Barbara P.
Barbara P.

How to Write an Introduction That Will Make Your Essay Stand Out

10 min read

Published on: Jun 21, 2023

Last updated on: Jul 12, 2023

essay introduction

Do you struggle with writing a strong essay introduction that grabs your reader's attention? 

You're not alone! 

Many students find it challenging to craft an introduction that hooks the reader and provides the necessary context. Without a strong introduction, your essay may fall flat and fail to engage your audience.

But don't worry, we've got you covered!

In this blog post, we'll share techniques, and types of introductions to help you write a compelling essay introduction every time.

From crafting a hook to providing background information and establishing a clear thesis statement, we'll guide you through the process of how to write an essay.

So, let's dive in!

Purpose of an Essay Introduction

The purpose of writing an essay introduction is to:

  • Set the Tone for the Essay: The introduction of an essay should set the tone for the entire piece of writing. It should give the reader an idea of what to expect in terms of style, tone, and content.
  • Provide Necessary Background Information: The introduction should provide the reader with enough background information to understand the topic being discussed.
  • Establish the Thesis Statement: The thesis statement tells the reader what the essay will be about and what the author's main argument or point of view is.

Expert Tip

Introduction is an important part of an essay. If you want to write an outstanding essay, check out our blog about how to write an essay!

Essay Introduction Outline

There's no specific essay introduction format that is perfect for every essay. However, to give you an overview, here is a generic essay introduction paragraph template:

A: Hook: Start with an attention-grabbing statement that relates to the topic of your essay. This could be a question, anecdote, quote, or statistic.

B: Background information: Provide some context and background information that helps the reader understand the significance of the topic. This can include historical or social context, definitions of key terms, or relevant statistics.

C: Thesis statement: State the main argument or thesis of the essay in a clear and concise sentence. This should be the central idea that you will be discussing throughout the essay.

D: Preview of main points: Briefly outline the main points or arguments that you will be making in your essay. This can help your readers understand the structure of your essay and what to expect in the upcoming paragraphs.


How To Write An Essay Introduction

A strong essay introduction consists of three key components: a hook, background information, and a thesis statement. Let's take a closer look at each of these components and how they work together to create a compelling introduction.

Steps to Write Essay Introduction - TheEssayWritingService.com

Step 1: Hook to Grab the Reader's Attention

The hook is the opening sentence or sentence of your essay introduction, and its purpose is to grab the reader's attention and make them want to keep reading. 

There are many different types of hooks you can use, depending on the tone and topic of your essay. 

Here are some examples:

  • Start with a surprising fact or statistic. "Did you know that the average person spends 6 months of their life waiting in line?"
  • Use a quote from a famous person. "As Maya Angelou once said, 'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'"
  • Tell a story or anecdote. "When I was a child, my mother always told me to eat my vegetables. I never understood why until I grew up and learned about the benefits of a healthy diet."
  • Ask a thought-provoking question. "Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world without technology?"

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Step 2: Background Information to Provide Context

After you've hooked your reader, it's important to provide some background information to give them a better understanding of the topic you're discussing. 

This can include historical context, definitions of key terms, or a brief overview of the current state of research on the topic. 

Here are some examples:

  • Provide historical context. "For centuries, philosophers have debated the nature of free will and whether it truly exists."
  • Define key terms. "In this essay, we will be discussing the concept of 'digital literacy,' which refers to the ability to use technology effectively and responsibly."
  • Give an overview of the current state of research. "Recent studies have shown that mindfulness meditation can be an effective tool for reducing stress and anxiety."

Step 3: Thesis Statement to Clearly State the Main Argument

Finally, the thesis statement is the most important component of your essay introduction. Here the essay will address the main argument or points that you will be making in your essay.

 Your thesis statement should be concise, specific, and arguable. 

Here are some thesis statement examples:

  • Make a clear argument. "In this essay, I will argue that the death penalty should be abolished in all 50 states."
  • Present a solution to a problem. "This essay will explore the causes of childhood obesity and propose solutions for addressing this growing public health crisis."
  • Take a stance on a controversial issue. "While some people argue that video games are harmful to children, I believe that they can have positive effects on cognitive development and social skills."

Expert Tip

Explore more examples in our blog about thesis statement examples.

Types and Examples of Essay Introductions

Understanding the different types of introductions can help you choose the best approach for your essay and create a strong opening that captivates your readers. 

Let's take a look at different types of essay introductions.

Narrative Introduction

A narrative introduction tells a story or presents an anecdote to set the stage for your essay. 

Here's an example:

"When I was 10 years old, my family took a trip to Yellowstone National Park. I'll never forget the feeling of awe I experienced as we drove through the park and saw the majestic geysers and bubbling hot springs. That trip ignited my passion for nature and inspired me to become an environmental activist. In this essay, I will explore the importance of protecting our national parks and preserving the natural beauty of our planet."


Descriptive Introduction

A descriptive introduction uses vivid language and sensory details to paint a picture of the topic you're discussing. 

