how to start an essay point

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 essay introduction paragraph with paperpal – step -by -step, 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. 

Unsure of how to start your essay introduction? Leverage Paperpal’s Generative AI templates to provide a base for your essay introduction. Here’s an example of an essay outline generated by Paperpal.  

Use Paperpal’s Preditive AI writing features to maintain your writing flow

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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• Writing Essays ›

How to Start an Essay: 13 Engaging Strategies

ThoughtCo / Hugo Lin

• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

There are countless ways to start an essay effectively. A solid introductory paragraph both informs and motivates. It lets readers know what your piece is about and it encourages them to keep reading.

For folks new to learning how to start an essay, here are 13 introductory strategies accompanied by examples from a wide range of professional writers.

State Your Thesis Briefly and Directly

One straightforward way to begin is to get right to the point. But avoid making your thesis a bald announcement, such as "This essay is about...". 

"It is time, at last, to speak the truth about Thanksgiving, and the truth is this. Thanksgiving is really not such a terrific holiday...." (Michael J. Arlen, "Ode to Thanksgiving." The Camera Age: Essays on Television . Penguin, 1982)

Pose a Question Related to Your Subject

A thought-provoking way to start an essay is by asking a relevant question that needs to be unpacked. Follow up the question with an answer, or an invitation for your readers to answer the question.

"What is the charm of necklaces? Why would anyone put something extra around their neck and then invest it with special significance? A necklace doesn't afford warmth in cold weather, like a scarf, or protection in combat, like chain mail; it only decorates. We might say, it borrows meaning from what it surrounds and sets off, the head with its supremely important material contents, and the face, that register of the soul. When photographers discuss the way in which a photograph reduces the reality it represents, they mention not only the passage from three dimensions to two, but also the selection of a point de vue that favors the top of the body rather than the bottom, and the front rather than the back. The face is the jewel in the crown of the body, and so we give it a setting." (Emily R. Grosholz, "On Necklaces." Prairie Schooner , Summer 2007)

State an Interesting Fact About Your Subject

Leading with a fact that draws readers in immediately can grab their attention effectively.

" The peregrine falcon was brought back from the brink of extinction by a ban on DDT, but also by a peregrine falcon mating hat invented by an ornithologist at Cornell University. If you cannot buy this, Google it. Female falcons had grown dangerously scarce. A few wistful males nevertheless maintained a sort of sexual loitering ground. The hat was imagined, constructed, and then forthrightly worn by the ornithologist as he patrolled this loitering ground, singing, Chee-up! Chee-up! and bowing like an overpolite Japanese Buddhist trying to tell somebody goodbye...." (David James Duncan, "Cherish This Ecstasy." The Sun , July 2008)

Present Your Thesis as a Recent Discovery or Revelation

"I've finally figured out the difference between neat people and sloppy people. The distinction is, as always, moral. Neat people are lazier and meaner than sloppy people." (Suzanne Britt Jordan, "Neat People vs. Sloppy People." Show and Tell . Morning Owl Press, 1983)

Briefly Describe the Primary Setting of Your Essay

"It was in Burma, a sodden morning of the rains. A sickly light, like yellow tinfoil, was slanting over the high walls into the jail yard. We were waiting outside the condemned cells, a row of sheds fronted with double bars, like small animal cages. Each cell measured about ten feet by ten and was quite bare within except for a plank bed and a pot of drinking water. In some of them brown silent men were squatting at the inner bars, with their blankets draped round them. These were the condemned men, due to be hanged within the next week or two." (George Orwell, "A Hanging," 1931)

Recount an Incident That Dramatizes Your Subject

Sharing an incident from your life or history in general is an impactful way to start an essay.

"One October afternoon three years ago while I was visiting my parents, my mother made a request I dreaded and longed to fulfill. She had just poured me a cup of Earl Grey from her Japanese iron teapot, shaped like a little pumpkin; outside, two cardinals splashed in the birdbath in the weak Connecticut sunlight. Her white hair was gathered at the nape of her neck, and her voice was low. “Please help me get Jeff’s pacemaker turned off,” she said, using my father’s first name. I nodded, and my heart knocked." (Katy Butler, "What Broke My Father's Heart." The New York Times Magazine , June 18, 2010)

Use the Narrative Strategy of Delay

The narrative strategy of delay allows you to put off identifying your subject just long enough to pique your readers' interest without frustrating them. 

