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Introduction Paragraph Examples: 20+ Eye-Catching Ways to Start an Essay
Academic Writing
10 min read
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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A good introduction is a matter of surprise and relevance. You have already heard about using statistics, jokes, intriguing facts, or stories as introductions.
But these are only different types of information. They are not inherently catchy.
To write a good introduction, you need to know what the reader is used to reading about the topic and what they don’t know yet. That’s how you weave intrigue, suspense, and excitement into your first lines.
Learn what your readers expect and do something different.
Here, StudyPro provides all sorts of examples of how to write an introduction paragraph. THE ONE paragraph that “grabs the reader by the collar,” tells fascinating facts, and does a number of other things to hold ever-shrinking human attention span.
What to Include in an Introduction?
An introduction is an opening sentence or a paragraph that is so unique, relevant, or unexpected that it catches the reader's interest.
Different types of papers require variable types of introductions. For example, a research paper strictly requires a topic sentence for the opening line, and a blog article can start in dozens of catchy ways.
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.
So, what should you include in an introduction?
Strong introduction examples 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.
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 writing quality introduction examples, you should always account for four key elements of an opening paragraph:
- Hook
- Topic sentence
- Context sentence
- And thesis statement
Below, you will find the examples of introductory paragraphs with all four blocks, as well as examples of what strong and weak introduction sentences look like.
Statistical Introduction
Statistical introductions are good for expository, analytical, argumentative, and cause-an-effect types of essays.
1. Analytical introduction example: Highlight the statistics’ impact on reality
“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].”
Weak introduction. Uses non-relevant statistics:
“80% of professionals consider networking important. Hence, public speaking must be a top skill to learn when studying for business.”
Strong introduction. Precisely supports the thesis statement:
“80% of professionals consider networking important. Hence, investing in new contacts is a good way to get into professional circles.”
2. Cause-and-effect introduction example: Smoothly connect statistics with your topic sentence
“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].”
Weak introduction. Includes random loose data:
“Some sources say that about half the Earth’s population believe in hustle culture.”
Strong introduction. Uses precise data and references the source:
“75% of responders claimed to work longer hours, according to a study by FlexJobs and Mental Health America.”
Here is one more strong introduction paragraph by BBC News, using a good statistical hook:
The Rhetorical Question Introduction
A rhetorical question is a good introduction point for rhetorical analysis essays that analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a particular argument and the author’s rhetorical repertoire.
Rhetorical analysis questions usually reflect on literature, philosophy, or other genre works to evaluate their claims. Below are the good rhetorical introductions for Shakespeare’s play 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].”
Weak introduction. Uses cliche rhetorics:
"Is Hamlet just another story about a prince?”
Strong introduction. Connects to the broad societal relevance:
“Is Shakespeare' s play “Hamlet” still relevant when we cannot relate to princes, middle-age settings, and medieval societal rules?”
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].”
Weak introduction. Assumes experiences without detailing:
“Everyone has felt deceived and betrayed in their lives, and everyone knows how such experiences are excruciating.”
Strong introduction. Highlights the complexity of personal experiences:
“The dilemma of feeling betrayed can be complex: a person might feel the excruciating pain and still experience soft emotions towards the abuser.”
The Alarming Introduction
An alarming intro jolts the reader with an unexpected fact, bold statement, or emotional intensity. It is a great type for persuasive or problem-focused essays.
Here are a few examples of how to choose the data that is truly alarming and relevant for your introductions (examples are on the burnout topic):
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].”
Weak introduction. Uses vague language:
“Burnout is a big problem in today’s society.”
Strong introduction. Offers a precise insight:
“Burnout threatens students’ lives as it affects their personal life, academic success, personal relationships, and an integral self-worthiness.”
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]. ”
Weak introduction. Lacks an emotional charge:
“Students sometimes feel overwhelmed with tasks and deadlines.”
Strong introduction. Points to emotionally charged hidden consequences:
“What feels like ‘just stress’ now for an average student could spiral into full emotional shutdown within a semester.”
The Contradictory Introduction
The contradictory introduction is best for argumentative and critical essays, where you collect multiple opinions to critique and come to a common ground.
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]. ”
Weak introduction. States a popular idea without questioning it:
“Taking a gap year might not be ideal, but the concept is becoming more common.”
Strong introduction. Surprises the reader with an opposite take:
“Despite the common misconception, taking a gap year may be the first true leap forward in one’s career. The dividing line lies in the student’s priorities and ambitions for education.”
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].”
Weak introduction. Repeats the author's quote without critical engagement:
“Orwell was right that humans consume without producing.”
Strong introduction. Flips the quote to expose a deeper contradiction:
“If human society has a unique ability of purposeful creation unknown to other species, why do we still fall short of Orwell’s observation that man consumes without producing?”
The Common Problem Introduction
The common problem introduction points to an issue most readers will recognize, making it instantly engaging. This type suits argumentative, cause-and-effect, analytical, personal and informative essays.
