What an introduction has to do
An introduction has three jobs. It gets the reader interested, it gives enough background to understand the topic, and it states the argument the essay will make.
It does not need to be long. In a typical school essay, five to seven sentences is enough, and it is often easier to write once you know what the body of the essay says.
Open with a hook
The first sentence should make the reader want to continue. Avoid broad statements such as "Since the beginning of time", which say nothing specific.
- A precise fact or example that connects to your topic.
- A short question the essay will answer.
- A contrast or tension, such as what people assume versus what is actually true.
- A brief, relevant quotation, used only if it adds something.
Give the necessary context
After the hook, explain what the reader needs to know to follow your argument: the topic, the time or place, and any key terms. Keep only the background that your argument actually uses.
End with a clear thesis
The thesis is the most important sentence. It states your position in a way that someone could reasonably disagree with, and it hints at the reasons you will give.
Compare a weak thesis, "Social media has effects on students", with a stronger one, "Social media shortens students' attention spans mainly because it rewards constant switching between short tasks." The second tells the reader what the essay will prove.
Revise it last
Return to your introduction after finishing the draft. Check that it promises what the essay delivers, that the thesis matches your conclusion, and that every sentence earns its place.
Put it into practice with Obils
Keep your notes, assignments, and focus sessions in one workspace.
Get started free