Introduction

In introduction sections, writers attempt to 'get the attention' of their audience, by arguing that the work they are presenting is important and original. They have to: 1) show that their work builds on existing knowledge in the field, by reviewing the scientific literature; and 2) show that their work makes some kind of original contribution to the field. According to Swales (1990), article introductions can be broken down into a number of different 'moves', as follows (see the [|Academic Writing in English website] for some good examples):

The writer establishes the general topic being discussed by 1) making general statements about the topic; 2) highlighting the importance of the topic; and 3) reviewing the existing literature.
 * Move 1: Establishing a territory**

The writer creates a 'research space' by pointing to problems and shortcomings in the existing research. The writer may 1) indicate gaps in existing knowledge; 2) raise questions about the existing research; or 3) claim to extend an existing line of research.
 * Move 2: Establishing a niche by indicating gaps**

The writer shows how the problems and shortcomings identified in move 2 are resolved by the particular study reported. The writer may 1) outline the purpose of the research; 2) announce the main findings of the research; 3) indicate the structure of the research article.
 * Move 3: Occupying the niche**


 * Examples**


 * Move 1: Establishing a territory**
 * 1) Making general statements about the topic
 * 2) Highlighting the importance of the topic
 * 3) Reviewing the existing literature


 * Move 2: Establishing a niche by indicating gaps**
 * 1) Indicating gaps in existing knowledge
 * 2) Raising questions about the existing research
 * 3) Claiming to extend an existing line of research


 * Move 3: Occupying the niche**
 * 1) Outlining the purpose of the research
 * 2) Announcing the main findings of the research
 * 3) Indicating the structure of the research article