The Function of Introduction
Good introductions:
- Grab the reader’s attention and set the tone.
- Identify the topic and give necessary contextual information.
- State the main argument and its importantance or interest.
- Describe overall organization and evidence used.
Getting Started
Identify the following:
Audience
For whom are you writing?
Your professor? Classmates? An average reader who knows little about your topic?
Purpose
What is your purpose?
To argue? Explain? Describe? Analyze? Summarize?
Scope
How much information can you include?
How long is the paper? Is there a specific question to answer? Can you devise your own topic?
Nature of the Assignment
What kind of writing are you doing? A formal essay? A note? A reaction paper? A posting on Blackboard?
