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Introduction Paragraph Examples: 20+ Eye-Catching Ways to Start an Essay
Academic Writing
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Introduction Paragraph Examples: 20+ Eye-Catching Ways to Start an Essay
In this article, you will find introduction paragraph for all types of essays and academic papers.
Written by
Catherine B.
Published on
Apr 9, 2025
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You might think a great introduction comes from using a funny joke, a shocking statistic, or a captivating story. While those can be good tools, they aren't magical on their own.
What really makes an introduction shine is surprising your reader. Think about what they probably already know or expect to hear about your topic, then give them something fresh and unexpected. That's how you hook them from the very first sentence and keep them curious.
Here at StudyPro, we'll show you exactly how to craft an intro paragraph that grabs attention and holds onto it, even in our busy world.
What Goes Into a Strong Introduction?
When you start a piece of writing, your introduction is your chance to really hook the reader. It could be just one standout sentence or a whole paragraph, but the key is to make it so interesting, relevant, or surprising that the reader can't help but keep reading.
How you do this can change quite a bit depending on what you're writing. You'll likely start with a clear, focused topic sentence if it's a formal research paper. But if you're writing a blog post, you have much more freedom to get creative and grab attention in fun ways.
So, what should you include in an introduction?
Strong introduction include:
- a hook
- topic sentence
- context sentence, and
- thesis statement that are directly linked to the overall paper structure.
It is only strong if all elements are smoothly integrated.
However, there are a few constant elements in a good opening paragraph:
- Relevance. An opening sentence must be aligned with your paper type. Statistics, facts, and broad arguments are good for argumentative essays but not so good for narrative ones.
- Hook. A good hook is not about “starting with statistics” because blog articles advise you to do so. A strong introduction starts with knowing what specific type of information will be relevant for readers in your context and content type.
- Smooth integration. Opening paragraphs for academic writing usually consist of the hook, topic sentence, context sentences, and thesis statement. You should build a coherent structure with these blocks.
It may take you about 1.5 to 2 hours to write a good introduction. The exact time depends on your experience.
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Introduction Paragraph Examples
Introductory sentences and structures widely vary depending on a paper’s type and purpose.
These are the most common types of captivating introductions to help you start any type of assignment:
- Statistic introduction
- Relatable introduction
- Rhetorical question
- Alarming fact
- Contradictory introduction
- Common problem
- The “new angle”
- An interesting question
- Storytelling introduction
- An emotional appeal
When you're putting together an introduction, there are four main ingredients to keep in mind: you'll want a "hook" to grab attention, a clear topic sentence, a sentence to give some background or context, and finally, your thesis statement.
We'll show you examples of intro paragraphs that include all four parts. Plus, you'll see some examples of what makes an opening sentence truly stand out, and what makes one fall flat.
Statistical Introduction
Using statistics in your introduction can be incredibly effective, especially for essays that analyze, explain, argue, or discuss cause and effect. They add a layer of credibility and immediate impact.
When using statistics, remember to make them relevant and meaningful to your main point.
Example 1: Analytical Essay
Here, the statistics immediately highlight a significant societal shift.
“In 1960, 60 women out of 100 and 41 men out of 100 were married before they turned 25. Today, it’s 4 women out of 100, and 2 men out of 100 [HOOK]. The trend clearly shows that marriage and family institutions are globally changing [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Such shifts are the consequences of changing relationship models and unstable economic factors [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. The most prominent result of the changes, though, is the social perception of the marriage institution in general [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak statistical intro? Using irrelevant or random data.
Weak Example: "80% of professionals consider networking important. Therefore, public speaking must be a top skill to learn when studying for business." (The connection between networking importance and public speaking being the top skill isn't precise or direct enough.)
What makes a strong statistical intro? When the statistic directly supports your argument.
Strong Example: "80% of professionals consider networking important. This highlights that actively investing in new contacts is a crucial step for breaking into professional circles." (Here, the statistic backs the idea that networking is vital for career advancement.)
