How to Make a Good Introduction Paragraph

Usually completed in a paragraph, a paper's introduction serves many purposes. An introduction of any essay should establish the topic being discussed, grab and hold the reader’s attention and provide a summary of what will be covered throughout the essay. Depending on the topic, introductions may vary in length and content, but the essential elements remain the same.

Research the topic of the essay. The introduction paragraph presents the writer’s opinion on the topic and should therefore be clear and precise.

Decide how the information will be presented in the essay. A writer should decide how much information will be covered in the essay before writing the introduction paragraph, according to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Writing Center.

Identify the essay's main purpose. The purpose of the essay should be determined before beginning the writing process.

Create a sentence that grabs the reader’s attention. Introductory paragraphs should begin with a clear and interesting sentence.

Explain what the essay will be about. An introductory paragraph should explain what the essay will address so the reader can understand the topic and the writer’s point of view, according to Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab.

Discuss how information will be presented in the essay. Highlighting the way the topic will be covered helps readers understand the writer’s opinion. Discussing the essay’s structure is important in longer essays.

Write a clear thesis statement. Every introduction should end with a clear thesis statement.