introduction hook background thesis

Gordon-Conwell Writing Center

• Understanding Writing Expectations
• Brainstorming and Writer's Block
• Outlining for Successful Writing

Writing a Strong Introduction

• Creating a Clear Thesis Statement
• Developing Body Paragraphs
• Connecting Ideas with Transitions
• Choosing the Best Sources
• Using Sources Effectively
• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Paraphrasing without Plagiarizing
• Addressing Counterarguments
• Ending with a Strong Conclusion
• Using Words Wisely
• Punctuating Correctly
• Revising, Editing, & Proofreading
• Applying Feedback
• Formatting Correctly
• Recorded Writing Workshops
• Return to GCTS Library Home Page

Just as we introduce ourselves when meeting new people for the first time, so must a writer introduce his/her topic. A writer must imagine that readers are at least somewhat unfamiliar with the topic. Furthermore, the writer should assume that readers are not necessarily interested in the topic. Therefore, it is a writer’s job to present the topic in a way that is intriguing and insightful. Failing to do so might mean that readers choose not to continue reading a text and/or that they read it without a proper understanding of what is being discussed.

Summarized Explanation

• Most multi-paragraph texts require an introductory paragraph. An introductory paragraph should include three main parts (hook, background information, thesis statement).

Detailed Explanation

Hypothetical Writing Prompt #1: Explain why introductory paragraphs should include a hook, background information, and thesis statement.

Color-coding key:

          Meeting someone for the first time without a proper introduction can be awkward. Likewise, a text without an introductory paragraph leaves a lot to be desired. The introduction is the first thing that readers see in a text. It should grab their attention and provide necessary context for the topic that will be discussed. It might also provide relevant research to present an overview of the topic. Additionally, an introduction must present the author's claim about the topic and the specific reasons that will be analyzed in the text. Thus, it serves some very important functions by engaging, informing, and guiding readers. To accomplish these goals, writers should begin texts with an introductory paragraph that includes an effective hook, background information, and thesis statement.

*The rest of the text would include three well-developed body paragraphs that address each key idea from the thesis statement:

• Why writers should include a hook in an introductory paragraph.
• Why writers should include background information in an introductory paragraph.
• Why writers should include a thesis statement in an introductory paragraph.

Hypothetical Writing Prompt #2: Explain whether the previous introductory paragraph is effective.

          They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This adage is true, but not everything is relative. For example, in the world of writing, texts can take many forms, and writers have a lot of creative freedom. That said, there are some basic frameworks that should be employed for most writing forms—for instance, the tried-and-true template for an introductory paragraph. The classic template for an introduction typically begins by trying to increase the audience's interest in the topic. It then usually continues by offering relevant contextual information for the topic so that readers can have a foundation on which to build. And lastly, the introduction should ideally present the writer's main argument and key ideas that will be explored. Together, these three elements form a cohesive, comprehensive introduction.   Considering this, the previous introductory paragraph is quite effective because it includes a strong hook, background information, and thesis statement.

• Why the previous introductory paragraph includes a strong hook.
• Why the previous introductory paragraph includes strong background information.
• Why the previous introductory paragraph includes a strong thesis statement.
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How to write a good thesis introduction

1. Identify your readership

2. hook the reader and grab their attention, 3. provide relevant background, 4. give the reader a sense of what the paper is about, 5. preview key points and lead into your thesis statement, frequently asked questions about writing a good thesis introduction, related articles.

Many people struggle to write a thesis introduction. Much of your research prep should be done and you should be ready to start your introduction. But often, it’s not clear what needs to be included in a thesis introduction. If you feel stuck at this point not knowing how to start, this guide can help.

Tip: If you’re really struggling to write your thesis intro, consider putting in a placeholder until you write more of the body of your thesis. Then, come back to your intro once you have a stronger sense of the overall content of your thesis.

A good introduction draws readers in while providing the setup for the entire project. There is no single way to write an introduction that will always work for every topic , but the points below can act as a guide. These points can help you write a good thesis introduction.

Before even starting with your first sentence, consider who your readers are. Most likely, your readers will be the professors who are advising you on your thesis.

You should also consider readers of your thesis who are not specialists in your field. Writing with them in your mind will help you to be as clear as possible; this will make your thesis more understandable and enjoyable overall.

Tip: Always strive to be clear, correct, concrete, and concise in your writing.

The first sentence of the thesis is crucial. Looking back at your own research, think about how other writers may have hooked you.