Example 2: Cause-and-Effect Essay
This type of introduction seamlessly connects a statistic to its potential impacts.
“Approximately 80% of college students procrastinate, according to the National Institute of Health [HOOK]. As procrastination tends to take up to 100% of the time otherwise unfilled, the volume of procrastination’s impact on students’ performance seems serious [TOPIC SENTENCE]. This issue is compounded by increasing academic pressures and distractions [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. These consequences of procrastination affect students' academic success, mental well-being, and future career opportunities [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak statistical intro? Including vague or unsourced data.
Weak Example: "Some sources say that about half the Earth's population believe in hustle culture." (This is too vague and lacks a specific source, making it untrustworthy.)
What makes a strong statistical intro? Using precise data and citing your source.
Strong Example: "According to a study by FlexJobs and Mental Health America, 75% of respondents reported working longer hours." (This Example uses specific numbers and clear references to where the information came from, making it credible.)
Here is one more strong introduction paragraph by BBC News, using a good statistical hook:
The Rhetorical Question Introduction
Starting your essay with a rhetorical question can be a powerful way to engage your reader, especially in rhetorical analysis essays. These questions are perfect for essays where you're examining an argument's strengths and weaknesses, or diving into an author's writing style and techniques.
Rhetorical analysis often involves reflecting on classic literature, philosophy, or other works to evaluate their core claims. Below, you'll find great examples of using a rhetorical question to introduce an analysis of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
1. Rhetorical introduction example: Start with a rhetorical question connected to modernity
“As the 21st century gradually turns the world's orders upside down, can we say anything new about what madness is, while retracing Hamlet's plot? [HOOK]” This comparison of classics and modernity is particularly compelling [TOPIC SENTENCE]. In an era marked by political instability and global uncertainty, the themes of madness, deception, and existential crisis in Hamlet resonate more than ever [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. In this essay, we explore the re-evaluation of the madness, truth, and deception of the classic play in modern reality [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak rhetorical intro? Using a cliché or overly simplistic question.
Weak Example: "Is Hamlet just another story about a prince?" (This question is too basic and doesn't invite deeper thought.)
What makes a strong rhetorical intro? When the question connects to broader societal relevance.
Strong Example: "Is Shakespeare's play Hamlet still relevant when we can no longer relate to princes, medieval settings, and outdated societal rules?" (This question challenges assumptions and encourages a modern perspective.)
2. Rhetorical introduction example: Start by referring to interpersonal experiences
“In a world full of deception and betrayal, who is truly mad—the one who questions it all, or the ones who pretend everything is fine? [HOOK] Both options are questionable but universally appealing to humanity since the play was written [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Hamlet still speaks to the readers to this day because he questions our true nature [CONTEXT SENTENSE]. In this essay, we argue that the topic of ‘true self and performance’ is what makes the play still relevant [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak rhetorical intro? Assuming shared experiences without developing them.
Weak Example: "Everyone has felt deceived and betrayed in their lives, and everyone knows how excruciating such experiences are." (This makes broad assumptions and doesn't offer a nuanced perspective.)
What makes a strong rhetorical intro? It highlights the complexity of personal experiences.
Strong Example: "The dilemma of feeling betrayed can be complex: a person might experience excruciating pain while still harboring soft emotions toward the abuser." (This Example delves into the intricate layers of human emotion, setting up a more sophisticated discussion.)
The Alarming Introduction
An alarming introduction is designed to immediately capture your reader's attention by presenting an unexpected fact, a bold statement, or something with strong emotional impact. This type of opening is particularly effective for persuasive essays or those focusing on a specific problem.
Here's how to choose data that's truly impactful and relevant for your introductions, using the topic of student burnout as an example:
1. Persuasive introduction example: Show a vast volume of the problem
“According to a 2023 survey, half of university students reported symptoms of anxiety or depression—but most still feel pressure to “just push through [HOOK]. This alarming statistic highlights the growing mental health crisis among students [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Despite the increasing awareness of mental health issues, many students continue to prioritize productivity over self-care [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Addressing this issue requires a shift in academic expectations and a re-evaluation of societal attitudes towards mental health [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak alarming intro? Using vague or nonspecific language.
