how to start the second paragraph of a narrative essay

How To Write An Essay

Transition Words For Essays

250+ Transition Words for Essays to Improve Your Writing

13 min read

Published on: Jan 1, 2021

Last updated on: Dec 14, 2024

What are Transition Words?

Transition words are linking words used to connect sentences and ideas in the content. They help the audience move from one idea to another, building a coherent relationship within the document.

When writing an essay , it is essential to make sure that the information provided is readable and understandable by the readers. For this purpose, explicit language, transition words, and phrases are used.

Moreover, these words set a base for the idea that is going to be discussed next.

Strong transition words for essays can help ensure that your writing flows. It is mandatory to keep in view that not every sentence in your essay needs a transitional phrase.

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Types of Transitions

Generally, there are three types of transitions. Depending on the length, complexity, and kind of text, transitions can take the following form:

Transition Between Sections - These transitions help connect larger sections of a document or essay. They ensure the content flows logically between major points.

For example:

"In the following section..." "Moving on to..." "Now, let's explore..." "Turning our attention to..." "To delve deeper, we will now examine..."

Transition Between Paragraphs - The transition between paragraphs is when you logically connect the two paragraphs. This connection summarizes the paragraph’s primary concern and links it to the next idea of the other paragraph.

"Furthermore..." "On the other hand..." "Similarly..." "In contrast..." "Moreover..." "Additionally..." "In addition to..." "Conversely..." "Likewise..." "In a similar vein...

Transition Within Paragraphs - They act as cues for the readers to prepare them for what is coming next. They are usually single words or small phrases.

"For instance..." "In particular..." "To illustrate..." "Additionally..." "Moreover..." "Furthermore..." "On the contrary..." "However..." "In contrast..." "In other words..."

Types of Transition Words

Here's a table showcasing different types of transition words and their corresponding functions:

Want to improve your essay flow? We are here to assist!

Transition Words For Different Types of Essays

Transitional words depend on the relationship you want to convey to the audience about the ideas and paragraphs. Below is a list of transition words for essays that can be used to link different sentences, paragraphs, and sections.

Identify which transition expression you want to share for your logical relationship.

Transition Words for Argumentative Essay

In the same way
Equally important
Furthermore
Comparatively
Additionally
In addition
Not only...but also

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essay

In contrast
Different from
On the contrary
In spite of

Transition Words for Informative Essay

Provided that
With this in mind
For the purpose of
In the hope that
In order to
With this intention

Transition Words for College Essays

In other words
By all means
To demonstrate
As in illustration
To put it another way

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essay

As a result
For this reason
Because the
Under those circumstances
Accordingly
Consequently

Transition Words for Expository Essay

Not long after that
Specifically
To begin with
Without doubt
Undoubtedly
Due to circumstances
In similar fashion

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essay

Here are lists of transition words for different parts of an essay:

Transition Words for Essay Introduction

Check out these transition words for an essay introduction :

As an introduction
First and foremost
Starting off
At the beginning
The first point to address
As a starting consideration
Opening with
Commencing the discussion
At the forefront

Transition Words for Starting a Paragraph

Here are some transition words for essays to start a paragraph

To open with

Transition Words for First Body Paragraph

Consider using these transition words for essays body paragraph:

At the outset
To lay the foundation
To set the stage
Commencing with
As the opening point
By starting with
Establishing the groundwork
The initial focus is on
Kicking off with

Transition Words for Second Body Paragraph

Subsequently
Following that
On the next note
Building upon this
Continuing on
The next aspect
Expanding further
Progressing to
In continuation
To advance the discussion

Transition Words for Third Body Paragraph

Moving forward
Expanding on this
To elaborate further
In the same vein
As we progress
Additionally speaking
Carrying this forward
In light of this
To explore another angle
Diving deeper into

Transition Words for Essays Counter Argument

Nevertheless
Despite this
On the other hand
Even though

Transition Words for Last Body Paragraph

As a final consideration
To wrap up the body
Summarizing the key points
In conclusion to this discussion
Drawing this to a close
As a last thought
Capping this discussion
To end the body of the essay
On a final note
The ultimate point is

Transition Words for Conclusion

You can use these transition words for essays ending:

To bring everything together
To close this discussion
Drawing the essay to a conclusion
Bringing it all to a close
To synthesize the ideas
To finalize
Summing it up
To encapsulate
In retrospect

Struggling with connecting paragraphs? Let us do it!

Tips to Use Transition Words in Your Essay

Here are some tips to effectively use transition words in your essay:

Understand the Purpose: Familiarize yourself with the different types and functions of transition words, phrases, or sentences. Recognize how they connect ideas, provide structure, and indicate relationships between different parts of your essay.
Plan your Essay Structure: Before you start writing, outline the main sections, paragraphs, and points you want to cover. Consider where transition words can be used to improve the flow and coherence of your essay.
Use Transition Words Appropriately: Ensure that the transition word you choose accurately reflects the relationship between ideas. Don't force a transition where it doesn't fit naturally.
Vary Transition Words: Avoid repetitive or excessive use of the same transition word throughout your essay. Use a variety of transition words to maintain reader interest and enhance overall readability.
Pay Attention to Placement: Place transition words at the beginning, middle, or end of sentences, depending on the desired effect. Consider the logical flow of your ideas and choose the appropriate placement for each transition word.
Use Transitional Phrases: Instead of using single transition words, consider incorporating transitional phrases or clauses. These can provide more context and clarity, strengthening the connection between ideas.
Revise and Edit: After completing your essay, review it for the effectiveness and smoothness of transitions. Ensure that they serve their purpose in guiding the reader and enhancing the overall coherence of your writing.
Seek Feedback: Share your essay with others and ask for feedback, specifically on the use of transition words. Others' perspectives can help you identify any areas that need improvement or where transitions could be strengthened.