It is common to start with a question or quotation, but these types of hooks are often overused. The best way to start your introduction is with a sentence that is broad and interesting and that seamlessly transitions into your argument.

Once again, consider your audience and how much background information they need to understand your approach. You can start by making a list of what is interesting about your topic:

• Are there any current events or controversies associated with your topic that might be interesting for your introduction?
• What kinds of background information might be useful for a reader to understand right away?
• Are there historical anecdotes or other situations that uniquely illustrate an important aspect of your argument?

A good introduction also needs to contain enough background information to allow the reader to understand the thesis statement and arguments. The amount of background information required will depend on the topic .

There should be enough background information so you don't have to spend too much time with it in the body of the thesis, but not so much that it becomes uninteresting.

Tip: Strike a balance between background information that is too broad or too specific.

Let the reader know what the purpose of the study is. Make sure to include the following points:

• Briefly describe the motivation behind your research.
• Describe the topic and scope of your research.
• Explain the practical relevance of your research.
• Explain the scholarly consensus related to your topic: briefly explain the most important articles and how they are related to your research.

At the end of your introduction, you should lead into your thesis statement by briefly bringing up a few of your main supporting details and by previewing what will be covered in the main part of the thesis. You’ll want to highlight the overall structure of your thesis so that readers will have a sense of what they will encounter as they read.

A good introduction draws readers in while providing the setup for the entire project. There is no single way to write an introduction that will always work for every topic, but these tips will help you write a great introduction:

• Identify your readership.
• Grab the reader's attention.
• Provide relevant background.
• Preview key points and lead into the thesis statement.

A good introduction needs to contain enough background information, and let the reader know what the purpose of the study is. Make sure to include the following points:

• Briefly describe the motivation for your research.

The length of the introduction will depend on the length of the whole thesis. Usually, an introduction makes up roughly 10 per cent of the total word count.

The best way to start your introduction is with a sentence that is broad and interesting and that seamlessly transitions into your argument. Consider the audience, then think of something that would grab their attention.

In Open Access: Theses and Dissertations you can find thousands of recent works. Take a look at any of the theses or dissertations for real-life examples of introductions that were already approved.

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

10 Writing the Introductory Paragraph

The introductory and concluding paragraphs are like the top and bottom buns of a hamburger. They contain basically the same information and are critical for holding the entire piece together.

Learning Objectives

After completing the exercises in this chapter, you will be able to

• identify the three main components of an introductory paragraph
• understand how to “hook” your reader
• identify what background information needs to be included to lead to your thesis

Essay Structure

You learned in the previous chapter that a body paragraph is structured like a hamburger. You can think of your essay as one big burger!

The top bun is the introduction.

The meat and vegetables in the middle are the supporting body paragraphs (several mini-burgers).

The bottom bun is the conclusion.

“ Burger ”  by wildgica   under license CC BY-NC-ND 3.0 .

The top and bottom bun are both made of bread; they contain the same ingredients (or information) but look a little bit different. The “meat” of your argument is in the supporting body paragraphs.

Structure of the Introductory Paragraph

Your introductory paragraph has three main parts:

• background information

Start your introductory paragraph with an interesting comment or question that will get your reader interested in your topic.

• a famous or interesting quotation
• an anecdote
• a startling fact or shocking statistic
• a statement of contrast
• a prediction
• a rhetorical question
• the definition of a critical concept

The hook is the very first thing your audience encounters. A good hook should be just one or two sentences. The goal of your hook is to introduce your reader to your broad topic in an interesting way and make your reader excited to read more.

Even though your hook is at the very beginning of your essay, you should actually write your hook LAST!  It will be much easier for you to write an engaging introduction to your topic after you’ve done all of your research and after you’ve written your body paragraphs and conclusion.

Watch this video for tips on how to write a captivating and relevant hook [1] :

In part two of this video series, Mister Messinger gives some additional tips about writing hooks, explains some common mistakes that beginning writers make, and warns against using rhetorical questions: rhetorical questions, while fairly easy to write, are often poorly done and not engaging.

Your introductory paragraph should also include some background information. Don’t preview the ideas that you’ll introduce in your thesis – this is not the place to introduce your supporting points. Instead of giving your argument, explain the critical facts about your topic that an average reader needs to know in order to be prepared for your argument.

Examples of background information related to the broad topic that readers might need to know:

• brief historical timeline of critical events
• laws or regulations
• definitions
• current status

The information that you need to provide depends heavily on your topic:

• If you are arguing in favour of changing drinking and driving laws, your background information might explain what the current laws are.
• If you are arguing that stem cell research should be more heavily supported by the government, you should explain what the current status of stem cell research is.
• If you are arguing that culture is learned and not inherited, you might start by defining what “culture” is.