Weak Example: "Burnout is a big problem in today's society." (This is too general and doesn't convey the severity or specificity needed.)
What makes a strong alarming intro? Offering precise and impactful insight.
Strong Example: "Burnout isn't just about feeling tired; it actively threatens students' lives by affecting their personal well-being, academic success, relationships, and even their core sense of self-worth." (This goes beyond a simple statement, outlining the critical, far-reaching consequences.)
2. Problem-focused essay introduction example: Start with an emotionally intense truth
“Burnout symptoms do not manifest so clearly as a cold or a skin rash [HOOK]. Yet, being subjected to them for a long time usually leads the person to clinical depression and higher suicidal tendencies [TOPIC SENTENCE]. The hidden burnout symptoms can mimic the signs of typical seasonal reactions to the weather or mood swings [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. However, the danger of burnout consists of both its unclear manifestations and severity of its consequences [THESIS STATEMENT]. ”
What makes a weak alarming intro? Lacking emotional punch or being too understated.
Weak Example: "Students sometimes feel overwhelmed with tasks and deadlines." (This is an understatement and doesn't convey urgency or severity.)
What makes a strong alarming intro? Pointing to emotionally charged, often hidden, consequences.
Strong Example: "What feels like 'just stress' now for an average student could spiral into a full emotional shutdown within a semester." (This uses vivid language and points to a drastic, imminent consequence, creating an alarming tone.)
The Contradictory Introduction
A contradictory introduction is particularly effective for argumentative and critical essays. It works by presenting a tension or opposing viewpoints right at the start, which your essay will then explore, critique, and ultimately try to resolve or find common ground for. This technique is excellent for immediately grabbing your reader's attention.
This technique grabs attention by setting up a tension you’ll explore or resolve in your essay.
1. Argumentative essay introduction example: Start with highlighting the common misconception
“The commonly accepted order of doing things in life is to graduate school, college, get a job, and start a family [HOOK]. Although the gap year is a rapid interruption in this scheme, the extra exploration time holds many benefits [TOPIC SENTENCE]. It is a good opportunity for students to grow, learn, and discover their future goals [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Therefore, a gap year is not a sign of failure but a detour that may benefit one’s success in life [THESIS STATEMENT]. ”
What makes a weak contradictory intro? Simply stating a popular idea without truly questioning it.
Weak Example: "Taking a gap year might not be ideal, but the concept is becoming more common." (This merely observes a trend without offering a strong counter-perspective.)
What makes a strong contradictory intro? Surprising the reader with a bold, opposing viewpoint.
Strong Example: "Despite common misconceptions, taking a gap year may actually be the first true leap forward in one's career. The real difference lies in the student's priorities and ambitions for education." (This directly challenges the misconception and hints at a deeper, more nuanced argument.)
2. Critical essay introduction example: Argue or rephrase the author’s point
“Man is the only creature that consumes without producing. - says George Orwell in his “Animal Farm” [HOOK]. However, the actual dilemma may sound like this: man is the only creature able to produce on his own whim and judgement, yet he still chooses to consume. [TOPIC SENTENCE]. This consuming behavior is deeply rooted in modern capitalistic culture [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. In this essay, we argue that humankind can find the balance between producing and consuming [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak contradictory intro? Just repeating an author's quote without truly engaging with it critically.
Weak Example: "Orwell was right that humans consume without producing." (This simply agrees without offering any critical analysis or deeper insight.)
What makes a strong contradictory intro? Flipping the quote or idea to expose a deeper contradiction or question.
Strong Example: "If human society possesses a unique ability for purposeful creation, unlike any other species, why do we still fall short of Orwell's observation that man consumes without producing?" (This powerfully re-frames the quote as a question, inviting a deeper critical examination of human behavior.)
