This applies to nonfiction books, especially self-help and how-to books. There are several things you want to include when you write your introduction. This sets the tone for the book. The reader will most likely read the blurb on the back of the book first, then they’ll read the introduction. If they’re hooked, they’ll buy the book. If not, they’re on to the next one.
Here are 3 things to include when you write your introduction:
Who you are
Tell us who you are and why you’re qualified to write this book. What have you gone through, overcome, achieved, etc. What makes you different? When you write your introduction, remember it’s not your bio. So it’s not a list of things you’ve done. Tell us a story. Keep it creative and let us really hear your voice.
What to expect in the book
One of my favorite professors back in the day would say, “When you write your introduction, tell them what you’re going to tell them. In the body, that’s where you tell them. In the conclusion, tell them what you told them.” That’s the perfect way to put it. What is the book about? What do I have to look forward? Do I need any materials or supplies?
Some kind of hook
This ain’t necessary, but it’s definitely preferred. In Women Who Ain’t Afraid, for example, I end the introduction with having the reader inhale, exhale, then turn the page. The hook doesn’t have to go at the end of the introduction. It can be at the beginning or in the middle. In a book that I’m ghostwriting now, I started the book with a hook: “I was kidnapped when I was infant.” Who wouldn’t want to keep reading after that?
Here’s a bonus. I usually write my introduction last. So I go through the entire book, yes, then come back and write the introduction. That’s because I’m not an outliner. I do sometimes, but it’s very loose when I do. I just write and worry about the structure later. If you’re finding yourself stumped when trying to write your introduction, try skipping it and coming back to it later.