INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND

• What is the purpose of the Introduction or Background section?

• What is the approximate length (paragraphs or pages, and as a fraction of the overall paper)?

• How many references appear in your Introduction or Background section?

• Why do the authors cite these references?

• Do you see anything that appears unique  in the Introduction or Background section?

• What are the major differences between the Abstract and the Introduction or Background section?

• Does there appear to be a specific statement of purpose for the research given in the Introduction or Background section?  If so, what is it?

• Is the Introduction or Background section well written?

• What recommendations would you give to the authors regarding the Introduction or Background section to improve this section?

Parts of a paper table of contents.