Remember that you are writing for a general audience. Don’t assume that your reader has specialized knowledge of your topic.

Remember that you are writing for a general audience, so you shouldn’t assume that your readers have any specific knowledge of your topic or that they know any specialized terminology.  The background information that you provide should give your readers the information they need to understand the argument in your thesis.  Be sure, though, that you don’t *preview* the thesis. Do not include your argument or any information related to your body paragraphs as background information.

Watch this video for more information about how to include relevant background information [2] :

As you know, the thesis is the most important sentence in your essay. It is placed last in the introductory paragraph. The hook and the background information should lead gracefully to the thesis. The thesis concisely states the answer to your research question by stating the specific topic, implying your stance on the topic, and listing the topics of the supporting body paragraphs.

Learning Check

Consider this short introductory paragraph and answer the questions that follow:

Sample Introductory Paragraph

Let’s look at this introductory paragraph that was created by a student for her essay on why the City of Thunder Bay should change its existing laws to allow residents to raise chickens.

The writer’s hook is in blue text. The writer is trying to engage the reader on the topic by providing a surprising contrast. What other hooks could the writer have used instead?

The background information is in orange text. The writer realized that her readers wouldn’t be able to understand her point of view if they didn’t know that the law currently forbids city residents from raising chickens on their property. Is this enough background information for you to understand the thesis? What additional information could the writer have provided?

The thesis is in purple text. The thesis statement is well-written and clearly states all necessary information:

• The specific topic (the ‘chicken bylaw’ in Thunder Bay)
• The writer’s stance (the bylaw should be changed to allow raising chickens within city limits)
• The reasons for the writer’s stance (the underlined clauses in the thesis)

When the writer drafts her body paragraphs, she needs to make sure that each underlined idea is the topic of a paragraph and that those paragraphs are organized in the same order as the ideas are presented in the thesis.

• Mister Messinger. (2020, July 7). Part 1: Discover how to start essay with an A+ hook: STRONG attention grabbing examples [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvrnVHd-oyM ↵
• Mister Messinger. (2020, August 6). How to start an essay: Add background information to write a strong introduction [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bd1t2u-HbE&t=223s ↵

According to Wikipedia: A paraphrase is a restatement of the meaning of a text or passage using other words.

According to Wikipedia: Mosaic Plagiarism – Or "patch writing," is when parts of other works are copied without using quotation marks. It can also be when a student keeps the same structure and meaning of an original passage and only uses synonyms

Writing the Introductory Paragraph Copyright © by Confederation College Communications Department and Paterson Library Commons. All Rights Reserved.

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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 introduction paragraph , 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. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Examples of essay introduction 

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

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

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

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

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

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

References  

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

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Related Reads:

• What is an Argumentative Essay? How to Write It (With Examples)
• How to Paraphrase Research Papers Effectively
• How to Cite Social Media Sources in Academic Writing? 

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How to Write a Good Thesis Introduction: The Hook

How do you write a good introduction such that your readers will read the rest of your paper? You need to have a good hook. What is a hook and how is it used? This article explains this concept and provides an example.

After reading a lot of articles, essays, narrations, accounts, among other things, I would say I have had a good deal of experience to say how good introductions must be written. I say this not only in reference to writing a thesis, but for any other composition for that matter.

I encountered many tips on how to write introductions. All those tips make sense, but the bottom line of it all is that the one concerned has to develop his or her own style of writing the introduction. A common goal is such that the reader of the introduction should be able to thoroughly understand and appreciate what the researcher wants to do.

So, what really matters in writing the introduction, in this case, to be specific – the thesis introduction? I’m fond of simplifying things so I set forth the vital elements of a good introduction based on introductions I have read that catch my attention. I will start with those elements that really matter. Foremost among those that researchers must consider in writing the introduction is how to write a good “hook.”

How to Write a Good Hook

Have you ever read something that holds your attention after reading just a few lines of words? Things that push you to read on to find out what’s next?  And even read it all the way to the end?

If that’s the case, then you’re hooked! You have read an introduction that has a good “hook.” The “hook” is the writer’s way to attract your attention. It’s not an empty hook. It is something that pulls you around to follow what the author wants you to follow closely, i.e., without you consciously knowing that you were captivated by what you have just read.

Well, how do you write a good “hook?” It’s a matter of style. You can start with something that’s intriguing or an issue that is timely and appealing to people so that they would want to know more about it.

