Effective Introductions

The introduction to any piece of writing is paramount in gaining the reader's attention and curiosity. While different types of essays have different requirements, the basic guidelines are:

A good introduction is essentially a short summary of what you want your essay to accomplish. It is:

• Quick: The reader will decide to read on, or not, in a matter of seconds.  (There are two exceptions to this principle--a long anecdote that sets up the rest of the essay, or, a complex topic that requires a more complex introduction.)
• Specific: There are concrete details, precise quotes, or revealing facts.  It does not ramble about the state of the world in general.
• Appropriate: It fits the body of the essay
• Simple: There's no dead language in the sentences
• Compelling: It causes some  disequilibrium for the reader--a surprise, one thing and its opposite.  It creates a need to read on.

Any thoughts?

Logical Fallacies

Logical Fallacies are errors in reason where the premises do not support the conclusion. Here is a really nice presentation that will simplify the topic. Let me know what you think.

The most successful people are usually the most persuasive people. Persuasion is what argument is all about.

Looking for help with writing?

Do you ever find yourself intimidated by something you have to write? An essay? A letter? An important email? A presentation? You're not alone. This is one of the most common issues I hear from students, family, friends, and acquaintances.
I can help you. Contact me any time and I'll be glad to give you tips and pointers and look over your work.

What is writing?

The answer is actually quite simple:

Writing is recorded thought.

Do you have a better definition? Add it in the comments.