Introforeword

Introforeword is a coined term in publishing that describes a hybrid front matter piece combining features of an introduction and a foreword. It aims to provide the reader with an initial framing of the work’s aims, scope, and audience while also offering an outside perspective or endorsement. The form is intended to be concise, blending authorial context with a voice of support or context from a contributor, editor, or reviewer.

Origin and use. The term is not part of standard publishing terminology and does not have a universally agreed-upon definition. It appears primarily in discussions of front matter design, debates about authorial voice, and in some self-published or experimental works where traditional separate foreword and introduction roles are merged into a single piece.

Typical content and structure. An introforeword may include a brief description of the work’s aims, its intended readership, and the scope of coverage, often written by the author. It may also incorporate a short endorsement, justification, or contextual note from one or more external voices. Compared with a conventional foreword, it tends to be shorter and more focused on introducing the project, and compared with an introduction, it may carry more of a testimonial or collaborative framing.

Usage, advantages, and criticisms. The introforeword is uncommon in traditional publishing and can blur lines between endorsement and scholarly presentation. Proponents argue it offers a streamlined front matter that quickly situates the reader, while critics suggest it may confuse readers about voice, authority, or scholarly objectivity. Its use is most visible in experimental, self-published, or niche titles.

See also: foreword, introduction, preface.