Introduction
The introduction should originate from your hypothesis, the summary statement of what you are intending to prove. It should then summarise the key points that you are going to make in your argument.
The key points will then appear prominently in the topic sentences for each paragraph. This will create a sense of cohesion in your essay.
There are many things to keep in mind for the introduction:
- Use your own words. Quotes don't belong in an introduction.
- It is the first impression that you create. Make it count with excellent wording and carefully edited text. To that end, avoid overused, simplistic techniques like 'This essay aims to prove that ...' or 'In this essay, you will read about ...'.
- You are using paragraph form - this means four to eight sentences.
- Establish the time and place for your essay as soon as possible. e.g. 'The Boer War of 1899 - 1902, was fought between the British and Afrikaners over control of South Africa.
Sometimes it helps, when you are writing your essay, if you just start with your hypothesis (see below). Develop your body paragraphs and conclusion next. Only then go back to your introduction. By reviewing each of the topic sentences in your paragraphs, it should be possible for you to easily develop your introduction.
The Hypothesis
This is the central claim of your argument. It provides a clear, straightforward summary of what you intend to prove/argue, usually in response to an historical question.
It usually takes the form of [1] a statement of what you believe true, and [2] the central justification for why you believe this to be true.
Examples include:
If you attempt to write an argumentative, analytical essay without first taking the time to develop a strong hypothesis, you will surely fail.
At all points in your writing, it must be evident how the material being presented by you is relevant to supporting your hypothesis.
It usually takes the form of [1] a statement of what you believe true, and [2] the central justification for why you believe this to be true.
Examples include:
- Nero was often considered to be the worst of the Roman Emperors, however his poor qualities have been grossly exaggerated in ancient sources. Modern scholarship shows Nero to be a better emperor than previously thought.
- Chinese losses in the Opium Wars came about because of a misplaced sense of national pride. The Chinese inability to recognise the strength of western military technology led to their humiliation and downfall.
- Athenian comic drama reached its height with the so-called 'Old Comedies', which contained rich satire. Later comedies are dismissed by historians and experts as having lesser value.
- Pizarro was successful in his attempts to conquer the Incas due to his determination for gold, the superior weaponry of his soldiers and the failure of the Inca to suitably recognise the threat that he posed. He was further aided by lessons learned in earlier, failed expeditions.
If you attempt to write an argumentative, analytical essay without first taking the time to develop a strong hypothesis, you will surely fail.
At all points in your writing, it must be evident how the material being presented by you is relevant to supporting your hypothesis.