The Common Problem Introduction
The common problem introduction is a fantastic way to instantly connect with your readers because it highlights an issue almost everyone recognizes. This approach works well for various essays, including argumentative, cause-and-effect, analytical, personal, and informative pieces.
1. Informative essay introduction example: Refer to the hot discussion topic
“Humanity has never had access to such large information quantities in history - and yet, it has never been so distracted as to fail to use it properly [HOOK]. The issue of content quality and quantity is one of the defining characteristics of our time [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Every internet user daily feels the ongoing pace with data, especially after the AI launch [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Hence, there is an urgent need for fresh approaches to the large data amounts and human analytical capacities [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak common problem intro? Mentioning an issue without clear direction or insight.
Weak Example: "There's too much information nowadays, and people don't know how to deal with it." (This is too generic and doesn't offer a specific angle.)
What makes a strong common problem intro? Framing the issue with impact and relevance.
Strong Example: "The overwhelming flood of information is leading to 'post-truth' societal ideologies, where everything can be fake and nothing is known for sure." (This connects the common problem to a significant societal consequence, making it more impactful.)
2. Personal essay introduction example: Refer to some eternal unsolvable problems
“Trying to balance school, work, and a social life feels like a puzzle with one missing piece [HOOK]. No matter how you shift the pieces, something always gives [TOPIC SENTENCE]. I have always felt that the day has too few hours to possibly fit life in it [context sentence]. However, with time, I learned the tactics of shifting the pieces without giving anything away [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak common problem intro? Stating a vague complaint.
Weak Example: "Student life is complicated, busy, and overloaded." (This is true but lacks specificity and emotional depth.)
What makes a strong common problem intro? Capturing a relatable and specific everyday dilemma.
Strong Example: "The common student experience involves spending about 12 hours a day on studies, catching up on just 6 hours of sleep, and allocating the remaining 6 hours to managing daily chores." (This provides details that vividly illustrate the problem, making it highly relatable.)
Relatable Introduction
A relatable introduction is perfect for essays where you want to connect with your reader personally, such as narrative, descriptive, and reflective essays. These introductions touch on universal experiences or emotions that most people can understand.
1. Reflective essay introduction example: Refer to common emotional experiences
“We all have felt like the odd one out at some point in our lives. I surely did [HOOK]. That is exactly what makes Wednesday Addams so easy to connect with. [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Her unique blend of wit, rebellion, and introspection speaks to anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit into societal norms [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Therefore, Wednesday's character is a good role model for the modern generation as she represents wit, self-improvement, and appealing, rebellious character [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak relatable intro? Being too general or cliché.
Weak Example: "Everyone feels excluded sometimes, and that's why Wednesday is a relatable character." (This is too simplistic and doesn't offer any depth.)
What makes a strong relatable intro? Capturing a particularly vivid and insightful experience.
Strong Example: "Feeling excluded from the group feels both like a personal threat and a direct assault on our human nervous system." (This goes beyond a simple statement, describing the profound impact of exclusion.)
2. Narrative essay introduction example: Refer to shared human struggles
“Finding a character who’s unapologetically themselves can be rare, but Wednesday Addams brings that to the screen with style [HOOK]. Being our true most authentic self is a motto of the recent decades [TOPIC SENTENCE]. Yet, acting on it may be complicated by distractions, pressing peer opinions, and real-life expectations [context sentence]. For these reasons, Wednesday Adams is a good representation of the whole GEN Z shared reality [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak relatable intro? Stating general, non-touching facts.
Weak Example: "Social exclusion is a phenomenon of an individual being not accepted by peers." (This is a dry, academic definition that lacks emotional connection.)
What makes a strong relatable intro? Connecting directly to the reader's own experiences and emotions.
Strong Example: "Social exclusion hurts the natural human need to be seen, loved, and accepted for who you truly are." (This directly addresses the emotional pain and fundamental human need, making it highly relatable.)
