The introduction: frame the problem in a few paragraphs

The introduction is the most important two pages of your thesis. Here the reader decides whether the rest is worth their time.

From broad to narrow

A good introduction moves like a funnel: from the big picture (why the topic matters in society or the field) down to the precise question you investigate. Don't start with the history of the world — start broad enough to give context, but get to the point quickly.

State the contribution clearly

The reader should know early what the thesis adds: which gap it fills, which question it answers, why it's worth reading. Be concrete. 'This thesis investigates …' is more honest and stronger than vague promises to 'shed light on' a topic.

Write the introduction last. You don't fully know what the thesis is about until it's finished — and then the introduction becomes precise instead of a promise you may not keep.

Give the reader a map

End the introduction with a short overview of the structure: what each chapter does. It helps the examiner follow the argument, and it forces you to check that the thesis actually has a logical order.

Common pitfalls

• Starting too broad and never reaching the question.
• Promising to 'shed light on' something instead of saying what you actually do.
• Writing the introduction first and forgetting to update it.

Ready to move on when…

• The context is set without unnecessary detour.
• The contribution and question are clear.
• The reader knows how the thesis is structured.