How do I write an introduction to a research paper?

How do I write an introduction to a research paper?

The introduction paragraph is the first paragraph of the essay.  The purpose of this paragraph is to capture the reader’s attention, provide necessary background information on the chosen topic, and to introduce the thesis statement.  


Introduction Paragraph Format: 

  • The “Hook”:  Capture the reader’s attention.  Entice the reader to want to know more about your essay.  There are a few strategies to accomplish this.  In your essay, choose one strategy that works best for your essay.  

    • An Anecdote - Start with a personal short story to show the reader you’ve experienced something similar to the main focus.

    • A Quote - Give the reader an interesting, thought-provoking, or extreme fact that relates to your topic.   

    • A Description - Write a vivid description to lead to the point of your essay.  

    • For more information about essay hooks, check out this infographic. 


  • Background Information: Background information is the necessary information the reader will need to know in order to understand the essay.  Focus on answering the question “What is it?” and “What’s the history of this topic?”.  This section can be lengthy at times.  Providing the necessary information here will help your reader better understand your point of view in your thesis statement.  


  • Thesis Statement: This is the focal point of your entire research report.  If you’re curious to learn more about how to compose a thesis statement, check out this article. 

For more information about writing an introduction paragraph, click here! 


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