Here is also a good, relatable introduction example from public Medium blogs, where the author refers to the preferences in movies many people share and experiences of growing up in the 90s:
The “New Angle” Introduction
The "new angle" introduction offers a fresh perspective or an unexpected twist on a topic most people already know well. This makes it so captivating: it mixes the familiar with the promise of something more intriguing.
It works great for personal essays, opinion pieces, or persuasive writing.
1. Persuasive essay introduction example: Challenge a known stereotype
“Introverts are the type of people who struggle to collaborate with others, prefer solitude to socialization, and cannot do small talk [HOOK]. That is a common misconception that does not actually exist [TOPIC SENTENCE]. While society often praises extroversion as the ideal, introverts bring unique strengths to teamwork and creativity [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. By shifting our understanding of introversion, society can unlock a much more diverse and welcoming world structure [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak "new angle" intro? Simply repeating common knowledge without offering fresh insight.
Weak Example: "Introverts are quiet and usually don't enjoy social settings." (This is just a restatement of the stereotype, not a challenge.)
What makes a strong "new angle" intro? Reversing the stereotype to present a surprising new perspective.
Strong Example: "Thriving in a group setting can take many forms. While active and bold behavior is effective for self-presentation and making an immediate impression, composed, insightful comments are often the best way to create truly meaningful connections." (This offers a nuanced, counter-intuitive view of success in group settings.)
2. Opinion essay introduction example: Start with a new findings on a topic
“For the whole history of humanity, a species going extinct meant an irreparable loss [HOOK]. However, the scientists have just returned the dire wolves that died out about 12,500 years ago to life [TOPIC SENTENCE]. The potential consequences may impact current floral and fauna ecosystems [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Therefore, returning an extinct species to life is both a great scientific advancement and an ethical and ecological threat [THESIS STATEMENT]. ”
What makes a weak "new angle" intro? Stating a general fact that doesn't surprise or hook the reader.
Weak Example: "Extinct animals have always been a part of our planet's history." (This statement is factual but offers no fresh perspective or intrigue.)
What makes a strong "new angle" intro? Highlighting the novelty and its potential impact.
Strong Example: "The ability to recover genetic material of an extinct species, as already done with dire wolves, represents a crucial breakthrough for our understanding of survival and our place in the natural world." (This emphasizes the groundbreaking nature of the discovery and its far-reaching implications.)
The Question Introduction
A question introduction immediately draws the reader in by directly engaging them with a thought-provoking question. This approach is highly effective for essays that involve reflection, rhetorical analysis, or personal narratives.
1. Analysis essay introduction example: Start with a universal unresolved question
“Physics proves that space-time is one unified concept rather than two different dimensional properties. What does it tell us about human perception of both? [HOOK]” The concept of space-time may mean that human perception of both parts is closely linked [TOPIC SENTENCE]. In physics, the term means that time is not just a linear progression but something intricately tied to the very fabric of space [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. In this research, we are comparing the physical and psychological findings on time and human perception [THESIS STATEMENT].
What makes a weak question intro? Asking a vague rhetorical question without offering a clear direction.
Weak Example: "What is time, really?" (This is too broad and doesn't set up a specific analysis.)
What makes a strong question intro? Asking a specific and layered question that invites deeper thought.
Strong Example: "If time and space are truly one, does this mean our memories of past events somehow interfere with the places they occurred? How might this concept affect human memory and experiences?" (This expands on the initial idea, making it more detailed and thought-provoking.)
2. Narrative essay introduction example: Start with a deep reflective question
“Is it possible to measure productivity based on human effort invested in an affair?[HOOK] Measuring productivity by the produced result fails to recognize gaps that are natural to human nature, the gaps of our individualistic differences [TOPIC SENTENCE]. This shift in how we view productivity challenges the traditional metrics of the hustle culture [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. By recognizing these nuances, we can create a more balanced and empathetic understanding of what it means to be productive [THESIS STATEMENT].” ”
What makes a weak question intro? Posing a cliché or overused question.
