Skidmore Guide to Writing Index
Introductions

Any introduction needs to

• give your reader a clear idea of what question you are answering in your paper
• invite your reader to Pin you in considering that question (that is, the introduction should appeal to the reader's interest)
• give a sense of why the question is important - to you and others
• give the reader an idea of what kinds of sources you are considering for evidence.

The introduction, then, presents a question, the context for asking that question, and your motivation for answering it.

To read about an introduction in the context of the writing process, click here.