INTRODUCTIONS
An introduction can serve a variety of purposes, depending upon the type of document in which it appears.
Generally, the introduction prepares the reader for what follows, providing a frame of reference for reading and facilitating the understanding of the main portion of the document.
Introductions to formal reports may be quite lengthy, providing background information, definitions, and assumptions to help the reader develop a perspective for what follows.
Introductions to informal reports are rather brief, often serving as an executive summary (background information, conclusions, and recommendations).
Introductions to letters and memos are very brief and, unlike formal reports, are not separated from the rest of the text by headings. They establish the tone and purpose of the document, setting up the points that follow and often referring to previous conversations, meetings, or correspondence.
On the contrary‚ the introduction should probably be written last. Since it sets the stage for the information that will appear later, it's much easier to write after the body of the document has been defined and written.
While no specific format is defined, introductions to formal reports might include:
