An introduction is the first paragraph of a written research paper, or the first thing you say in an oral presentation, or the first thing people see, hear, or experience about your project. It has two main purposes: to introduce the topic, and to grab the reader's or listener's attention.
A good introduction should accomplish the following tasks:
Provide background information: Give the reader some context for the topic you are about to discuss. This can include historical or scientific context, or a brief overview of the main ideas you will be discussing.
State the purpose or main argument: Clearly and concisely tell the reader what you will be discussing and why it is important. This is sometimes called the thesis statement.
Engage the reader: Use rhetorical questions, humor, or a strong quote to draw the reader in and make them want to keep reading.
Here are some examples of effective introductions:
Example 1:
"Imagine a world without bees. Flowers would go un pollinated, crops would fail, and our diets would be limited to a narrow range of plants. But despite the crucial role they play in our ecosystems and agriculture, bees are in decline. In this paper, we will explore the causes and consequences of this trend, as well as potential solutions for reversing it."
This introduction provides background information on the importance of bees, and clearly states the purpose of the paper. It also uses a rhetorical question to engage the reader and make them think about the consequences of a world without bees.
Example 2:
"Have you ever wondered why we have dreams? Some people believe that dreams are a way for our brains to process and make sense of the events of the day, while others think they are a way to access the unconscious mind. In this paper, we will examine the latest scientific research on the purpose and function of dreams, as well as their cultural and personal significance."
This introduction provides background information on the various theories about the purpose of dreams, and clearly states the purpose of the paper. It also uses a rhetorical question to engage the reader and make them think about their own experiences with dreaming.
Example 3:
"The human body is an amazing machine, capable of healing itself and adapting to a wide range of environments. But despite our innate resilience, we are not immune to illness and injury. In this paper, we will explore the immune system and its role in keeping us healthy, as well as some of the challenges it faces and ways we can support it."
This introduction provides background information on the human body's natural healing abilities, and clearly states the purpose of the paper. It also uses a strong quote to engage the reader and emphasize the complexity and importance of the immune system.
In conclusion, an effective introduction should provide background information, state the purpose or main argument, and engage the reader. By following these guidelines, you can create an introduction that will effectively set the stage for your paper or presentation.