how to do start essay

How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an essay introduction paragraph with paperpal – step -by -step, how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Unsure of how to start your essay introduction? Leverage Paperpal’s Generative AI templates to provide a base for your essay introduction. Here’s an example of an essay outline generated by Paperpal.  

Use Paperpal’s Preditive AI writing features to maintain your writing flow

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

• How to Write a Good Hook for Essays, with Examples
• What is a Descriptive Essay? How to Write It (with Examples)
• How to Avoid Plagiarism When Using Generative AI Tools
• What is Hedging in Academic Writing?  

Similarity Checks: The Author’s Guide to Plagiarism and Responsible Writing

Types of plagiarism and 6 tips to avoid it in your writing , you may also like, how to write a thematic literature review, chicago style citation guide: understanding the chicago manual..., what is the purpose of an abstract why..., what are citation styles which citation style to..., what are the types of literature reviews , abstract vs introduction: what is the difference , mla format: guidelines, template and examples , machine translation vs human translation: which is reliable..., dissertation printing and binding | types & comparison , what is a dissertation preface definition and examples .

• Humanities ›
• Writing Essays ›

How to Start an Essay: 13 Engaging Strategies

ThoughtCo / Hugo Lin

• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

There are countless ways to start an essay effectively. A solid introductory paragraph both informs and motivates. It lets readers know what your piece is about and it encourages them to keep reading.

For folks new to learning how to start an essay, here are 13 introductory strategies accompanied by examples from a wide range of professional writers.

State Your Thesis Briefly and Directly

One straightforward way to begin is to get right to the point. But avoid making your thesis a bald announcement, such as "This essay is about...". 

"It is time, at last, to speak the truth about Thanksgiving, and the truth is this. Thanksgiving is really not such a terrific holiday...." (Michael J. Arlen, "Ode to Thanksgiving." The Camera Age: Essays on Television . Penguin, 1982)

Pose a Question Related to Your Subject

A thought-provoking way to start an essay is by asking a relevant question that needs to be unpacked. Follow up the question with an answer, or an invitation for your readers to answer the question.

"What is the charm of necklaces? Why would anyone put something extra around their neck and then invest it with special significance? A necklace doesn't afford warmth in cold weather, like a scarf, or protection in combat, like chain mail; it only decorates. We might say, it borrows meaning from what it surrounds and sets off, the head with its supremely important material contents, and the face, that register of the soul. When photographers discuss the way in which a photograph reduces the reality it represents, they mention not only the passage from three dimensions to two, but also the selection of a point de vue that favors the top of the body rather than the bottom, and the front rather than the back. The face is the jewel in the crown of the body, and so we give it a setting." (Emily R. Grosholz, "On Necklaces." Prairie Schooner , Summer 2007)

State an Interesting Fact About Your Subject

Leading with a fact that draws readers in immediately can grab their attention effectively.

" The peregrine falcon was brought back from the brink of extinction by a ban on DDT, but also by a peregrine falcon mating hat invented by an ornithologist at Cornell University. If you cannot buy this, Google it. Female falcons had grown dangerously scarce. A few wistful males nevertheless maintained a sort of sexual loitering ground. The hat was imagined, constructed, and then forthrightly worn by the ornithologist as he patrolled this loitering ground, singing, Chee-up! Chee-up! and bowing like an overpolite Japanese Buddhist trying to tell somebody goodbye...." (David James Duncan, "Cherish This Ecstasy." The Sun , July 2008)

Present Your Thesis as a Recent Discovery or Revelation

"I've finally figured out the difference between neat people and sloppy people. The distinction is, as always, moral. Neat people are lazier and meaner than sloppy people." (Suzanne Britt Jordan, "Neat People vs. Sloppy People." Show and Tell . Morning Owl Press, 1983)

Briefly Describe the Primary Setting of Your Essay

"It was in Burma, a sodden morning of the rains. A sickly light, like yellow tinfoil, was slanting over the high walls into the jail yard. We were waiting outside the condemned cells, a row of sheds fronted with double bars, like small animal cages. Each cell measured about ten feet by ten and was quite bare within except for a plank bed and a pot of drinking water. In some of them brown silent men were squatting at the inner bars, with their blankets draped round them. These were the condemned men, due to be hanged within the next week or two." (George Orwell, "A Hanging," 1931)

Recount an Incident That Dramatizes Your Subject

Sharing an incident from your life or history in general is an impactful way to start an essay.

"One October afternoon three years ago while I was visiting my parents, my mother made a request I dreaded and longed to fulfill. She had just poured me a cup of Earl Grey from her Japanese iron teapot, shaped like a little pumpkin; outside, two cardinals splashed in the birdbath in the weak Connecticut sunlight. Her white hair was gathered at the nape of her neck, and her voice was low. “Please help me get Jeff’s pacemaker turned off,” she said, using my father’s first name. I nodded, and my heart knocked." (Katy Butler, "What Broke My Father's Heart." The New York Times Magazine , June 18, 2010)

Use the Narrative Strategy of Delay

The narrative strategy of delay allows you to put off identifying your subject just long enough to pique your readers' interest without frustrating them. 

