The introduction explains that achievement tests have become an important part of modern education systems, where they are used to measure student abilities, evaluate schools, and determine educational outcomes. The authors focus on the GED as a case study to examine the limitations of relying mainly on standardized test performance as an indicator of future success. They argue that important personal qualities, often called character skills, such as perseverance, motivation, reliability, and self-discipline, also play a major role in shaping educational, economic, and social outcomes. The introduction presents the book’s central argument that tests measure some forms of knowledge and ability but may overlook other important skills required for long-term achievement. The authors aim to encourage a broader understanding of human capability and the factors that contribute to success

The introduction explains the emergence of a new generation of nonfiction writers who expanded the boundaries of traditional journalism. Robert S. Boynton describes how these writers use deep research, long-term observation, personal involvement, and narrative techniques to tell complex real-world stories. The book examines the craft of journalists who immerse themselves in their subjects and explore important social, political, and cultural issues through detailed reporting. Through conversations with nineteen prominent writers, the author aims to reveal their creative processes, research methods, challenges, and approaches to storytelling. The introduction positions this style of journalism as a continuation and transformation of earlier forms of New Journalism, adapted to the changing demands of contemporary media.

The introduction presents public relations (PR) as a strategic management function that helps organizations build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with their stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, governments, communities, and the media. It explains that PR is much more than publicity or media relations; it is about managing communication, reputation, and trust.

The introduction highlights several key ideas:

• Public relations is strategic. It supports organizational goals by planning and managing communication with different audiences.
• PR has evolved over time. The profession has developed from simple publicity into a discipline based on research, planning, ethics, and evaluation.