An essay introduction is the first paragraph of an academic essay and is usually around 10% of the total word count. It provides a brief overview of the main points that will be discussed in the essay and introduces the thesis statement. The introduction should be engaging and draw the reader in, giving them a reason to want to continue reading.
There are several ways to structure an essay introduction, and one popular template is as follows:
Start with an attention-grabber: This could be a quote, a statistic, a rhetorical question, or an interesting anecdote. The goal is to grab the reader's attention and make them want to continue reading.
Provide some context: Give the reader some background information on the topic of the essay. This can include a brief overview of the history or context of the issue, or a description of the current state of affairs.
Introduce the thesis statement: The thesis statement is a concise statement that outlines the main points of the essay. It should be clear and specific, and it should provide the reader with a sense of what the essay will be about.
Preview the main points: In the last sentence of the introduction, give the reader a brief overview of the main points that will be discussed in the essay. This gives the reader a sense of what to expect and helps to orient them in the essay.
For example, an essay introduction on the topic of climate change might look like this:
"As the world continues to warm at an alarming rate, the effects of climate change are becoming more and more evident. From devastating hurricanes to prolonged drought, the impact of human activity on the environment is clear. In this essay, we will explore the causes of climate change, its consequences, and potential solutions to this global problem."
This introduction effectively grabs the reader's attention with the mention of the alarming rate of global warming and provides some context on the topic of climate change. It then introduces the thesis statement, which outlines the main points that will be discussed in the essay. Finally, it previews the main points, giving the reader a sense of what to expect in the rest of the essay.
In conclusion, the essay introduction is an important part of any essay as it sets the stage for the rest of the piece and helps to engage the reader. By using a template like the one outlined above, you can craft an effective and engaging introduction that will draw the reader in and set the stage for a well-written essay.