"They woof. Though I have photographed them before, I have never heard them speak, for they are mostly silent birds. Lacking a syrinx, the avian equivalent of the human larynx, they are incapable of song. According to field guides the only sounds they make are grunts and hisses, though the Hawk Conservancy in the United Kingdom reports that adults may utter a croaking coo and that young black vultures, when annoyed, emit a kind of immature snarl...." (Lee Zacharias, "Buzzards." Southern Humanities Review , 2007)

Use the Historical Present Tense

An effective way to start an essay is to use historical present tense to relate an incident from the past as if it were happening now. 

"Ben and I are sitting side by side in the very back of his mother’s station wagon. We face glowing white headlights of cars following us, our sneakers pressed against the back hatch door. This is our joy—his and mine—to sit turned away from our moms and dads in this place that feels like a secret, as though they are not even in the car with us. They have just taken us out to dinner, and now we are driving home. Years from this evening, I won’t actually be sure that this boy sitting beside me is named Ben. But that doesn’t matter tonight. What I know for certain right now is that I love him, and I need to tell him this fact before we return to our separate houses, next door to each other. We are both five." (Ryan Van Meter, "First." The Gettysburg Review , Winter 2008)

Briefly Describe a Process That Leads Into Your Subject

"I like to take my time when I pronounce someone dead. The bare-minimum requirement is one minute with a stethoscope pressed to someone’s chest, listening for a sound that is not there; with my fingers bearing down on the side of someone’s neck, feeling for an absent pulse; with a flashlight beamed into someone’s fixed and dilated pupils, waiting for the constriction that will not come. If I’m in a hurry, I can do all of these in sixty seconds, but when I have the time, I like to take a minute with each task." (Jane Churchon, "The Dead Book." The Sun , February 2009)

Reveal a Secret or Make a Candid Observation

"I spy on my patients. Ought not a doctor to observe his patients by any means and from any stance, that he might the more fully assemble evidence? So I stand in doorways of hospital rooms and gaze. Oh, it is not all that furtive an act. Those in bed need only look up to discover me. But they never do." ( Richard Selzer , "The Discus Thrower." Confessions of a Knife . Simon & Schuster, 1979)

Open with a Riddle, Joke, or Humorous Quotation

A fun way to start an essay is to use a riddle , joke, or humorous quotation that reveals something about your subject. 

" Q: What did Eve say to Adam on being expelled from the Garden of Eden? A: 'I think we're in a time of transition.' The irony of this joke is not lost as we begin a new century and anxieties about social change seem rife. The implication of this message, covering the first of many periods of transition, is that change is normal; there is, in fact, no era or society in which change is not a permanent feature of the social landscape...." (Betty G. Farrell, Family: The Making of an Idea, an Institution, and a Controversy in American Culture . Westview Press, 1999)

Offer a Contrast Between Past and Present

"As a child, I was made to look out the window of a moving car and appreciate the beautiful scenery, with the result that now I don't care much for nature. I prefer parks, ones with radios going chuckawaka chuckawaka and the delicious whiff of bratwurst and cigarette smoke." (Garrison Keillor, "Walking Down The Canyon." Time , July 31, 2000)

Offer a Contrast Between Image and Reality

A compelling way to start an essay is with a contrast between a common misconception and the opposing truth. 

"They aren’t what most people think they are. Human eyes, touted as ethereal objects by poets and novelists throughout history, are nothing more than white spheres, somewhat larger than your average marble, covered by a leather-like tissue known as sclera and filled with nature’s facsimile of Jell-O. Your beloved’s eyes may pierce your heart, but in all likelihood they closely resemble the eyes of every other person on the planet. At least I hope they do, for otherwise he or she suffers from severe myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), or worse...." (John Gamel, "The Elegant Eye." Alaska Quarterly Review , 2009)

• Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
• Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• How to Write a Good Thesis Statement
• 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• Essay Assignment: Descriptive and Informative Profile
• Practice in Supporting a Topic Sentence with Specific Details
• How to Start a Book Report
• What Is Expository Writing?
• An Essay Revision Checklist
• Make Your Paragraphs Flow to Improve Writing
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• How to Outline and Organize an Essay
• How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech (With Topic Ideas)
• Writing an Opinion Essay

How Do You Start an Essay? 7 Clever Tricks to Hook Readers Instantly

How do you start an essay? It’s a question that plagues students everywhere. Essays are a big part of school life, but getting started can feel like climbing a mountain. Did you know that a strong opening can boost your grade by up to 20%? This blog post will give you 7 clever tricks to hook your readers from the get-go.

Ready to make your essays shine?

Key Takeaways

A strong essay opening can boost your grade by up to 20%., use startling statistics, provocative questions, or relevant quotes to hook readers instantly., provide background info and define key terms to set the stage for your essay., place your thesis statement at the end of the intro or start of the second paragraph., map out your essay structure with an outline and use transitions to maintain coherence ., table of contents, crafting an engaging hook.