How Transitions Work

Transitions work by creating a bridge between ideas, sentences, paragraphs, or sections in your essay. They help to establish logical connections and guide the reader through the flow of your writing.

Here's how transitions work:

Coherence : Transitions create smooth connections between ideas, ensuring a coherent flow in your writing.
Signal Relationships: Transitions clarify how ideas are related, such as cause and effect, comparison, contrast, or sequence.
Guide the Reader: It acts as signpost, guiding readers through your essay and indicating the direction of your thoughts.
Enhance Clarity: Transitions improve clarity by organizing ideas and helping readers understand logical progression.
Improve Flow: It ensures a seamless flow between sentences, paragraphs, and sections, preventing choppiness.
Emphasize Key Points: Transitions can be used strategically to highlight important ideas and make them more impactful.

Let's consider an example:

In the above example, transitions like " one such source " connect the idea of solar power to renewable energy sources. " Similarly " then introduces the concept of wind power, creating a logical progression. These transitions help readers follow the flow of ideas and understand the relationships between different energy sources.

Check out this informative video to gain a deeper understanding of how to integrate transitions into your essays:

To sum it up! While mastering transition words may require time and practice, it is a skill well worth developing. These words are crucial for creating coherence and flow in your essays. Throughout this blog, we have explored various transition words and phrases that can greatly enhance your writing.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to apply these newfound skills in your future essays. You can utilize an AI essay writer to enhance and refine your writing skills.

If you still need assistance or have further inquiries, our team at CollegeEssay.org is available to provide professional essay writing service .

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105 Best Words To Start A Paragraph

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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]

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words to start a paragraph, explained below

The first words of a paragraph are crucial as they set the tone and inform the reader about the content that follows.

Known as the ‘topic’ sentence, the first sentence of the paragraph should clearly convey the paragraph’s main idea.

This article presents a comprehensive list of the best words to start a paragraph, be it the first, second, third, or concluding paragraph.

Words to Start an Introduction Paragraph

The words you choose for starting an essay should establish the context, importance, or conflict of your topic.

The purpose of an introduction is to provide the reader with a clear understanding of the topic, its significance, and the structure of the ensuing discussion or argument.

Students often struggle to think of ways to start introductions because they may feel overwhelmed by the need to effectively summarize and contextualize their topic, capture the reader’s interest, and provide a roadmap for the rest of the paper, all while trying to create a strong first impression.

Choose one of these example words to start an introduction to get yourself started:

The debate surrounding [topic]…
[Topic] has garnered attention due to…
Exploring the complexities of [topic]…
The significance of [topic] lies in…
Over the past decade, [topic] has…
The critical question of [topic]…
As society grapples with [topic]…
The rapidly evolving landscape of [topic]…
A closer examination of [topic] reveals…
The ongoing conversation around [topic]…

Don’t Miss my Article: 33 Words to Avoid in an Essay

Words to Start a Body Paragraph

The purpose of a body paragraph in an essay is to develop and support the main argument, presenting evidence, examples, and analysis that contribute to the overall thesis.

Students may struggle to think of ways to start body paragraphs because they need to find appropriate transition words or phrases that seamlessly connect the paragraphs, while also introducing a new idea or evidence that builds on the previous points.

This can be challenging, as students must carefully balance the need for continuity and logical flow with the introduction of fresh perspectives.

Try some of these paragraph starters if you’re stuck:

Building upon previous research…
As [source] suggests, [topic]…
Analyzing [topic] through [theory]…
Considering the impact of [policy]…
Delving deeper into [topic]…
Drawing from [author]’s findings…
[Topic] intersects with [related topic]…
Contrary to popular belief, [topic]…
The historical context of [topic]…
Addressing the challenges of [topic]…

Words to Start a Conclusion Paragraph

The conclusion paragraph wraps up your essay and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

It should convincingly summarize your thesis and main points. For more tips on writing a compelling conclusion, consider the following examples of ways to say “in conclusion”:

In summary, [topic] demonstrates…
The evidence overwhelmingly suggests…
Taking all factors into account…
In light of the analysis, [topic]…
Ultimately, [topic] plays a crucial role…
In light of these findings…
Weighing the pros and cons of [topic]…
By synthesizing the key points…
The interplay of factors in [topic]…
[Topic] leaves us with important implications…

Complete List of Transition Words

Above, I’ve provided 30 different examples of phrases you can copy and paste to get started on your paragraphs.

