difference between background and introduction in research paper

Background vs. Introduction

What's the difference.

Background and introduction are two sections commonly found in academic papers, research articles, or essays. The background section provides the reader with relevant information about the topic, including its historical context, previous research, and any existing knowledge gaps. It aims to give the reader a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter before delving into the specific research question or problem. On the other hand, the introduction section serves as a bridge between the background and the main body of the paper. It typically starts with a general statement or anecdote to capture the reader's attention and then narrows down to the specific research question or problem that the paper aims to address. The introduction section also outlines the objectives, significance, and scope of the study, setting the stage for the subsequent analysis and discussion.

Further Detail

Introduction.

The introduction is an essential part of any written work, whether it's an essay, research paper, or article. It serves as the opening section that provides the reader with a glimpse of what to expect from the rest of the content. The introduction aims to grab the reader's attention, provide necessary context, and present the thesis statement or main argument. On the other hand, the background section, which often follows the introduction, delves deeper into the topic, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The purpose of the introduction is to engage the reader and set the stage for the rest of the content. It should be concise, clear, and captivating. The introduction typically begins with a hook, such as a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a surprising statistic. It then transitions into providing background information and context, leading to the thesis statement. The introduction aims to generate interest and curiosity, encouraging the reader to continue reading.

On the other hand, the background section serves a different purpose. While it may also include some contextual information, its primary focus is to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic. The background section often includes historical, theoretical, or factual information that helps the reader understand the subject matter in greater detail. It may explore the origins of the topic, relevant theories or concepts, and any significant events or developments that have shaped its current state.

In terms of content, the introduction is usually more concise and to the point. It presents the main argument or thesis statement, which acts as a roadmap for the rest of the work. The introduction may also outline the main points or arguments that will be discussed in the subsequent sections. It aims to provide a brief overview of the topic without going into extensive detail.

On the other hand, the background section is more extensive and detailed. It provides a broader context for the topic, often including historical, social, or cultural information. The background section may include relevant statistics, research findings, or expert opinions to support the subsequent arguments or analysis. It aims to provide a solid foundation of knowledge for the reader, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The introduction typically follows a specific structure. It starts with a hook to grab the reader's attention, followed by some background information and context. It then leads to the thesis statement or main argument, which is usually placed at the end of the introduction. The structure of the introduction is designed to guide the reader smoothly into the main body of the work.

On the other hand, the background section may have a more flexible structure. It can be organized chronologically, thematically, or based on the significance of different aspects of the topic. The structure of the background section depends on the nature of the subject matter and the writer's approach. However, it should still be logical and coherent, providing a clear progression of ideas.

The length of the introduction is typically shorter compared to the background section. Since the introduction aims to provide a concise overview and engage the reader, it is usually limited to a few paragraphs or a couple of hundred words. It should be long enough to introduce the topic and present the thesis statement but not too lengthy to lose the reader's interest.

On the other hand, the background section can be more extensive, depending on the complexity of the topic. It may span several paragraphs or even multiple pages, especially in academic or research-based writing. The background section allows the writer to delve deeper into the subject matter, providing a comprehensive understanding for the reader.

In conclusion, while both the introduction and background sections serve important roles in written works, they differ in terms of purpose, content, structure, and length. The introduction aims to engage the reader, provide context, and present the main argument or thesis statement concisely. On the other hand, the background section offers a more comprehensive overview of the topic, including historical, theoretical, or factual information. It provides a solid foundation of knowledge for the reader, ensuring they have a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Both sections are crucial in guiding the reader through the rest of the content and setting the stage for a well-rounded and informative piece of writing.

Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.

Difference Between “Introduction” And “Background” (Research)

When you’re looking at a thesis or at research papers, they will often have both an “Introduction” and a “Background” section. These might look very similar at first glance, so is there any difference between them? If so, what’s the difference? This article will explain those differences in a straightforward way.

What Is The Difference Between “Introduction” And “Background” In Reports?

The “Introduction” section is a summary that outlines the major elements of the thesis. The “Introduction” will go over all the segments that the report has, and briefly explain each. The “Background”, however, is a segment that talks about the necessity of this paper, and the research that precedes it.

In the “Introduction”, you will find a general summary of what the report broadly wants to do. The introduction gives the reader a solid idea of the aim of this paper, and what to expect from each segment.

The “Background” goes into slightly different territory. The “Background” segment will talk about the similar research that has come before this paper.

The “Background” might also cover the objectives of the paper, and it’ll also talk about why this report is necessary or why it’s important.

What Does “Introduction” Mean In Reports?

In a report, the “Introduction” is the section that, as its name indicates, introduces the reader to the concepts of the paper. It gives the reader an idea of what the report will do, broadly speaking, and introduces each section.

A reader can just read the “Introduction” and get a fairly good idea of what the report does in each of its sections.

The “Introduction”, as part of its brief summary of the report, also summarizes the “Background” section.