Ever wondered how to grab your reader’s attention right off the bat? Let’s dive into some clever tricks that’ll make your essay’s opening lines pop! From shocking stats to thought-provoking questions, we’ll explore ways to hook your audience and keep ’em glued to the page.

Using a Startling Statistic

But here’s the kicker – you can’t just toss any old number out there. The stat needs to be relevant and jaw-dropping . It should tie into your topic and make readers go, “Huh, I never knew that!” For instance, if you’re writing about social media, you might say:

According to a report by Statista , the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.

That’s the kind of fact that makes people pause and think. It sets the stage for a deep exploration of your topic. Now, let’s move on to another clever trick – starting with a provocative question.

I’m not always in the mood to do my essay , but when I am, I want to start with a bang! Did you know that 85% of readers decide whether to continue reading based on the first paragraph alone? That’s why nailing your opening is crucial.

Want to hook your readers from the first line? Keep reading!

Starting with a Provocative Question

Want to grab your reader’s attention right away? Try kicking off your essay with a zinger of a question . It’s like tossing a juicy bone to a curious pup – they just can’t resist! For instance, you might ask, “How much time do you spend on social media each day?” Boom! Your audience is hooked, pondering their own habits.

This trick works wonders for essays about tech, mental health, or modern life. It gets folks thinking and sets the stage for your main points.

But don’t stop there! Follow up your question with a snappy fact or two . This one-two punch will keep your readers glued to the page. They’ll be eager to see where you’re going next.

Now, let’s explore another clever way to start your essay – using a jaw-dropping statistic.

Beginning with a Relevant Quote

Quotes pack a punch! They grab attention and set the mood for your essay. “Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism…” Boom! You’ve hooked your reader.

This quote gives a taste of what’s coming and shows you know your stuff.

But don’t just use any quote. Choose one that fits your topic perfectly. It should be short, snappy , and make folks want to read more. I once used a quote from Victor Frankenstein to start an essay on science ethics.

It worked great! The key is to follow up with your own thoughts. Don’t leave your readers hanging – tell them why that quote matters to your essay.

Providing Background Information

Setting the stage for your essay is key. It’s like laying out a welcome mat for your readers. You’ll want to give them just enough info to spark their curiosity… without spilling all the beans right away.

Contextualizing the Topic

Setting the stage for your essay is crucial. It’s like laying out a welcome mat for your readers. You want to give them a clear picture of what’s coming. Think about social media’s role in our lives.

It’s huge! Billions of people use it every day. But it’s not all sunshine and roses.

Social media has its ups and downs. It helps us stay connected, sure. But it also brings new problems. Cyberbullying is a big one. And don’t forget about privacy issues. These are the kinds of things you might want to touch on when you learn faster about writing essays.

Context is the road map that guides readers through your essay’s journey.

By painting this picture, you’re helping your readers understand why your topic matters.

Highlighting the Importance of the Discussion

Why should we care about this topic? Well, it’s simple. Our chat today shapes how we think and act tomorrow. Take social media, for instance. It’s everywhere, right? We scroll, we post, we like… but what’s it doing to our minds? That’s why we need to talk about it. It’s not just idle chatter – it’s about our well-being .

Let’s face it, ladies. We’re all in this together. When we discuss big issues, we learn from each other. We grow. We find solutions. It’s like when my friend Sarah started talking about her social media break.

Suddenly, we all wanted to try it! That’s the power of a good chat. It sparks ideas, challenges our views , and maybe even changes our lives. So, let’s keep the conversation going – it matters more than we think.

Defining Key Terms and Concepts

Key terms can make or break your essay. They’re the building blocks of your argument. Don’t leave your readers in the dark! Spell out any tricky words or ideas right from the get-go.

This helps everyone stay on the same page. For example, if you’re writing about social media’s impact on teens , define what you mean by “impact.” Are we talking mood changes? Grades? Sleep habits? Be clear and specific.

Once you’ve nailed down your key terms , your essay will flow much smoother. Your readers will thank you for it! They’ll be able to follow your points without getting lost in jargon.

Plus, it shows you know your stuff. It’s like giving your readers a roadmap for your essay. Next up, we’ll look at how to craft a killer thesis statement that ties everything together.

Presenting the Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement is the heart of your essay. It’s your main idea – clear and strong. Want to know how to nail it? Keep reading!

Stating Your Main Argument

Your main argument is the heart of your essay. It’s your big idea – the point you want to prove. Think of it like planting a flag on a hill. You’re saying, “This is what I believe, and I’m going to show you why.” For example, you might argue that “Regular exercise boosts health and fights chronic diseases .” This clear, bold statement gives your essay direction and purpose.

A good thesis is like a roadmap for your readers.

Don’t be wishy-washy. Take a stand! Use strong, active language to make your case. Avoid vague words like “maybe” or “possibly.” Instead, be confident. Say what you mean, and mean what you say.

