Learn how to write clear, structured academic papers by building strong introductions, developing convincing arguments, and using transitions effectively.

Introduction

The introduction is an overview of the body—it focuses on the objectives of the argumentation. It constitutes the first 10% of a paper and consists of three sections: the context, the thesis, and the outline.

Because the reader's first impression will influence his or her perception of the rest of the paper, the introduction is your chance to establish your credibility as a writer.

Context

The introduction's first task is to get the reader's attention. The opening lines of a text must therefore introduce the topic of the paper by providing interesting and relevant background information. Avoid broad, sweeping statements and obvious facts like: "Since the dawn of time, humans have needed food to survive."

Thesis

The introduction's second task is to establish the thesis, i.e. the goal of the paper. Will you prove the validity of a statement or answer a question? This must be obvious to the reader.

A strong thesis is clear and easy to find. It has three qualities: it is specific enough to be fully explored in the paper, it is argumentative, and it is explanatory. Simply saying that you agree or disagree with something is not enough.

The extinction of a species is bad.

The extinction of the red-tailed swallow is bad. (Specific)

The extinction of the red-tailed swallow must be prevented. (Argumentative)

The extinction of the red-tailed swallow must be prevented because it would have devastating impact on the Ungolu rainforest. (Explanatory)

Outline

The introduction's third task is to outline the logical progression of the paper by summarizing its content. In one or two sentences, it specifies the structure of the paper by listing its main ideas in the correct order.

Body

The body constitutes 80% of a paper and its number of sections is equivalent to its number of main ideas. The goal of this main part of the paper is to present in a clear and coherent way the ideas that support the thesis. Before writing a paper, you should take the time to think about the reader, the topic, and the purpose of your paper.

In order to go beyond a simple brainstorming session, remember that your ideas must be arranged to form a whole; in order to structure your ideas in an effective way, remember that the connections between your ideas are just as important as your ideas themselves. 

Conclusion

The conclusion is an account of the body—it focuses on the outcomes of the argumentation. It constitutes the last 10% of a paper and consists of two sections: the summary and the final thought.

Because the reader's final impression will influence his or her perception of the rest of the paper, the conclusion is your chance to reaffirm your position in a convincing way. 

Transition Words

Transition words ensure coherence from one idea to another and overall flow in a paper. They allow the writer to go from one idea to the next, and they help the reader to see how these ideas are connected. When choosing a transition word, make sure that it expresses the right relationship between two ideas.

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