In thesis writing, the most difficult part to write is Chapter 1 (Introduction/The Problem). As they say, the most difficult part of any endeavor is the starting point. This is because the first chapter is where you conceptualize your entire research. The whole research/thesis can be reflected in Chapter 1 including expected results or outcomes. For your guidelines, please read the following sample format of Chapter 1. Remember, the format is not universal, meaning it could vary from one school to another and/or from one course to another.

CHAPTER 1: THE PROBLEM Chapter 1 includes the following subtopics, namely: 1) Rationale; 2) Theoretical Framework; 3) Conceptual Framework/Paradigm; 4) Statement of the problem; 5) Hypothesis (Optional); 6) Assumption (Optional); 7) Scope and Delimitation; 8) Importance of the study; 9) Definition of terms.

1) Rationale (Background of the study)
-Describe the problem situation considering global, national and local forces.
Justify the existence of the problem situation by citing statistical data and authoritative sources.
Make a clinching statement that will relate the background to the proposed research problem.
2) Theoretical Framework
-Discuss the theories and/or concepts, which are useful in conceptualizing the research.
3) Conceptual Framework/Paradigm
-Identify and discuss the variables related to the problem.
Present a schematic diagram of the paradigm of the research and discuss the relationship of the elements/variables therein.
4) Statement of the Problem
-The general problem must be reflective of the title.
It should be stated in such a way that it is not answerable by yes or no, not indicative of when and where. Rather, it should reflect between and among variables.
Each sub-problem should cover mutually exclusive dimensions (no overlapping).
The sub-problem should be arranged in logical order