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Introduction

The introduction introduces your reader to your assignment topic and how you are going to approach it.

This is where you build up your reader's expectations for the assignment, and consequently, the introduction is important. Make sure the introduction is clear and informative. Introduce the problem to be addressed in the assignment, and describe how you are going to deal with it. If relevant, you can also use the introduction to hint at the solution or conclusion you arrive at in the assignment.

In the introduction, you can bring up:

  • the assignment topic and problem
  • the purpose and relevance of the assignment
  • the theory/theories, method and empirical data (if relevant) used in the assignment
  • definitions of concepts
  • the assignment structure or a reading guide
  • the problem statement or hypothesis

Write your introduction

Do you find it difficult to get started on your introduction? Try non-stop writing.

Visit the assignment bank

Arts at Aarhus University has developed an Assignment bank (in Danish) with examples of introductions from other students’ assignments. The assignment bank is available at AU Library.

Ask for feedback

Ask your fellow students to give you feedback on your introduction. It can be a good idea to ask them to read the conclusion as well so they can tell you whether your introduction promises too much – and whether your conclusion covers all the aspects mentioned in your introduction.

SEARCH

The information about formalities is general guidelines. They do not replace the provisions in your academic regulations, your lecturers ' guidance or information on your course's website. First, please contact the above-mentioned locations. If in doubt, ask your supervisor.

Revised 16.06.2022
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Pernille Risør Elving