Introduction Writing Strategies

Purpose of Introductions

• Introductions and conclusions are vital for guiding readers into and out of your analysis.
• They serve as bridges from the reader’s world to the paper's context.

Importance of a Good Introduction

• First impressions: Sets the tone for your argument and writing style.
• Provides a roadmap: Indicates the topic, importance, thesis, and structure.
• Captures interest: Engages readers and motivates them to continue reading.

Strategies for Effective Introductions

Begin with the Question

• Focus on the essay’s main question, transitioning to your thesis.
• Example: Use broad statements and narrow them down to specific arguments.

Deciding on Scope

• Use analogy like Google Maps to determine the level of generality needed.
• Contextualize ideas without being overly broad.

Writing Order

• Consider writing the introduction last, ensuring it aligns with your final arguments.
• Tentative introductions can help start the writing process but should be revised later.

Engaging Openings

• Intriguing Example: Use specific anecdotes related to the topic.
• Provocative Quotation: Quote directly relevant to the argument.
• Puzzling Scenario: Present a scenario that challenges common perceptions.
• Vivid Anecdote: Share an unexpected narrative that ties into the topic.
• Thought-Provoking Question: Pose a question that highlights the topic's significance.

First Sentence Importance

• Ensure the opening sentence is engaging and effectively conveys the paper's focus.

Evaluating Introduction Drafts

• Ask a peer to predict the paper's content, evidence, and tone based on the introduction.

Types of Ineffective Introductions

1. Placeholder Introduction: Vague and uninformative.
2. Restated Question Introduction: Simply rephrases the assignment question.
3. Webster's Dictionary Introduction: Uses dictionary definitions instead of context-specific definitions.
4. Dawn of Man Introduction: Broad, sweeping generalizations irrelevant to the thesis.
5. Book Report Introduction: Basic book details without thesis relevance.

Conclusion

• Experiment with different introduction styles to find the most effective one.
• The conclusion should mirror the introduction in helping readers transition out of your paper.

Resources

• Consult the listed works for further insight into effective introductions.
• Use the UNC Libraries citation tutorial for guidance on formatting.

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