The Lighthouse

For an essay introduction, it is usually it is best to structure it as follows:

• a broad introduction to the overall topic the essay question is about.
• a statement that narrows down to the area of the topic you’re discussing and links to the thesis statement
• the thesis statement (an outline of your direct answer to the question and your reasons for giving that answer)

Also see:

• http://owll.massey.ac.nz/assignment-types/essay-introduction.php
• Essay writing 101
• Sample essay 1
• Sample essay 2