How to Write an Introduction Paragraph for an Essay

So you need to write a custom essay? And you are worried about the quality of writing. Will it be professional? Will I be able to do it? Where can I find tips online for composing a great essay?

No worries, this article holds answers to all your questions and concerns.

Capture the Reader’s Attention

Your entire paper is worthwhile, however, if the introduction does not force the tutor to continue reading your paper then your work will all be for nothing. In your introduction, you need to create a forceful and attractive text which creates interest in the reader.

Your tutor has to read hundreds of papers every year and can get bored or tired of repetitive content. Yours need to be special. If the readers become absorbed in your introduction, they will want to see where your paper is going and will continue to read it.

A Roadmap

As you create an enticing, attractive introduction, you also need to provide indications as to where the rest of your paper is headed. The assignment has particular guidelines that must be followed, and your teacher is looking for those in the introduction.

You must set forth your issues and the path your argument will take to handle the discussion about these issues. Your teacher needs to gain an understanding of what the entire term paper is about by reading your introduction.

Do Not Get Too Specific

When writing an introduction, think of it as a tease. You need to dangle ideas and thoughts, hoping to entice the reader to want more. If your introduction provides all the specifics about the subject or is too lengthy, the reader may find the following paragraphs are a waste of time.

You want to focus their attention on the topic, and have them wanting and needing to continue reading.

Avoid These Things in Your Intro

The intro is considered to be your chance to state upfront what they are attempting to prove with their research and should highlight the main areas that the paper will focus on.

It should make a strong statement and should summarize the main ideas the author is covering without giving away all the goods. You wouldn’t wear a mini-skirt to an interview, give the potential boss a high five for a greeting, and say “What’s up man?”

The introduction is your one shot to make a solid impression, to be an expert.

The introduction should also leave readers with a little nugget statement that helps them understand why this topic is applicable and relevant. This is not to be confused with personal commentary.

There is NO room for irrelevant/tangent personal opinions in an academic paper. However, a statement of relevancy is necessary for bringing purpose to the research and will help the reader know upfront why your research paper is pertinent for them to read.

things not to include in the intro

(Because they will instantly ruin your credibility in the academic world)

Your life story. Remember this is research; NOT your life story. Your reader doesn’t care what you think, they care what you know. Stay away from statements such as

“I think…”

“In my experience…”

• Personal pronouns such as I, me, you, mine, my.

• Statements that cannot be backed up with facts later on in your paper.

• An apology. Remember, you are the expert! After all, you have done your research. Never leave your reader wondering whether or not you know what you’re talking about.

• Cheese: Avoid statements that tell the reader what you are about to say in a cheesy way.

Stay away from statements like,

“In this paper, I will…”

“The goal of my research is to…”

Final Thoughts

Often it is helpful to draft the thesis statement first, write the body paragraphs of support second, and then go back and do the introductory paragraph last. The reason many authors utilize this practice is it helps guide the statements that are there to gain interest in the topic and support the thesis.

The thesis statement summarizes the elements discussed in your paper, so avoid feeling pressure to complete the introductory paragraph first.

Often, as you develop your body paragraphs, the direction of your paper may change some, or you may make new discoveries about the topic that you will want to include in that first impression of the introduction.

Following these few and simple guidelines will put you well on your way to completing a solid academic research paper.

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