"They woof. Though I have photographed them before, I have never heard them speak, for they are mostly silent birds. Lacking a syrinx, the avian equivalent of the human larynx, they are incapable of song. According to field guides the only sounds they make are grunts and hisses, though the Hawk Conservancy in the United Kingdom reports that adults may utter a croaking coo and that young black vultures, when annoyed, emit a kind of immature snarl...." (Lee Zacharias, "Buzzards." Southern Humanities Review , 2007)

Use the Historical Present Tense

An effective way to start an essay is to use historical present tense to relate an incident from the past as if it were happening now. 

"Ben and I are sitting side by side in the very back of his mother’s station wagon. We face glowing white headlights of cars following us, our sneakers pressed against the back hatch door. This is our joy—his and mine—to sit turned away from our moms and dads in this place that feels like a secret, as though they are not even in the car with us. They have just taken us out to dinner, and now we are driving home. Years from this evening, I won’t actually be sure that this boy sitting beside me is named Ben. But that doesn’t matter tonight. What I know for certain right now is that I love him, and I need to tell him this fact before we return to our separate houses, next door to each other. We are both five." (Ryan Van Meter, "First." The Gettysburg Review , Winter 2008)

Briefly Describe a Process That Leads Into Your Subject

"I like to take my time when I pronounce someone dead. The bare-minimum requirement is one minute with a stethoscope pressed to someone’s chest, listening for a sound that is not there; with my fingers bearing down on the side of someone’s neck, feeling for an absent pulse; with a flashlight beamed into someone’s fixed and dilated pupils, waiting for the constriction that will not come. If I’m in a hurry, I can do all of these in sixty seconds, but when I have the time, I like to take a minute with each task." (Jane Churchon, "The Dead Book." The Sun , February 2009)

Reveal a Secret or Make a Candid Observation

"I spy on my patients. Ought not a doctor to observe his patients by any means and from any stance, that he might the more fully assemble evidence? So I stand in doorways of hospital rooms and gaze. Oh, it is not all that furtive an act. Those in bed need only look up to discover me. But they never do." ( Richard Selzer , "The Discus Thrower." Confessions of a Knife . Simon & Schuster, 1979)

Open with a Riddle, Joke, or Humorous Quotation

A fun way to start an essay is to use a riddle , joke, or humorous quotation that reveals something about your subject. 

" Q: What did Eve say to Adam on being expelled from the Garden of Eden? A: 'I think we're in a time of transition.' The irony of this joke is not lost as we begin a new century and anxieties about social change seem rife. The implication of this message, covering the first of many periods of transition, is that change is normal; there is, in fact, no era or society in which change is not a permanent feature of the social landscape...." (Betty G. Farrell, Family: The Making of an Idea, an Institution, and a Controversy in American Culture . Westview Press, 1999)

Offer a Contrast Between Past and Present

"As a child, I was made to look out the window of a moving car and appreciate the beautiful scenery, with the result that now I don't care much for nature. I prefer parks, ones with radios going chuckawaka chuckawaka and the delicious whiff of bratwurst and cigarette smoke." (Garrison Keillor, "Walking Down The Canyon." Time , July 31, 2000)

Offer a Contrast Between Image and Reality

A compelling way to start an essay is with a contrast between a common misconception and the opposing truth. 

"They aren’t what most people think they are. Human eyes, touted as ethereal objects by poets and novelists throughout history, are nothing more than white spheres, somewhat larger than your average marble, covered by a leather-like tissue known as sclera and filled with nature’s facsimile of Jell-O. Your beloved’s eyes may pierce your heart, but in all likelihood they closely resemble the eyes of every other person on the planet. At least I hope they do, for otherwise he or she suffers from severe myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), or worse...." (John Gamel, "The Elegant Eye." Alaska Quarterly Review , 2009)

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Writing Guides  /  How to Start an Essay: Tips for Writing a Strong Introduction

How to Start an Essay: Tips for Writing a Strong Introduction

Introduction

The first place you lose a reader is right at the very start. Not the middle. Not the second paragraph. The very first line.

It’s the first impression that matters—which is why the essay hook is so big a deal. It’s the initial greeting, the smile, the posture, the body language. It tells all, reveals all. If your hook has meat on it, you’ll get the bite you desire. If it doesn’t, your essay is going to sink like a log.

