Chapter 1: Introduction

The Introduction addresses the question: 'What is the problem?'

• Include enough background information so that the problem can be placed in the proper context.
• Explore the nature and scope of the problem.
• State the objectives of the study. The objectives should be clear enough for readers to readily identify.
• Briefly discuss the significance of your research (Why is your research of scholarly import?).
• The methodology should be summarized, but not described in detail.
• State the limitations of your research.
• Define the scope (self-imposed boundaries)-Why and how you narrowed your study.
• State the assumptions on which you based your research. This enhances the credence of your research.
• Define key terms in order to clarify vague or context-specific terms used throughout your thesis.
• Provide a summary of the layout of how the thesis is organized (a description of what each chapter entails).