WRITING INTRODUCTIONS
In scientific article/manuscript writing, the introduction plays a crucial role. It is strategically placed to do more than just introduce your manuscript. It is expected to fulfil the following:
- To allow the reader to understand your thought process.
- To assert the need to know more about your selected theme/subject.
- To provide a brief overview of the current level of evidence available in literature regarding your subject/theme.
- To provide justifications for your selection of subtopics or themes.
- To lead the reader to understand your choice of research theme and subthemes.
- The novelty, if any, in your choice of research theme, subthemes or approach towards their assessment/analysis.
- To convince your readers of all the above mentioned.
Example:
You observe that A, B, C and D are somehow interlinked and propose to test if A+B+C=D.
You have gone through numerous literature sources and only find that others have tested the relationship of (A to D) and (B to D), but little is known about C or its relationship to A, B and D.
Thus, in your introduction, you are expected to give an overview/summary of the following:
- The current understanding of (A, B, C and D).
- The relationship between (A, B and D) established in the literature.
- The novelty of C and why it has remained less explored this far.
- An overview of your observations regarding the relationship between (A, B, C and D).
- A convincing reason for your assumption/hypothesis that this relationship between (A, B, C and D) may be true.
- Finally, the statement of your formal aim/objective, tying all 4 factors/subthemes (A, B, C and D) together.
The ability to accomplish all these in a manner that is convincing to most readers, especially within a given word limit or restricted space, is a skill that scientific/medical writers could hone over time, with enough practice and exposure.
Seek guidance from your senior colleagues where needed and reach out to others who you feel may be able to help you.
Give each manuscript your best effort, and remember that even the most expert writers are all actively learning.