Let’s finish strong with a comprehensive list of transition words you can mix and match to start any paragraph you want:

Secondly, …
In addition, …
Furthermore, …
Moreover, …
On the other hand, …
In contrast, …
Conversely, …
Despite this, …
Nevertheless, …
Although, …
As a result, …
Consequently, …
Therefore, …
Additionally, …
Simultaneously, …
Meanwhile, …
In comparison, …
Comparatively, …
As previously mentioned, …
For instance, …
For example, …
Specifically, …
In particular, …
Significantly, …
Interestingly, …
Surprisingly, …
Importantly, …
According to [source], …
As [source] states, …
As [source] suggests, …
In the context of, …
In light of, …
Taking into consideration, …
Given that, …
Considering the fact that, …
Bearing in mind, …
To illustrate, …
To demonstrate, …
To clarify, …
To put it simply, …
In other words, …
To reiterate, …
As a matter of fact, …
Undoubtedly, …
Unquestionably, …
Without a doubt, …
It is worth noting that, …
One could argue that, …
It is essential to highlight, …
It is important to emphasize, …
It is crucial to mention, …
When examining, …
In terms of, …
With regards to, …
In relation to, …
As a consequence, …
As an illustration, …
As evidence, …
Based on [source], …
Building upon, …
By the same token, …
In the same vein, …
In support of this, …
In line with, …
To further support, …
To substantiate, …
To provide context, …
To put this into perspective, …

Tip: Use Right-Branching Sentences to Start your Paragraphs

Sentences should have the key information front-loaded. This makes them easier to read. So, start your sentence with the key information!

To understand this, you need to understand two contrasting types of sentences:

Left-branching sentences , also known as front-loaded sentences, begin with the main subject and verb, followed by modifiers, additional information, or clauses.
Right-branching sentences , or back-loaded sentences, start with modifiers, introductory phrases, or clauses, leading to the main subject and verb later in the sentence.

In academic writing, left-branching or front-loaded sentences are generally considered easier to read and more authoritative.

This is because they present the core information—the subject and the verb—at the beginning, making it easier for readers to understand the main point of the sentence.

Front-loading also creates a clear and straightforward sentence structure, which is preferred in academic writing for its clarity and conciseness.

Right-branching or back-loaded sentences, with their more complex and sometimes convoluted structure, can be more challenging for readers to follow and may lead to confusion or misinterpretation.

Take these examples where I’ve highlighted the subject of the sentence in bold. Note that in the right-branching sentences, the topic is front-loaded.

Right Branching: Researchers found a strong correlation between sleep and cognitive function after analyzing the data from various studies.
Left-Branching: After analyzing the data from various studies, a strong correlation between sleep and cognitive function was found by researchers.
The novel was filled with vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes , which captivated the audience from the very first chapter.
Captivating the audience from the very first chapter, the novel was filled with vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes.

The words you choose to start a paragraph are crucial for setting the tone, establishing context, and ensuring a smooth flow throughout your essay.

By carefully selecting the best words for each type of paragraph, you can create a coherent, engaging, and persuasive piece of writing.

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Sentence pair #2: Effective Transition

You can use this same technique to create clear transitions between paragraphs. Here’s an example:

Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Other experts argue that individual actions are key to raising the awareness necessary to effect change. According to Annie Lowery, individual actions are important to making social change because when individuals take action, they can change values, which can lead to more people becoming invested in fighting climate change. She writes, “Researchers believe that these kinds of household-led trends can help avert climate catastrophe, even if government and corporate actions are far more important” (Lowery).

So, what’s an individual household supposed to do?

The repetition of the word “household” in the new paragraph helps readers see the connection between what has come before (a discussion of whether household actions matter) and what is about to come (a proposal for what types of actions households can take to combat climate change).

Sometimes, transitional words can help readers see how ideas are connected. But it’s not enough to just include a “therefore,” “moreover,” “also,” or “in addition.” You should choose these words carefully to show your readers what kind of connection you are making between your ideas.

To decide which transitional word to use, start by identifying the relationship between your ideas. For example, you might be

making a comparison or showing a contrast Transitional words that compare and contrast include also, in the same way, similarly, in contrast, yet, on the one hand, on the other hand. But before you signal comparison, ask these questions: Do your readers need another example of the same thing? Is there a new nuance in this next point that distinguishes it from the previous example? For those relationships between ideas, you might try this type of transition: While x may appear the same, it actually raises a new question in a slightly different way.
expressing agreement or disagreement When you are making an argument, you need to signal to readers where you stand in relation to other scholars and critics. You may agree with another person’s claim, you may want to concede some part of the argument even if you don’t agree with everything, or you may disagree. Transitional words that signal agreement, concession, and disagreement include however, nevertheless, actually, still, despite, admittedly, still, on the contrary, nonetheless .
showing cause and effect Transitional phrases that show cause and effect include therefore, hence, consequently, thus, so. Before you choose one of these words, make sure that what you are about to illustrate is really a causal link. Novice writers tend to add therefore and hence when they aren’t sure how to transition; you should reserve these words for when they accurately signal the progression of your ideas.
explaining or elaborating Transitions can signal to readers that you are going to expand on a point that you have just made or explain something further. Transitional words that signal explanation or elaboration include in other words, for example, for instance, in particular, that is, to illustrate, moreover .
drawing conclusions You can use transitions to signal to readers that you are moving from the body of your argument to your conclusions. Before you use transitional words to signal conclusions, consider whether you can write a stronger conclusion by creating a transition that shows the relationship between your ideas rather than by flagging the paragraph simply as a conclusion. Transitional words that signal a conclusion include in conclusion , as a result, ultimately, overall— but strong conclusions do not necessarily have to include those phrases.

If you’re not sure which transitional words to use—or whether to use one at all—see if you can explain the connection between your paragraphs or sentence either out loud or in the margins of your draft.

