Overview
Writing the introduction to an essay can be a confusing process. Students have to decide whether to explain why the topic is important, provide background or description, or just present the thesis statement and the main points from the outline. Sometimes it is easier to use the thesis statement in a rough draft and go back to the introductory paragraph after more of the essay is written.
Explanation and Background
Sometimes a gripping introduction begins with an explanation of why the topic is so important. Suppose Tina were writing an essay supporting funding for interstate highways and bridges. She might discuss bridge collapses that have already happened throughout the country, or use an apt quote from the Secretary of Transportation about the state of disrepair of freeways across America. If Frank were writing about programs for veterans, he might describe conditions for veterans in his city without those programs, and then introduce activities by the Division for Veterans Affairs.
The Direct Approach
Sometimes the direct approach is best in a draft introduction. Becky wrote a strong thesis statement about summer employment for teens. She followed it up with main points of real-world work experience, practice in budgeting money, and importance to the local economy. Students can always try different approaches to see what works best for them.
Productive Writing
Writers work more productively under conditions that work best for them. For example, many writing textbooks tell students to minimize distractions, such as turning off the TV, banishing the family pet to the basement, and shutting the window so that the neighbor’s lawn mower does not disrupt thought. While turning off the TV eliminates visual distraction, many write better with music in the background, especially if it is instrumental, or familiar enough to maintain focus on the task at hand. Sometimes it helps to open a separate window on the computer screen and type the thesis statement and main points in that window, in order to make sure the essay stays on topic while it is being written.
Write the Introduction Last
Unless a student is expected to turn in a draft outline and first paragraph before the full essay, there’s no harm in writing the introductory paragraph at another time during the writing process. If starting in the middle works better, write from the middle first, and the introduction later, once the draft is going well. Sometimes the point is to write enough to keep the motor going. A rough draft can always be revised as part of the writing process, if enough words are on paper first.
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