What type of content should be included in the introduction section of an APA paper?

The introduction section of an APA paper should include the background of the topic and the purpose of the study. This is essential as it provides the reader with context about the subject being addressed, allowing them to understand the significance of the research. The background offers insights into the existing literature and presents the rationale for why the study is necessary, which helps establish the relevance of the research question. Clearly articulating the purpose guides the reader on what to expect in the paper, laying a foundation for the hypotheses or research objectives.

While personal opinions can be relevant in some contexts, they should not be the primary content of an academic paper's introduction. Including statistics that summarize conclusions would be inappropriate at this stage, as conclusions should come from the research findings presented later in the paper. Providing a detailed review of all references goes beyond the scope of the introduction and is typically reserved for the literature review section or discussion, as it involves analyzing and synthesizing existing research rather than simply introducing the study at hand.