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  1. UNT Dallas
  2. Learning Commons
  3. Writing
  4. Topic Sentences
  5. Introductions and Conclusions
  • 5 Tips for Better Writing
  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Annotated Bibliography vs. Literature Review
  • Common Errors
  • Introductions and Conclusions
  • Literature Reviews
  • Professional Writing
  • Thesis Statements

Introductions and Conclusions

Introductions: Purpose and Structure

Why do I need an introductory paragraph?

You need an introductory paragraph (AKA introduction to your paper) because it:

  • Introduces topic and main ideas discussed in your paper
  • Expresses direction and structure of the paper
  • Provides essential background information needed for the reader to understand what you are writing about
  • Generates interest 

 

How should I structure an introductory paragraph? 

 

 

Your introduction should start broad and slowly get more specific. Think of the format of this paragraph as an upside down triangle: you will start out with a broad discussion and narrow it down to a specific point, which is your thesis statement.

 

 

The thesis statement is the most important part of the introductory paragraph. The thesis statement contains:

  • a topic
  • a controlling idea
  •  several main points that will be the main sections of your paper.

Example thesis statement: Regularly visiting the UNT Dallas Writing Center will help you become the best writer on the planet because it offers superhero tutors, current technology, and fantastic handouts.

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