Your thesis should be specific and debatable . It shouldn’t just state facts everyone agrees with. Give your readers something to chew on – a fresh take or a new angle on the topic.

Positioning the Thesis within the Essay

Now that you’ve got your main argument, let’s place it just right in your essay. Think of your thesis as the key point. It needs to stand out and grab attention. But where should it go?

Most often, you’ll find the thesis at the end of your intro paragraph . This spot works really well. It gives readers a preview of what’s coming and sets up your ideas. But don’t feel limited! Sometimes, a thesis can work well at the start of your second paragraph too.

The important thing is to make it clear and easy to find. Your readers shouldn’t have to search for your main point. A good thesis answers the big question your essay tackles. It’s like a guide, showing where your writing will go.

So, put it where it can lead your readers best!

Mapping the Essay Structure

Mapping your essay’s structure is like drawing a roadmap for your readers. It’s a simple way to show them where you’re going. Want to know how to do it right? Keep reading!

Outlining the Main Points

Mapping your essay’s main points is key to a clear, strong paper. Here’s how to outline your main ideas effectively:

• Start with your thesis : Write it at the top of your outline. This keeps you focused.
• List major topics : These will be your main paragraphs or sections. Use Roman numerals (I, II, III).
• Add subtopics : Under each main point, list supporting ideas. Use letters (A, B, C).
• Include evidence : For each subtopic, note facts, quotes, or examples. Use numbers (1, 2, 3).
• Check flow : Make sure your points build on each other logically.
• Be flexible: Your outline can change as you write. It’s a guide, not a cage.
• Keep it simple: Use short phrases or sentences. Don’t write full paragraphs yet.
• Balance your points: Each main topic should have similar depth and importance.
• Link to your thesis: Every point should support your main argument.
• Use keywords : Include key terms from your essay prompt or research.

Explaining the Flow of Arguments

Mapping your essay’s flow is like planning a road trip. You need to know where you’re going and how to get there. Start with your main point, then lay out your supporting ideas . Each paragraph should lead smoothly to the next, like stepping stones across a stream.

This helps your readers follow your thinking without getting lost.

Good essays don’t just list facts. They build a case, step by step. Think of it as telling a story – your argument’s story. Begin with the basics, then add details as you go. Use transition words to link your ideas .

This makes your essay flow like a chat with a friend. Want to look smarter in school ? Master this skill.

Now, let’s dive into writing the main body of your essay.

Writing the Main Body

The main body is where you’ll flex your writing muscles. It’s the meat of your essay sandwich! Want to know how to make it juicy and irresistible? Keep reading….

Discussing Paragraph Structure

Paragraphs are the building blocks of your essay. Let’s dive into how to craft them like a pro.

• Start with a clear topic sentence . This sets the stage for what’s coming next.
• Back up your point with evidence. Use facts, stats, or examples to support your claim.
• Explain why this matters. Connect the dots for your reader – don’t leave them guessing.
• Keep it focused. Stick to one main idea per paragraph to avoid confusion.
• Use transitions. Smooth words or phrases help your ideas flow from one to the next.
• Wrap it up neatly. End with a sentence that ties back to your main point.
• Mix up your sentence length. Short and long sentences keep things interesting.
• Use active voice. It makes your writing pop and keeps readers engaged.
• Proofread carefully. Typos can throw off even the best-structured paragraph.
• Consider your audience. Tailor your language and examples to who’s reading.

Offering Tips for Maintaining Coherence

Keep your essay flowing smoothly with these tips. Use transition words to link ideas between sentences. They act like bridges, guiding readers from one thought to the next. Mix up your sentence structure, too.

Short, punchy sentences pack a punch. Longer ones let you dive deeper. This variety keeps things interesting.

Don’t forget about word choice . Repeat key terms to hammer home your point. But don’t overdo it – sprinkle in synonyms to avoid sounding like a broken record. Topic sentences are your friend.

They clue readers in on what’s coming next. Lastly, stick to one main idea per paragraph. It’s like keeping your closet organized – everything in its right place.

Concluding the Essay

Wrap up your essay with a bang! Leave your readers thinking. Want to know how? Keep reading….

Summarizing Key Points

Wrapping up your essay? No worries! Just focus on the key points . Recap those main ideas you discussed with a quick review. It’s similar to packing for a trip – you want the essentials, not every small item.

I once had to summarize a major project in three sentences. It was challenging! But you know what? It forced me to focus on what was truly important. That’s what you’re doing here.

Select the key elements that really strengthen your argument. It’s your opportunity to make a lasting impact… so use it well!

A good summary isn’t just a repetition. It’s more like connecting the dots. Show how your main points work together to support your central idea . Think of it as the big finish of a fireworks display – you want to impress your readers one final time.

And if you can include a new insight or two, even better! Just keep it concise and focused. Your readers will appreciate you not extending it unnecessarily.