Here are a few examples of the term “Introduction” in this context:

• You obviously have to draft out the introduction after everything else in the report.
• I think that your introduction needs more work, it’s not detailed enough.
• I look forward to reading more than just the introduction of your report.
• I think that this introduction does a very good job of introducing the main concepts.
• His introduction really made me want to read the rest of his report.

What Does “Background” Mean In Reports?

In a report, the “Background” segment explains the research and developments that have occurred before the publishing of this specific report. The “Background” also talks about why more research is necessary, and the topics researched in this report specifically.

The “Background” is an important part of any report, paper or thesis, as it contains the details of why this report is necessary in the first place, and explanations on how the research was executed.

In the “Background” you will find detailed and extensive explanations of the research from previous decades that enabled this report to get made.

Here are some examples of the word “Background” used in this specific meaning:

• His “Background” segment has detailed descriptions of how they ran the experiments.
• In my “Background” section I talk about the prior research on this very topic.
• You can read the “Background” to get a solid idea of why this paper is important.
• In the “Background”, he talks about how he developed his methodology for the report.
• If you want to see his aim and objectives you can read the “Background” segment.

What Comes First – Background or Introduction?

The introduction segment comes first, as it’s shorter and summarizes all of the report, including the background itself. The background is more developed and goes into detail, so it comes after the introduction.

Are “Introduction” And “Background” Interchangeable In Reports?

No, “Introduction” and “Background” are not interchangeable. Though confusing them is understandable, given the fact that they are both slightly similar in concept, they refer to different and equally important segments.

The introduction summarizes the background in conjunction with the rest of the report, and the report elaborates on the research that occurred prior to this report, so they both serve different purposes.

While both the “Introduction” and the “Background” might talk about similar things on the report itself, the “Introduction” is exclusively about the paper itself. Meanwhile, the “Background” is about the methodology of the report, but also research prior to it.

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How to Write Research Background: Key Points and Case Studies

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Table of Contents

The background section, typically the first section in any manuscript, identifies the specific problems within the field of study that the current manuscript intends to tackle. It emphasizes the need for further investigation by highlighting unanswered questions or areas requiring additional examination. ¹

As the opening chapter of a paper, the research background plays a crucial role in making a strong initial impression on readers. The research background of different papers may vary in length and content, but outstanding research backgrounds often share a common trait: they provide a detailed explanation of the research topic through clear and concise expression, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject and sparking the reader’s interest. Key information related to the research topic should be initially introduced in the research background section. ²  

Having understood the purpose of the background section, we’ve summarized four key points 2, ²  ³  for writing a research background, as well as four common mistakes, applicable to researchers from various academic disciplines. Let’s explore how it should be done!

Four Step Guide to Writing a Research Background  

1. Start by stating the problem    

Begin the background by defining the problem that your research will address. Tell the reader why the problem is worth your attention and is also worth theirs.   

2. Summarize the relevant literature   

After defining the research problem, provide a review of the existing research on the subject. The goal of this exercise is not to simply list relevant studies but to analyze them in the light of your research problem. Try to identify any gaps in the literature, problems with methodology or unreliable findings.   

3. Establish the theoretical framework  

Every good research has sound theoretical foundations. In the background section, it is crucial to identify the core theories or theoretical models that your study is based on. Ensure that you describe the core theory or model in simple terms. If your readers understand the theoretical underpinnings of your research, they will be able to better understand and appreciate your findings.  

4. Define Objectives and Significance  

Having set the stage for your study, it is time to unveil the main research questions or hypotheses. Ensure they are well-defined and align neatly with the key problems you’ve described earlier. Then, explain the research findings and summarize their significance, such as their impact on the academic field, other related fields, and real life.  

Once you have touched upon all the above discussed aspects, sum up the background section with a crisp summary before moving on to the next section.   

Now, after having looked at what a background should have, let’s take a look at four common mistakes that you should avoid while writing the background ²   :  

• Ambiguous or overly technical writing

While writing, don’t leave any of the information open to interpretation. Steer clear of any ambiguity. Strike a balance by avoiding overly technical terms or jargons that may confuse readers. Researchers should consider clarifying complex concepts or terms beforehand to help readers accurately grasp the main research topic.  

• Lack of apparent connection with the research problem

The research problem is the anchor for your background section. The expressed purpose of this section is to set the stage for the research question. If you digress and talk about peripheral issues unconnected with the research problem, you will confuse the reader, and the background will not fulfill its purpose. Stay focused on the research problem.  

• Omitting key studies

The background section should provide a detailed explanation of the research topic. Researchers can use the four steps mentioned above to review their work, avoiding content gaps that could impact the credibility of both the researcher and the paper, or make the arguments seem too subjective or insufficiently informed .  

• Failing to cite research correctly

If you are using a theory or concept that is not yours, make sure you mention its creator. If you have modified a theory or concept, explain how and to what degree. You must cite your sources correctly to avoid being accused of plagiarism.

Example of Research Background  

Having listed the dos and don’ts while writing a background section, let’s look at an example of what a good ‘Background’ section looks like ⁴ , notice how historical and technical information is presented from the most general to more specific in this background.  

