Instant Price Calculator

Get Your Price in 30 Seconds

  • ✓ Free Title Page
  • ✓ Free Bibliography
  • ✓ Free Revisions
  • ✓ Plagiarism Report
  • ✓ On-Time or Refund
★★★★★ Rated 4.9/5 by UK students ⏳ Slots filling fast for tonight’s deadlines

💙 Don’t spend another night panicking over your deadline — hand it to a UK expert now.

Home » Blog » How to Write a Dissertation Introduction | EasyMarks

Academic Writing Tips

How to Write a Dissertation Introduction

Set the scene, state the problem and signpost the whole study.

7 min read · Written by UK academic writers

Quick Answer

A dissertation introduction sets the background, states the research problem, presents your aims, objectives and questions, explains why the study matters, and outlines the structure of the dissertation. It orients the reader before the detailed chapters begin.

The introduction frames your entire dissertation and is often best written last, once you know exactly what your study found. This guide covers what to include and how to make it clear and compelling.

Provide the Background

Set the context of your topic so the reader understands the field and why the area matters. Keep it focused on what is relevant to your specific study.

State the Research Problem

Clearly identify the problem, gap or question your dissertation addresses. This is the heart of the introduction and should follow naturally from the background.

Present Aims, Objectives and Questions

State what your study sets out to achieve and the specific questions it answers. These define the scope and tell the reader exactly what to expect.

Justify the Study

Explain the significance: what your research contributes, who it helps and why it is worth doing. This is your rationale for the whole project.

Outline the Structure

Close with a short roadmap of the chapters to come. This signposting helps the reader navigate the dissertation and shows it is logically planned.

Key Takeaways
  • Give focused background to your topic
  • State the research problem clearly
  • Present aims, objectives and questions
  • Justify why the study matters
  • Outline the structure of the dissertation

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I write the introduction first or last?

Often last, or as a draft you revise at the end, so it accurately reflects what your completed study found.

How long is a dissertation introduction?

Typically around 10% of the dissertation, but follow your university's guidance.

What is the difference between aims and objectives?

Aims are the broad goals of your study; objectives are the specific, measurable steps you take to achieve them.

Does the introduction include a literature review?

It includes brief context, but the full critical review belongs in the separate literature review chapter.

Need a Hand With Your Essay?

Let a qualified UK writer help you plan, write or polish your work. Order online and get 20% OFF your first order.

Order Online — Get 20% OFF →