For example, if you write a paragraph in which you summarize physician Atul Gawande’s argument about the value of incremental care, and then you move on to a paragraph that challenges those ideas, you might write down something like this next to the first paragraph: “In this paragraph I summarize Gawande’s main claim.” Then, next to the second paragraph, you might write, “In this paragraph I present a challenge to Gawande’s main claim.” Now that you have identified the relationship between those two paragraphs, you can choose the most effective transition between them. Since the second paragraph in this example challenges the ideas in the first, you might begin with something like “but,” or “however,” to signal that shift for your readers.

picture_as_pdf Transitions

How to Write a Narrative Essay in 5 Steps

When you have a personal story to tell and don’t want to write an entire book, a narrative essay may be the perfect fit. Unlike other types of essays, narrative essays don’t need to stick to certain requirements or include a bibliography. They have a looser structure, more creative language, and just one requirement: to tell a story.

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What is a narrative essay?

A narrative essay typically tells a true story that may have a few elements changed for clarity or dramatic purposes. However, this isn’t a requirement. You can format a fictional story as a narrative essay.

Narrative essays, perhaps unsurprisingly, are defined by the presence of a narrative in the text. Rather than presenting and defending a position, as in an argumentative essay , or analyzing another text, like in an analytical essay , a narrative essay tells a coherent story. They’re often personal essays that detail specific episodes in their authors’ lives, which is why they’re popular for college essays .

Unlike most other types of essays , narrative essays have room for literary devices , such as metaphor and onomatopoeia . You can be creative in a narrative essay because you’re writing a story rather than presenting and dissecting others’ statements or work.

5 steps to writing a narrative essay

Step 1: topic choice (or prompt given).

The first step in writing a narrative essay is to determine the topic. Sometimes, your topic is chosen for you in the form of a prompt. You might map out the topics you want to mention in the essay or think through each point you’d like to make to see how each will fit into the allotted word count (if you’re given one).

At this stage, you can also start thinking about the tone you’ll use in your essay and any stylistic choices you’d like to incorporate, such as starting each paragraph with the same phrase to create anaphora or leaving the reader with a cliffhanger ending. You can change these later if they don’t mesh with your first draft, but playing with these ideas in the idea-generating stage can help you craft multiple drafts.

Step 2: Make an outline

After you’ve explored your ideas and gotten a clear sense of what you’ll write, make an outline. An outline is a bare-bones precursor to your essay that gives a high-level view of the topics it will cover. When you’re writing, your essay outline can act as a map to follow when you’re not sure how to start or help you transition between topics once you’ve started.

Step 3: Write your narrative essay

Next, it’s time to write ! With your outline as a guide, flesh out the sections you’ve listed with clear, engaging language. A narrative essay doesn’t—and shouldn’t—stick to the same requirements as an academic essay, so don’t feel a need to use formal language or summarize your essay in its introductory paragraph.

Tip: Use a first-person point of view

Most narrative essays are written from a first-person point of view . That means using pronouns such as I and me when describing the experiences you explore in your essay.

Tip: Use storytelling or creative language

If you’ve ever written fiction or creative nonfiction, use the same kind of language and conventions in your narrative essay. By this, we mean using storytelling techniques, such as dialogue , flashbacks, and symbolism , to engage readers and communicate your essay’s themes.

Step 4: Revise your narrative essay

If you can, wait at least a few hours—or if possible, a day or so—before rereading your essay and making changes. By doing this, you’ll have an easier time spotting mistakes and catching places where the narrative could be smoothed out or enhanced. As you read your draft, think back to the goals you identified when you approached your topic:

Does the draft address the points you planned to address?
Does it fit the tone you decided you would use?
If you had a prompt, does it sufficiently answer the prompt?

With these points in mind, make any changes you think will improve your narrative essay. Tools such as the Grammarly Editor can help you with this stage by flagging mistakes and making suggestions.

Step 5: Proofread and publish your narrative essay

Give your second draft another read-through to catch any grammatical mistakes you may have missed. At this stage, you’re done making substantial changes to the narrative—you’re polishing it to make sure you’re submitting the best version of your essay.

Once you’ve done your read-through and made any necessary changes, hit “send,” “submit,” or “publish” and congratulate yourself for finishing a narrative essay.

Narrative essay vs. descriptive essay

Both narrative essays and descriptive essays incorporate vivid figurative language to help readers visualize their subjects. However, in a descriptive essay, vividly describing the subject is the goal. In a narrative essay, the goal is to tell a story. In-depth descriptions may be part of the essay, but they need to support the narrative.

Narrative essay outline example

Title: Careful, You Might End Up in My Book!

Introduction: Real-life characters make the best subjects.

Body paragraph: We’re all characters in countless stories.

Body paragraph: It’s possible to be both the protagonist and the antagonist.

Body paragraph: Recognize yourself? Don’t worry, it’s our little secret.

Conclusion: Write whom you know.

Narrative essay FAQs

A narrative essay is an essay that tells a story. Typically, it’s nonfiction but may include some enhanced language to clarify or heighten the dramatic effect.

What are the steps to writing a narrative essay?

1 Choose a topic and generate ideas for your essay.

2 Write an outline.

3 Write a first draft.

4 Edit the draft.

5 Proofread and submit your final draft.

What’s the difference between a narrative essay and a descriptive essay?

While a narrative essay tells a story, a descriptive essay provides a vivid description of a place, person, object, or feeling. In a descriptive essay, the text focuses on exploring its subject, whereas a narrative essay tells a story with a beginning, middle, and end.

how to start the second paragraph of a narrative essay

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How to Start the Second Paragraph of an Essay | Writing Tips and Strategies

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Writing can be a difficult task for many students. In particular, it can be daunting to figure out how to start the second paragraph of an essay. This is because the second paragraph builds on the first and should introduce new ideas that help support the argument. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help writers create effective second paragraphs.