Needless to say, the background section of your manuscript is essentially the groundwork for the rest of your manuscript. However, crafting a compelling background for your manuscript doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the key approaches outlined above, and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft an effective background that sets a compelling narrative for your study, captures the reader’s interest, and encourages them to dive deeper into your research. Remember, a well-crafted, strong background section can keep your audience hooked till the very end of your paper.  

For more insights on crafting a contextually relevant, crisp, and fitting background for your manuscript, consider reaching out to Elsevier Language Services . Our experts are available to assist you with a range of services tailored to meet your needs and enhance your manuscript. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your research journey.

Type in wordcount for Standard Total: USD EUR JPY Follow this link if your manuscript is longer than 12,000 words. Upload

References:   

• How to Write a Background for a Research Paper- A Research Guide for Students (2023). https://www.aresearchguide.com/write-background-research-paper.html    
• Tips for Writing an Effective Background of the Study (2023). https://www.servicescape.com/blog/tips-for-writing-an-effective-background-of-the-study    
• Asiwe, Jerome Ndudi, et al. “Inhibition of Oxido-Inflammatory and Apoptotic Pathway Is Involved in the Protective Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Supplement in Cyclosporine-A Induced Vascular Dysfunction in Wistar Rat.” Pharmacological Research – Modern Chinese Medicine , vol. 7, 1 June 2023, p. 100252, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667142523000386 .   
• Inhibition of oxido-inflammatory and apoptotic pathway is involved in the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba supplement in cyclosporine-A induced vascular dysfunction in Wistar rat.  

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Home » Background of The Study – Examples and Writing Guide

Background of The Study – Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Background of The Study

Definition:

Background of the study refers to the context, circumstances, and history that led to the research problem or topic being studied. It provides the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and the significance of the study.

The background of the study usually includes a discussion of the relevant literature, the gap in knowledge or understanding, and the research questions or hypotheses to be addressed. It also highlights the importance of the research topic and its potential contributions to the field. A well-written background of the study sets the stage for the research and helps the reader to appreciate the need for the study and its potential significance.

How to Write Background of The Study

Here are some steps to help you write the background of the study:

Identify the Research Problem

Start by identifying the research problem you are trying to address. This problem should be significant and relevant to your field of study.

Provide Context

Once you have identified the research problem, provide some context. This could include the historical, social, or political context of the problem.

Review Literature

Conduct a thorough review of the existing literature on the topic. This will help you understand what has been studied and what gaps exist in the current research.

Identify Research Gap

Based on your literature review, identify the gap in knowledge or understanding that your research aims to address. This gap will be the focus of your research question or hypothesis.

State Objectives

Clearly state the objectives of your research . These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Discuss Significance

Explain the significance of your research. This could include its potential impact on theory , practice, policy, or society.

Finally, summarize the key points of the background of the study. This will help the reader understand the research problem, its context, and its significance.

How to Write Background of The Study in Proposal

The background of the study is an essential part of any proposal as it sets the stage for the research project and provides the context and justification for why the research is needed. Here are the steps to write a compelling background of the study in your proposal:

• Identify the problem: Clearly state the research problem or gap in the current knowledge that you intend to address through your research.
• Provide context: Provide a brief overview of the research area and highlight its significance in the field.
• Review literature: Summarize the relevant literature related to the research problem and provide a critical evaluation of the current state of knowledge.
• Identify gaps : Identify the gaps or limitations in the existing literature and explain how your research will contribute to filling these gaps.
• Justify the study : Explain why your research is important and what practical or theoretical contributions it can make to the field.
• Highlight objectives: Clearly state the objectives of the study and how they relate to the research problem.
• Discuss methodology: Provide an overview of the methodology you will use to collect and analyze data, and explain why it is appropriate for the research problem.
• Conclude : Summarize the key points of the background of the study and explain how they support your research proposal.

How to Write Background of The Study In Thesis

The background of the study is a critical component of a thesis as it provides context for the research problem, rationale for conducting the study, and the significance of the research. Here are some steps to help you write a strong background of the study:

• Identify the research problem : Start by identifying the research problem that your thesis is addressing. What is the issue that you are trying to solve or explore? Be specific and concise in your problem statement.
• Review the literature: Conduct a thorough review of the relevant literature on the topic. This should include scholarly articles, books, and other sources that are directly related to your research question.
• I dentify gaps in the literature: After reviewing the literature, identify any gaps in the existing research. What questions remain unanswered? What areas have not been explored? This will help you to establish the need for your research.
• Establish the significance of the research: Clearly state the significance of your research. Why is it important to address this research problem? What are the potential implications of your research? How will it contribute to the field?
• Provide an overview of the research design: Provide an overview of the research design and methodology that you will be using in your study. This should include a brief explanation of the research approach, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
• State the research objectives and research questions: Clearly state the research objectives and research questions that your study aims to answer. These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• Summarize the chapter: Summarize the chapter by highlighting the key points and linking them back to the research problem, significance of the study, and research questions.

