Learning How to Write an Essay: Introduction and Conclusion 

How to write a good introduction to an essay

An introduction to an essay is the most important part.  It introduces the reader to the topic of the essay, the key points of the topic, and what position the writer wants the reader to take on the topic.  The introduction determines whether or not the reader will want to read the rest of the essay.

Here are some pointers on writing a good introduction paragraph to one’s essay:

• The introduction should ensure that the reader knows what the essay will be about.
• The introduction should clearly state what the topic of the essay will be.
• The introduction should start with a sentence that makes the reader want to read more on the topic.
• The introduction should outline the topic, the writer’s position, main points to support the position, and thesis statement or hypothesis.
• The introduction should be concluded with the thesis statement.
• The introduction should be written in an organized and detailed manner.
• The introduction should not include any catch phrases or slogans.
• The introduction should state the topic and writer’s position in a clear and concise way.

How to write a good conclusion to the essay

The conclusion to the essay is the second important part of the essay.  It wraps up the essay, reiterates the thesis statement, the key points are summarized, and the position of the writer is re-emphasized to the reader.  The conclusion determines whether or not the reader will be persuaded to agree with the writer’s position on the topic.

Here are some good pointers on writing a good conclusion paragraph for one’s essay:

• The conclusion should close out the essay, summarize the key points of your essay, and give an ending perspective on the topic of the essay.
• The conclusion should have three or four strong sentences to reiterate the key points and rephrase the writer’s position on the topic.
• The conclusion should never provide new ideas and new facts on the topic.  It should only summarize what has been discussed in the essay in the introduction and the body of the essay.
• The conclusion should wrap up the essay by restating the key points and thesis statement in a simple way for the reader to understand.
• The conclusion of the essay ties the whole essay together at the end. 
• The conclusion determines whether or not the writer has proven their position concerning the topic.