The gist: A strong Paper 1 introduction does three things fast: identify the text (type + purpose + audience), state your thesis, and preview your line of argument — no long build-up, no plot retelling.
The introduction tells your reader what kind of essay this is going to be — so make it a confident, focused one.
Don't warm up with ‘Since the dawn of time, humans have used language…’. Open by naming what the text IS, then hit your thesis (your one-line answer), then signal the two or three ideas you'll argue. Three or four crisp sentences and you're into the analysis.
The three moves
Identify the text
Name the text type, purpose and audience: ‘This opinion column argues… for a general adult reader.’
State your thesis
Your one-line answer to the focus — the claim the whole essay proves.
Signal the argument
Preview your 2–3 main points so your reader sees the structure coming.
Keep it tight
3–4 sentences. No plot summary, no ‘throughout history’ wind-up.
The key move: Open with identify → thesis → signpost in 3–4 sentences. A focused introduction earns Criterion C from the very first line.
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Why it matters in the exam: The introduction sets up Criterion C (focus & organisation) and shows Criterion A (understanding) instantly. A clear thesis tells your reader you have a line of argument — so make it the first thing you write.
Write an introduction for a Paper 1 analysis of an original charity appeal, guiding question: ‘How does the writer persuade the reader to donate?’
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: Don't retell the text or open with a grand generalisation (‘Throughout history…’). The introduction is identify → thesis → signpost, nothing else.