Restating the Thesis in Light of the Evidence

Restating your main point at the end is key. It’s like tying a bow on a gift – it wraps things up nicely. But don’t just repeat what you said before. Instead, show how your evidence backs up your claim.

For example, if you wrote about Braille, you might say: “The facts prove Braille changed reading for blind people.” This reminds readers of your main idea and the proof you gave.

Think of it as a victory lap. You’ve made your case, now’s the time to strut your stuff! But keep it short and sweet. A quick recap of your strongest points does the trick. It leaves readers nodding along, thinking, “Yep, she nailed it.” And that’s exactly what you want – to end on a high note that sticks with them.

People Also Ask

What’s the best way to kick off an expository essay.

Start with a bang! Hook readers with a surprising fact about Louis Braille or the cultural status of blindness. This grabs attention and sets the stage for your academic essay.

How can I begin an argumentative essay about social media’s impact on mental health?

Jump in with a powerful statistic on teenagers’ mental well-being. Then, outline your stance on whether social media helps or hurts. This approach sparks interest and shows your essay’s scope.

Any tips for starting a persuasive essay on accessibility tools for visually impaired people?

Open with a day-in-the-life scenario of a blind person navigating without tactile reading. This paints a vivid picture and tugs at heartstrings, making readers eager to learn more.

How do I introduce an essay about the health benefits of reading?

Lead with a quirky quote from a famous philosopher about books. Then, hint at how reading boosts both mental and physical health. This combo of wit and wisdom hooks readers fast.

What’s a clever way to begin writing about AI-generated text and plagiarism?

Start with a made-up dialogue between ChatGPT and a stressed-out student. This approach adds humor and highlights the essay’s focus on AI in academic writing.

How should I kick off an essay on the Renaissance’s impact on education?

Begin with a mini-story about a day in a Renaissance classroom. This transports readers to another time and preps them for a deep dive into history and learning.

https://www.wordtune.com/blog/essay-hooks (2024-06-23)

https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/hooking-your-reader.aspx

https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/7-sensational-essay-hooks/ (2022-07-14)

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/start-an-essay/ (2023-04-14)

https://paperpal.com/blog/academic-writing-guides/how-to-write-an-essay-introduction-with-examples (2024-03-21)

https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/write-good-hook-for-essay

https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/how-to-write-a-thesis-statement.html

https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/thesis-statement/ (2019-01-11)

https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-outline/ (2020-08-14)

https://www.scribbr.com/category/academic-essay/

https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-write-an-intro–conclusion—-body-paragraph.html

https://lennartnacke.com/how-to-make-your-writing-coherent/ (2023-03-14)

https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/writing/essay-conclusions

https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/writing-conclusions.html

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON

Best Place to Study? 6 Smart Spots for Academic Achievement

What to Do When You Get in a Car Accident: 7 Crucial Steps to Safety

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Tidbits of experience.

We have plenty of life lessons that we’ve learned throughout our lives that we feel can help you make your life better.

Get Acquainted

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

© 2024 Tidbits of Experience. All rights reserved.

How to write an Essay Introduction (5-Step Formula)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

One of my friends – a high-up professor in an English university – told me he can tell the grade a student will get within the first 90 seconds of reading a paper.

This makes the introduction the most important paragraph in your whole paper.

The introduction orients your reader to how well you understand academic writing, your skills in critical thinking, your ability to write professionally with minimal errors, and the depth of knowledge you have on the topic.

All in one fantastic paragraph! No pressure.

No wonder introductions are so difficult to write. If you’re like me, you find that you can sit and stare at a blank page as the moments tick by. You’re just not sure how to write an introduction!

After reading the top 30 online articles on how to write an essay introduction, I synthesized the five most common steps that universities give on how to write an introduction.

The five steps I am going to introduce to you in this paragraph are from my I.N.T.R.O. method. The intro method provides an easy-to-use acronym for how to write an introduction that the top universities recommend.

The INTRO method’s steps are:

• [I] Interest: Provide an opening sentence that shows why the topic is of interest to everyday human beings
• [N] Notify: Notify the reader of background or contextual information
• [T] Translate: Translate the essay topic or question by paraphrasing it
• [R] Report: Report on your position or argument
• [O] Outline: Provide an outline of the essay structure

Below, I go through each step one by one. Each step is designed to be written in order, although you may feel free to mix them up after you’ve written each sentence to make it feel and read just the way you like.

Use the INTRO method as a guide for how to write an introduction and get words down on paper. As I often argue on this website, just writing something is often the hardest part .

You may also find that some essay introductions work better without one or more of these 5 steps. That is okay, too. Use these 5 steps as advice on points to include in an introduction and adjust them as you need. You may find in your specific area of study you need to add or remove other sentences. Play around with your introduction until you feel comfortable with it.

So don’t be too hard on yourself: have a go at a draft of your introduction with no pressure to use it in the end. You’ll find by the time you’ve written these five sentences you’ll have the creative juices flowing and a compelling introduction will be down on paper in no time.

