Introductions

In Introductions and Conclusions, it is stated that introductions consist of contextualizing the background of your issue, stating the problem, and responding to said problem. By setting up an introduction using the Context-Problem-Response formula, it allows for the reader to get really invested in your paper and wish to read more. To start off, the writer has to contextualize their information which is called “common ground” due to the fact that it “establishes a shared understanding between reader and writer about the general issue the writer will address.” (225) Following this the writer must state their problem and convince the reader that their research problem is significant and once it is resolved it will benefit everyone. After stating your problem, it is suggested that the writer ask, “So what?” Following this is the solution. In an introduction the writer can go one of two ways- they can promise that their issue will be solved later on in the essay or explicitly state the main points of what your solution is about. The author makes note that introductions do not necessarily always need all three parts of the Common Ground+Problem+Response set up because it depends on what your reader is familiar with regarding the topic you write about. However, this form allows the reader to find their way through the essay easier, and have them think more deeply about the topic at hand.