An Introduction to Introductions

1. Some Sort of Background Information
   

   Let your reader know something either about the subject (most important) or about yourself (less important)--things that will help your reader to see the subject through your eyes, to be able to place the subject in a useful context. You might include something about the history of the subject (if the history fits your particular point). You might explain the major controversy associated with the subject. You might explain misunderstandings, problems, areas of study, interest. You might, if you are dealing with a quotation or literary work, include a quick summary of the quotation or main structure of the work. You might explain important terms that make a difference in your analysis, explanation. <\blockquote>

   Some Kind of Focus, Emphasis, Selection of Problem
   

   Let your reader know what part of the whole subject you want to concentrate on. What is the major issue that concerns you? What is the most important thing for your reader to consider? What is the problem? [Note: sometimes, this gets mixed in with background. Sometimes, however, if your subject is a big one, you will need to isolate the particular area you want to concentrate on.]

   Some Reference to Importance, Relevance
   

   (Optional--depending on issue, reader, context)

   Give your reader a notion of just why he/she should bother reading your paper. Why is your subject important? (This might be important if your subject looks rather simple-minded and dumb or over-worked.) What can your reader learn? (What sorts of implications or consequences ought to come out of your study?) If your problem doesn't have any relevance, then you can write a disclaimer of relevance. At least, that way you begin to head off obvious sources of attack.

   A Thesis Statement
   

Got questions?
Writing Center Homepage