Introduction
The introduction sets the scene for the whole essay. In a 1500 word essay, this could be a 150 word
paragraph. You should not rewrite the essay question. Instead, the purpose of the introduction is to
identify the topic, your point of view and the main reasons for that point of view.
Often this paragraph includes:
An introductory sentence or two related directly to the question.
A definition or explanation of a key term, appropriately cited. Any definition needs to come
from your area of study.
A clear statement of the focus of the essay or the position being argued, your thesis
statement.
Sentences that give a clear idea of what the essay will be about (content) and the direction
(scope) the essay will take.