History Dissertation Writing Hints: A Broad Introduction

How to Open Your History Dissertation Topic Widely

Writing a dissertation can be a very stressful procedure for students. When writing a history dissertation, one of the most important parts of it—aside from the actual resource, of course—is the introduction. The student will want to give background information that is very complete and comprehensive. Here’s how to do just that.

Consider the Thesis Statement and the Background Required to Introduce It

The first thing the student should do is look closely at their thesis statement. They should consider what background information the audience will need to fully comprehend the student’s research and material. The student should make detailed notes regarding the background material required.

Consider the Context of the Background Material

If the student truly wants a broad scope opening of their research paper, they’ll need to further broaden the material in the introduction. Having made notes regarding the necessary historical background required for the thesis itself, they can continue to widen the opening by putting that background information into context. Some ways to do this include providing further background in terms of describing the events proceeding the main topic, or by describing events which took place afterward and were influenced by what is described in the history dissertation.

Another way to make the introduction more broad is to provide context in regards to what else what happening in the world at the same time as the historical event the student will be describing in the dissertation. For example, describing the civilizations which were rising and falling, the various world leaders and groups in power at the time, and so on.

Write the Introduction Last

One great strategy for writing the introduction quickly, easily, and in an organized manner is to write the body of the dissertation first. This will allow the student to make extensive notes on the material which is actually covered in the paper and then to give a detailed summary of that material in the introduction, incorporating the background information and context which they have already researched. This is a foolproof way to write a really great introduction to a history dissertation, and it’s the technique used by most professional writers as well.

Create an Introduction-Only Outline

Some students slack off on making an outline for the introduction, because it’s typically a straightforward piece of writing. But a detailed introduction can really help a lot.