1. Interest

Provide an opening sentence that shows why the topic is interesting to everyday human beings

Nearly every source on how to write an introduction that I found online recommended that your first sentence be an engaging ‘hook’ . Most sources highlight that the ‘hook’ sentence should draw in the reader’s interest in order to make your piece stand out.

The marker wants to see if you understand why this topic is of interest is in the first place. They want to see if you ‘get it’ from the very start.

I also recommend that you view the hook as an opportunity to show why the topic is interesting to everyday human beings . This makes it relevant to your reader.

To show you understand why the topic is of interest in the first place, aim to do one of the following things:

• Show what makes the topic worth discussing. Your ‘Interest’ sentence might help show why someone should care about the topic. Will it affect our livelihoods? Will it harm us? Make our work lives easier? The more relatable this point is to real human lives, the better.
• Highlight the single most interesting point in the essay. You might notice that you have already pointed out this interesting ‘hook’ somewhere in your essay. Find that interesting, relatable point and make it the opening sentence of your introduction.
• Use an interesting fact or figure to show the topic’s importance. Percentages or real numbers about how many people are or would be impacted by the issue help to show the topic’s importance. This will create reader interest with a ‘wow’ factor.
• Show how the essay topic is relevant to today’s world. If you’re struggling to identify this interesting ‘hook’, go onto google and find news reports related to your topic. How has the topic made it into the news recently? The news report will help you to brainstorm why this topic is of interest to the everyday lives of real human beings.

However, do not overstate the issue. You should provide a clear, reasonable perspective in this first sentence rather than an over-the-top claim. For example, aim to avoid hyperbolic or overly emotional phrases:

To find out more about retracting over-the-top emotion and hyperbole, we have put together a guide on academic language that you may like to read.

To summarize, I recommend that your first step in how to write an introduction is to write a ‘hook’ sentence that focuses on why the topic is interesting to everyday human beings . Use sober, clear facts about the importance of the topic to real human lives to get yourself started.

Read Also: My Suggested Best Words to Start a Paragraph

Notify the reader of background or contextual information

Nearly every source I found also recommended that you provide brief ‘background’ or ‘contextual’ information.

‘Background’ or ‘contextual’ information shows your depth of knowledge and understanding of the topic.

Here are some examples of ‘context’ for a few topics:

Hopefully, you can see here that giving ‘context’ is a way of showing that you have a really strong or deep knowledge of the history or background story of the topic. This is your chance to differentiate your depth of knowledge from other students. A sentence or two giving some of this context also helps to show off your knowledge right from the start.

Most sources recommend only providing one or two sentences of background information. This will help you to show off your knowledge without stealing content from the body of your essay. The body of the essay will add depth and detail to your points in the introduction, so feel free to leave out examples and explanations beyond your engaging sentence or two: you will have time in the body of the essay to elaborate.

3. Translate

Translate the essay topic or question

This point was mentioned by more than half the websites I found giving advice on how to write an introduction.

Many universities recommend re-stating the essay topic or question in your own words. This helps your marker to see that you understand the topic and are directly addressing it.

Here are some examples of essay questions and ways you can re-state the essay question in your introduction:

Something to keep in mind is that you do not want to appear to be re-stating the essay question simply to take up extra words. We call this ‘padding’. An example of padding is when a student drops the essay question in as a question, word-for-word:

• How can knowledge about history help us to improve our lives in the future? This is the question that will be answered in this essay.
• This essay will answer the question “What is the lasting impact of European Colonisation in the 21 st Century?”

Do not drop the essay question into the introduction without paraphrasing or surrounding explanation. If you do this, your marker will think you’re just trying to add words to the introduction because you’re not sure of anything interesting to say

Report your position or argument

Most essays do not require you to take a stance on an issue.

Essays that do require you to take a stance are called either ‘argumentative essays’ or ‘persuasive essays’.

If you are writing a persuasive essay, you will need to include Step 4: Report. For this step, you’ll need to state where you stand on the issue:

Keep in mind that essays should never leave a reader confused. Essay writing is not like creative writing: your reader must always know what’s going to be said right from the start. When reading to gather information, readers don’t like to be surprised. They want the facts up-front. Therefore, your marker will expect to know what your stance is on the issue right from the introduction onwards.

Provide an outline of the Essay Structure

This last point on how to write an introduction is important and separates average students from top students.

Introductions should always highlight the key points that will be made in an essay. Academic writing should never surprise the reader.

The fact that steps 4 and 5 both highlight that you should orient your marker reinforces the importance of this. Always, always, guide your marker’s reading experience.

Your essay should signpost all key concepts, theories, and main sections that make up your essay. If an important point is made in the essay but not signposted in the introduction, you are likely to confuse your marker. A confused marker very rapidly lowers your mark.

Too often, students fail to outline key points of their essays in the introduction. Make a habit of signposting your key ideas, points, theories, or concepts you will cover in the introduction in order to gain marks.

It is always easier to write this outline once the essay plan is written. You will then be able to gather together the key points that you listed in your essay plan and include them in the introduction.