Examples are good ways to demonstrate how things work so here is an example of a “hook” just to give you an idea to help you get started. This is about a true case that occurred about a decade ago. I often use this example in my environmental science class to illustrate the link between the use of pesticides and human health.

Example of a Good Hook

Here is an example of how a good hook should be written:

The high rate of albinism among newly born babies in a mango-growing community alarmed concerned government agencies. A task force from the Department of Health was dispatched to the area to find out the reason behind the occurrence of such condition. Initial queries among the affected families revealed that all mothers who gave birth to albinos ate young mangoes while they were pregnant. Is there something wrong with the mangoes? The group explored further and tried to see if mango consumption is a good lead to undertake an investigation. They asked questions about anything related to mango production.

Several key informants noted that the abnormality started to occur since the mango farmers switched to a new pesticide formula introduced by a well-known manufacturer of consumer chemicals to their community. Is there something in the new pesticide that caused albinism among children in the recent years?

After this hook, you may then proceed and introduce what you intend to do to verify if indeed there is a link between pesticides and albinism.

Don’t you think the above account will spark your curiosity to go on and read what’s next? Well, I hope you do agree with me because the reason there was a high rate of albinism is quite interesting. What did the researchers find in the more rigorous investigation that followed the scoping or exploratory survey ?

To cut the story short, the culprit of albinism among children are the contaminated young, green mangoes which pregnant mothers crave to eat while conceiving. In our local vernacular, we call this “paglilihi sa hilaw na mangga.” As a result, mothers consume mangoes laced with pesticide, which, incidentally, has an ingredient that prevents the production of melanin. Melanin is a natural substance produced by the body that gives color to hair, skin, and the iris of the eye. It is produced by cells in the skin called melanocytes.

Now, that’s something that will make you think. If you are quite mindful of your health and consume lots of fruits and/or vegetables, you need to make sure that those are free of pesticides that can be harmful to your health. It is disturbing to know that many of the common fruits and veggies that we eat have pesticide residues in them.

Is this a good hook for writing a good introduction? Did it spark your curiosity to know more? Write your thoughts below.

© 2014 March 1 P. A. Regoniel

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How to Write Your Thesis Proposal: 4 Essential Steps

5 ways on how to generate ideas even when you are not inspired, 10 college research topics to explore, about the author, patrick regoniel.

Dr. Regoniel, a faculty member of the graduate school, served as consultant to various environmental research and development projects covering issues and concerns on climate change, coral reef resources and management, economic valuation of environmental and natural resources, mining, and waste management and pollution. He has extensive experience on applied statistics, systems modelling and analysis, an avid practitioner of LaTeX, and a multidisciplinary web developer. He leverages pioneering AI-powered content creation tools to produce unique and comprehensive articles in this website.

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2.4: Essay Introductions

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• Gabriel Winer & Elizabeth Wadell
• Berkeley City College & Laney College via ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI)

The purpose of an introduction

The introduction of an essay is like a frame for the essay, similar to the frame in figure 2.4.1. That framing helps your audience better understand the argument of your writing by preparing reader for the ideas that are to come in the body of your essay.

Not only does a good introduction capture your reader’s attention and make them want to read on, but it also gives the reader the information they need to understand what you are writing in your paper.

But just because the introduction comes at the beginning, it doesn’t have to be written first. Many writers compose their introductions last, once they are sure of the main points of their essay and have had time to construct a thought provoking beginning, and a clear, cogent thesis statement.

Parts of an introduction paragraph

The introduction consists of three parts: a hook, background information, and a thesis:

Hook: Introduce the topic and get readers interested

The purpose of a hook is to provide a general statement about your topic and to engage your reader and get your audience excited about reading your essay. You may begin with a question, offer a statistic, share an interesting fact, tell a story, provide a quotation, describe an event, pose a problem, etc.

Here are some different strategies for writing a hook and example hooks. 

• General Statement : It is hard to admit that we may be affected by other peoples' stereotypes of us.
• Proverb: According to an African proverb, "Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter."
• Quotation: "We believe the one who has power. He is the one who gets to write the story. So when you study history, you must ask yourself: Whose story am I missing? Whose voice was suppressed so that this voice could come forth?" wrote the author Yaa Gyasi in her novel Homegoing.
• Question: Did you know that what others assume about you can affect how well you perform on a test?
• Story: When I was growing up in my country, I loved giving public speeches. I would participate in speech competitions against children in other schools, and I often one. When I started school in the US, I was excited when we had the chance to give presentations. I knew that I was probably the most prepared student in the class, and that my body language, expressions, and tone of voice could draw listeners in. However, right before I gave my presentation, a classmate said to me, "Even though you are not a native English speaker, I think you can do a good job." I think she meant to be kind, but I was shocked. I went on to give my speech, but I was distracted and did poorly.