How to Start the Second Paragraph of an Essay

When starting the second paragraph of an essay, it’s important to make sure the new ideas introduced follow logically from the first paragraph. Here are some tips to help with this process:

Introduce a New Idea That Builds on the First Paragraph

The best way to start the second paragraph of an essay is by introducing new ideas that build on the main points discussed in the first paragraph. Doing so helps to create a cohesive argument that flows naturally. To do this, writers can:

Make Connections between Ideas

Connecting ideas is an important part of writing. When starting the second paragraph, writers should look for ways to link the new ideas to the points already discussed in the first paragraph. This helps to make the argument more cohesive and easier to follow.

Identify Possible Themes

When starting the second paragraph, it can also be helpful to look for common themes or threads that tie together the different points being made. Identifying these themes can help to create a stronger argument and make the essay more compelling.

Ask a Thought-Provoking Question

Asking a thought-provoking question can be an effective way to start the second paragraph of an essay. This helps to engage the reader and can be used to clarify concepts or pique their interest. When doing this, writers should make sure the question is relevant to the topic being discussed and is phrased in a way that encourages the reader to think critically about the issue.

Clarify Concepts

Asking a thought-provoking question can be a great way to clarify concepts that may have been confusing in the first paragraph. By presenting the reader with a question, writers can help them to better understand the material and see how it all fits together.

Pique Reader’s Interest

Starting the second paragraph with a thought-provoking question can also be used to pique the reader’s interest. Asking an interesting question can draw the reader in and make them more likely to keep reading.

Use a Quote or Anecdote to Illustrate a Point

Using a quote or anecdote at the beginning of the second paragraph can be a great way to illustrate a point and help the reader to better understand the material. When doing this, writers should make sure the quote or anecdote is relevant to the topic and that it establishes the tone of the essay.

Establish Tone

Using a quote or anecdote at the beginning of the second paragraph can be a great way to set the tone for the rest of the essay. Writers should choose quotes or anecdotes that reflect the overall tone they want to convey in the essay.

Provide Context

Using a quote or anecdote can also be used to provide context for the main points being made. This can help the reader to better understand the material and see how it relates to the larger argument.

Restate the Thesis in Different Words

Restating the thesis in different words can be an effective way to start the second paragraph of an essay. This helps to show that the writer has a good understanding of the material and reinforces the main argument of the essay.

Show Understanding

Restating the thesis in different words can help to show that the writer has a good understanding of the material. This can be used to demonstrate that the writer is able to effectively analyze and synthesize the information.

Reinforce Main Argument

Restating the thesis in different words can also help to reinforce the main argument of the essay. This can help to remind the reader of the main points and how they fit together to form the overall argument.

Offer an Example from Personal Experience

Offering an example from personal experience can be a great way to start the second paragraph of an essay. This helps to demonstrate that the writer understands the material and can provide insight into the topic.

Demonstrate Understanding

Sharing an example from personal experience can help to demonstrate that the writer has a good understanding of the material. This can be used to show that the writer is able to relate the material to their own life and apply it in meaningful ways.

Share Insightful Story

Sharing an example from personal experience can also help to add an element of storytelling to the essay. This can make the essay more engaging and encourage the reader to think more deeply about the material.

Cite Relevant Statistics or Research

Citing relevant statistics or research can be a great way to start the second paragraph of an essay. This helps to support the claims being made and adds credibility to the argument.

Support Claims

Citing statistics or research can be used to support the claims being made in the essay. This helps to strengthen the argument and make it more convincing to the reader.

Strengthen Argument

Citing statistics or research can also help to strengthen the overall argument of the essay. By providing evidence to back up the claims being made, writers can make the argument more persuasive and increase its impact.

Expand on a Key Term or Concept

Expanding on a key term or concept can be an effective way to start the second paragraph of an essay. This helps to explain complex ideas and provides clarification for the reader.

Explain Complex Ideas

Expanding on a key term or concept can be used to explain complex ideas in more detail. By doing this, writers can ensure that the reader has a clear understanding of the material and is able to follow the argument.

Offer Clarification

Expanding on a key term or concept can also be used to offer clarification for the reader. This can help to make the argument more understandable and allow the reader to gain a better grasp of the material.

Starting the second paragraph of an essay can be a challenge, but there are several strategies that can help. These include introducing new ideas that build on the first paragraph, asking a thought-provoking question, using a quote or anecdote to illustrate a point, restating the thesis in different words, offering an example from personal experience, and citing relevant statistics or research. With practice, writers can learn how to use these strategies to craft effective second paragraphs and create compelling essays.

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Blog / Hooking the Reader: How to Start a Narrative Essay

Hooking the Reader: How to Start a Narrative Essay

September 18, 2023

Regardless of your writing type, you want the reader to want to finish reading. The best way to do that is to write a compelling beginning to the piece. That is even more essential in narrative writing, where you often relay personal or non-academic information. You want to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more. To do that, you need to craft a fabulous hook and then back up that hook with a promise of what the reader will encounter in your essay.

What is a Hook?

A hook is an opening statement that grabs the reader’s attention. There are a few different ways to craft a compelling hook. Some of the most common are quotes, statistics, anecdotes, and questions. Whatever method you choose, your hook must compel the reader to keep reading and set the tone for the piece. If you are wondering how to begin a narrative essay, a hook is the best answer.

