introduction

The introduction is the opening section of a document, speech, or presentation that sets the stage for what follows. It states the topic, clarifies the purpose, and outlines the scope. It is intended to orient the reader and establish the tone for the work.

In many disciplines, the introduction presents a central research question or thesis, explains why the topic matters, and previews the structure of the work. It may provide background information, define key terms, and situate the work within broader scholarly or practical contexts.

Typical elements include an attention-getter or hook, background or context, a clear statement of purpose or thesis, the scope or boundaries of the work, and an outline of the organization or methodology. The balance among these elements varies by genre and discipline.

The introduction is followed by related sections such as literature review, methods, results, or argument sections. A well-crafted introduction should be concise, precise, and accessible, and it should align with the content that follows.

In education and professional writing, the introduction also serves to establish reader expectations and guide the reader into the argument or investigation. Common pitfalls include excessive detail, vague statements, or failing to signal the work’s relevance.