Background: Build context for your essay

The background information defines your topic and shows why your topic matters. It provides context for your thesis statement. You may introduce important sources, define key terms, share a brief history, explain the debate, etc.

Here is the background information for a summary/response essay. For this kind of essay, the background information includes a summary:

          This is just one of the findings reported by Kristy McRaney and her colleagues in “Stereotype Threat,” a chapter in the textbook The Psychology of Gender. In this chapter, McRaney and her colleagues discuss a number of studies that examine the phenomenon known as stereotype threat: a situation in which someone is stereotyped, is aware of the stereotype, and is taking part in an activity related to the stereotype (par. 1). According to research reported by McRaney et al., “being aware that others believe [the stereotype], is enough to create a stereotype threat outcome” of poorer performance (par. 5). McRaney and her colleagues also look at research exploring why stereotype threat impacts test performance, including the commonly-accepted theory by Toni Schmader that preoccupation with a stereotype threat means that the test-taker “ties up valuable cognitive resources” which “impacts the capacity that one has to draw on their memory and to attend and focus on the task before them” (par. 8). Finally, their article acknowledges and responds to criticism of the idea of stereotype threat (McRaney et al. par 9).

Thesis statement: Roadmap to your essay

Your thesis statement drives your essay. It's your controlling idea.

• What do you intend to prove in your essay?
• What is your position about the topic, and your reasons for believing it?

A thesis is generally one sentence, but it can be longer for a long essay. It should present your idea, not an announcement of what you will do (ie, "In this essay, I will give three examples of...."). In the U.S., a thesis statement usually comes at the end of an introduction paragraph. Here is a strong thesis statement:

Overall, McRaney and her colleagues make an understandable and compelling argument for the existence of stereotype threat; the information they present is engaging, seems balanced, and helped me make sense of my own experiences.

Let's put it all together

Here is an example of a complete introduction paragraph, with a hook, background, and thesis statement:

          Did you know that what others assume about you can affect how well you perform on a test? This is just one of the findings reported by Kristy McRaney and her colleagues in “Stereotype Threat,” a chapter in the textbook The Psychology of Gender. In this chapter, McRaney and her colleagues discuss a number of studies that examine the phenomenon known as stereotype threat: a situation in which someone is stereotyped, is aware of the stereotype, and is taking part in an activity related to the stereotype (par. 1). According to research reported by McRaney et al., “being aware that others believe [the stereotype], is enough to create a stereotype threat outcome” of poorer performance (par. 5). McRaney and her colleagues also look at research exploring why stereotype threat impacts test performance, including the commonly-accepted theory by Toni Schmader that preoccupation with a stereotype threat means that the test-taker “ties up valuable cognitive resources” which “impacts the capacity that one has to draw on their memory and to attend and focus on the task before them” (par. 8). Finally, their article acknowledges and responds to criticism of the idea of stereotype threat (McRaney et al. par 9). Overall, McRaney and her colleagues make an understandable and compelling argument for the existence of stereotype threat; the information they present is engaging, seems balanced, and helped me make sense of my own experiences.

Identifying the parts of an introduction

Here is another sample introduction. Can you find the hook, background, and thesis statement?

          Have you ever realized that your first impression about someone was wrong? It is common to have this experience, but it can be useful to understand more about why you thought this. Were your first impressions based on someone's race, gender, general appearance, age, etc.? Chimamanda Adichie describes a similar experience in her TED talk, “The Danger of a Single Story." When she started to write her writing was only influenced by British and American books that she used to read and she was not influenced by her everyday reality. She thought that all books are the same. Later she read books written by African writers like Chinua Achebe and Camara Laye, Adichie felt familiar with the places and characters in the stories. She understood that people like her exist in stories and that knowing only a single story is a danger and it leads to creating stereotypes. "Single stories" develop from making assumptions about others based on hearsay or the media, so the way to combat them is to increase opportunities for genuine interaction between people from different backgrounds.

Licenses and Attributions

Cc licensed content: original.

Authored by Susie Naughton, Santa Barbara City College. License: CC BY NC.

Sample introduction paragraph on stereotype threat by Clara Zimmerman, Porterville College. License: CC BY NC.

