Creating Effective Introductions Presented by the UTA English Writing Center

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The Basics The introduction is the reader’s first impression of the paper! This is the moment where the reader will assess your writing style, argument, and overall quality of the work. The introduction usually consists of the hook, transitional sentences to connect the hook to the topic, then the thesis statement. A good introduction serves as the signpost of your paper, both for you and the reader. The introduction should acquaint the reader with what will be discussed, but should not begin the discussion in detail just yet. If you are doing a literary analysis be sure to include the author's name and the particular work you will be discussing.

What is a “Hook”? The first few sentences attempt to capture the reader’s interest. A good way to look at the hook is to answer these questions: o Why does this topic matter? o What is something that would make someone take interest in you topic? Show, don’t tell; the “hook” connects the reader’s interests or needs with the subject of the paper.

Different Kinds of Hooks Research papers and policy analyses – Why is the topic at hand important? What is at stake? Who is affected? Literary analysis – What is significant about the work? Historical context? Author purpose? Timeless themes? Innovations? Continued Influence? Why did you chose this topic? Depending on the kind of paper, sometimes a quote or statistic can be useful to demonstrate the importance. Will background information be required for the reader? For example: definitions, summary of events, factual details.

After the Hook Use transition sentences to connect the hook to the rest of the topic. Sentences should introduce new concepts. Avoid obvious statements such as “Literature often portrays characters who have many conflicts.” Avoid sentences and words that have little weight or meaning. Your readers will know you are trying to fill space! ie. "____ is a good author" or "In this riveting short story …"

Crafting a Thesis Your thesis should describe your main argument. Some papers require a two sentence thesis: the first part of the thesis usually argues the main point, while the second sentence “blueprints” the paper, briefly covering the main topics. The thesis should appear early on in your paper but towards the end of the introduction. Use your hook to connect the reader to the thesis. Use action verbs and active voice (in most cases). The thesis should not be obvious. Does it say anything new? The thesis should not be broad.

The Thesis (cont...) Example of a weak thesis: Violent revolutions have had both positive and negative results for man. This thesis is too broad, and does not tell us what the paper specifically is going to argue. Additionally, the overgeneralization makes it difficult to say something profound or new. Example of a stronger thesis: Although violent revolutions begin to redress long-standing social inequities, they often do so at the cost of long- term economic dysfunction and the suffering that accompanies it. This revision gives more specific assertions, tells us more about what the paper will discuss, and exemplifies the complexity and uniqueness of the subject.

The Thesis (cont...) Example of a weak thesis: This housing program is bad and makes more homelessness. Passive language, lack of detail, and broad generalizations make it difficult to show author’s knowledge on the topic. Example of a stronger thesis: The HomeBASE Rental Assistance program set forth by Governor Deval Patrick threatens to lower housing retention rates due to lack of affordable housing and stabilization options following discharge. This revision uses active verbs, specifies the subject matter, and introduces the main points of the paper.

Other Tips Some writers have success writing their introductions after the main paper (or even the outline). o It is sometimes easier to identify what certain points have in common after you have already enumerated and explained them. Some writers think of an introduction as an upside down pyramid: the hook reaches the general audience, then the rest of the introduction narrows the topic down to the thesis.

Other Tips (cont...) If you find that your thesis is a personal conviction, or too biased, reframe your thought as a hypothesis to be tested. Don’t be afraid to write a tentative introduction and replace it later. This will help get the writing process started. If it is a literary analysis, assume the reader has already read the book. Avoid clichés, such as: “Webster defines ___ as…” "Since the dawn of time…" When in doubt, come to us at the Writing Center!

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