Background information provides context and foundational knowledge about the subject matter. Some other important features are as follows.
- It helps readers understand the topic and its significance.
- It includes historical facts, definitions of key terms, relevant statistics, or key events.
- It establishes the framework for the essay.
- It orients the reader and ensures they have a solid understanding of the topic.
- It provides a basis for the thesis statement and helps the reader grasp the relevance and importance of the topic.
Types of Background Information
- Historical Background: It provides information about the historical context relevant to the topic such as key events, periods, or developments that have shaped the subject matter.
- Conceptual Background: It explains important concepts, theories, or frameworks related to the topic, ensuring that readers have a clear understanding of the fundamental ideas.
- Definition of Key Terms: It clarifies the definitions of specific terms or terminology used in the essay to avoid confusion.
- Statistical Background: It presents relevant statistics, data, or facts that support or contextualize the argument or analysis.
- Literary or Textual Background: It offers background information about a literary work, author, or text that is being analyzed or discussed in the essay, providing the necessary context for understanding the text’s themes, historical context, or authorial intent.
- Social or Cultural Background: It explores the social or cultural aspects related to the essay’s topic, such as societal norms, cultural practices, or prevailing attitudes that influence or intersect with the subject matter.
- Policy or Legal Background: It provides an overview of relevant policies, laws, or regulations that are pertinent to the topic, establishing the legal framework or context within which the subject matter operates.
- Scientific or Technical Background: It presents scientific principles, technical information, or methodologies crucial for comprehending the scientific or technical subject matter.
- Biographical Background: It offers biographical details or information about individuals relevant to the topic, such as historical figures, authors, or key personalities.
- Geographical or Spatial Background: This type provides geographical or spatial information essential for understanding the subject matter.
Functions of Background Information in an Essay
- Foundational Context: Background information serves as the foundation for the essay, providing essential context and knowledge to understand the subject matter.
- Establishing Relevance: It establishes the relevance of the topic and its significance within a broader context, highlighting why it is worthy of discussion or analysis.
- Reader Orientation: It orients the reader by familiarizing them with key concepts, terms, or historical events related to the topic.
- Enhancing Understanding: Background information enhances the readers’ understanding of the subject matter by providing essential information, statistics, or explanations.
- Supporting Thesis Development: Background information supports the development of the thesis statement by providing the necessary groundwork for the main arguments.
- Promoting Credibility: By incorporating well-researched and accurate background information, the essay gains credibility and demonstrates the knowledge of the writer/student.
- Avoiding Assumptions: Background information helps avoid assumptions by ensuring that readers, regardless of their prior knowledge, have access to the necessary information.
- Fostering Engagement: By establishing a strong foundation of background information, the essay engages the reader and invites them to explore the topic further.
- Integration with Analysis: Background information seamlessly integrates with the essay’s analysis, providing a solid framework for the interpretation, evaluation, or critique of the subject matter.
- Continual Reference Point: Background information also serves as a continual reference point throughout the essay, grounding the discussion and reinforcing the relevance and context of the arguments.
Examples of Background Information and Explanation
| Type | Example | Explanation |
| Historical Background | During the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, there was a significant shift from agrarian societies to urbanized industrial centers. This transformation brought about profound changes in manufacturing processes, transportation systems, and the overall socioeconomic landscape. | This example provides historical background information to contextualize the essay’s discussion on the impact of the Industrial Revolution on society. It sets the stage by highlighting the period and the broad social changes that it witnessed. |
| Conceptual Background | In psychology, cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort experienced when an individual holds contradictory beliefs or attitudes. This theory, developed by Leon Festinger in the 1950s, explores the mechanisms individuals employ to reduce cognitive dissonance and maintain consistency in their thoughts and behaviors. | Here, the background information introduces the concept of cognitive dissonance in psychology. It helps readers understand the theoretical framework underlying the analysis of decision-making processes and human behavior. |
| Statistical Background | According to recent studies conducted by the World Health Organization, approximately 1 in 4 adults worldwide is affected by hypertension, a chronic medical condition characterized by high blood pressure. Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and other health complications. | This example provides statistical background information to underscore the prevalence and significance of hypertension as a health issue. It supports the discussion on the importance of early detection, prevention, and management of hypertension. |
| Social or Cultural Background | In Japanese culture, the concept of “omotenashi” holds great importance. Omotenashi refers to traditional Japanese hospitality and the philosophy of selfless service, ensuring the utmost comfort and satisfaction of guests or customers. | Here it offers insights into the cultural values and practices of Japan. It sets the context for discussing the significance of omotenashi in the hospitality industry and its impact on customer experiences and satisfaction. |
Suggested Readings
- Connelly, Mark. Get Writing: Paragraphs and Essays. Cengage Learning, 2012.
- Taylor, Gordon. A Student’s Writing Guide: How to Plan and Write Successful Essays. Cambridge University Press, 2009.
- Wingersky, Joy, Janice K. Boerner, and Diana Holguin-Balogh. Writing Paragraphs And Essays: Integrating Reading, Writing, and Grammar Skills. Cengage Learning, 2008.