CC Licensed Content: Previously Published

The Purpose of an Introduction is adapted from the Excelsior Online Writing Lab's Introductions . License: CC BY.

Crafting Engaging Introductions: Fail-Proof Hooks and Opening Techniques [2023]

Crafting Engaging Introductions:  Making a good first impression is critical, whether meeting someone new or starting an essay. The introduction sets the tone and hooks the reader, drawing them into the piece. An effective opener piques interest and makes the audience want to keep reading.

This article will explore techniques to craft memorable introductions that capture attention. You can create an intro that successfully ushers your reader into the text using compelling hooks, thoughtful opening lines, and strategic structure. We’ll discuss examples of strong openings and explain what makes them work. You’ll learn to avoid common pitfalls and write introductions that excite people to continue reading your content.

With the right approach, your introductions can become one of the most vital parts of your work. A well-executed opener sets the stage for an engaging read, while a weak or dull lead causes readers to lose interest. We’ll cover tips to help you get your introductions right.

Hook the Reader by Crafting Engaging Introductions

The first step to an engaging intro is crafting a hook. This opening hook immediately grabs the reader’s attention and compels them to keep reading.

Some effective types of hooks include:

Ask a Question

Starting with an intriguing question hooks readers by getting them thinking. Compelling questions pique curiosity and interest. For example:

• Have you ever read an essay that made you want to crawl back into bed?
•  What makes you continue reading something from start to finish without pause?

Present a Stat or Fact

A startling fact or statistic related to your topic creates an aha moment for readers. It conveys why your case matters. For example:

• 8 out of 10 people will only read content with a strong introduction.
•  Companies with well-written about pages see 45% more web traffic.

Set the Scene

Quickly setting the scene pulls readers right into your narrative. Imagery and vivid details help paint the picture. For example:

• It was a dark and stormy night when the power went out just as I sat down to write this article introduction.
•  As I stared anxiously at the flashing cursor on my blank document, I took a deep breath and cracked my knuckles. It was time to begin.

State a Controversial Viewpoint

Presenting a controversial or contrarian perspective grabs interest by challenging assumptions. Readers want to hear more. For example:

• Unlike popular belief, crafting the perfect introduction usually hurts more than helps.
•  We’ve been taught introductions should start broad and get specific. But sometimes, diving right into the details works better.

Craft Your Opening Line

After the hook draws readers in, the opening line launches into your topic and sets the tone for the piece. Like the first sentence of a novel, your introductory sentence needs to captivate interest while introducing your focus.

Some tips for writing strong opening lines:

• Avoid filler words and get right to your point.
•  Establish your theme or central idea upfront.
•  Use vivid language and imagery.
•  Set an appropriate tone for your subject matter.
•  Keep it short, direct, and punchy.

Here are examples of engaging opening lines:

• “The truth is, introductions are a pain to write and harder than you expect.”
•  “Once upon a time, I used to craft introductions that droned on with flowery language about the essay topic.”
•  “Introductions are the bane of my existence as a writer.”

Your opening line sets the stage for the rest of your writing. Take time to craft one that draws readers in and starts your piece on the right foot.

Structure Your Engaging Introduction

The last step is to combine all the parts to form a well-organized introduction. Although the length of the opening may differ depending on the project, it usually follows a general format: The Hook.

Grab attention right away with your hook. Whether asking a question, stating a fact, or setting a scene, lead with a compelling hook that intrigues readers.

Background Information

After getting their attention, provide a brief background to frame the topic and context. Give readers just enough to understand your piece and why it matters.

Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement or main idea comes next. This 1-2 sentence mini-thesis establishes the central focus and purpose of your writing.

Transition to Body

Close your intro with a pivot into the body. Sentences like “With that in mind, let’s explore…” smoothly guide readers into the next section.

Here’s an example introduction incorporating the hook, background, thesis, and transition elements:

“Starting an essay with a dull introduction is like arriving late to a dinner party with no appetite—you just want to turn around and go home. That’s why crafting an engaging opener is essential for capturing the reader’s attention. An effective introduction piques interest, provides background, and states the central focus. This piece will explore techniques for writing introductions that make audiences eager to read your work. With compelling hooks, thoughtful opening lines, and strategic structure, you can create intros that draw readers in. Let’s dive in to learn how.”

