The Introduction

Every essay needs an introductory paragraph, so that the reader knows what they are about to read. It therefore needs to include the following information:

Your argument in response to the topic if this is required by the question

Depending on the type of question given, this could be simply an affirmative or negative stance, or it could be a partial agreement. It could be a choice from a list of suggestions or a statement answering a question.

This can reiterate the topic then give the side of the argument that you are going to present; e.g. The idea that the number of computers in developed countries will exceed the population of those same countries by 2010 could technically be true but only if all non-working computers were also included in this tally. Alternatively, it can incorporate both the topic and argument into the same statement. For example, In this day and age where technology and the need for instant information are becoming increasingly crucial, the number of computers will definitely exceed the population.

Parameters of the question

Place and time frames, if relevant, need to be included for precision. For example, a question asks you to write about the following: “The number of computers will exceed the population.” This statement needs to be narrowed down and parameters set to be effectively argued. The introduction paragraph could therefore define the countries that the population refers to and the time limit. The number of computers in developed countries will exceed the population of those same countries by 2010, or, if this was the original question then does any of this information about time and place or type of computer – personal versus corporate -need to be further defined? Does a definition of a word need to be given? Think about what your audience knows about the subject.

Parameters are needed to give arguments an exact frame of reference, otherwise they risk being too vague or impossible to argue against.

Your main arguments, and possibly, the order these points will be presented.

This information will be contained in your thesis statement. It needs to be clear and concise.

Also important is that the introductory paragraph is a first impression and therefore needs to engage the reader. This can be done through a variety of techniques:

a good, original argument
argue against a common belief
a mind catching expression
an interesting grammar construction
a short, relevant, quotation
a thoughtful question
a short story related to the topic
a comparison to a parable
a scene from a famous story or movie
a fascinating fact or figure

For some examples of eye-catching ways to start an introduction go to San Jose State University.

Thesis Statements

Not all writing needs a thesis statement – for example narrative or descriptive essays. However, most formal University writing needs such a sentence to focus the main points and arguments of the paper.

A thesis statement usually appears as the last sentence in the introduction paragraph; however, this is not the only place it can occur. Most of the time, this happens because we start the introduction with more general ideas and work towards the thesis which is quite specific. The thesis statement is generally very specific as it controls and focuses the rest of the essay. It does not list all arguments and definitely does not include all evidence. It can solely give your stance on an issue or it can list the reasons why, or an outline of stages involved in a process. It really depends on the type of essay.

Remember that during the writing process it is OK to change your thesis statement. You may have done more research which has given you better points to argue or has changed your position. This is fine! Just remember to change it as it is the central idea to your whole paper.

To see an example of a thesis statement and how it controls the rest of the essay, please look at this short essay on war.

For more examples on thesis statements visit:

Example Introduction

Question: Which politician of the 20th Century did the most for their country? Why?

Your response – John Howard, PM of Australia.
Parameters – Australia, 1996 and future effects
Main arguments – finance, environment, counter-terrorism, freedom of democracy
Supporting Evidence - Kyoto Protocol, Military action in Iraq, strong dollar and surplus, republic/monarchy referendum.

(This could possibly be used as an example in a longer introduction or as back up arguments in the body of the essay)

“Little Johnnie,” the nickname for the Prime Minister of Australia, may have begun as a derogatory joke but this epitaph has since taken on loyal undertones by his followers because of the positive direction he has moved Australia since coming to office in 1996. John Howard’s latest landslide victory, set to make him the longest serving PM in the country’s history was the resounding validation by a grateful populace for his guidance, and the indisputable benefits he has brought Australia in the last 8 years; specifically, his works and policies in the areas of finance, counter-terrorism and the environment.

For some ideas of useful expressions that are commonly used in writing introductions go to Academic Phrasebook