The outline of the essay structure can only be one or two sentences long. You can state as your last sentence in your introduction:

• “Firstly, this essay … then, …, and finally …”
• “The essay opens with …, then, …, and then closes with …”
• “After exploring …, … and …, this essay will conclude with …”

Try to outline the issues you will cover in order. Providing an orderly outline of your essay is very helpful for your reader.

Now, I know that some people don’t like this method. Let me reassure you with this study from Theresa Thonney in 2016. Thonney examined 600 top-ranking articles in fields including Literature, Music, Environmental Sciences, Nutrition, Inter-Cultural Studies, and more to see how many articles used this method. In other words, she completed a comprehensive study of whether professional, published authors use this method of orientating the reader to the structure of the article.

Thonney found that 100% of top-ranking articles she looked at in the Astronomy field used this method. 98% of articles in Sociology journals used this method. In fact, the field with the lowest amount of authors who use this method is Art, which had 76% of authors use this method. In other words, even the lowest result she found showed that three in every four professional authors use this method.

So, you should too.

Let’s sum point 5 up by reinforcing this very important rule: your marker should always be very clear about what they will read, and in what order, to improve their reading experience.

A short list of things to Avoid in Introductions

I want to conclude this post with an outline of some of the worst things you can do in an introduction. The introduction sets the scene, so you want to make a good impression. You don’t want your marker taking away marks due to one of these top mistakes:

• Rhetorical Questions.
• Vague padding.
• Dictionary definitions.

Sometimes, teachers also recommend avoiding referencing in introductions. I have colleagues who absolutely refuse to let students include references in their introductions. Personally, I think that’s absurd – if a reference is required, include it! However, check with your teacher on their personal preferences here as I know this is a point of contention in faculty lounges.

The introduction is important for creating a strong first impression, especially since markers often make up their mind about your grade very early on in the marking process.

Introductions are best written last. That way, you will be able to include all the signposting you need to do (step 5), have a good understanding of the context (step 2), and be more certain about what your stance is on the issue (step 4).

Here’s the five INTRO steps I’d encourage you to use every time:

Once you have written your introduction, it is a good idea to put it away for a few days and then come back to edit it with fresh eyes . Remember that grammar and punctuation are important in the introduction. You want to leave a good impression.

If you have a friend who can read the draft for you and give you tips, or if your teacher has drop-in hours, use them to get some tips on how to write an introduction, what sounds right, want sounds off, and how you might be able to improve your introduction.

Once you have written your introduction, you might want to have a look at our guidance on how to write conclusions in order to end your piece as strongly as you started! People often think conclusions are just like introductions. That’s not true. Conclusions are unique paragraphs, so head over to our guidance on conclusions now to get the support you need on writing the best conclusion you can.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Free Social Skills Worksheets
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

career support

support to get a great job

• Career Development

How to Start an Essay: 15 Engaging Opening Strategies

Staring at a blank page, not knowing how to start your essay introduction can certainly be daunting! You may spend hours pondering over the introduction of your essay, while the deadline draws closer each day. However, the formula for a great introduction paragraph is not that complex.

Different types of essays use different forms of introductions. But a good introduction should grab the reader’s attention from the get-go! It should also equip the reader with essential background information and acquaint them with the main idea of your essay.

In this article, we’ll guide you on how to start off an essay with a bang. We’ll also brief you on a few essay introduction examples. Let’s start by understanding how to write an introduction for an essay.

Starting an essay can be intimidating. Staring at a blank page wondering how to begin is often the hardest part of writing an essay. Fortunately, there are many effective strategies to kickstart the essay writing process.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 different ways to hook the reader and start your essay off right. Keep reading to learn how to craft an engaging introduction that sets the tone for your piece.

Share a Shocking or Amusing Fact

Starting with an interesting fact captures attention right away. Look for little-known trivia or statistics that provide insight around your topic.

For example, on an essay about lowering the voting age you could say: “Believe it or not, even North Korea has a lower voting age than the United States.” Make sure your fact provides context later in the essay.

Ask a Rhetorical Question

Posing an intriguing question causes readers to think and keeps them wanting more. For a paper about banning plastic straws you could ask: “Are disposable straws an example of human ingenuity or hubris?” Let the essay explain.

Dramatize a Relevant Scene

Set the stage by imagining a scenario that illustrates your topic. An essay on concussions in football could begin: “The crowd goes silent as the star quarterback lies motionless on the field after a brutal hit.” Vividly depict the moment.

Kick It Off With a Relevant Quote

Find a compelling quote related to your topic and let it speak for itself. For instance, on an essay about the power of community service you could use: “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” − Charles Dickens.

State Your Thesis Directly

Don’t be afraid to explicitly state your key argument upfront. For example, in an essay evaluating a new restaurant you could be direct: “The new vegan restaurant Zen Bistro provides tasteless dishes at outrageous prices.” Then back it up.