How to Write Background of The Study in Research Paper

Here are the steps to write the background of the study in a research paper:

• Identify the research problem: Start by identifying the research problem that your study aims to address. This can be a particular issue, a gap in the literature, or a need for further investigation.
• Conduct a literature review: Conduct a thorough literature review to gather information on the topic, identify existing studies, and understand the current state of research. This will help you identify the gap in the literature that your study aims to fill.
• Explain the significance of the study: Explain why your study is important and why it is necessary. This can include the potential impact on the field, the importance to society, or the need to address a particular issue.
• Provide context: Provide context for the research problem by discussing the broader social, economic, or political context that the study is situated in. This can help the reader understand the relevance of the study and its potential implications.
• State the research questions and objectives: State the research questions and objectives that your study aims to address. This will help the reader understand the scope of the study and its purpose.
• Summarize the methodology : Briefly summarize the methodology you used to conduct the study, including the data collection and analysis methods. This can help the reader understand how the study was conducted and its reliability.

Examples of Background of The Study

Here are some examples of the background of the study:

Problem : The prevalence of obesity among children in the United States has reached alarming levels, with nearly one in five children classified as obese.

Significance : Obesity in childhood is associated with numerous negative health outcomes, including increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

Gap in knowledge : Despite efforts to address the obesity epidemic, rates continue to rise. There is a need for effective interventions that target the unique needs of children and their families.

Problem : The use of antibiotics in agriculture has contributed to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which poses a significant threat to human health.

Significance : Antibiotic-resistant infections are responsible for thousands of deaths each year and are a major public health concern.

Gap in knowledge: While there is a growing body of research on the use of antibiotics in agriculture, there is still much to be learned about the mechanisms of resistance and the most effective strategies for reducing antibiotic use.

Edxample 3:

Problem : Many low-income communities lack access to healthy food options, leading to high rates of food insecurity and diet-related diseases.

Significance : Poor nutrition is a major contributor to chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Gap in knowledge : While there have been efforts to address food insecurity, there is a need for more research on the barriers to accessing healthy food in low-income communities and effective strategies for increasing access.

Examples of Background of The Study In Research

Here are some real-life examples of how the background of the study can be written in different fields of study:

Example 1 : “There has been a significant increase in the incidence of diabetes in recent years. This has led to an increased demand for effective diabetes management strategies. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a new diabetes management program in improving patient outcomes.”

Example 2 : “The use of social media has become increasingly prevalent in modern society. Despite its popularity, little is known about the effects of social media use on mental health. This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health in young adults.”

Example 3: “Despite significant advancements in cancer treatment, the survival rate for patients with pancreatic cancer remains low. The purpose of this study is to identify potential biomarkers that can be used to improve early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer.”

Examples of Background of The Study in Proposal

Here are some real-time examples of the background of the study in a proposal:

Example 1 : The prevalence of mental health issues among university students has been increasing over the past decade. This study aims to investigate the causes and impacts of mental health issues on academic performance and wellbeing.

Example 2 : Climate change is a global issue that has significant implications for agriculture in developing countries. This study aims to examine the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers to climate change and identify effective strategies to enhance their resilience.

Example 3 : The use of social media in political campaigns has become increasingly common in recent years. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of social media campaigns in mobilizing young voters and influencing their voting behavior.

Example 4 : Employee turnover is a major challenge for organizations, especially in the service sector. This study aims to identify the key factors that influence employee turnover in the hospitality industry and explore effective strategies for reducing turnover rates.

Examples of Background of The Study in Thesis

Here are some real-time examples of the background of the study in the thesis:

Example 1 : “Women’s participation in the workforce has increased significantly over the past few decades. However, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions, particularly in male-dominated industries such as technology. This study aims to examine the factors that contribute to the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles in the technology industry, with a focus on organizational culture and gender bias.”

Example 2 : “Mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Despite increased awareness of the importance of mental health, there are still significant gaps in access to mental health services, particularly in low-income and rural communities. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based mental health intervention in improving mental health outcomes in underserved populations.”

Example 3: “The use of technology in education has become increasingly widespread, with many schools adopting online learning platforms and digital resources. However, there is limited research on the impact of technology on student learning outcomes and engagement. This study aims to explore the relationship between technology use and academic achievement among middle school students, as well as the factors that mediate this relationship.”

Examples of Background of The Study in Research Paper

Here are some examples of how the background of the study can be written in various fields:

Example 1: The prevalence of obesity has been on the rise globally, with the World Health Organization reporting that approximately 650 million adults were obese in 2016. Obesity is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In recent years, several interventions have been proposed to address this issue, including lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. However, there is a lack of consensus on the most effective intervention for obesity management. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of different interventions for obesity management and identify the most effective one.

Example 2: Antibiotic resistance has become a major public health threat worldwide. Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are associated with longer hospital stays, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality. The inappropriate use of antibiotics is one of the main factors contributing to the development of antibiotic resistance. Despite numerous efforts to promote the rational use of antibiotics, studies have shown that many healthcare providers continue to prescribe antibiotics inappropriately. This study aims to explore the factors influencing healthcare providers’ prescribing behavior and identify strategies to improve antibiotic prescribing practices.

