An introduction paragraph is a defining part of your research paper. The irony of it is that it does not have to be the first thing you write. It will either attract or repel the reader to delve into the other paragraphs of your work. How then do you write this introductory paragraph?
Most of the information should provide a background on the issue you are handling. The information includes statistics and the latest reports on the area of interest. The sentences may also highlight the myths and misconceptions about an issue. This forms a solid foundation and prepares the reader on what to expect in the intervening paragraphs.
The thesis statement acts as a summary of intent or justification of your stand. It wraps up the ideas and statistics presented in the opening sentences into one statement. In research papers where the introduction runs for a number of pages, it should still appear last before the next section. It gives meaning to everything that has been said in introductory paragraphs. It also provides the reader with a point of focus when reading the remaining parts of your paper.
In most academic circles, an inverted pyramid approach is used when writing the introduction. This is where you begin from the general and narrow down to a particular area. The introduction prepares the reader to know what to expect from the body. It eliminates the larger areas and specifies your scope. It is an indication of the limitations or boundaries that your work will cover.
A comparison or contrast, an anecdote, quotation, news headline or recent debate helps in grounding your opinion. It gives the work bearing or a context that makes it easy to relate for the reader. In some cases, the starter might not be related to your topic or area of study but it helps the reader in understanding your point.
After compiling the introductory paragraph to your research paper, read through it again and correct any mistakes. It does not have to be written as the first thing in the writing process. However, ensure that it perfectly captures the ideas discussed in the paper and in the perspective they are discussed. An outline or template may help you in writing an A+ introductory paragraph. Avoid the use of personal pronouns like ‘I’ or ‘me’ as well as emotional and sensational approaches. Make it as precise as possible.
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