Writing Your EE Introduction
How to write a compelling introduction that sets up your argument, establishes your scope, and engages your examiner from the first line.
What Your Introduction Must Do
Function 1
Hook the Reader
Open with a thought-provoking statement, striking statistic, or real-world scenario that establishes why your topic matters. Do not open with a dictionary definition.
Function 2
State Your Research Question
Include your exact Research Question — word for word. The examiner needs to see it clearly stated so they can evaluate whether you have answered it.
Function 3
Define Key Terms
Define the most important terms in your RQ. Not every word — just those with specialist or discipline-specific meanings that affect your argument.
Function 4
Establish Your Scope
Tell the reader what you will and will not cover. ‘This essay focuses on X in the context of Y, between [time period], using [sources/methods].’
Function 5
Signal Your Argument
Give the examiner a preview of your thesis — your overall answer to the RQ. Do not save it for the conclusion.
Introduction Formula
[Hook] — 2–3 sentences establishing relevance and context.
[Research Question] — State it exactly as registered.
[Key Definitions] — Define 2–3 critical terms from the RQ.
[Scope] — What this essay covers and does not cover.
[Thesis Preview] — Your overall argument in 1–2 sentences.
[Research Question] — State it exactly as registered.
[Key Definitions] — Define 2–3 critical terms from the RQ.
[Scope] — What this essay covers and does not cover.
[Thesis Preview] — Your overall argument in 1–2 sentences.
Target length: 250–350 words (≈8% of your total word count)
💡 Expert Tip
Write your introduction LAST, after you have completed the body of your essay. Only then will you know exactly what argument you have made and what you need to introduce.
Common Introduction Mistakes
1
Starting with a dictionary definition
“According to the Oxford Dictionary, economics is defined as…” — examiners see this in thousands of essays and it signals a formulaic approach. Start with a real-world hook instead.
2
Making the introduction too long
The introduction should set up your essay, not summarise it. Keep it focused: hook, RQ, definitions, scope, thesis preview.
3
Burying the Research Question
Some students put the RQ halfway through or at the end of the introduction. Put it near the beginning — it is the centrepiece of your entire essay.
4
Overpromising in scope
Do not claim you will cover aspects you cannot adequately address in 4,000 words. Narrow your scope statement to match what you actually do.
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