Example 3: Social media has become an integral part of modern communication, with millions of people worldwide using platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Social media has several advantages, including facilitating communication, connecting people, and disseminating information. However, social media use has also been associated with several negative outcomes, including cyberbullying, addiction, and mental health problems. This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on mental health and identify the factors that mediate this relationship.

Purpose of Background of The Study

The primary purpose of the background of the study is to help the reader understand the rationale for the research by presenting the historical, theoretical, and empirical background of the problem.

More specifically, the background of the study aims to:

• Provide a clear understanding of the research problem and its context.
• Identify the gap in knowledge that the study intends to fill.
• Establish the significance of the research problem and its potential contribution to the field.
• Highlight the key concepts, theories, and research findings related to the problem.
• Provide a rationale for the research questions or hypotheses and the research design.
• Identify the limitations and scope of the study.

When to Write Background of The Study

The background of the study should be written early on in the research process, ideally before the research design is finalized and data collection begins. This allows the researcher to clearly articulate the rationale for the study and establish a strong foundation for the research.

The background of the study typically comes after the introduction but before the literature review section. It should provide an overview of the research problem and its context, and also introduce the key concepts, theories, and research findings related to the problem.

Writing the background of the study early on in the research process also helps to identify potential gaps in knowledge and areas for further investigation, which can guide the development of the research questions or hypotheses and the research design. By establishing the significance of the research problem and its potential contribution to the field, the background of the study can also help to justify the research and secure funding or support from stakeholders.

Advantage of Background of The Study

The background of the study has several advantages, including:

• Provides context: The background of the study provides context for the research problem by highlighting the historical, theoretical, and empirical background of the problem. This allows the reader to understand the research problem in its broader context and appreciate its significance.
• Identifies gaps in knowledge: By reviewing the existing literature related to the research problem, the background of the study can identify gaps in knowledge that the study intends to fill. This helps to establish the novelty and originality of the research and its potential contribution to the field.
• Justifies the research : The background of the study helps to justify the research by demonstrating its significance and potential impact. This can be useful in securing funding or support for the research.
• Guides the research design: The background of the study can guide the development of the research questions or hypotheses and the research design by identifying key concepts, theories, and research findings related to the problem. This ensures that the research is grounded in existing knowledge and is designed to address the research problem effectively.
• Establishes credibility: By demonstrating the researcher’s knowledge of the field and the research problem, the background of the study can establish the researcher’s credibility and expertise, which can enhance the trustworthiness and validity of the research.

Disadvantages of Background of The Study

Some Disadvantages of Background of The Study are as follows:

• Time-consuming : Writing a comprehensive background of the study can be time-consuming, especially if the research problem is complex and multifaceted. This can delay the research process and impact the timeline for completing the study.
• Repetitive: The background of the study can sometimes be repetitive, as it often involves summarizing existing research and theories related to the research problem. This can be tedious for the reader and may make the section less engaging.
• Limitations of existing research: The background of the study can reveal the limitations of existing research related to the problem. This can create challenges for the researcher in developing research questions or hypotheses that address the gaps in knowledge identified in the background of the study.
• Bias : The researcher’s biases and perspectives can influence the content and tone of the background of the study. This can impact the reader’s perception of the research problem and may influence the validity of the research.
• Accessibility: Accessing and reviewing the literature related to the research problem can be challenging, especially if the researcher does not have access to a comprehensive database or if the literature is not available in the researcher’s language. This can limit the depth and scope of the background of the study.

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What is the Background in a Research Paper?

An effective Background section in your manuscript establishes the context for your study. And while original research requires novel findings, providing the necessary background information for these findings may be just as important. It lets your readers know that your findings are novel, important, and worthy of their time and attention.

Updated on October 3, 2022

A good Background section explains the history and nature of your research question in relation to existing literature – a “state of the art.” This section, along with the rationale, helps readers understand why you chose to study this problem and why your study is worthwhile. This article will show you how to do this.

Read on to better understand the:

• Real purpose of the Background section
• Typical length of a Background section and its placement
• Elements of an effective Background

What is the Background section of a research paper?

The Background section is an essential element of every study, answering:

• What do we already know about the topic?
• How does your study relate to what's been done so far in your field?
• What is its scope?
• Why does the topic warrant your interest and their interest?
• How did you develop the research question that you'll later introduce?

In grant writing, a Background section is often referred to as the “state of the art,” and this is a useful term to have in mind when writing this part of your paper.

What comes next?

After you make the above points,

• Formulate your research question/hypothesis . Research aims and objectives should be closely related to how you'll fill the gap you've identified in the literature. Your research gap is the central theme of your article and why people should read it.
• Summarize how you'll address it in the paper . Your methodology needs to be appropriate for addressing the “problem” you've identified.
• Describe the significance of your study . Show how your research fits into the bigger picture.

