How to Write a Good Introduction for a Scientific Report

When the research is done, the writing begins.

Scientific reports typically have an abstract, which is a useful summary of the report, as an introduction. In other words, anyone reading the abstract should obtain all the major points of the report and be compelled to read further for the details. Introductions and abstracts will vary in format depending on the instructor or organization for which you are writing. The information density of an abstract tends to drive individuals to write them too long, which means a large amount of time might be necessary for editing.

Instructions

1. Write the scientific report first. Since the introduction or abstract is a summary of the information in the report, it is easier to write if the report is already complete.

2. Write the problem or the reason for the research. Scientists do research to find answers to problems or explanations for phenomena. Clearly state the problem you are investigating.

3. Write the methods you used to conduct the research as well as any materials or equipment involved. This includes statistical methods, sample sizes, lab equipment and test procedures. Readers will want to know if your methodology is sound before taking the time to read the report.

4. Write the results of the research. This is an objective representation of the experimental results. For instance, you would say, "The dye that was dripped into the solution turned red." Do not explain what the results mean in this section.

5. Write the implications derived from the results. This is a subjective interpretation of the results. This is the section where you should write what the results mean. For example, "The dye turned red due to a chemical reaction with the solute, which was in high enough concentration to allow the reaction."

6. Edit the introduction or abstract. In the end, it should be one paragraph and approximately 250 words. Reports that are just two or three pages will have shorter abstracts, while longer reports--15 to 20 pages or more--will have longer abstracts.

References

• UC Berkeley: "How to Write an Abstract"
• University of North Carolina: Abstracts
• AAAAI Paper: "How to Write an Abstract;" Kathleen A. Conboy-Ellis