Writing an essay introduction doesn’t have to be hard. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over all the ins and outs of how to start an essay. We’ll cover all the essay introduction sins you might be tempted to commit.

We’ll show you how to launch right into it with a compelling fact, quote or question.

Stick with us and you’ll be a paragon of essay-writing virtue.

The goal of this article is to help readers craft effective essay introductions.

Understanding the Essay Introduction

Definition of an essay introduction.

An essay introduction is like welcome center when you enter a new state on the expressway. You can see your location on the map, get an idea of all the neat things to do and see, get some refreshment, and head out. In an essay, the introduction sets the course, establishes the tone, pulls the reader in, and conveys the main idea or point.

Importance of a Good Introduction

Obviously, introductions matter. If you show up at a party and no one is there to receive you or introduce you to others, you might spend an uncomfortable evening sitting alone. A good essay introduction brings two minds together—yours (the writer) and theirs (the reader). It shows the reader that you have thoughtfully considered him as a guest in the house of your mind, and are prepared to deliver a reasonable greeting, show him around, get him seated, and make him comfortable. It shows you know how to make what you have to say appear relevant to your audience.

Overview of What a Strong Introduction Should Achieve

A strong introduction should create in the reader a desire to read on. The intro is like the “hors d’oeuvres”—which is French for “outside the main work”—which is to say: the intro is not the meat but rather the morsel before the main dish. It should give a sense of what’s to come and whet the appetite for more. When writing an essay introduction, the goal is to conclude with a thesis statement , which conveys the precise purpose of the essay. The whole idea of how to start an essay is found in this simple analogy of the appetizer as prelude to the main course.

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Key Elements of an Essay Introduction

The hook: different types of hooks.

The hook is the first sentence of your essay . It is usually something as simple as a quote, statistic, or question designed to pique the reader’s interest. With longer essays it could be all right to tell an anecdote as a hook.

The point is that a well-chosen hook will stir your reader’s imagination.

• Quotes: Starting with a relevant quote can add authority and context to your essay. For example, “ Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere ,” is a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. that can be used to establish a powerful moral tone for an essay on social justice.
• Anecdotes: A brief, interesting story or personal experience can draw readers in by making the topic relatable, human, humorous or dramatic.
• Statistics: Presenting a surprising or shocking statistic can instantly capture attention. For example, “ Nearly 70% of adults experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. “
• Questions: Asking a thought-provoking question encourages readers to think critically and engage with the topic. For example, “What would you do if you knew this was your last day on earth?”

Background Information: How to Provide Context and Relevance

After the hook, your reader will need some background information that puts your subject into its proper context. You might share historical background, definitions, or an overview of the current state of the topic. Basically, this section of the introduction should bridge the gap between the hook and the thesis statement which is to come.

When sharing background information, be mindful not to overwhelm your reader with too much detail. Remember: the body paragraphs are the meat—the intro is just the appetizer. You can use the body to give more background and context if needed. The introduction should be brief and focused—a few short steps from the hook to the thesis. Done!

Thesis Statement: Crafting a Clear and Concise Thesis

The thesis statement is really the distillation of the point of the essay—and therefore it has great importance in your introduction. It presents the main argument or claim of your essay, so that the reader has an idea what to expect. A strong thesis statement is clear, precise, confident, and direct. It may even preview the points that will be discussed in the essay.

For example, in an argumentative essay on healthcare, a strong thesis might be: “Healthcare today is controlled by a cartel of corporations that put profits before people because they know that if they actually healed people and prevented disease their entire industry would go out of business.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Essay Introduction

Step 1: start with a hook.

Start with a hook that makes your reader want to read on. The hook should be relevant and allow you to get from point A (“Hey, look at this!”) to point B (“Here’s what I have to say now!”). A good hook also sets the tone for the rest of the essay—so a humorous anecdote about barracks life is probably not appropriate for a serious essay on trench warfare.

Step 2: Provide Background Information

After the hook, you’ll need to give some background information. Help the reader understand the context of your essay. By letting your reader know where you are coming from, the reader can orient himself and make quicker sense of what you have to say.

Step 3: State Your Thesis Statement

Say what your point is and how you intend to show it. Simple as that.

Step 4: Preview the Main Points

Don’t go into too much detail here: just quickly—in a few words—list your reasons that support your thesis. For example, “Hamlet is a tragic hero according to Aristotle’s definition , because he is good (virtuous), realistic (flawed), and experiences a fall.”

