What Should Be Included in the Chapter 2 Dissertation Introduction to the Literature Review?
- Cheryl Mazzeo
- May 9
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 4
What should be included in the Chapter 2 dissertation introduction to the literature review? The Chapter 2 introduction is the opening section of the dissertation literature review. Its purpose is to introduce the focus, structure, and organization of the literature review while connecting it to the research problem presented in Chapter 1.
A strong literature review introduction helps readers understand:
What topics will be reviewed
Why the literature is important
How the chapter is organized
How the literature connects to the study purpose and research questions
Although this section is usually brief, it plays an important role in establishing clarity and academic flow within the dissertation.
What Is the Chapter 2 Introduction?
The Chapter 2 introduction is the opening section of the literature review chapter.
It:
Introduces the purpose of the literature review
Provides context for the reviewed research
Identifies major themes or sections
Explains how the literature supports the study
In simple terms, it answers: “What will this chapter review, and why is it important?”
Why Is the Literature Review Introduction Important?
The Chapter 2 introduction is important because it:
Creates a smooth transition from Chapter 1
Provides organization and structure
Helps readers understand the scope of the literature review
Clarifies how the literature connects to the study
Establishes the scholarly direction of the dissertation
Without a clear introduction, the literature review may feel disorganized or disconnected.
What Should Be Included in the Chapter 2 Introduction?
A strong Chapter 2 introduction usually includes:
Brief restatement of the research problem
Purpose of the literature review
Introduction to major themes or topics
Connection to the theoretical framework
Explanation of chapter organization
Each element helps prepare readers for the detailed literature review that follows.
Step 1: Briefly Restate the Research Problem
Begin by reminding readers of the research problem introduced in Chapter 1.
This helps maintain continuity between chapters.
Example:
“This study examines factors influencing student engagement in online doctoral education.”
Keep this brief and focused.
Step 2: Explain the Purpose of the Literature Review
Next, explain why the literature review is necessary.
The purpose may include:
Reviewing previous research
Identifying research gaps
Supporting the research problem
Establishing theoretical and methodological foundations
Example:
“The purpose of this literature review is to examine existing research related to online learning, student engagement, and doctoral education.”
Step 3: Introduce Major Literature Review Themes
Provide a brief overview of the major topics or themes discussed in the chapter.
This helps organize the literature review for readers.
Common Literature Review Themes
Examples may include:
Historical background of the topic
Theoretical framework
Related research studies
Methodological trends
Gaps in the literature
Example:
“The chapter includes a discussion of online learning theory, student engagement models, and previous studies examining doctoral student experiences in virtual learning environments.”
Step 4: Connect the Literature Review to the Theoretical Framework
If your dissertation includes a theoretical framework, briefly explain its role in the literature review.
Example:
“The literature review is guided by Self-Determination Theory, which provides a framework for understanding student motivation and engagement.”
This establishes conceptual consistency.
Step 5: Explain the Organization of the Chapter
Conclude the introduction by describing how the chapter is structured.
Example:
“The chapter begins with a review of online learning theory, followed by research on student engagement and doctoral education. The chapter concludes with a summary and identification of gaps in the literature.”
This prepares readers for the flow of the chapter.
Example of a Chapter 2 Literature Review Introduction
This chapter presents a review of the literature related to student engagement in online doctoral education. The purpose of the literature review is to examine existing research, identify gaps in the literature, and establish the theoretical and scholarly foundation for the study. The review includes research related to online learning environments, student motivation, and engagement in higher education. Self-Determination Theory serves as the theoretical framework guiding this study. The chapter concludes with a synthesis of the literature and identification of areas requiring further research.
How Long Should the Chapter 2 Introduction Be?
The introduction is usually brief compared to the rest of Chapter 2.
Typical length:
1–3 pages
Approximately 300–800 words
The exact length depends on:
University requirements
Dissertation format
Complexity of the study
The goal is clarity and organization—not excessive detail.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Doctoral students often make mistakes such as:
Writing an introduction that is too short or vague
Repeating Chapter 1 word-for-word
Introducing unrelated topics
Failing to explain chapter organization
Including detailed literature analysis too early
The introduction should preview the chapter—not fully review the literature.
Tips for Writing a Strong Chapter 2 Introduction
Keep the introduction focused and organized
Clearly explain the purpose of the literature review
Briefly introduce major themes
Connect the chapter to the theoretical framework
Maintain consistency with Chapter 1
Use professional academic language
A clear introduction improves readability and dissertation flow.
Chapter 2 Introduction vs Chapter 2 Summary
Chapter 2 Introduction | Chapter 2 Summary |
Introduces the literature review | Summarizes the reviewed literature |
Explains chapter purpose and structure | Synthesizes key findings |
Appears at the beginning of Chapter 2 | Appears at the end of Chapter 2 |
Both sections help improve organization and clarity.
Final Thoughts on "What Should Be Included in the Chapter 2 Dissertation Introduction to the Literature Review?"
The Chapter 2 introduction is an essential part of the dissertation literature review because it establishes the purpose, structure, and direction of the chapter. By briefly restating the research problem, introducing major themes, and explaining the organization of the literature review, doctoral students create a strong academic foundation for the research discussion that follows.
A well-written literature review introduction improves clarity, coherence, and overall dissertation quality.
If you need help with your literature review introduction, consider dissertation coaching. Learn more about us on our website.
Comments