How to write a 2:1 essay introduction (2026)

Land a clear, marker-pleasing intro every time.

Why your introduction decides your grade. UK markers usually decide whether your essay is 2:1 territory in the first 200 words. Get the intro right and you buy yourself goodwill across the entire script.

How long should a 2:1 essay introduction be? Roughly 8–10% of total word count. For a 2,000-word essay, aim for 160–200 words, no more.