Keys to a Good Hook

For a hook to succeed, it must be compelling, informative, relevant, and suitable. “I was 17 when I killed my first victim” is a compelling hook to begin a personal narrative. However, it is probably not relevant to most people’s life stories. On the other hand, if you started writing thriller novels at that age, it would make a compelling, informative, and relevant hook statement. Whether it would be suitable would depend on the age level of your audience.

A Great Hook Is Compelling

A great hook needs to be compelling. You want the reader to want to finish your article. So, what makes something exciting or engaging? The element of surprise is a great way to keep people reading. What do you have to say that is shocking or surprising about your narrative? If you open with that, it can keep the reader wanting to continue.

A Hook Should Inform the Reader

Your hook should also provide information. The information does not have to be directly related to your narrative. For example, many people use quotations by other people as part of their hook statement. Obviously, you will not explain how you came up with that saying. However, your narrative should explain why your chosen quote relates to your shared information.

Another way to inform the reader is by using statistics. Properly sourced statistics are always informative, making them an excellent way to start a narrative essay. However, remember that being informative is only part of a hook statement. Is the statistic surprising? If not, then it may not be compelling.

“Experts suggest that 1 in 4 women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime” is a compelling (and depressingly true) informative statement that uses statistics.

“The average woman’s shoe size in the United States is 8.5” is also an accurate statistic, but it is not compelling. There is nothing about that statement that makes the reader want to continue. However, “Since the average woman’s shoe size in the United States is 8.5, you can imagine how difficult it was to find high heels for my size 14 feet” uses that same statistic and lets the reader know that they are in for a story.

So, think about what a hook should do before you choose a statistic. If the statistic is not attention-grabbing on its own, are you contrasting it with other information that is? If not, maybe the statistic is not as great of a hook as you thought it might be.

Hooks Must Be Relevant

There are tons of fascinating and compelling facts out there. You could start your narrative with any one of them and have the reader want to continue reading the essay. However, you must ensure that your hook is relevant to your writing.

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The Hook Should Match the Audience

You want your hook to be suitable. That means you want it to be age-appropriate and aimed at the correct audience. That is an essential piece of advice to keep in mind. Few subjects are not age-appropriate, as long as you correctly talk about them. However, when talking to many audiences, you want to avoid explicit language, frightening statistics, and vulgarity. That said, if you are speaking to an audience of your peers, you do not want to sugarcoat complex facts. Doing so can come across as condescending and is rarely compelling. So, match your hook to your audience. Do not be scared to be shocking; just avoid being scandalous.

Writing a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is an essay that tells a story from your own life. It can be retrospective, telling a story from your past, or prospective, describing plans. You could also write a narrative essay about a hypothetical scenario, describing what you would do or wish you had done instead of what you did. In a narrative essay, you are the narrator, relaying events about your life.

Because a narrative essay is a personal story, many people mistakenly consider it something other than academic writing. However, even though it tells a unique tale, your article must have an academic structure. That means it needs a strong introduction, a conclusion that summarizes the contents, and body paragraphs that logically and cohesively support your conclusion. Perhaps most importantly, it must have an easily identifiable thesis, which you will probably choose to locate at the end of your introductory paragraph.

The most common structure for the narrative essay is the five-paragraph essay. A five-paragraph paper has an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. It is the standard for academic writing. However, depending on your story, you may need fewer or more paragraphs to tell that story. So, you can expand or contract the format unless you are specifically asked to write a five-paragraph essay.

How Do You Start a Narrative Essay With a Hook?

Many people think that since your essay begins with the hook, you should start writing with the hook. However, that is not the case. Before you write your hook, you need to understand the structure and substance of your essay. So, it would help if you did some background work before writing the essay hook.

For a research essay or expository essay, we generally suggest starting with research. For a narrative essay, research plays a secondary role. After all, it would help if you wrote about a topic you know reasonably well. So, you may not be doing research. Even if you choose to research, such as looking up supporting statistics, it will be to fill in missing informational gaps in your essay, not build the piece around those facts. So, you are not going to start with research.

Instead, start with outlining your essay. What story are you going to tell, and how are you going to tell it? Your outline should look something like this:

I. Introduction

A. Hook

B. Support 1

C. Support 2

D. Support 3

E. Thesis Statement

II. Support 1

A. Evidence

B. Evidence

C. Evidence

III. Support 2

IV. Support 3

V. Conclusion

A. Restate Thesis

B. Restate Support 1

C. Restate Support 2

D. Restate Support 3

E. Concluding Sentence

However, the evidence in your body paragraphs will look different than it would in a narrative essay. Instead of three supporting facts to support the main idea of each body paragraph, the body paragraphs may tell a part of the story.

Writing an outline is not necessary for every writer. However, it is an invaluable tool that can help you focus your writing, decide on your purpose, ensure you are writing for your audience, and determine the main points you want to write.

Once you have written your outline, you should be ready to write your thesis. A thesis needs to tell the reader why you are writing your essay. You also want to address the main points that you will address in your body paragraphs.

After you finish your outline and your thesis, you should be ready to write your hook. Your hook will be in the first few sentences of your paragraph. You need to tailor it to your audience, ensure it is relevant, and pair well with your topic sentence.

How to Write a Narrative Essay

Writing a narrative essay is different from expository writing. While you still need to provide the same support and structure for your essay, a narrative lets you be more creative. It is also from a first-person perspective, which is unusual in academic writing.

