This document discusses the key elements of a good essay introduction, including providing an interesting opening sentence, clearly stating the topic and scope, and indicating the structure and aim of the essay. A good introduction should be concise, between 15-20% of the total essay length, use formal third-person language, and set up what will be examined in the body of the essay.

1. Essay Structure Part 1
The Introduction

2. Joint Services Command and Staff College
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What elements are needed to
make a good essay
introduction?

3.  Topic & Scope
 An opening sentence to arouse the reader’s interest
 Definition
 An indication of the essay’s structure
 Aim / intention
 Background (only if necessary)
What’s in an Introduction?

4. Example - Essay Title: Discuss the conflict in Afghanistan
First impressions count so write a strong opening sentence
Afghanistan is thought to be a country with a turbulent
history and a resilient people.
Tell the reader what the essay is about – the topic and the
scope:
This essay will cover the current Afghanistan conflict from
the perspective of NATO. It will not include the historical
Russian occupation.

5. The Language of Introductions
 An introduction should be no more than 15-20% of an essay.
Always use the third person - You don’t give your opinion
here – that comes in the conclusion.
Use formal language.
Use phrases like:
This essay will consider this issue from the point of view
of…
This essay will examine this question by consideration of..

6. The Language of Introductions
The Language of Introductions
•Many people have argued that…
•It is widely acknowledged that…
•This essay will describe / outline / focus on…
•In this essay, … will be examined in detail.
•…will be examined / described / outlined.
•Two main aspects will be considered.
•…can be defined as…
•Firstly, secondly, next, finally…
•This essay will argue that…

7. The Language of Introductions
The Language of Introductions
•Many people have argued that…
•It is widely acknowledged that…
•This essay will describe / outline / focus on…
•In this essay, … will be examined in detail.
•…will be examined / described / outlined.
•Two main aspects will be considered.
•…can be defined as…
•Firstly, secondly, next, finally…
•This essay will argue that…