Purpose
Not only does the introduction contain your thesis statement, but it provides the initial impression of your
argument, your writing style, and the overall quality of your work. A clear, concise, well-organized, and
engaging introduction will help to efficiently set-up your paper. The introduction must captivate your
audience’s attention and interest. Otherwise, the audience may not be convinced to continue reading.
Think about a text that you have read or even a movie that you have seen whose beginning lost your
interest. You probably put down the book or changed the channel.
Your introduction also serves as a preview for the remainder of your paper, conveying necessary
background information to your readers, identifying your topic and its significance, and unveiling how
you will organize your essay. An effective introduction also establishes your voice as a writer and your
point of view towards your topic. For a thesis-driven paper, provide an overview of your basic argument
and why you will attempt to convince your reader of your stance on a particular issue. If your paper
deviates from the general outline suggested in the introduction, then consider reworking the introduction
