Model Introduction and Model Conclusion

The Introduction

The best introductions are those that get to the point quickly and capture the reader's interest. It is useful to include some brief background information to provide a focus for your topic, but avoid including extraneous material. The introduction should be directly related to the question.

The introduction should focus a reader's attention on the central theme of an essay. It should clarify how you intend to interpret or limit the question and give a clear but brief overview of the issues to be covered and the order in which they will be covered. You may also need to define key terms in the question.

An introduction is roughly 10% of the essay's total word count. Readers gain their first impression of your paper from this section so an effective introduction is vital.

Model Introduction

Topic: The computer—blessing or curse? What is your view on the impact of the computer on society?

Model-Introduction

The Conclusion

A conclusion should bring together all sections of the essay. The assertions you made in your introductory paragraph should have been fully developed and substantiated in each paragraph in your essay. You can therefore draw together all of the main points, refer back to the topic and end on a well-reasoned, logical note.

Your conclusion should not contain any material that has not already been addressed in the body of the essay. A conclusion has a sense of finality. It should include all your main points.

Your concluding paragraph should include:

a restatement of the thesis in your introduction
a final summary of points made in the body of your essay
a final decision/statement

Be careful not to simply repeat yourself in the conclusion. Repetition reduces the impact of your paper. A conclusion is roughly 10% of the essay's total word count.

Model Conclusion

Model-Conclusion

Thanks to Gabrielle Delaney for the use of her introduction and conclusion.

Source: STEPS Language and Learning, Division of Teaching and Learning Services.