The Introduction: General Statements
The introduction opens with general statements that make clear what the topic is and give some background information. These statements should become more and more specific as the introduction progresses, leading the reader toward the thesis.
Example (general statements — essay on cars):
Although they were invented almost a hundred years ago, for decades cars were only owned by the rich. Since the 60s and 70s they have become increasingly affordable, and now most families in developed nations, and a growing number in developing countries, own a car.
These sentences introduce the topic (cars) and give background (the situation in the past versus now), leading the reader into the thesis statement.
Tip: Move from a broad opening to narrower detail. General statements set the scene; they should never be so wide that they could open any essay ("Since the beginning of time…").
Common mistake: Making the general statements too broad or unrelated to the topic. Keep them on-topic and steadily narrowing.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. The introduction opens with ___ statements.
2. These give the reader ___ information about the topic.
3. They should become more and more ___ .
4. They lead the reader toward the ___ statement.
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — having or showing arrogant superiority
“Rich people are haughty.”
Meaning — stubbornly obstructive and unwilling to cooperate
“I have been a cantankerous with my partners.”
Meaning — hear, understand
“He was so far away; we really couldn't make out what he was saying.”
Meaning — deny or renounce
“We cannot abnegate our god.”
Meaning — characterized by extreme care and great effort
“My company needs conscientious workers.”