This sample has:

• Hook: Dinner party/appetite analogy
•  Background: Explains the importance of introductions
•  Thesis: Main idea and purpose stated
•  Transition: “Let’s dive in to learn how”

Hook Ideas and Examples

Now that we’ve covered hook basics, let’s explore some specific examples of effective opener hooks:

Literary Quotes

Quoting a famous author or public figure connects with readers. Bonus points if it relates to your topic. For example:

• “It was the best of times, the worst of times…” Charles Dickens didn’t hesitate to hook readers right away in A Tale of Two Cities.
•  “In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth.” The Bible’s powerful opening line didn’t waste words hooking readers.

Personal Anecdotes

Sharing a brief personal story makes a human connection with readers. Keep it concise and relevant. For example:

• When I first started writing, introductions had to start broad. However, after losing reader interest, I learned specific openings work better.

News Headlines

Referencing a recent news event related to your topic taps into reader interest. For example:

• As Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover dominates headlines, the role of social media has never been more debated.

Dropping readers into a snippet of dialogue immerses them in your piece. For example:

• “Introductions first,” my editor always says. “You have to hook them from the start.”

Facts/Statistics

Complex numbers and statistics grab attention by highlighting significance. For example:

• College students spend an average of 3.98 hours studying daily, a 25% decrease from a decade ago.

Hypothetical Scenario

Painting a “what if” hypothetical situation makes readers think and raises exciting ideas. For example:

• What if you could only communicate in one-sentence increments? Our introductions might get straight to the point.

Opening Line Tips and Examples

We’ve gone over different types of hooks. Now let’s look at precisely crafted opening line techniques and examples:

Contrasting Ideas

Juxtapose contrasting ideas to intrigue readers. For example:

• “For an introduction, less is more. But at the same time, too little loses readers.”

Rhetorical Questions

Pose a rhetorical question that provokes thought. For example:

• “What exactly makes an introduction engaging and effective? Let’s find out.”

Vivid Imagery

Paint a visual picture with metaphor and sensory details. For example:

• “A dull introduction is like a rickety boat that sinks reader interest.”

Scene Setting

Immerse readers in a specific moment with vivid scene-setting. For example:

• “I cradled my head in my hands, staring hopelessly at the flashing cursor on an empty Word document titled ‘Introduction.'”

Open by defining a key term related to your focus. For example:

• “An introduction is more than just the opening paragraph; it consists of the first several lines that capture the reader’s attention.”

Fact/Statistic

Lead with an eye-opening fact or statistic on your topic. For example:

• “Over 60% of readers will stop reading content if the introduction doesn’t interest them.”

Rule of Three

Use the “rule of three” literary technique for impact. For example:

• “Strong introductions hook, inform, and orient.”

What Makes a Strong Engaging Introduction?

Now that we’ve covered specific techniques, let’s discuss what generally makes introductions compelling as a whole:

• Introductions should clearly state the topic focus and central thesis up front. Avoid vague, embellished language.
• Keep introductions short and skimmable for online readers. About 4-5 sentences are ideal.
• Intense intros directly address the topic at hand vs. slowly easing into it.
• Match your intro’s tone to the subject matter. Academic essays often benefit from serious takes.

Audience Awareness

• Know your target reader and craft the intro with their needs in mind.
• The opening should logically connect to the rest of the piece and transition smoothly into the body.

Common Engaging Introduction Mistakes to Avoid

On the flip side, some common mistakes weaken introductions:

Overwriting

Don’t overexplain the topic background or use complex language that loses readers. Assumptions about audience knowledge should be avoided.

Broad Generalizations

Steer clear of obvious, generic claims like “Since the dawn of time, humanity has…” Stick to specifics.

Avoid overused metaphors and similes when hooking readers, like “spreading like wildfire” or “under a microscope.”

Losing Focus

Don’t get distracted by tangents. Introductions must remain narrowly focused on the specific topic.

Flat Openers

Opening with sentences like “This essay will be about…” or “I’m going to discuss…” is boring.

With an introduction hook, thoughtful narrative opener, and strategic structure, you can create engaging introductions that draw readers into your content. Just avoid common pitfalls like overwriting and stick to best practices like brevity.

Conclusion on Crafting Engaging Introductions

The introduction is one of the most essential parts of any writing. It serves as the first impression that can capture reader curiosity or cause them to lose interest. A practical intro requires compelling hooks, well-crafted narrative openers, a reasonable background, and a strategic structure.

With the proper techniques, your introductions will grab attention and seamlessly lead into your text. Whether starting a blog post or college essay, keep these tips in mind as you craft engaging openings. Remember to begin with an intriguing hook, use vivid language, establish your thesis quickly, and structure your intro effectively. Paying careful attention to your first sentences and paragraphs can take your writing to the next level.

