Background information in an essay introduction refers to the contextual details and relevant facts that are presented to provide readers with the necessary knowledge and understanding of the topic being discussed in the essay. It serves to orient the readers and establish a foundation for the main argument or thesis of the essay.
Placement of Background Information
Background information typically appears toward the beginning of the essay, specifically, in the introductory paragraph. It serves as the second opening part of the essay after the hook and sets the stage for the main argument or thesis that follows it.
The background information is usually presented after the hook or the opening sentence. It provides the necessary context, definitions, historical overview, or relevant facts necessary for the readers to understand the topic and the main argument of the essay.
Including background information in the introduction help readers to have good background of the topic. It also helps them to gain basic knowledge of the field. It also ensures that the readers have the necessary background understanding to follow the main arguments and align their thoughts with the analysis effectively.
Steps to Write Background Information
The main part of the essay, the introduction comprises a hook, background information, and a thesis statement. There are certain steps to write the background/context section, which provides a brief overview of the topic or issue being discussed. These steps are as follows.
| Step | How to do it |
| Step 1: Identify the topic | Determine the main topic of the essay. Have a clear understanding of what is being discussed, and the specific focus of the essay. |
| Step 2: Conduct research | Gather relevant information about the topic. Look for credible sources such as books, scholarly articles, and reputable websites to gather facts, historical context, definitions, and key terms related to the essay. |
| Step 3: Provide an overview | Introduce the topic in a concise manner. State what will be discussed to provide readers with a clear understanding of the focus of the essay. |
| Step 4: Historical background | If applicable, provide a brief historical overview of the topic. Highlight key events, periods, or milestones important for understanding the context in which the main topic exists. |
| Step 5: Define key terms | Define any specific terminology, concepts, or theories central to the essay. Ensure that readers have a clear understanding of the key terms. |
| Step 6: Explain significance | Explain why the topic is significant and relevant. Discuss its importance in the broader context, its impact on society, its relevance to a particular field, or its implications for current issues. Help readers understand why the topic matters and why they should be interested in the essay. |
| Step 7: Address debates | Briefly mention ongoing debates or discussions related to the topic. Provide a summary of different viewpoints or perspectives within the field to situate your essay within a larger intellectual discourse and add depth to your analysis. |
| Step 8: Acknowledge limitations | Acknowledge any limitations or gaps in knowledge within the broader spectrum of subject matter. Demonstrate awareness of the complexity of the subject matter and provide context for the specific focus or angle of the essay. |
| Step 9: Smooth transition | Ensure a smooth transition from the background information to the thesis statement or main argument. The background information sets the stage for the main body of the essay and takes the readers into the specific argument or analysis of the essay. |
These features make good background information. If it has all this information, it helps the readers to have a strong foundation of knowledge in that specific area or topic, giving them a clear understanding of the topic and its relevance before understanding the main arguments or points of the essay.
Sample of a Good Background Information
Topic: Energy Conservation
Background Information: Energy conservation is a vital practice. It aims to reduce the use of energy and resolve the negative impacts of excessive usage of energy. With the increasing population and rising demands for energy, it is important to adopt measures promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. Fossil fuel combustion for electricity and transportation releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and environmental degradation. This consumption is leading to the depletion of fossil fuel reserves which is raising concerns about future energy security. By implementing energy-saving techniques and technologies, energy consumption could be reduced considerably. This human move is critical in preserving resources, promoting renewable energy sources, and creating an eco-friendly environment.
Topic: Impacts of Social Media on Children
Background Information: The impact of social media on children has become a topic of hot debate after kids have started using cell phones. Children, therefore, are accessing social media platforms at much younger ages. This exposes them to benefits as well as potential health risks. As these platforms provide opportunities for communication, self-expression, and learning, they also present challenges of cyberbullying, privacy invasion, and addictive behaviors. The constant exposure to online content and peer interactions not only influences children’s self-esteem, but it also impacts the image of their body and their social relationships. Understanding the effects of social media on children is, therefore, critical for parents, teachers, and society as a whole so that responsible usage, digital literacy, and the mental well-being of the children could be ensured.
Suggested Readings
- Butler, Linda. Longman Academic Writing Series 1: Sentences to Paragraphs. Pearson, 2013.
- Hogue, Ann. Longman Academic Writing Series 2: Paragraphs. Pearson, 2013.
- Meyers, Alan. Longman Academic Writing Series 5: Essays to Research Papers. Pearson, 2014.
- Nadell, Judith, et al. The Longman Writer: Rhetoric, Reader, Research Guide, and Handbook. Pearson, 2013.
- Oshima, Alice, and Ann Hogue. Longman Academic Writing Series 4: Essays. Pearson, 2014.
- Shields, MunLing. Essay Writing: A Student’s Guide. Pearson, 2016.
- Acheson, Katherine O. Writing Essays About Literature: A Brief Guide for University and College Students. Cengage, 2010.
- Griffith, Kelley. Writing Essays About Literature: A Guide and Style Sheet. Cengage, 2018.