1. Organizing the Introduction
Writing Consultant Presentation
EG 1003: Intro to Engineering and Design
Polytechnic Institute of NYU

2. Introductions look like a funnel
General knowledge
Knowledge gap
Current study:
Equations
Principles
Constraints
Hypothesis

3. General knowledge is broadest
Start with what everyone already knows:
Real-life examples
Historical development
Biographical details
Paint a picture of the current state of the topic
General knowledge
Knowledge gap
Current study:
Equations
Principles
Constraints
Hypothesis

4. Addressing the knowledge gap
What is missing from the current understanding?
What principles need to be investigated?
What new procedures might solve old problems more efficiently?
How could a scientific principle be applied to a practical project?
General knowledge
Knowledge gap
Current study:
Equations
Principles
Constraints
Hypothesis

5. Current report is the most narrow
Equations you use to evaluate data
Fundamental scientific principles you use to draw conclusions
Constraints or specifications that demonstrate the limits
A hypothesis of how you expect your topic will improve the current situation
General knowledge
Knowledge gap
Current study:
Equations
Principles
Constraints
Hypothesis

6. The introduction sets the tone
Equations and scientific principles establish the professional vocabulary
Procedures section describes how you tested the hypothesis
Discussion/Conclusions describes the difference between what the theory expects and what you actually see
General knowledge
Knowledge gap
Current study:
Equations
Principles
Constraints
Hypothesis

7. Tips for success Anything in present tense belongs in the Introduction
Concepts, principles
Specifications and constraints
General conditions
Equations and definitions
Supplemental questions provide context – answers belong here Outside research can help, but cite all sources

8. Organizing the Introduction
Writing Consultant Presentation
EG 1003: Intro to Engineering and Design
Polytechnic Institute of NYU