How to Write a Dissertation Introduction That Examiners Actually Read
The five moves every strong UK dissertation introduction makes - in the order that works.
Your introduction is the first 10% of your word count and 50% of your examiner's first impression. Get it right and they'll read the rest generously.
The five moves
1. Establish the topic and why it matters. 2. Identify the gap or problem in the existing literature. 3. State your research question precisely. 4. Outline your approach. 5. Signpost the chapters that follow.
Write it last
The strongest introductions are written last. You can't introduce an argument you haven't made yet. Draft a placeholder, write the dissertation, then come back and write the real introduction.
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