Note that the Background section isn't the same as the research rationale. Rather, it provides the relevant information the reader needs so they can follow your rationale. For example, it

• Explains scientific terms
• Provides available data and statistics on the topic
• Describes the methods used so far on your topic. Especially if these are different from what you're going to do. Take special care here, because this is often where peer reviewers focus intently.

This is a logical approach to what comes after the study's background. Use it and the reader can easily follow along from the broader information to the specific details that come later. Crucially, they'll have confidence that your analysis and findings are valid.

Where should the background be placed in a research paper?

Usually, the background comes after the statement of the problem, in the Introduction section. Logically, you need to provide the study context before discussing the research questions, methodology, and results.

The background can be found in:

The abstract

The background typically forms the first few sentences of the abstract. Why did you do the study? Most journals state this clearly. In an unstructured (no subheadings) abstract, it's the first sentence or two. In a structured abstract, it might be called the Introduction, Background, or State-of-the-Art.

PLOS Medicine , for example, asks for research article abstracts to be split into three sections: Background, Methods and Findings, and Conclusions. Journals in the humanities or social sciences might not clearly ask for it because articles sometimes have a looser structure than STEM articles.

The first part of the Introduction section

In the journal Nature , for example, the Introduction should be around 200 words and include

• Two to three sentences giving a basic introduction to the field.
• The background and rationale of the study are stated briefly.
• A simple phrase “Here we show ...”, or “In this study, we show ....” (to round out the Introduction).

The Journal of Organic Chemistry has similar author guidelines.

The Background as a distinct section

This is often the case for research proposals or some types of reports, as discussed above. Rather than reviewing the literature, this is a concise summary of what's currently known in the field relevant to the question being addressed in this proposed study.

How long should the Background section be?

As mentioned, there's no set length for the Background section. It generally depends on the journal and the content of your manuscript. Check the journal's author guidelines, the research center, granting agency, etc. If it's still not clear or if the instructions are contradictory, email or phone them directly.

The length of your background will depend on:

The manuscript length and content

A book-length study needs a more extensive Background than a four-page research article. Exploring a relatively unknown method or question might also need a longer Background.

For example, see this Frontiers article on the applications of artificial intelligence for developing COVID-19 vaccines. It has a seven-paragraph long Background (1,200 words) in a separate section. The authors need to discuss earlier successful uses of machine learning for therapy discovery to make a convincing case.

An academic paper published in an international journal is usually around 5,000 words. Your paper needs to be balanced, with appropriate text lengths used for the different sections: It would make no sense to have a 300-word introduction and then 4,000 words for the methods, for example. In a 5,000-word manuscript, you'll be able to use about 1,500 for the introduction, which includes the background.

How much you need to show your understanding of the topic

A lengthy grant application might need a longer Background (sub-)section. That's because if they're going to grant you money, they need a very good reason to. You'll need to show that the work is both interesting and doable. The Background is where you can do this.

What should the Background of a research manuscript include?

The Background of a research paper needs to show two things:

The study's territory ( scope )

First, provide a general overview of the field. Scientists in most disciplines should find it relatively easy to understand. Be broad, keep it interesting. Don't go into the specifics of your particular study.

Let's look at two examples:

• one from basic research (seeking to generate new knowledge)
• one from applied research (trying to solve or improve existing processes or products)

Applied research

This Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence article explores how AI can help discover treatments for COVID-19.

The background of the study can be found (i) in the abstract and (ii) in a separate section discussed at the end of this article. The abstract starts with this general overview: “SARS-COV-2 has roused the scientific community with a call to action to combat the growing pandemic.” ( Arshadi et al., 2020 ). This is broad, and it's interesting. This is a topic that many researchers (even from outside this specific area) may want to learn more about.

Think of any theories, models, concepts, or terms (maybe borrowed from different disciplines) that may be unfamiliar to your reader. Be sure to clarify them in plainer language, if necessary.

For example, this systematic review looks at the connections of physician burnout with career engagement and quality of patient care. The Background is in the Introduction section. It starts by defining what burnout is:

• “Burnout is defined as a syndrome related to work that involves three key dimensions.” ( Hodkinson et al., 2022 )

The authors go on to explain its three aspects: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a sense of reduced personal accomplishment.

Basic research

Imagine you're investigating how universities' moves to online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted students' learning outcomes in the United Kingdom. The overview could be:

• The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdown generated tremendous challenges across the higher education sector. University campuses were forced to close. Face-to-face teaching and assessment transitioned into a virtual format.

2. The niche in the field (motivation)

To establish the niche in your field, describe what drove you to explore this specific topic.

• Explain how (un)successfully previous studies have investigated the problem.
• Note the knowledge gap or present a problem with a currently used process/practice/product.