Weak Example: "What does productivity mean to us?" (This is too common and doesn't spark unique thought.)
What makes a strong question intro? Framing a personal yet thought-provoking dilemma.
Strong Example: "Can we truly call it unproductive if someone gave their absolute all, but the final result still fell short?" (This question delves into a specific, emotionally resonant scenario, inviting reflection.)
The Storytelling Introduction
A storytelling introduction is a fantastic way to draw readers into your essay, making them feel personally invested in your words. This style works particularly well for descriptive, narrative, reflective, and discussion essays, as human experiences are always captivating.
Eye-catching stories make the reader invested in the experience of another human being, which is always captivating.
1. Narrative essay introduction example: Share a real moment from life
“When I was five years old, I was playing with a puppy but stumbled upon a rock and got a scar across my cheek. [HOOK] That’s how I learned my first lesson about little events that leave visible marks on us, both sad and sweet, from the perspective of time [TOPIC SENTENCE]. The scar from the incident reminds me of the fun of being a careless child [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. As an adult now, I reevaluate this experience and learn both how to be a child again and how to deal with consequences of being childish [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak storytelling intro? Sharing a story that feels irrelevant to your main point.
Weak Example: "Having experienced life-threatening situations at an early age taught me the value of life. In this essay, I will analyze the value of personal relations in Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet.'" (The personal story is interesting, but doesn't connect to the essay's stated topic.)
What makes a strong storytelling intro? Sharing a purposeful story that leads into your main argument.
Strong Example: "Preparing for exams in high school was a life-changing experience. Now, as I prepare to graduate college, those lessons from four years ago are more relevant than ever." (This Example bridges two personal experiences, setting up a reflective essay.)
2. Descriptive essay introduction example: Create cinematic imagery
“Between the dusty piles of ancient memories of Greece, Sparta, and Egypt, I had a conversation that changed my life [HOOK]. I met a librarian, an old woman who told me about the life of books and the people who read them, and what connects the two [TOPIC SENTENCE]. It was a conversation about people who touch the stories of our lives long after we are gone [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. In this conversation, I understood that writing a good story implies timelessness, empathy, and openness [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak descriptive intro? Lacking specific details when presenting imagery.
Weak Example: "The beauty of Japanese culture lies in paying attention to details, like the fall of the leaf in the autumn." (This is too generic and doesn't create a vivid image.)
What makes a strong descriptive intro? The cinematic imagery sets the stage for a meaningful reflection.
Strong Example: "The golden leaf, trembling in the crisp autumn air, is a perfect example of what makes Japanese culture so delicately beautiful. It captures motion, feelings, and the fleeting moments of life." (This provides specific, sensory details that evoke emotion and directly connect to the larger theme.)
An Emotional Appeal Introduction
An emotional appeal introduction is fantastic for personal stories, reflective essays, or persuasive writing. Emotions are incredibly effective at catching attention because they're universal – no matter who your audience is, they can connect with feelings.
1. Persuasive essay introduction example: Evoke empathy
“Homelessness is not a personal problem until it is your grandparents or siblings affected by harsh life situations [HOOK]. The problem of homelessness is as much a social problem as it is a personal one [TOPIC SENTENCE]. It’s not just about individuals falling through the cracks; it’s a system-wide failure that reflects deeper societal issues [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. By addressing the root causes of homelessness, each one of us ensures our own safety [THESIS STATEMENT]. ”
What makes a weak emotional appeal intro? Simply stating the problem in a dry way.
Weak Example: "Many people suffer from depression, and it's a serious issue we must address." (This is factual but lacks emotional resonance.)
What makes a strong emotional appeal intro? Presenting the raw, firsthand experience of dealing with the problem.
Strong Example: "Waking up every morning feeling as though the weight of the world is pressing down on your chest is a daily reality for those living with depression." (This vividly describes the internal experience, creating immediate empathy.)