Step 5: Revise and Refine

Once you have written your introduction, take the time to revise and refine it. This is actually the most important step. Great intros don’t happen by themselves—they take skill, effort, and practice. Look to see that it all flows smoothly and that each element (hook, background information, thesis statement, and preview) is effectively linked. Take out any extraneous information or unnecessary clichés. Keep it sweet and to point.

Examples of Essay Introductions

To help illustrate these concepts discussed, here are examples of introductions for different types of essays and topics.

Essay Types

• Argumentative Essay Example: “Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a progressive policy that proposes providing all citizens with a guaranteed income regardless of their employment status. Advocates argue that UBI can reduce poverty, boost economic security, and provide a safety net in an increasingly automated world. However, two major problems with UBI are how to fund it and how it might hinder stimulating productivity. This essay contends that implementing UBI is a misstep to addressing income inequality and adapting to the future of work, and that instead free education, training, and child care should be offered to people who need it so that they can work.”
• Expository Essay Example: “Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are becoming increasingly popular as the world seeks to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. This essay explores the various types of renewable energy, their benefits for the environment and economy, and the challenges posed in transitioning to a sustainable energy future.”
• Literary Analysis Essay Example: “In George Orwell’s ‘1984,’ the concept of totalitarianism is explored through the dystopian society of Oceania, where the government holds absolute control over every aspect of its citizens’ lives. This essay shows how Orwell uses the symbol of the omnipresent and omnipotent figure of Big Brother, and the concept of ‘Newspeak,’ to describe a regime that operates totally on lies.”

Essay Topics

Air Pollution Example: “Air pollution is cited by the World Health Organization as the main cause of death for 6.7 million people worldwide . Clearly, the consequences of air pollution are far-reaching, with smog, smoke, and toxins filling the air. This essay looks at the causes, effects, and potential solutions to the problem of air pollution.”

Drug Abuse Example: “Drug abuse is on the rise all over the world, thanks in no small part to the Sackler family and its development of opioids like Oxycontin and Fentanyl. While the courts are having their say regarding the extent to which the Sackler’s Purdue Pharma must pay for this crisis, victims of drug abuse still have to struggle to put their lives back together again. This essay explores the social factors contributing to drug abuse, its impact on families, and the strategies for prevention and treatment.”

Save Water Example: “Have you ever thought about how water is a precious resource that is essential for life, yet is often taken for granted? It may seem odd to think of it, considering that the earth is literally covered with water, but the fact is that water conservation is a serious problem in the world. This essay discusses the reasons why saving water is important, the challenges we face, and the steps that can be taken.”

Social Media Example: “Social media has democratized information and stood legacy media on its head. In that respect, it is a win for the people. On the other hand, it has totally seduced young people and become the whole center of their existence, causing depression and isolation. This essay describes the pros and cons of social media, and discusses how to balance it through moderation and self-control.”

Technology Example: “Technology has literally transformed the planet: even the Amish are using modern tools! As for the rest of us, we engage with smartphones and artificial intelligence on a daily basis, and it is changing our lives, our work, our social interactions, and our ability to think and be productive. This essay shows the benefits and drawbacks of technology, as we move through the 21 st century.”

Sports Example: “Sports! It’s the one topic that gets everyone giddy at trivia night. But more than that—it offers great opportunities for physical health, teamwork, and discipline. However, the world of sports is not without its problems, including issues related to doping and over-commercialization. This essay examines the significance of sports in society, its potential for positive change, and the dangers that surround it.”

Inflation Example: “Inflation is an economic phenomenon that affects the purchasing power of money and the overall stability of an economy. In a nutshell, goods get more expensive while wages remain the same. But what is the cause of inflation? Why does it go away and then come back? The fact is, a lot of it has to do with the central bank’s tendency to print a lot of new money in a short amount of time. This essay goes into the nitty-gritty details of the causes and consequences of inflation, and what people can do to control it.”

Healthcare Example: “Healthcare is an industry that has gotten a free pass for far too long. For all the sickness and poverty in America, you would think we didn’t have any healthcare system at all—yet our country spends more money on healthcare than anywhere else in the world. Do we have healthy people to show for it? Not at all! We have obesity off the charts, opioid epidemics, and the most expensive care ever. This essay will explain how healthcare became a corrupt member of the family of corporate cartels, and what people can do to regain their health holistically and naturally.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing an essay introduction, it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes (these are what we call the three deadly sins of writing an introduction). Avoid them if you want a successful intro.