After setting the stage, the abstract of the Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence article identifies a problem:

• “At the time of this writing, there are as yet no novel antiviral agents or approved vaccines available for deployment as a frontline defense.” ( Arshadi et al., 2020 )

The authors need to support their claim that computational methods can help discover new COVID-19 treatments. They do so by referring to previous research findings:

• “In the last decade, machine learning-based models, trained on specific biomolecules, have offered inexpensive and rapid implementation methods for the discovery of effective viral therapies.” ( Arshadi et al., 2020 )

Going back to the study on students' learning outcomes after universities introduced e-learning. The background section will next identify and describe the current knowledge gap and your proposed method of fixing it. It may be something like:

• Existing literature and studies by the UK Department for Education reveal x + y changes and effects on teaching and learning. Yet they provide little to no information on students' learning outcomes. Understanding the impact of online teaching and assessments on student outcomes is key to adopting future teaching practices and ensuring students from disadvantaged backgrounds are not left behind.

How is the background different from the literature review?

Both the background and literature review sections compile previous studies that are relevant and important to the topic.

Despite their similarities, they're different in scope and aims.

Overall, the research background could be seen as a small part of the detailed critical discussion in the literature review. Almost always, primary research articles do not include a detailed literature review.

How is the Background different from the Introduction section?

Although often part of the Introduction, the Background differs from the Introduction in scope and aim.

Breakdown of the Background in published articles

Consider this systematic review looking at the connections of physician burnout with career engagement and quality of patient care.

The Background is placed in the Introduction section. It's critical, consistent, and logically structured, moving from general to specific information.

You can also check out the summary paragraph breakdown provided by Nature. (Nature's “summary paragraph” is essentially an abstract.)

And if you're looking for some help, or have an article that's finished but needs a pre-submission review click here to connect with one of our expert AJE editors.

Gareth Dyke, PhD

Director of Global Content

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Introduction, Methods and Results

Introduction.

The Introduction should provide readers with the background information needed to understand your study, and the reasons why you conducted your experiments. The Introduction should answer the question: what question/problem was studied?

While writing the background, make sure your citations are:

• Well balanced:  If experiments have found conflicting results on a question, have you cited studies with both kinds of results?
• Current:  Every field is different, but you should aim to cite references that are not more than 10 years old if possible. Although be sure to cite the first discovery or mention in the literature even if it older than 10 years.
• Relevant:  This is the most important requirement. The studies you cite should be strongly related to your research question.

TIP: Do not write a literature review in your Introduction, but do cite reviews where readers can find more information if they want it.

Once you have provided background material and stated the problem or question for your study, tell the reader the purpose of your study. Usually the reason is to fill a gap in the knowledge or to answer a previously unanswered question. For example, if a drug is known to work well in one population, but has never been tested in a different population, the purpose of a study could be to test the efficacy and safety of the drug in the second population.

The final thing to include at the end of your Introduction is a clear and exact statement of your study aims. You might also explain in a sentence or two how you conducted the study.

Materials and Methods

This section provides the reader with all the details of how you conducted your study. You should:

• Use  subheadings  to separate different methodologies
• Describe what you did in the  past tense
• Describe new methods in enough detail that another researcher can reproduce your experiment
• Describe established methods briefly, and simply cite a reference where readers can find more detail
• State  all  statistical tests and parameters

TIP: Check the ‘Instructions for Authors’ for your target journal to see how manuscripts should present the Materials and Methods. Also, as another guide, look at previously published papers in the journal or sample reports on the journal website.

In the Results section, simply state what you found, but  do not interpret the results or discuss their implications.

• As in the Materials and Methods section, use subheadings  to separate the results of different experiments.
• Results should be presented in a  logical order . In general this will be in order of importance, not necessarily the order in which the experiments were performed. Use the  past tense  to describe your results; however, refer to figures and tables in the present tense.
• Do not duplicate data  among figures, tables, and text. A common mistake is to re-state much of the data from a table in the text of the manuscript. Instead, use the text to summarize what the reader will find in the table, or mention one or two of the most important data points. It is usually much easier to read data in a table than in the text.
• Include  the results of statistical analyses  in the text, usually by providing p values wherever statistically significant differences are described.

TIP: There is a famous saying in English: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” This means that, sometimes, an image can explain your findings far better than text could. So make good use of figures and tables in your manuscript! However, avoid including redundant figures and tables (e.g. two showing the same thing in a different format), or using figures and tables where it would be better to just include the information in the text (e.g. where there is not enough data for a table or figure).

Back │ Next

Abstract Vs. Introduction — Do you know the difference?

Ross wants to publish his research. Feeling positive about his research outcomes, he begins to draft his manuscript. After completing the abstract, he proceeds to write the introduction. That’s when he pauses in confusion. Do the abstract and introduction mean the same? How is the content for both the sections different?

This is a dilemma faced by several young researchers while drafting their first manuscript. An  abstract  is similar to a summary except that it is more concise and direct. Whereas, the  introduction  section of your paper is more detailed. It states why you conducted your study, what you wanted to accomplish, and what is your hypothesis.

This blog will allow us to learn more about the difference between the abstract and the introduction.

What Is an Abstract for a Research Paper?

