This document provides an introduction to advertising, including definitions, types, and key concepts. It defines advertising as paid persuasive communication that uses mass media to connect sponsors with target audiences. The main types of advertising discussed are brand advertising, retail/local advertising, political advertising, directory advertising, direct response advertising, business-to-business advertising, institutional advertising, public service advertising, and interactive advertising. The document also covers the role of advertising in marketing, key players in advertising like media and audiences, the need for advertising effectiveness, and key concepts like advertising strategy, creativity, and creative media use.