This handout will explain the functions of introductions, offer strategies for creating effective introductions, and provide some examples of less effective introductions to avoid.

Jan 28, 2026 · Although introductions vary by genre, they all serve the same purpose: to orient the reader and clarify the writer’s intent. Think of an introduction as a preview of what’s to come. …

While some of the conventions for writing an introduction vary by discipline, a strong introduction for any paper will contain some common elements. You can see these common elements in the sample …

When they begin to read your paper, readers are trying to understand a complex text that is new to them. They want to know what it’s about, to understand its background or context, and to see its …

In addition to setting the stage for what’s to come, good introductions successfully hook their readers, or capture the reader’s attention, by offering an intriguing or thought-provoking first impression.

Apr 3, 2026 · If you are unsure of how to organize your introductory paragraph, this is a good format to follow: Sometimes it is best to situate yourself within the conversation surrounding your topic early …

Mar 27, 2026 · An introduction is the first paragraph or first section of your text, which sets up the focus for your reader. An effective introduction is valuable because it orients your reader to the overall …

Feb 25, 2026 · For a good introduction, begin by hooking the reader with an interesting opening. From there, you'll provide a few transition sentences to get to your main ideas, moving from a broad idea to …

Essay introductions should attract the reader and provide some information about what is to come. However, how you begin your essay depends on your rhetorical situation, which refers to your …

Introductions play a vital role in academic texts. An introduction is your first impression to your reader. This handout provides some help creating effective introductions. What Should an Introduction Do? …