* For introductions that start with a broad statement and narrow to a thesis: Connectors like "however," "but," "yet," "despite," "although," "nevertheless," or "in contrast" can create a shift from the general topic to the specific focus of your essay. These show a contrast or qualification.
* For introductions that begin with an anecdote or example and lead to a thesis: Connectors such as "this," "this example illustrates," "therefore," "consequently," "thus," "as a result," "this leads to," or "this highlights" bridge the gap between the illustrative material and the main argument. These show a cause-and-effect relationship or a conclusion drawn from the example.
* For introductions that pose a question and then answer it with a thesis: The question itself acts as a connector, leading directly to the answer (your thesis). You might follow the question with "The answer is..." or a similar phrase, but it's often more elegant to transition directly into the thesis statement without an explicit connector.
In short, the "connector" is the *logical link* you create between different parts of your introduction, and the specific word or phrase you use will depend on the logical relationship between those parts. Focus on clear and smooth transitions rather than relying on a single, prescribed connector.