What is the primary role of an introduction in an essay?

The primary role of an introduction in an essay is to present the topic and make the thesis statement clear. The introduction serves as a roadmap for the reader, informing them of what to expect in the essay. It sets the context for the discussion, giving the necessary background information and outlining the main points that will be explored. Additionally, a strong thesis statement clearly articulates the writer's argument or perspective, providing a focused direction for the essay. Without a well-defined introduction, readers may struggle to grasp the purpose and structure of the written work, making it harder to engage with the material effectively.

While personal anecdotes may be used in introductions to connect with readers, they do not represent the primary purpose of this section. Including references and citations is typically more relevant to the body of the essay, where evidence and support for the arguments are detailed. Summarizing the conclusion is a component of the concluding section, which wraps up the essay rather than introduces it. Hence, focusing on presenting the topic and clarifying the thesis is essential for creating a solid foundation for the essay.