Here's an example:

"As the sun sets over the ocean, the sky transforms into a dazzling display of pink, orange, and purple hues. The sound of waves crashing against the shore fills the air, and the salty sea breeze blows through your hair. This is the scene that greets visitors to the coastal town of Cape May, New Jersey. In this essay, I will describe the charm and beauty of Cape May and explain why it's one of my favorite vacation spots."


Definition Introduction

A definition introduction defines key terms or concepts that will be discussed in the essay. 

Here's an example:

"In today's digital age, the term 'social media' is ubiquitous. But what does it really mean? Social media refers to a variety of online platforms and tools that allow users to create and share content with others. From Facebook to Instagram to Twitter, social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect with each other. In this essay, I will explore the benefits and drawbacks of social media and examine its impact on our society."


Argumentative Essay Introduction

An argumentative essay introduction presents a clear thesis statement and previews the main points of the argument that will be presented in the essay. 

Here's an example:

"The death penalty has been a topic of controversy for decades. While some argue that it serves as a deterrent to crime and provides justice for victims, others argue that it is immoral, ineffective, and disproportionately targets marginalized communities. In this essay, I will argue that the death penalty should be abolished in all 50 states. I will present evidence that supports this view, including the high costs of the death penalty, the risk of executing innocent people, and the racial bias that pervades the criminal justice system."


Heritage Day Essay Introduction

A Heritage Day essay introduction reflects on the cultural or historical significance of a particular 
day or event. 

Here's an example:

"Heritage Day is a day of celebration and reflection on the rich cultural diversity of our nation. On this day, we honor the traditions and customs of our ancestors and recognize the contributions of people from all walks of life to our shared heritage. In this essay, I will explore the history of Heritage Day and examine how it has evolved over the years to become a symbol of unity and pride for South Africans."


Covid-19 Essay Introduction

A Covid-19 essay introduction provides context and background information on the pandemic and its impact on society. 

Here's an example:

"The Covid-19 pandemic has upended our lives in ways we could never have imagined. From social distancing and mask mandates to school closures and economic uncertainty, the pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of our daily routines. In this essay, I will examine the global impact of Covid-19 and explore the challenges and opportunities it presents for our society."


Abortion Essay Introduction

An abortion essay introduction presents a clear thesis statement and previews the main points of the argument that will be presented in the essay. 

Here's an example:

"Abortion is one of the most controversial and divisive issues in our society today. While
Some argue that women have the right to make decisions about their own bodies, others argue that the fetus has a right to life that should be protected. In this essay, I will argue that access to safe and legal abortion is a fundamental right that should be protected. I will present evidence that supports this view, including the importance of reproductive autonomy, the risks of unsafe abortions, and the impact of abortion restrictions on marginalized communities."

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Tips for Writing a Strong Essay Introduction

Writing a strong essay introduction is essential to engaging your readers and setting the tone for the rest of your essay. 

Here are some tips to help you create an effective introduction:

  • Keep It Concise And To The Point

Your introduction should be brief and to the point. Introduce the topic without rambling or going off directions. Focus on presenting your main argument or thesis statement in a clear and concise manner.

  • Use Clear And Concise Language

Use simple, straightforward language to communicate your ideas. Avoid using complex or technical jargon that may confuse your readers.

  • Tailor The Introduction To The Audience

Consider your audience when writing your introduction. Use language and examples that are relevant to your readers and will resonate with them.

  • Ensure Clarity And Effectiveness

After the writing process of your introduction, revise and edit it to ensure that it is clear and effective. Make sure that your main argument or thesis statement is clear and that the introduction flows smoothly into the rest of your essay.

By following these tips, you can create a strong essay introduction that engages your readers and sets the tone for the rest of your essay.

In conclusion, a strong essay introduction is essential for engaging your readers and setting the stage for your arguments. 

By using the tips and templates provided in this blog, you can create an introduction that captures your reader's attention. From general to specific, the components of a strong essay introduction always remain the same.

If you need help with writing an academic essay or any other assignment, consider TheEssayWritingService.com. 

Our team of experienced writers can assist you with overall arguments, any type of essay and ensure that your work is of the highest quality. 

Don't hesitate to visit our website today and take advantage of our professional writing services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some words to start an essay introduction?

There are many effective ways to start an essay introduction, and the choice of words will depend on the specific topic and type of essay. 

Here are some words that can be used to start an essay introduction:

  • Imagine
  • In today's society
  • According to
  • Contrary to popular belief
  • From the dawn of time
  • Nowadays
  • Throughout history
  • It is a well-known fact that
  • Over the years
  • It is often said that
  • Many people believe that

What are good essay introduction starters?

There are several effective essay introduction starters that can help to capture the reader's attention and set the tone for the essay. Such as:

  • Posing a thought-provoking question
  • Share an interesting anecdote
  • Present a surprising fact
  • Include a relevant quote
Barbara P.

WRITTEN BY

Barbara P. (Literature)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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