Overloading with Information

One of the most common mistakes is overloading the introduction with too much information. While it’s important to provide context, the introduction should not be mistaken for the body (the meat) of the essay. Be concise and focused. If something needs or deserves more explanation, reserve a section of the body for that purpose (and say so). Don’t burden your reader with too much detail up front.

Starting with Clichés

Using clichés or overused phrases in your introduction is tedious as all get out. It makes you look unpolished, unprofessional, and immature. Phrases like “Since the dawn of time…” or “In today’s modern world…” are tired and trite. Don’t use them!

Being Too Vague or Too Detailed

Striking the right balance between being too vague and too detailed is a challenge—but it’s one you have to rise up to. A vague introduction lacks direction and focus. An overly detailed introduction can lack the same things, though. Shoot for a clear and precise introduction that provides enough information to gear up the reader for the topic but leaves room for further exploration in the body of the essay.

Tips for Writing an Engaging Introduction

To write an introduction that is engaging, follow these tips:

Keeping it Concise

A good introduction is concise and to the point. Just get rid of unnecessary words or phrases that add no value to your essay. There should be no room in your essay for fluff. If the sentence adds nothing, scrap it!

Using Powerful and Relevant Language

The language you use in your introduction should be powerful and relevant to your topic. Don’t be generic: be vivid and alive, and your reader will thank you for it.

Ensuring Alignment with the Rest of the Essay

Your introduction should align with the rest of your essay in terms of tone, content, and structure. It is all one: intro, body, conclusion. They should go together like bones in a body. A well-aligned introduction starts off the logical flow of ideas throughout the rest of the essay.

How Long Should an Essay Introduction Be?

The length of an essay introduction will vary depending on the length of the essay. As a general rule, the introduction should be about 10% of the total word count. For a standard five-paragraph essay, the introduction should be one paragraph long, or a third of one double-spaced page. Longer essays may benefit from a more detailed introduction.

Can You Use Questions in Your Introduction?

Yes, using questions in your introduction can be a great way to hook your reader. Questions get people to think critically. A well-placed question can inspire curiosity and guide the reader towards your way of thinking.

How Do You Revise an Introduction?

Revising an introduction involves reviewing it for clarity and consistency. Once finished with your first draft, step away for a bit, and come back with fresh eyes. Read the whole thing and note any parts that seem lacking. Revise them to address their flaws. Re-read the whole thing again to see if it flows more smoothly now. Repeat again until perfect.

How to Start an Argumentative Essay?

To start an argumentative essay, begin with a hook that relates to some controversy related to the topic you will be arguing. You can use a relevant quote or stat, or just pose a provocative question. Toss in some background information to establish context. Then, state your thesis to articulate your position on the issue and show the main arguments that you will discuss in the essay.

How to Start Off an Essay?

Introduce the topic with a fact, a stat, a question, a statement of interest, a story, or some other tidbit that might call the reader to mind. Once you have the reader’s attention, give some background info on the topic. Follow that up with your point—i.e., your thesis statement (what you intend to show in the body of your essay).

How to Start an Essay About Yourself?

Personal essays let you talk about yourself. So, since it’s an essay about you, start off with what you’re doing or thinking as it pertains to the main point of the essay. A personal reflection, a personal anecdote, a personal struggle—all of it is fair use. From there, give some background information about yourself, and then tell the main point of your essay.

How to Start a Paragraph in an Essay?

Starting a paragraph in an essay involves introducing a new idea or point that supports your thesis. Begin with a topic sentence : this will be the main idea of the paragraph. Next, give evidence or examples to support the main idea, and link it back to the thesis of your essay. Conclude with some transition words that let the reader know what to expect in the next paragraph.

Writing an essay introduction is one of the most important things to learn. Knowing the key elements of an essay introduction, avoiding common mistakes, and following a step-by-step approach, will help students succeed more easily in their academic endeavors. Keep it clear, keep it simple, and keep it on point.

With practice and attention to detail, you will soon master the art of writing essay introductions and create essays that win over readers with ease.

If you’re looking for more tips and resources on essay writing, be sure to check out our other articles and guides [insert links here]. Happy writing!

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