To begin a case study paper effectively, you start with the Introduction to identify the core issues, followed by the Background section to provide necessary context and facts.
Starting your case study paper right is crucial for guiding your reader through the analysis and proposed solutions. Based on standard structure, the initial sections lay the groundwork for your entire paper.
The Foundation: Introduction and Background
A case study paper typically begins with two vital sections: the Introduction and the Background. These parts work together to introduce the subject and provide the context needed to understand the problems you will analyze.
Crafting the Introduction
The Introduction is your first opportunity to engage the reader and clearly state the purpose of your paper. As per the reference provided:
- Identify the key problems and issues in the case study.
- Think of the introduction as setting the stage and stating the central question or dilemma the case presents.
- It should be concise but compelling, hooking the reader and outlining what the case study is about without giving away the solution.
Practical Tips for the Introduction:
- Start with a compelling statistic or statement related to the case.
- Briefly introduce the subject (e.g., a company, an individual, a situation).
- Clearly list the main problems or challenges the case study will address.
- Briefly state the paper's objective (e.g., to analyze the issues and propose solutions).
Example:
This case study examines the challenges faced by Tech Innovators Inc. in adapting to rapid market changes. Key problems and issues identified include outdated operational structures, declining employee morale, and increasing competition from agile startups.
Building the Background
Following the introduction, the Background section provides essential context. This section, as outlined in the reference, helps the reader fully grasp the situation:
- Set the scene: Provide necessary historical or situational context.
- Include background information, relevant facts, and the most important issues.
- This is where you delve into the details that led to the current situation presented in the case. Include dates, names of key players, market conditions, and any other pertinent data.
Practical Tips for the Background:
- Present information chronologically if the timeline is important.
- Focus on facts that are directly relevant to the problems identified in the introduction.
- Include data points, quotes, or events that highlight the situation.
- Clearly explain the environment in which the case takes place.
Example:
Established in 2005, Tech Innovators Inc. was initially a market leader in software development (relevant fact). However, over the past three years, they have struggled to keep pace with technological advancements (important issue). Background information includes their initial funding rounds, key product launches, and recent market share decline as illustrated in Figure 1.
Essential Starting Sections Checklist
A strong start to your case study paper relies on covering these critical points in the initial sections:
| Section | Purpose | Key Information |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Identify core problems & paper's focus | What are the main issues? What will the paper analyze? |
| Background | Provide context & relevant details | Historical context, relevant facts, situation overview, important issues |
By thoroughly addressing these first two components, you provide a solid foundation for the subsequent sections of your paper, such as discussing alternatives considered (Choices), presenting proposed Solution[s], and offering Recommendations.