Provide Historical or Scientific Context

Give background to frame the discussion. An essay about endangered pandas could start: “Pandas have roamed earth for over 3 million years, but their time could soon be up.” Draw readers in with perspective.

Pose Thought-Provoking Questions

Get creative to prompt curiosity An essay about lowering the drinking age could start “Would lowering the drinking age really lead to more responsible alcohol consumption? Or would it simply enable more harmful behavior?” Let your essay explore

Zoom In on a Pivotal Detail

Describe a revealing visual or thought. An essay about Michelangelo’s sculpture David could begin: “Under the 20-foot marble colossus’s confident stance, his slingshot hand remains at rest.” Then pull back to the bigger picture.

Share a Vivid Personal Anecdote

Briefly tell a relatable story to emotionally connect readers to your topic before expanding. For instance, an essay on the importance of family could start “My parents’ drawn-out divorce in my youth shattered my notions of family forever.” Link it to your focus.

Launch With a Relevant Dialogue

Imagine a provocative exchange. An essay on gender roles could kick off: “‘Act more lady-like!’ my brother snapped when I beat him in basketball. His words stuck with me for years.” Let the significance unfold.

Foreshadow With an Intriguing Snapshot

Give a glimpse of a compelling scene to come. An essay about a rafting trip could begin “Staring down the raging rapids I doubted my brother’s insistence that this sport was ‘fun.’” Provide a window into your experiences.

Contrast the Ordinary With the Extraordinary

Compare expected and surprising elements. On an essay about Amish cultures use of modern tech you could contrast: “Rather than lamplight, the soft glow of an iPad lit up the girl’s face as she read in the hayloft.” Then connect these observations.

Start With a Warning

Caution about high stakes to capture interest. An essay against texting while driving could start: “Reading this in traffic? Doing so gives you a 23 times higher chance of an accident.” Inform readers to alter behaviors.

Pick the Perfect Tone

Match your essay’s tone to your subject matter. Satirical, warm, authoritative, poetic, introspective – your style sets the mood. For instance, an intimate memoir requires a more personal tone than an academic argument. Let your voice reflect your purpose.

With the right approach, your essay’s opening lines can become one of the most powerful parts. Use these techniques as inspiration when sitting down to start writing. Remember, your beginning sets the stage for everything to come. Craft an engaging introduction and you’re off to a great start.

Provide a general overview

Although this step is optional, it is a good idea to provide a general overview of your essay in the introduction paragraph. This is especially beneficial for longer essays. It gives the reader a gist of what is to be expected and the points that you will be covering.

Let’s take a look at a few examples:

The following overview is for the topic “Life in the Victorian Era”.

The essay begins with a discussion of social segregation and class division in the Victorian era. It then highlights the impact of the industrial revolution on Victorian society. Finally, it discusses the influence of Victorian morals, values, and art on modern society.

Now that we’ve figured out how to write introductions for essays let’s take a look at a few introduction examples for essays. Also read:

To guide you in your essay writing journey, we’ve also provided a few good introductions for essays. Since different essay types have different types of introduction paragraphs, we’ve provided examples of how to start an essay for the four main essay types (narrative, descriptive, argumentative, and expository essay).

How to start an essay

In order to understand how to start an essay, we need to first take a look at its different components. The introduction to an essay consists of three main parts:

1. Hook: Attractive opening line that draws the reader’s attention

2. Background information: Relevant information that revolves around the thesis statement

3. Thesis statement: The main argument or idea of your essay

You can also provide an overview, which gives the reader a glimpse of what is to come. But make sure that this structure is very brief.

There are several ways to start an essay. But, any changes to the content of your essay may lead to significant revisions in your introduction. Also read:

We suggest that you simply develop a rough thesis statement and save the essay introduction paragraph for the end. Once you have completed the rest of your work, you can use the following steps to understand how to start an essay introduction:

How to Write an Essay: 4 Minute Step-by-step Guide | Scribbr

How to write an essay introduction?

Avoid new information or arguments. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: Start with a Hook: Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading.

How to write a good essay?

It is divided as follows: 2 Introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay. Body: The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis.

How do you start an essay?

Take a look at these common ways to start an essay: One way to start your essay is with a shocking, unexpected, or amusing fact about the topic you’re covering. This grabs the reader’s attention and makes them want to read further, expecting explanation, context, and/or elaboration on the fact you presented.

How to write an academic essay?

The writer of the academic essay aims to persuade readers of an idea based on evidence. The beginning of the essay is a crucial first step in this process. In order to engage readers and establish your authority, the beginning of your essay has to accomplish certain business. Your beginning should introduce the essay, focus it, and orient readers.

Related posts:

• What Is Treasury Management? (With Definition and Benefits)
• RASCI: What It Is and How To Use It for Project Management
• Interview Question: “What’s the Most Difficult Decision You’ve Had to Make?”
• Blog : Is there a dress code for the modern paralegal?

Related Posts

I want to be a lawyer: a step-by-step guide to becoming an attorney, how to properly record accrued revenue for your business, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.