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].”
Weak introduction. Mentions the issue without clear direction or insight:
“There’s too much information nowadays, and people don’t know how to deal with it.”
Strong introduction. Frames the issue with impact and relevance:
“The informational overload leads to the post-truth societal ideologies, where everything can be fake and nothing is known for sure.”
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].”
Weak introduction. States a vague complaint:
“Student life is complicated, busy, and overloaded.”
Strong introduction. Captures a relatable and specific everyday dilemma:
“The common student experience is spending about 12 hours a day on studies, catching up to 6 hours of sleep, and allocating the other 6 hours to managing daily chores.”
Relatable Introduction
Relatable introduction paragraph examples are common for narrative, descriptive, and reflective types of essays.
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].”
Weak introduction. Too general or cliché:
“Everyone feels excluded sometimes, and that’s why Wednesday is a relatable character.”
Strong introduction. Captures a particularly vivid experience:
"Feeling excluded from the collective feels both as a personal threat and an offense to a human nervous system [HOOK]. ”
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].”
Weak introduction. States a general non-touching facts:
“Social exclusion is a phenomenon of an individual being not accepted by peers”.
Strong introduction. Connects directly to the reader’s experiences:
“Social exclusion hurts the natural need of a human being to be seen, loved, and accepted as they are.”
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 provides a twist on an insight into a well-known topic. That is why it’s catchy: such introductions are a mixture of a known and a promise of more.
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].”
Weak introduction. Repeats common knowledge without offering fresh insight:
“Introverts are quiet and usually don’t enjoy social settings.”
Strong introduction. Reverses the stereotype to a new perspective:
“Thriving in a group setting may take multiple forms. The active and bold behavior is effective for self-presentation and leaving a lasting effect, while composed insightful comments are the best option for creating meaningful contacts.”
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]. ”
Weak introduction. States a general fact that doesn’t surprise or hook:
“Extinct animals have always been a part of our planet’s history.”
Strong introduction. Highlights the novelty:
“The ability to recover generic material of an extinct species, as already done with dire wolves, is a crucial breakthrough for our survival skills.”
The Question Introduction
The question introduction draws the reader in by engaging them directly with a thought-provoking question. It’s effective for reflection, rhetorical analysis, or personal narrative essays.
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].
Weak introduction. Asks a vague rhetoric question without following through:
“What is time, really?”
Strong introduction. Asks a specific and layered question:
“If time and space are one, does this mean that our memories of past events somehow interfere with the places they took place at? Does this concept affect human memory and experiences?”
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].” ”
Weak introduction. Poses a cliché or overused question:
“What does productivity mean to us?”
Strong introduction. Frames a personal yet thought-provoking dilemma:
“Can we call it unproductive if someone gave their all, but the result fell short?”
The Storytelling Introduction
The storytelling introduction fits descriptive, narrative, reflective, and discussion types of essays well.
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].”
Weak introduction. Shares a story irrelevant to the thesis statement:
“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.”
Strong introduction. Shares a story purposeful, keeping the core argument in mind:
“Preparation for exams in high school was a life-changing experience [HOOK]. The current preparation to graduate college refers me back to the lessons I learned four years ago [TOPIC SENTENCE].
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].”
Weak introduction. Lack of details when presenting the imagery:
“The beauty of Japanese culture lies in paying attention to details, like the fall of the leaf in the autumn.”
Strong introduction. The cinematic imagery sets the stage for a meaningful reflection:
“The golden leaf, trembling in the crisp autumn air, is a good example of what makes Japanese culture so delicately beautiful. It captures motion, feelings, and fleeting moments of life.”
An Emotional Appeal Introduction
The emotional appeal introduction is great for personal stories, reflective essays, or persuasive writing. Emotions are an effective attention catch because of their universality regardless of an audience.
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]. ”
Weak introduction. Simply states the problem:
"Many people suffer from depression, and it’s a serious issue we must address."
Strong introduction. Presents the experience of dealing with the problem firsthand:
“Waking up every morning, feeling as though the weight of the world is pressing down on your chest, is an actual experience for those living with depression.”
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].”
Weak introduction. Refers to uncommon experience:
“Many people experience excitement and adrenaline, but it’s hard to capture that in today’s world.”
Strong introduction. Catches a distinct shared experience:
“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 an event.”
How to Write a Good Introduction Paragraph and What to Avoid (Practical Tips)
A successful introduction paragraph sets the tone for the entire essay. Such a starting point must immediately showcase your writing style, present the main argument and the necessary background information.
A good introduction usually paraphrases the core meaning of the body paragraphs. Also, flipping the rephrasing between these blocks works both ways. You can use an AI paraphrasing tool to either:
- Paraphrase your introduction from the body paragraphs
- Or outline an essay based on the existing introduction.
So, to sum up all the examples from this article, here is a table with all do’s and dont’s for effective introductions:
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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