introductory paragraph in essay writing

Essay Papers Writing Online

Master the art of crafting attention-grabbing intros for your essays with these expert tips.

When it comes to writing an essay, one of the most crucial elements that can make or break your piece is the introduction paragraph. This initial portion serves as the launchpad for your entire composition – it sets the tone, captures the attention, and delivers a promise. Crafting a strong intro requires skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of your audience. It’s all about making a memorable first impression, leaving your readers wanting more, and ensuring they stay engaged throughout the rest of your essay.

Setting the stage with compelling language ,

one of the essential techniques for writing a captivating introduction is the use of compelling language. By elegantly blending simplicity with sophistication, you can instantly grab your readers’ attention and entice them to continue reading. Incorporating interesting anecdotes, thought-provoking questions, or powerful quotes into the opening paragraph can offer a glimpse into the core ideas of your essay while leaving a lasting impact. Moreover, carefully choosing descriptive words and employing rhetorical devices can help create an immersive experience, painting a vivid picture in the minds of your audience.

Creating a sense of curiosity and intrigue ,

another effective method for crafting a strong introduction is by piquing the curiosity of your readers. Humans are naturally drawn to mysteries, and by presenting a tantalizing glimpse of the topic or problem you will explore in your essay, you can instantly ignite their interest. Tease your readers with a hint of what’s to come, a juicy secret awaiting to be unraveled, or a surprising fact that challenges conventional wisdom. This sense of intrigue will create a desire within your readers to delve deeper into your essay, to uncover the truths that lie ahead, and to satisfy their intellectual curiosity.

Understanding the Purpose of the Intro Paragraph

The intro paragraph serves as the opening statement of your essay, conveying the main idea and setting the tone for the entire piece. It introduces the topic to the reader and provides a brief overview of what will be discussed. The purpose of the intro paragraph is to grab the reader’s attention, spark their interest, and prepare them for the information that will follow.

In order to achieve its purpose, the intro paragraph should be concise and compelling. It should capture the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading. It should also provide a clear thesis statement that highlights the main argument or point that will be made in the essay.

One key aspect of the intro paragraph is to establish the context of the topic. This can be done by providing background information, historical context, or relevant facts and statistics. The reader should have a clear understanding of why the topic is important and why they should continue reading.

Another important function of the intro paragraph is to provide a roadmap for the essay. It should outline the main points or arguments that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. This helps the reader understand the structure of the essay and what to expect as they continue reading.

Overall, the intro paragraph serves as a crucial component of any essay. It sets the stage for the rest of the piece and determines whether the reader will be engaged or not. By understanding the purpose of the intro paragraph and crafting it effectively, you can captivate your audience and ensure they are motivated to read your essay in its entirety.

Grabbing the Reader’s Attention with a Hook

Engaging your readers from the very beginning is essential to make your essay stand out and leave a lasting impression. By using a captivating hook in your introduction paragraph, you can effectively grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading.

So, what exactly is a hook? A hook is a compelling and intriguing statement or question that is used at the beginning of your essay to immediately capture the reader’s interest. It serves as a way to draw them in and make them curious about what you have to say.

A strong hook can take different forms. It can be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking quote, a personal anecdote, or a vivid description. The key is to choose a hook that is relevant to your topic and aligns with the tone and style of your essay.

When crafting your hook, it is important to remember that its purpose is to generate curiosity and make the reader want to know more. It should create a sense of anticipation and set the stage for the rest of your essay. By using language that is concise and impactful, you can create a hook that grabs the reader’s attention from the very first sentence.

Additionally, it is important to keep your hook concise and to the point. While you want to capture the reader’s interest, you also want to avoid overwhelming them with too much information right off the bat. A well-crafted hook should be brief yet compelling, leaving the reader wanting to know more about what you have to say.

In conclusion, grabbing the reader’s attention with a hook is an effective way to make your essay more engaging and compelling. By using a statement or question that is intriguing and relevant to your topic, you can draw the reader in and make them eager to continue reading. So, take the time to craft a strong and captivating hook for your essay, and you will be one step closer to creating a memorable piece of writing.

