What is the primary purpose of an introduction in an argumentative essay?

• to introduce the claim
• to decide on a topic
• to identify the audience
• to introduce the author

The primary purpose of an introduction in an argumentative essay is to introduce the topic to the readers and provide them with necessary background information. This may include introducing the claim or thesis statement, but its main purpose is to engage the reader and set the stage for the argument that will be presented. The introduction does not typically decide on a topic, identify the audience, or introduce the author, although some of these elements may be included within the introduction depending on the specific requirements of the essay.