First, you want to choose your topic. Often, you will have a specific prompt for narrative writing. For example, many college admission essay prompts ask for narrative essays. If you have a particular prompt, you want to ensure that your narrative is responsive to that prompt. Some students have some great stories and try to use them when asked to write a narrative essay. That is not going to get you the results that you want. So, make sure that you respond to the prompt.

If you get to choose your own topic, think about one that will serve your purpose. Have you ever heard that bad decisions make good stories? In many ways, that is true. However, you probably do not want to highlight your bad choices when writing an essay for college admissions or competing for a scholarship.

Next, you want to write an outline for your narrative. We already covered the outline process above. The great news is that the same outline you use to write your hook will be the skeleton for your essay outline.

Once you finish your outline, you want to begin writing the essay. Many people start with the introduction and write till the end of the paper. However, other people find writing body paragraphs easier than writing the introduction and conclusion. There is no set order for writing your essay, so do it in the way that makes the most sense to you.

Remember while writing that you need to write from the first-person perspective. This is your story. You do not want to depersonalize it by using the third person. Instead, you want to write conversationally. Imagine you are telling this story in person and then translating it into a paper. That may mean using less formal language, slang, and other things you usually avoid in academic writing.

Do not forget the proofreading. You would be surprised how many people turn in academic papers without proofreading. Your word processing program has built-in editing tools. You can also run it through Grammarly. If you struggle with writing and your professor allows it, see if you can have a friend, tutor, or writing coach read through your paper. They can suggest edits to help improve the writing quality.

What is a Good Way to Start a Narrative Essay?

You want to start your narrative essay with an impactful opening statement, also known as a hook. Next, preview the points that you will cover in the paper. Then, conclude your introductory paragraph with your thesis statement.

What Are Good Sentence Starters for Narrative Writing?

Remember that narrative writing is first-person writing. So, do not be afraid to use I and we statements.

What is a Good Hook for a Personal Narrative Essay?

Creating a good hook depends on the content of your essay. Consider some of these approaches when you want to know how to start off a narrative essay.

Start with an interesting fact or statistic.
Tell a joke.
Define a term that is important for your narrative.
Ask a question.
Use a quote.
Go against a commonly held belief.
Begin with a relatable anecdote.

Narrative Essay Example

Hooks grab your reader’s attention. We love some of these as hooks to begin an interesting narrative essay:

One thing I can say about Amber is that she was a terrible friend but a wonderful lesson.

It was hate at first site.

I heard the shot and closed my eyes, scared to see the bullet coming at me.

I stepped down off the ledge. It was another day I was too scared to jump.

I fell in love with him; then I fell in love with his wife.

I was running for my life, too scared to look back at what was chasing me.

There were fireworks and cartoon hearts above our heads, up until the moment our braces got stuck together. That was when I knew that my first love would mean a little pain.

Want more tips for writing great hooks? Check out our writing tools for writing a narrative essay today!

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Narrative Essay Guide

Narrative Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline - Tips & Examples

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jun 2, 2020

A narrative essay is a type of academic essay in which the writer narrates a story. It is the most commonly assigned form of academic writing. Students have to face the narrative essay writing task quite often, so it is essential to know how to handle it.

A narrative essay is a story, so it's important to know how to write one. The best way to start your outline is by brainstorming ideas.

Who are the characters? What do they want? How does this conflict with their goals and who wins in the end?

There are many different types of essays you can write about, but all will have some sort of conflict. Once you've figured out the basics, be creative! You could explore an event that happened in your life or tell a fictional story.

In this blog, you’ll learn to write an outline for a narrative essay with examples. Start reading!

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Narrative Essay Outline Format

The narrative essay outline follows the standard structure. Like other types of essays, this essay normally follows a typical 5 paragraph essay format. The 5 paragraph outline includes one introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one conclusion paragraph.

However, unlike other essays, the paragraphs of the narrative essay have specifically designated purposes:

1. Introduction Paragraph: Gives an insight into the story

2. First Body Paragraph: Discuss the rising action

3. Second Body Paragraph: Present the climax of the story

4. Third Body Paragraph: Provide the falling action

5. Conclusion Paragraph: Discussion of the lesson learned from the story

Paragraph Narrative Essay Outline Template

Let's look at the detailed 5 paragraph narrative essay outline for college students.

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline?

A narrative essay is all about sharing the stories. Therefore, you need to organize your story into an essay format. As a writer, you are supposed to tell a story from your personal experience and why you are sharing that specific experience. Later, you need to discuss why this story or experience is important to share.

Let's look at how to craft an outline for a narrative essay. Follow the steps in the same sequence, and at the end, you’ll get a perfect outline. The writing process will become less stressful and daunting if you follow the steps given below.

1. Write the Introduction

The introduction paragraph is meant to engage the reader with the story. The first paragraph plays the most crucial role in making an impression on the reader’s mind. It allows you to share your perspective and how it relates to you. The following elements are involved in writing a strong narrative essay introduction.

Create a Hook Statement Draw the reader in with an intriguing and attention-grabbing hook statement. Create a strong hook that makes your reader want to read further. You can use a quote, rhetorical question, or fact to create a persuasive hook statement.
Set the Scene: Give your reader an idea of what is going to happen. Do not tell the whole story; just give a glimpse into it and keep your reader intrigued. Tell the reader how the points of the story relate to you.
Define the Thesis Statement: Finally, tell your reader what your story is all about with the help of a thesis statement. Give a sneak peek of what is about to come but avoid telling the lesson you have learned from the situation yet; just give a hint.

