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What is the primary purpose of an introduction?

  1. To establish the author's credibility

  2. To provide a summary of the essay

  3. To provide background information

  4. To clearly state the essay's main point

The correct answer is: To clearly state the essay's main point

An introduction serves as the opening to an essay and takes on the role of setting the tone and providing a roadmap for the reader. Options A and C may be elements found within an introduction, but they are not the primary purpose. Providing a summary of the essay (option B) would typically occur at the end of an introduction, and it is not the primary purpose of one. The main point of an essay may also be clarified within an introduction, but it is not the primary purpose. The primary intention of an introduction is to clearly state the essay's main point, also known as its thesis statement, to the reader so that they know what to expect and what the essay will be discussing. This helps to guide the reader and give them a clear understanding of the topic at hand.