The Writing Process

Creating Strong Introductions

Introductions should make strong statements that arouse attention and announce what a paper is about. Avoid making general statements that simply serve as weak titles:

This paper is about property taxes. People are leaving this state because they are too high. This is hurting Wisconsin.

You can improve introductions by using a number of techniques:

1. Open with a thesis statement:

Wisconsin must lower property taxes to prevent a massive loss of revenue needed to improve education and create welfare reform.

2. Begin with a fact or statistic:

In 1995 more than two hundred small businesses left Wisconsin and relocated in other states to escape excessive property taxes.

3. Use a quotation:

Addressing shareholders last December, Janet Hernandez announced, "After thirty years in Milwaukee, our firm cannot compete because of high property taxes."

4. Open with a narrative:

In 1919 there were few jobs for black army veterans. Frank Washington opened a small repair shop that grew into a company that employed fifty people until his grandson was forced to close because of high property taxes.