Keep in mind that your main argument should focus on a new and interesting approach to the text. Choose your most promising line of argument and develop a thesis. You should be able to paraphrase your thesis in a sentence or two, even if you later choose to develop the idea more gradually in your introduction. Experiment with various forms of prewriting, including idea trees and traditional outlines, and find one that works for you. Keep your thesis in mind.
Introductions can seem daunting to write.
Without summarizing the plot, give your reader any background information that will be necessary to understand and be persuaded by the argument. Similarly, anticipate and address probable counter arguments, and clarify your own ideas accordingly. Stay on track . Continue to ask yourself how each paragraph supports your thesis while communicating a new step in a logical argument. If you can't easily summarize the direction of a particular paragraph, it may be time to reconsider where the essay is going at that point.