In IB English, your essay introduction is your first and best chance to hook the examiner, set up your argument, and show you understand the task. Whether you're writing for Paper 1, Paper 2, or the HL Essay, your introduction should provide context, clarity, and a clear thesis—all wrapped in a formal yet readable tone.
1. Start with a Contextual Hook
Great introductions often begin with a hook that connects to broader themes or the world of the text. This could be:
- A thematic statement (e.g., “The struggle for identity is central to literature…”)
- A context reference (author’s time period or culture)
- A rhetorical question
You can see this technique modeled in the How to Write a Good Essay for IB English Literature article on RevisionDojo, where hooks are used to connect literature with global issues and authorial intent.
2. Provide Essential Background Information
Once you’ve hooked the reader, offer a brief overview:
- Author name and title of the text
- Relevant cultural, historical, or political context
- The text type and any features that matter to your analysis
For non-literary texts in Paper 1, use the TAPAC framework—Text type, Author, Purpose, Audience, Context—as described in IB English Paper 1: 7 Expert Strategies.
3. Present a Clear, Analytical Thesis
A strong thesis answers the prompt directly and outlines your line of argument. It should:
- Address the guiding question or global issue
- Introduce the primary device(s) or theme(s)
- Reflect depth and nuance
Not sure how to write this? RevisionDojo’s Structuring Your IB English Paper 2 Essay offers sample thesis statements and planning outlines that help students link their argument to the question effectively.
4. Hint at Your Essay’s Structure
Strong introductions provide a roadmap for the essay. Without detailing every paragraph, briefly suggest:
- The themes or literary devices to be explored
- The progression of the analysis
This technique helps you stay focused and gives the examiner a preview of your analytical logic. It's especially useful for comparative essays, as shown in IB Paper 2 Essential Guide for Success, where comparative structures are introduced in the opening paragraph.
5. Maintain a Balanced, Academic Tone
Avoid overly dramatic openings or casual language. Your introduction should:
- Use academic vocabulary
- Be clear and concise
- Flow logically
The guide IB English HL Essay: Detailed Breakdown provides sample language that balances sophistication with clarity—ideal for formal writing.
Example Introduction
“In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the theme of power is intricately explored through Macbeth’s descent from celebrated warrior to tyrannical ruler. Through dramatic irony, symbolism, and soliloquy, Shakespeare presents power not as a virtue, but as a corrupting force. This essay will analyze how these devices shape the audience’s perception of Macbeth’s transformation and reinforce the tragic arc of the play.”
This example includes a hook, text introduction, thesis, and a hint of structure—just as outlined in RevisionDojo’s writing templates.
FAQs
Q: Can I include multiple texts in one introduction (e.g., Paper 2)?
Yes, but keep it concise. Mention both texts and any immediate thematic or stylistic contrasts.
Q: Should I define key terms in my intro?
Only if it helps clarify your thesis. Avoid turning the intro into a glossary—definitions should support analysis.
Q: Can I write the introduction last?
Absolutely. Many high-level students use this approach so their introduction aligns with the final shape of the essay.
Conclusion
Writing a great introduction is about creating a focused, thoughtful, and purposeful opening that guides your reader into the essay. With RevisionDojo’s proven methods—like TAPAC, thesis framing, and guided structure—you can write introductions that lead to 7s across all IB English assessments.
🔗 Explore more high-scoring essay strategies at:
