How do I write a good introduction for an essay?
Respuesta corta
A good introduction does three things in a few sentences: it opens with a relevant point about the topic, it shows you understand what the question is asking, and it ends with a clear thesis, the main argument your essay will prove. Keep it short and save your evidence for the body paragraphs.
Paso a paso
- Start with a sentence that links directly to the question, not a general statement about life or history.
- Define or narrow any key term in the question if it could be read in more than one way.
- State your thesis: your answer to the question in one clear sentence.
- Briefly signal the two or three points you will develop, in the order you will write them.
Ejemplo resuelto
Question: How does Shakespeare present ambition in Macbeth?
- Weak: Ambition is something everyone has.
- Stronger: Shakespeare presents ambition as a force that corrupts Macbeth once it is separated from loyalty and conscience.
- Signposting: He shows this through the witches' prophecy, Lady Macbeth's persuasion and Macbeth's growing isolation.
Errores comunes
- Repeating the question word for word without answering it.
- Writing a long plot summary in the introduction.
- Promising points in the introduction that never appear in the essay.
Una clase particular es la forma más rápida de reforzar lo que te falta antes de un examen. La primera clase es gratis.
Encontrar un profesor de Inglés