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Introduction

 

Essay introduction

The introduction tells the reader what the essay is about. It has three parts:

Introductions are written from broad to narrow. They introduce the topic, state argument, outline main points

Look at the following sample and notice the clearly defined structure.

Sample introduction

Example

Self-confidence means possessing a positive yet realistic view of one’s self and abilities. Self-confident people have trust and faith in their abilities. This essay will argue that self-confidence develops through a complex interaction between a range of factors. Firstly, self-confidence will be defined, followed by an analysis of the interaction between the various factors that affect the confidence of an individual. In particular these are personality style, situational factors/life experiences, self-efficacy and self-esteem.

Topic and context
Argument
What will be covered
[topic and context]Self-confidence means possessing a positive yet realistic view of one’s self and abilities. Self-confident people have trust and faith in their abilities. [end topic and context][argument]This essay will argue that self-confidence develops through a complex interaction between a range of factors. [end argument][what will be covered]Firstly, self-confidence will be defined, followed by an analysis of the interaction between the various factors that affect the confidence of an individual. In particular these are personality style, situational factors/life experiences, self-efficacy and self-esteem.[end what will be covered]