An abstract provides the reader with a clear description of your research study and its results without the reader having to read the entire paper. The details of a study, such as precise methods and measurements, are not necessarily mentioned in the abstract. The abstract is an important tool for researchers who must sift through hundreds of papers from their field of study.

The abstract  holds more significance  in articles without open access. Reading the abstract would give an idea of the articles, which would otherwise require monetary payment for access. In most cases, reviewers will read the abstract to decide whether to continue to review the paper, which is important for you.

Your abstract should begin with a background or objective to clearly state why the research was done, its importance to the field of study, and any previous roadblocks encountered. It should include a very concise version of your methods, results, and conclusions but no references. It must be brief while still providing enough information so that the reader need not read the full article. Most journals ask that the abstract be no more than 200–250 words long.

Format of an Abstract

There are two general   formats — structured and unstructured. A  structured abstract   helps the reader find pertinent information  very quickly. It is divided into sections clearly defined by headings as follows:

• Background : Latest information on the topic; key phrases that pique interest (e.g., “…the role of this enzyme has never been clearly understood”).
• Objective : The research goals; what the study examined and why.
• Methods : Brief description of the study (e.g., retrospective study).
• Results : Findings and observations.
• Conclusions : Were these results expected? Whether more research is needed or not?

Authors get tempted to write too much  in an abstract but it is helpful to remember that there is usually a maximum word count. The main point is to relay the important aspects of the study without sharing too many details so that the readers do not have to go through the entire manuscript text for finding more information.

The  unstructured abstract  is often used in fields of study that do not fall under the category of science. This type of abstracts does not have different sections. It summarizes the manuscript’s objectives, methods, etc., in one paragraph.

Related: Create an impressive manuscript with a compelling abstract.   Check out these resources and improve your abstract writing process!

Lastly, you must check the author guidelines of the target journal. It will describe the format required and the maximum word count of your abstract.

What Is an Introduction?

Your introduction is the first section of your research paper . It is not a repetition of the abstract. It does not provide data about methods, results, or conclusions. However, it  provides more in-depth information  on the background of the subject matter. It also explains your hypothesis , what you attempted to discover, or issues that you wanted to resolve. The introduction will also explain if and why your study is new in the subject field and why it is important.

It is often a good idea to wait until the rest of the paper is completed before drafting your introduction. This will help you to stay focused on the manuscript’s important points. The introduction, unlike the abstract, should contain citations to references. The information will help guide your readers through the rest of your document. The key tips for writing an effective introduction :

• Beginning:  The importance of the study.
• Tone/Tense:  Formal, impersonal; present tense.
• Content:  Brief description of manuscript but without results and conclusions.
• Length:  Generally up to four paragraphs. May vary slightly with journal guidelines.

Once you are sure that possible doubts on the difference between the abstract and introduction are clear, review and submit your manuscript.

What struggles have you had in writing an abstract or introduction? Were you able to resolve them? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

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• Writing Tips

Abstract vs. Introduction—What’s the Difference?

• 3-minute read
• 21st February 2022

If you’re a student who’s new to research papers or you’re preparing to write your dissertation , you might be wondering what the difference is between an abstract and an introduction.

Both serve important purposes in a research paper or journal article , but they shouldn’t be confused with each other. We’ve put together this guide to help you tell them apart.

What’s an Introduction?

In an academic context, an introduction is the first section of an essay or research paper. It should provide detailed background information about the study and its significance, as well as the researcher’s hypotheses and aims.

But the introduction shouldn’t discuss the study’s methods or results. There are separate sections for this later in the paper.

An introduction must correctly cite all sources used and should be about four paragraphs long, although the exact length depends on the topic and the style guide used.

What’s an Abstract?

While the introduction is the first section of a research paper, the abstract is a short summary of the entire paper. It should contain enough basic information to allow you to understand the content of the study without having to read the entire paper.

The abstract is especially important if the paper isn’t open access because it allows researchers to sift through many different studies before deciding which one to pay for.

Since the abstract contains only the essentials, it’s usually much shorter than an introduction and normally has a maximum word count of 200–300 words. It also doesn’t contain citations.

The exact layout of an abstract depends on whether it’s structured or unstructured. Unstructured abstracts are usually used in non-scientific disciplines, such as the arts and humanities, and usually consist of a single paragraph.

Structured abstracts, meanwhile, are the most common form of abstract used in scientific papers. They’re divided into different sections, each with its own heading. We’ll take a closer look at structured abstracts below.

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Structuring an Abstract

A structured abstract contains concise information in a clear format with the following headings:

●  Background: Here you’ll find some relevant information about the topic being studied, such as why the study was necessary.

●  Objectives: This section is about the goals the researcher has for the study.

●  Methods: Here you’ll find a summary of how the study was conducted.

●  Results: Under this heading, the results of the study are presented.

●  Conclusions: The abstract ends with the researcher’s conclusions and how the study can inform future research.

Each of these sections, however, should contain less detail than the introduction or other sections of the main paper.

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Whether you need help formatting your structured abstract or making sure your introduction is properly cited, our academic proofreading team is available 24/7. Try us out by submitting a free trial document .

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