2. Reflective essay introduction example: Refer to universal human feelings
“The feeling of bubbling excitement and a pleasant adrenalin rush is a universal experience lacking in modern digital culture [HOOK]. The entertainment is one only scroll away, always at your disposal, yet never satisfactory enough [TOPIC SENTENCE]. The constant content stream keeps us stimulated but not fulfilled, leaving little room for genuine anticipation or joy [CONTEXT SENTENCE]. Therefore, there is an alarming need to address the dopamine addiction that brings no actual joy [THESIS STATEMENT].”
What makes a weak emotional appeal intro? Referring to an uncommon or poorly articulated experience.
Weak Example: "Many people experience excitement and adrenaline, but it's hard to capture that in today's world." (This feels vague and doesn't specify why it's hard or what kind of excitement.)
What makes a strong emotional appeal intro? Capturing a distinct, universally shared experience or emotion.
Strong Example: "In a world where instant access to entertainment is at our fingertips, we've lost the thrill of anticipation—the kind that once made the arrival of a new movie or album feel like a true event." (This Example beautifully articulates a specific, shared feeling of nostalgia and loss in the digital age.)
How to Write a Good Introduction Paragraph and What to Avoid (Practical Tips)
A strong introduction really sets the stage for your whole essay. Right from the start, it needs to show off your writing style, lay out your main argument, and provide any necessary background information.
Think of it this way: a good introduction often captures the main ideas of your body paragraphs slightly differently. You can use this connection in a couple of directions:
- Take the main points from your body paragraphs and use them to help you craft your introduction.
- Or, if you already have a solid introduction, use it as a guide to help you outline the rest of your essay.
To pull everything together, we've compiled a handy table below that summarizes all the dos and don'ts for writing introductions that truly hit the mark.
Introduction type | Do’s | Dont’s |
|---|---|---|
Statistical introduction | ✅ Precisely supports the thesis statement with data, provide context | ❌ Include random loosely-collected data |
Relatable introduction | ✅ Refer to common emotional experiences or struggles | ❌ Use too general, cliché, and non-touching ideas with no specific focus |
Rhetorical introduction | ✅ Connect to the broad societal relevance and highlight the details | ❌ Assume experiences without detailing |
Alarming introduction | ✅ Offer a precise, emotionally-charged insight for the reader | ❌ Use vague language and claims with no clear conclusion |
Contradictory introduction | ✅ Flip or expose deep contradictions, question common ideas | ❌ Follow the accepted ideas without questioning them |
The common problem introduction | ✅ Explain the hot discussion topic, frames the issue with impact and relevance | ❌ Mention the issue without clear direction or insight |
The new angle introduction | ✅ Reverse the stereotypes to a new perspective | ❌ Make obvious comparisons that lacks originality |
Question Introduction | ✅ Focus on a specific and layered question | ❌ Ask a vague rhetoric question without following through |
Storytelling introduction | ✅ Share a story purposeful, keeping the core argument in mind, with vivid imagery details | ❌ Share a story irrelevant to the thesis statement, lacking vivid details |
An emotional appeal introduction | ✅ Catch a distinct shared experience | ❌ Refer to uncommon experiences |
Sum Up
- To hold the reader's attention, your introductory paragraph must be catchy, informative, and bring some novelty to the reader’s expectations.
- The hook sentence in your first paragraph should align well with the main point of your work.
- Startling statistics, thought-provoking questions, and flipping someone’s argument are all good beginning methods for an academic essay. However, you should carefully pick the right type for your paper.
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Frequently asked questions
To write a good introduction paragraph, make sure you understand what would catch the reader’s attention and align your intro with a good thesis statement. Avoid using broad statements for an introduction, and keep it aligned to your central argument.
A good starter for an introductory paragraph depends on the essay type. For instance, the research paper may start with statistics, and the compelling question may be an interesting beginning for an argumentative essay.
Here are some good introduction examples:
- Start with a surprising fact
- Start with a relevant quote
- Present your main idea with a rhetorical question
- Argue key elements of the topic
- Rephrase the general statement into specific insight
- Make a first impression by emotional appeal
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