Clearly Stating the Thesis in the Intro Paragraph

One crucial aspect of writing a compelling introduction for an essay is to clearly state the thesis. The thesis, which serves as the main argument or point of the essay, should be clearly and concisely presented in the introduction paragraph to capture the reader’s attention.

Emphasizing the importance of explicitly stating the thesis

Effectively conveying the thesis in the introductory paragraph is essential for establishing the focus and direction of the essay. By clearly stating the thesis upfront, the writer can set the tone for the rest of the paper and guide the reader’s understanding of the main argument.

Illustrating the role of the thesis in guiding the essay

The thesis acts as a roadmap for the essay, providing a clear path for the writer to explore the topic and present their supporting arguments. When the thesis is clearly stated in the introduction, it helps the reader anticipate the content and structure of the essay, making it easier to follow along and engage with the ideas being presented.

Strengthening the impact of the introductory paragraph

A well-crafted introduction with a clearly stated thesis not only grabs the reader’s attention but also establishes the writer’s credibility and expertise in the subject matter. It sets the tone for the entire essay, increasing the chances of the reader continuing to read and engage with the rest of the paper.

Highlighting the need for precision and clarity

When stating the thesis in the introduction paragraph, it is crucial to be precise and concise. The statement should be clear, avoiding vague language or generalizations. By being explicit and specific about the main argument, the writer immediately captures the reader’s interest and makes a strong impression.

In conclusion, clearly stating the thesis in the introduction paragraph is vital to the success of an essay. By emphasizing the importance of the thesis, illustrating its role in guiding the essay, and strengthening the impact of the introductory paragraph, a writer can effectively engage the reader and set the stage for a strong and persuasive essay.

Providing Background Information

One of the key elements for creating a compelling introduction is providing background information. This involves offering context or setting the stage for your essay topic. By providing background information, you can help your readers understand the subject matter more effectively and engage them from the beginning.

In this section, we will explore different techniques and strategies to provide background information in your introduction. These approaches will ensure that your readers have a clear understanding of the topic being discussed and why it is important. By offering relevant background information, you can create a strong foundation for the rest of your essay.

There are several ways to incorporate background information. You can start by offering relevant historical or social context to provide a broad overview of the topic. This approach allows your readers to understand the significance of the subject within a wider context and grasp its relevance.

Another effective way to provide background information is by offering statistical or factual data. By presenting relevant statistics or facts, you can demonstrate the importance and scope of the issue at hand. This can help create a sense of urgency and relevance, capturing the attention of your readers.

Additionally, you can share personal anecdotes or stories that relate to the topic. This approach humanizes the subject matter and allows readers to connect on a more emotional level. By sharing personal experiences or stories, you can engage your readers and make them feel invested in the topic you are discussing.

Overall, providing background information is crucial for creating a strong introduction. It helps set the stage for your essay, establish relevance, and engage your readers from the start. By incorporating historical context, statistical data, or personal anecdotes, you can create a compelling and informative introduction that captivates your audience.

Structuring the Intro Paragraph Effectively

Effective structuring of the introductory paragraph is essential for capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the essay. The way you organize the information in this paragraph can greatly impact the overall impact and clarity of your writing.

To structure your intro paragraph effectively, it is important to first establish a clear and concise thesis statement. This statement should succinctly summarize the main argument or point of your essay. By presenting a strong thesis, you provide the reader with a roadmap of what to expect in the following paragraphs.

In addition to a strong thesis, it is crucial to include a hook or attention-grabbing statement at the beginning of the intro paragraph. This can be a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact or statistic, or even a relevant anecdote. The purpose of the hook is to engage the reader and compel them to continue reading.

Another important element to consider when structuring your intro paragraph is the use of relevant background information. This can help provide context for your thesis statement and give the reader a better understanding of the topic at hand. Be sure to only include necessary information and avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive details.

Additionally, it is beneficial to outline the main points or arguments that will be discussed in the essay. This preview can help orient the reader and provide them with a sense of direction. By clearly outlining the main points, the reader can easily follow your argument and stay engaged with the content.

Lastly, to effectively structure your intro paragraph, be mindful of the overall flow and coherence of your writing. Transition words and phrases can help connect ideas and guide the reader through your argument seamlessly. These words and phrases include “moreover,” “however,” “in addition,” “furthermore,” and “on the other hand,” among others.

