Mastering the Art of Impressive Introductions in Academic Writing
Understanding the significance of introductions in academic writing, this content delves into dos and don'ts, strategies such as the introductions triangle, and the crucial role of introductions and conclusions in assignments. It emphasizes the impact of a strong introduction in capturing reader interest and setting the stage for the main body of work.
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Presentation Transcript
Introductions ..Might be the be-all and the end-all.. Shakespeare, MacBeth
Overview: 1. 2. 3. 4. Brief explanation Introductions Dos Don ts
Brief Explanation
Introductions & Conclusions: Provide a map for readers: Intro: sets scene for reader Main body: visits areas of discussion & provides facts Conclusion: revisits intro and elaborates further
Introductions & Conclusions: Crucial in assignment writing Present central ideas Provides outline of information & discussion Arrange facts in a coherent structure Give context to facts Readily present arguments Reminds the reader of purpose from start to end
Introductions triangle Begin broadly: quote/anecdote/theme and set relevant context Become more specific: how you are going to support your arguments? Specific: Main argument/point of the piece, central idea clearly expressed
Example BROAD Anecdote to inform reader what the piece is about In 1901, Pablo Picasso's closest friend, Carlos Casagemas, committed suicide, an event which shocked the young artist and drove him into a deep, guilt-laden depression. Indeed, in the aftermath of this tragedy, Picasso became superstitious in his fear of anything associated with death, an obsession which was reflected not just in his subsequent "blue period" paintings, but throughout his life. The painting Picasso executed in response to Casagemas' death, paradoxically titled La Vie [Life] (1903), develops several of the distinctive motives that would become important to his later paintings, including his ambivalent view of women, a close connection between sex and death, and an intensely subjective viewpoint. MORE SPECIFIC - Further info to set the context of the piece SPECIFIC The central argument clearly expressed SPECIFIC How the central argument will be tackled and discussed clearly expressed
Introductions: YOUR BEST TOOL TO IMPRESS! First impressions are ever lasting impress your lecturer immediately Encourage your reader to WANT to read your assignment Positive impact Helps with marking
Introductions (2): Dos: Attract Attention interesting anecdotes questions to pique curiosity apt quotations or statistics provocative/personal questions or statements Dos: Explain your piece of writing The reader should have NO DOUBT as to what your assignment is about The central point/argument should be CLEAR The content of your assignment should be OUTLINED
Introductions (3): Dos: Establish significance Make the reader see why the topic is important Convince the reader to care about what you have to say Dos: Preview how you will demonstrate your points Briefly list how you will back up your argument Prepare the reader for these methods Improves recognition and retention of these points
Introductions (4): Don t: Overdo it! Keep it short Word count estimation (~10%) Usually a single paragraph Half a page or less Don t: Introduce background or factual information Avoid the impulse to start with the story Data/discussion/historical background/etc. are for main body Avoid definitions and specificities Avoid generalisations
