Introductory Paragraphs

The introductory paragraph of an academic essay typically gets to the point very quickly; it does not leave the reader guessing about the intention and the direction of the essay. The introduction should identify:

• the topic of the paper
• the writer’s approach and primary claim
• how the writer will go about supporting this viewpoint or claim

The introduction typically includes a sentence, sometimes called a thesis statement, that articulates the main idea to be supported or elaborated in the essay. For more on how to develop and write thesis statements see the modules on Choosing a Topic and on Writing Strategies. 

Contrary to common belief, most professional writers do not begin the writing process by composing an introduction. They may quickly draft a working thesis to get started, but they know that their ideas are likely to change as they write. Consequently the introductory paragraph of the essay is often written near the end of the process. In fact, it is common for a writer to find that the conclusion of the first draft provides an excellent foundation for the introductory paragraph of later drafts of the paper.