll use the reader as a character in a scenario ("You're walking down the stairs when you realize something is wrong - very wrong").

Of course, this technique is much more common in feature articles than in academic writing (where using "you" can be a huge no-no). In essays or research papers, direct address can still be an effective way to grab attention depending on your professor's guidelines.

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