In conclusion, structuring your intro paragraph effectively is crucial for capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of your essay. By incorporating a strong thesis statement, an attention-grabbing hook, relevant background information, and a preview of the main points, you can create a powerful and engaging introduction. Additionally, paying attention to the flow and coherence of your writing can enhance the overall impact of your intro paragraph.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in the Intro Paragraph

When crafting the introductory paragraph of your essay, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes that can weaken the impact and effectiveness of your writing. By understanding and avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure that your introduction grabs the reader’s attention and sets a strong foundation for the rest of your essay.

• Being overly general: One common mistake is starting your introduction with broad statements or generic information that fails to engage the reader. Instead of providing a vague overview of your topic, strive to present a hook or compelling opening that immediately captures the reader’s interest.
• Including too much background information: While providing some context for your topic is important, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive background information. Focus on including only the most relevant and essential details that support the main point of your essay.
• Using cliches or generic statements: Another mistake to avoid is relying on cliches or commonly used phrases in your introduction. These types of statements can make your writing appear unoriginal and uninteresting. Instead, strive to create unique and thought-provoking openings that stand out from the crowd.
• Not clearly stating your thesis: Your introductory paragraph should clearly and concisely state your thesis or main argument. Failing to do so can confuse the reader and make it difficult for them to understand the purpose of your essay. Make sure your thesis is prominently featured in the introduction to provide a clear roadmap for your essay.
• Neglecting to establish relevance: It is essential to establish the relevance and significance of your topic in the introductory paragraph. By clearly conveying why your topic is important and how it relates to the reader’s interests or experiences, you can create a stronger connection and engagement from the outset.

By avoiding these common mistakes in the introductory paragraph of your essay, you can create a strong and captivating opening that sets the stage for the rest of your writing. Remember to be specific, original, and clear in your introduction, and to always consider the needs and interests of your reader.

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How to Write an Introduction Paragraph [50+ Examples]

Writing a captivating introduction paragraph is arguably your most important goal as a writer.

Here is a quick answer for how to write an introduction paragraph:

Write an introduction paragraph by starting with a hook to grab attention, providing necessary context to set the stage, and presenting a clear thesis statement to outline the main idea. Ensure your tone matches your audience, keep the language clear, and smoothly transition into the next section.

As someone with years of writing experience, I’ll guide you through how to write introductory paragraphs with over 50 examples.

What Is an Introductory Paragraph?

Table of Contents

An introductory paragraph is the opening section of your essay or article.

It sets the stage by providing essential background information, introducing the topic, and presenting the main idea or thesis.

This paragraph is crucial because it establishes the context and framework for the rest of your writing, helping the reader understand the subject and its significance from the very beginning.

The primary goal of an introductory paragraph is to engage the reader.

It should capture their interest and make them want to keep reading.

This can be achieved through various techniques, such as starting with a compelling hook, providing intriguing facts, or posing a thought-provoking question.

A well-crafted introduction not only grabs attention but also guides the reader smoothly into the body of the essay.

Types of Introduction Paragraphs

There are 10 types of introduction paragraphs that you need to know.

• Start with a short, interesting story relevant to your topic.
• Engages the reader emotionally.
• Pose a thought-provoking question.
• Invites the reader to ponder and seek answers in your writing.
• Use a famous quote related to your topic.
• Adds credibility and interest.
• Present a surprising fact or statistic.
• Captures attention with interesting information.
• Define a key term or concept.
• Provides clarity and sets the foundation.
• Make a strong, controversial statement.
• Provokes curiosity and debate.
• Paint a vivid picture of a hypothetical situation.
• Helps readers visualize and connect.
• Give a brief history of your topic.
• Provides context and background.
• Share a personal anecdote or experience.
• Creates a personal connection with the reader.
• Speak directly to the reader.
• Engages the reader by making it personal.

Here’s How to Write an Introduction Paragraph

You don’t want an okay introduction — you need to wow your reader with a phenomenal opening.

Here’s how to do it.

A hook is the first sentence that grabs the reader’s attention.

It can be a question, a quote, a fact, or an anecdote. A strong hook is crucial because it determines whether the reader will continue reading. From my experience, crafting a compelling hook takes practice.

