An introductory paragraph should contain which element?

• A. A full literature review
• B. A list of references
• C. The appendix
• D. A summary of the subject matter

Answer: (D)

The main function of an introductory paragraph is to orient the reader by presenting the topic and the scope of the essay. A brief summary of the subject matter fits this purpose well because it gives a clear, concise view of what will be discussed and sets expectations for the reader. It helps connect the reader to the forthcoming argument and leads smoothly into the thesis.

Think of the intro as a guide: it signals what the piece will cover without getting bogged down in details. A full literature review would be too thorough for an opening and belongs in its own section, not in the first paragraph. A list of references or an appendix are materials that appear later in the document, not in the opening paragraph. So, providing a succinct overview of the topic in the intro best fulfills its role of preparing the reader for what’s to come.