Identify the topic in the first paragraph. Get the reader's attention by opening with a quotation or interesting fact related to the subject. For example, you might write, "According to Albert Einstein, the theory of relativity states..." Use transition statements to move to the next paragraph. A transition statement may begin with a word such as "although" or "however."
Highlight main ideas that are discussed in the paper in the second paragraph. Write transition statements to move to the next paragraph.
Identify the subject matter experts in the next paragraph. Subject matter experts have established opinions accepted by the experts in the discipline. For example, the theory of relativity was established by Einstein and is accepted within the physics discipline. The perspectives are usually known as theories and are available in books that may be older than other resources. Cite the work of these authors to show their perspectives.
Include current perspectives on the subject in a new paragraph. Current perspectives consists of writings that build upon or question established theory. Perhaps a new theory, discovery or question exists about the theory of relativity in light of recent advancements. These perspectives are usually 5 to 7 years old and often are in journals. Use citations when they are available.
Finish the introductory section by establishing your position on the subject. This is commonly known as the thesis. The thesis tells the reader what you plan to prove or disprove in the research paper.
Summarize what the reader can expect to learn in the section that follows.
Check the assignment format requirements for the first page. You may be required to format your research paper according to either American Psychological Association (APA) or Modern Language Association (MLA) style. Adjust your formatting accordingly.