It should be relevant and intriguing, making the reader want to learn more about your topic.

Providing context helps the reader understand the background of your topic.

This can include historical information, definitions, or a brief overview of the subject. Context is important because it sets the stage for your argument.

Without it, readers may feel lost or confused.

In my writing, I ensure the context is clear and concise, giving readers the information they need to follow my narrative.

3. Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the main idea of your essay or article. It tells the reader what to expect and sets the direction of your writing.

A strong thesis is specific, clear, and debatable.

In my teaching, I emphasize the importance of a well-crafted thesis because it guides the entire piece.

A weak thesis can lead to a disorganized and unfocused essay.

4. Relevance

Explain why your topic is important.

Show the reader why they should care about what you’re writing.

Relevance connects your topic to the reader’s interests or concerns.

I often ask myself, “Why does this matter to my audience?” This helps me ensure my writing is meaningful and engaging.

Your introduction should be clear and easy to understand.

Avoid jargon or complex sentences that could confuse the reader. Clarity is essential for effective communication.

In my experience, simple language and straightforward sentences make a stronger impact.

Always aim for clarity to keep your readers engaged.

The tone of your introduction sets the mood for your entire piece.

It can be formal, informal, serious, or humorous, depending on your audience and purpose.

I always consider my audience when choosing a tone. For academic writing, a formal tone is appropriate.

For a blog post, a conversational tone works better.

The right tone helps connect with your readers.

7. Transition

A smooth transition from your introduction to the body of your essay is essential.

It helps maintain the flow and coherence of your writing.

A good transition links your thesis statement to the main points you’ll discuss. In my writing, I use transitional phrases to guide readers from one idea to the next seamlessly.

This keeps the narrative logical and easy to follow.

Here is a good video about how to write an introduction paragraph:

Examples of Introduction Paragraphs

Other than practice, probably the most important way to learn how to write introduction paragraphs is to read good examples.

Academic Essays

• Anecdote : “When I was in high school, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of bullying. One incident, in particular, stuck with me. This essay explores the long-term psychological impacts of bullying on teenagers.”
• Question : “What would you do if you found yourself stranded on a deserted island? This essay will examine survival strategies and the psychological effects of isolation.”
• Quotation : “‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’ said Nelson Mandela. This paper discusses the role of education in social transformation.”
• Fact or Statistic : “Did you know that over 1 billion people lack access to clean water? This essay addresses the global water crisis and potential solutions.”
• Definition : “Globalization is the process by which businesses and other organizations develop international influence. This paper explores the economic and cultural impacts of globalization.”
• Bold Statement : “Climate change is the single greatest threat to humanity’s future. This essay argues for immediate action to mitigate its effects.”
• Scenario : “Imagine waking up in a world where technology has ceased to exist. This essay examines our dependency on technology and its implications for society.”
• Historical Overview : “Since the Industrial Revolution, the world has seen unprecedented technological advancements. This paper explores the history and future of technological innovation.”
• Personal Experience : “Growing up in a multicultural neighborhood, I learned the value of diversity. This essay discusses the benefits of multiculturalism in modern society.”
• Direct Address : “Have you ever wondered what makes a good leader? This essay will delve into the qualities and characteristics that define effective leadership.”
• Anecdote : “Last summer, I embarked on a solo backpacking trip through Europe. In this blog post, I’ll share tips and tricks for solo travel.”
• Question : “Ever struggled to stay productive while working from home? This blog post offers practical strategies to boost your productivity.”
• Quotation : “‘The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,’ said Lao Tzu. This post explores the importance of taking the first step in achieving your goals.”
• Fact or Statistic : “Did you know that 8 out of 10 startups fail within the first 18 months? This blog post examines common pitfalls and how to avoid them.”
• Definition : “Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment. In this post, we’ll explore mindfulness techniques to reduce stress.”
• Bold Statement : “Social media is destroying our ability to connect in real life. This blog post argues for a digital detox.”
• Scenario : “Picture yourself on a serene beach, the sound of waves lapping at the shore. This post will guide you through the best beach destinations for relaxation.”
• Historical Overview : “Blogging has come a long way since its inception in the late 1990s. This post traces the evolution of blogging and its impact on media.”
• Personal Experience : “After years of struggling with anxiety, I found relief through yoga. This post shares my journey and the benefits of yoga for mental health.”
• Direct Address : “Are you tired of yo-yo dieting? This blog post will introduce you to sustainable weight loss strategies that actually work.”

