How many people actually read a preface or introduction?

According to a research study conducted by the Pew Research Center, an average of only 19% of readers say that they “occasionally” or “frequently” read the preface or introduction of a book before beginning to read the main text. Meanwhile, a significant majority of readers (75%) admit to “rarely” or “never” bothering with these opening sections of a book. It is evident from these findings that a vast majority of readers skip or skim through prefaces and introductions, highlighting the importance for authors to ensure that the main content of their works effectively engages readers from the outset.