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2. Draft the Body Paragraphs

The main body of a narrative essay is the most important part because it tells the whole story. This is where you state the facts, provide examples, give details, and guide the reader through the plot. According to the five paragraphs essay structure, it has three body paragraphs, but it can depend on the length and word count.

Below elements must be kept in mind while writing the narrative essay body paragraphs:

Write Chronologically: The timelines of a story should be presented in chronological order. Otherwise, the reader will get confused, and it becomes hard for them to understand the story. To keep your paper organized, you should present things in sequential order.
Share the Relevant and Vivid Details: As a narrative essay is all about creating a mood and scene to follow, do that creatively. Set up the story with descriptive and concise language. Provide the reader with the most important details of your story. These details may include the characters, setting, plot, and the onset of the story.
Avoid Narration Deviation: The narrative essay is usually written in the first person unless you share someone else’s story. The third-person narrative only works best when you are telling a story you heard from someone else.

3. Write a Compelling Conclusion

The conclusion paragraph is the final section of the essay where you give some final comments about the story. Summarize your essay and connect your reader back to the story. Follow these steps to write an impressive conclusion.

Restate Some Key Details: Restate the thesis statement and some key details you have shared in the body. It will help you connect your reader with your story.
Share the Lesson: Stress the lesson you have learned from the story and leave the reader with something to think about.
Call to Action: In the end, provide a call to action that convinces the reader to think more about the topic.

Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet

Use the given worksheet below to write a narrative essay with ease.

Narrative Essay Outline Example

Here are some narrative essay examples and samples for your convenience. Use these templates and learn to write a good narrative essay easily.

Narrative Essay Outline for Middle School

College Narrative Essay Outline

Personal Narrative Essay Outline Template

Descriptive Narrative Essay Outline

Literacy Narrative Essay Outline

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Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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COMMENTS

92 Essay Transition Words to Know, With Examples | Grammarly
Nov 7, 2023 · Use essay transition words and phrases to either contain two opposing topics in the same sentence or join together the opposing sentences or paragraphs that come before and after them. Essay transition words aren’t necessary for every sentence; you need them only when a shift in topic is so pronounced that it interrupts the writing flow.
How to Start a Narrative Essay: 16 Awesome Hooks - Kibin
So, let’s take a look at how to start a narrative essay. What Is a Narrative Essay? Before you can fully engage in what makes the perfect hook for your narrative essay, let’s make sure you know what a narrative essay is exactly. A narrative, quite simply, is a story. Unlike other essays in which you may need to argue or prove something, a ...
54 Best Transition Words for Paragraphs - Helpful Professor
Dec 13, 2023 · At the start of the first body paragraph; At the start of the second body paragraph; In some of the starting sections of your summary or introductory paragraphs; In an overview of your opinions/solutions in the conclusion; When adding your transition words and phrases in your essay, make sure not to accidentally form an incomplete or fragmented ...
A Complete List of 250+ Transition Words for Essays
Jan 1, 2021 · Here are some transition words for essays to start a paragraph. To open with; As an introduction; First and foremost; Starting off; At the beginning; The first point to address; As a starting consideration; Opening with; Commencing the discussion; At the forefront; Transition Words for First Body Paragraph. Consider using these transition words ...
105 Best Words To Start A Paragraph - Helpful Professor
Apr 9, 2023 · Words to Start a Conclusion Paragraph. The conclusion paragraph wraps up your essay and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. It should convincingly summarize your thesis and main points. For more tips on writing a compelling conclusion, consider the following examples of ways to say “in conclusion”: In summary, [topic] demonstrates…
Transitions - Harvard College Writing Center
Now that you have identified the relationship between those two paragraphs, you can choose the most effective transition between them. Since the second paragraph in this example challenges the ideas in the first, you might begin with something like “but,” or “however,” to signal that shift for your readers.
How to Write a Narrative Essay in 5 Steps | Grammarly
Apr 17, 2023 · Unlike most other types of essays, narrative essays have room for literary devices, such as metaphor and onomatopoeia. You can be creative in a narrative essay because you’re writing a story rather than presenting and dissecting others’ statements or work. 5 steps to writing a narrative essay Step 1: Topic choice (or prompt given)
How to Start the Second Paragraph of an Essay - TFFN
Jan 17, 2023 · When starting the second paragraph, it can also be helpful to look for common themes or threads that tie together the different points being made. Identifying these themes can help to create a stronger argument and make the essay more compelling. Ask a Thought-Provoking Question. Asking a thought-provoking question can be an effective way to ...
Hooking the Reader: How to Start a Narrative Essay - Paperdue.com
Sep 18, 2023 · Consider some of these approaches when you want to know how to start off a narrative essay. Start with an interesting fact or statistic. Tell a joke. Define a term that is important for your narrative. Ask a question. Use a quote. Go against a commonly held belief. Begin with a relatable anecdote. Narrative Essay Example
Narrative Essay Outline - Complete Structure and Examples
Jun 2, 2020 · However, unlike other essays, the paragraphs of the narrative essay have specifically designated purposes: 1. Introduction Paragraph: Gives an insight into the story. 2. First Body Paragraph: Discuss the rising action. 3. Second Body Paragraph: Present the climax of the story. 4. Third Body Paragraph: Provide the falling action. 5.