Creative Writing

• Anecdote : “As a child, I often got lost in the world of books. This story is a tribute to the power of imagination and the magic of storytelling.”
• Question : “What if you could time travel to any era? This story explores the adventures and challenges of a modern-day time traveler.”
• Quotation : “‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players,’ wrote Shakespeare. This story delves into the complexities of human relationships.”
• Fact or Statistic : “Over 3 million shipwrecks lie on the ocean floor. This tale follows a daring expedition to uncover the secrets of a legendary shipwreck.”
• Definition : “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. This narrative follows a young hero’s journey to find their inner strength.”
• Bold Statement : “True love is just a myth. This story challenges conventional notions of romance and explores what it means to truly connect with another person.”
• Scenario : “Imagine a world where dreams are currency. This story takes you on a journey through a fantastical realm where dreams hold unimaginable power.”
• Historical Overview : “During the Victorian era, society was obsessed with appearances. This story uncovers the hidden lives of people behind closed doors.”
• Personal Experience : “One summer, I decided to hitchhike across the country. This story is inspired by the unforgettable characters I met along the way.”
• Direct Address : “Do you believe in fate? This narrative invites you to explore the intertwining destinies of two strangers brought together by chance.”

Technical Writing

• Anecdote : “When I first started coding, I encountered countless bugs. This guide will help you debug your code efficiently and effectively.”
• Question : “Struggling to understand machine learning? This guide breaks down the basics of machine learning for beginners.”
• Quotation : “‘Software is eating the world,’ said Marc Andreessen. This guide explores the impact of software development on modern industries.”
• Fact or Statistic : “Over 90% of data has been created in the last two years. This guide explains how to manage and analyze big data.”
• Definition : “API stands for Application Programming Interface. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to use APIs in your projects.”
• Bold Statement : “The future of technology lies in artificial intelligence. This guide delves into the fundamentals of AI and its applications.”
• Scenario : “Imagine you’re building a website from scratch. This guide walks you through the essential steps of web development.”
• Historical Overview : “The history of programming languages is a fascinating journey. This guide explores the evolution of programming from its inception to the present day.”
• Personal Experience : “As a software developer, I’ve faced numerous challenges. This guide shares practical solutions to common programming problems.”
• Direct Address : “Are you new to coding? This guide provides step-by-step instructions for beginners to start their coding journey.”

Marketing Copy

• Anecdote : “Last year, our sales skyrocketed after implementing a new strategy. This article reveals the secrets behind our success.”
• Question : “Looking to boost your brand’s online presence? This guide offers proven techniques to enhance your digital marketing efforts.”
• Quotation : “‘Content is king,’ said Bill Gates. This article discusses the importance of high-quality content in digital marketing.”
• Fact or Statistic : “Did you know that email marketing has an ROI of 4,400%? This guide explains how to leverage email marketing for maximum results.”
• Definition : “SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. This article provides an in-depth look at SEO best practices.”
• Bold Statement : “Traditional advertising is dead. This article argues for the shift to digital marketing and its benefits.”
• Scenario : “Imagine your website appearing at the top of search results. This guide shows you how to achieve top rankings with effective SEO strategies.”
• Historical Overview : “The landscape of marketing has drastically changed over the years. This article traces the evolution of marketing from print to digital.”
• Personal Experience : “As a marketing professional, I’ve tested numerous strategies. This article shares the most effective techniques I’ve discovered.”
• Direct Address : “Do you want to increase your social media engagement? This guide provides actionable tips to grow your audience and boost interaction.”

Final Thoughts: How to Write Introduction Paragraphs

Writing killer intro paragraphs is like setting the stage for an epic adventure—start strong, and the rest will follow.

Read This Next:

• How to Write a Paragraph [Ultimate Guide + Examples]
• How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph (+30 Examples)
• Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer [Guide + Free Templates]
• How to Write a Hook (40 Good Examples)
• What Is a Summary In Writing? (Explained + 40 Examples)

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.” 

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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. 

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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. 

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