So next time you face down the flashing cursor of a blank page, take a deep breath and craft a killer introduction. Your readers will be hooked.

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写好Introduction的关键：Hook和Thesis Statement

原标题：写好Introduction的关键：Hook和Thesis Statement

本文meeloun论文网将详细描述essay写作中Introduction的基本组成部分，以及每个组成部分改怎么撰写，避免在ESSAY写作中出现错误。

引言（Introduction）一般是文章的第一段。

There are many ways to write an introduction. Some writers begin with a question. Other writers give background information about the topic. The kind of introduction you choose depends on how you want to present the topic and the kind of essay you decide to write.best essay writing service on www.hotessay.cn

引言（Introduction）的写法有很多中，有些作者以一个问句开始，有些作者写主题的背景信息。无论你选择哪一种引言，依赖于你想表达的主题和你决定写的作文类型。

引言一般由三个部分组成：1. 勾 2. 链接信息 3. 文章主旨

Now look at each of these parts to see what they are and how they work in the introduction.

下面为大家详细介绍引言的各个组成部分.

There are many different ways to write a hook.

• Ask a question.
• Use an interesting observation.
• Use a unique scenario to catch readers” attention.
• Begin with a famous quote.
• Use a surprising or shocking statistic.

为了达到“勾”所起的作用，引起读者的兴趣和注意力。 准确的“勾”的表达方式主要有5种：

Ask a question

How many people begin their mornings-every day-by checking their cell phones?

Use an interesting observation

European economists are not sleeping well these days.

这个观察使读者想要了解为什么经济学家不能睡个好觉了。这个勾可以引出文章的主旨，突出引起三个主要在欧洲经济衰退的原因。

Use a unique scenario

3. 使用一个特定场景吸引读者的注意力 。

Travelling at more than one hundred miles an hour, he feels as though he is not moving. He is engulfed in complete silence. For a moment, it is as if he has entered another dimension.

Begin with a famous quote

I have a dream.

许多读者看到这个“勾”一定会想到马丁路德金，以及他的战斗。但是也许这个勾只是一篇文章的开始，也许这篇文章就是写关于睡觉模型的。但是你已经被吸引了，不是吗？

Use a surprising or shocking statistic

The divorce rate in the United State is well over 50 percent.

使用这种夸张的统计，会让读者觉得不可思议，而去读剩下的文章，看数据是否真实。而这个“勾”起到吸引读者去阅读。

After the hook, the writer usually writes connecting information, which is three to five sentences that help connect the reader to the topic. These sentences can be background information about the topic or they can be examples.

在文章最开始“勾”后，将会写链接信息。链接信息一般是3-5个句子，可以帮助读者链接到主旨句。在汉语里面应该叫做“过渡句”，让读者能接受文章接下来要讲什么内容。这些链接的句子可以是背景信息，也可以是具体的例子。

例如：文章How Cinderella probably spent her day before she met the prince? 也许你会写一些例子作为链接信息。

Her daily routine was not glamorous. She did everything from sweeping the floors to cooking the meals. If someone had asked Cinderella which chores she did not particularly like, she probably would have answered,” Why, none, of course. Housework is duty!”

通过以上句子想表达的信息，读者会很清楚文章将要表达的主题---unpleasant housework chores.

主旨句一般是引言的最后一个部分，一般是一个完整的句子。通过这个主旨句，作者将告诉读者文章将要表达的中心思想是什么。一般有两种不同的方式表达文章主旨--直接表达和间接表达。

Direct Thesis Statement

1. Direct Thesis Statement. some writers want to give a specific outline of their thesis statements.

Read the following example:

The main problems facing this nation are a lack of job opportunities for citizens, government corruption, and limited university programs for poor students.

这样的主旨句叫做直接主旨，清楚明白的阐明文章想要表达的中心思想。读者将会明白，文章有三个主要的部分。第一部分讨论的是工作机会，第二部分将讨论政府腐败，最后一部分将讨论贫困学生的大学计划。

Indirect Thesis Statement

2. Indirect Thesis Statement . Other writes are not so direct. Discussing a similar topic as the previous:

There are three important problems facing the nation today that require immediate attention.

这样的主旨句叫暗旨，没有直接表明文章将要表达的主要观点，只表明文章下文将表达单个方面的因素。如果读者向知道他们国家具体面对哪些问题，那么需要读者去阅读文章下文，找到下文章支持观点的论证。这样的主旨叫做Indirect thesis. 返回搜狐，查看更多