Writing an introduction and conclusion
The introduction and conclusion are two of the most important parts of your thesis. These sections are often written after the literature review and discussion.
Introduction
Introduces the reader to the topic from broad to specific*, gives a foreshadowing of what the thesis will be covering and has a clear thesis statement.
- Grab attention of the reader: quote, question, problem, scene/case study
- Introduce from broad topic to specific topic
- Explain basic concepts of topic (key terms)
- Introduce main stakeholders/players/communities
- Explain relevance to outside world
- Share motivations for this research and research questions
- Explain aims and objectives of study
- Present strong thesis statement- main argument of your study
- Show how this research has implications for the greater field
- Introduce the structure of thesis
Conclusion
Re-states general argument, summarises what the thesis covers, shows how this relates to the broader topic and field (implications/importance).
Introductions and conclusions for each thesis chapter
Within the thesis, each section will have their own introduction and conclusion to the section.