The introduction leads the reader from a general research issue or problem to your specific area of research. It puts your research question in context by explaining the significance of the research being conducted. This is usually done by summarizing current understanding and background information about the topic. This is followed by a statement of the purpose of your research issue or problem. This is sometimes followed by a hypothesis or a set of questions you attempt to answer in your research. You may also explain your methodology (how you will research this issue) and explain what your study can reveal. It also may contain a summary of the structure of the rest of the paper.