What should the introduction of a manuscript discuss?

The introduction of a manuscript should clearly articulate the importance of the problem being addressed and why it warrants research attention. This establishes the context for the study, helping readers understand the significance of the topic and the rationale behind the research. By highlighting the gaps in existing literature or the practical implications of the problem, the introduction sets the stage for the research question and objectives. This foundational information helps to engage the audience and justify why the subsequent study is necessary.

In contrast to this, detailing the methodology goes in the methods section, where the specific procedures and techniques used in the research are thoroughly described. Presenting results belongs in the results section, where findings are displayed and analyzed. Meanwhile, discussing demographics is typically relevant in the methods or results sections, where it provides context for the study sample but does not belong in the introduction itself. Each section of a manuscript has a distinct purpose, contributing to a coherent and organized presentation of the research.