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- Basics of Essay Writing
How to Start an Essay: Tips to Consider and Mistakes to Avoid
Table of contents
Believe it or not, but learning how to start an essay with a bang isn't as hard as it seems. All you need is to follow some actionable strategies described in this article. Keep reading this post and find out:
- Good ways to make your opening powerful
- Mistakes you should avoid when working on the essay's beginning
- Decent examples that can be used for reference.
But before we break down the intricacies of crafting a catchy introduction, let's make sure we understand the basics.
How to Begin an Essay: Basics
Wondering how to start off an essay ? An excellent opening paragraph is half the battle. Technically, an introduction is the most fundamental part of any academic essay. It presents a topic and makes the first impression about your writing. Make it irresistible, and your reader won't help but soak up the entire piece from cover to cover. Fail to do so, and your audience will put your essay away. The primary purpose of an introduction is to:
- Hook your reader
- Offer context on the subject
- Introduce your thesis statement
With this in mind, the first paragraph of your essay should be clear, informative, and attention-grabbing. Keep it concise — your intro part should be no more than 5-6 sentences long. Its perfect length allows you to impress the reader and prevents you from waffling.
Good Ways to Start an Essay
Now that you've gained insights about an effective introduction let's run through actionable ways to start an essay. From outlining thoughts to crafting a strong thesis, you will find smart solutions from StudyCrumb to any challenges you may face. So let's see how to create a jaw-dropping introduction.
1. Create Introduction Paragraph Outline
The writing process should start with building a logical introduction paragraph structure. There are no one-size-fits-all requirements to the outline for an essay. But you can always use an essay outline example . Depending on the type of essay, you can express your position towards the chosen topic (e.g., argumentative essay introduction). Likewise, you can also present an idea for further investigation (e.g., expository essay introduction). But most academic experts agree on the three important parts every introductory paragraph should include. These are a captivating hook, informative background, and compelling thesis statement. So, before starting your essay, outline the core ideas according to the structure shown below.
Since you are already familiar with the crucial introduction elements, let's walk through the other actionable tips.
2. Write a Hook
As mentioned before, you should write a good hook or use powerful words to start an essay. This single sentence defines how successful your piece will be. It helps grab the reader's attention and that’s exactly what you should aim. For this reason, you'll need some extra time to create a catchy hook. Students who try to amaze their professors by writing long, complex opening sentences make a huge mistake. Instead, you should opt for a succinct and straightforward hook. Your job is to arouse that thirst for reading the rest of your essay. Would you like to know how to write a hook for an essay ? Here are several hook strategies that can help make your introduction irresistible:
- Using an interesting fact. And by interesting details, we mean any shocking information representing your topic in an unusual way. Avoid overused statistics and numbers, though — there is nothing special about facts common in your subject study. Sensational details that seem unrelated at first glance will work; it's about how you connect them together.
- Telling the outcome without revealing a secret. Let's say you're sharing your personal experience. While beginning from afar is all well and good, but why not tell what comes in the end first? How did your story finish? As you do so, avoid spoilers — keep your audience intrigued without giving away a surprise.
- Provide some space for contrast. Beginning your essay with contrast between opposing opinions can help entice your reader. Don't insult your audience with intense confrontation. Instead, your essay starter should work as an encouraging trigger, making your readers reconsider common stereotypes.
Hooking the Reader: Examples
Let's look at some examples below to get an idea of how weak hooks can be fixed.
As you can see, the first sentence is a boring definition that will definitely make your reader yawn. The second example is a good essay hook since it clearly states what you will discuss.
While the first example is relatively brief, it lacks precise information. It's not clear from the first sentence what "recent trends" the writer is talking about. The latter sample is more specific.
Besides, it bridges the gap between two separate things — "pandemic" and "online education".
3. Provide Background Information
At this stage, you should figure out what background information is necessary to introduce your topic. Your main point here is to offer some context. You can use any basic information on the subject, such as:
- Historical, scientific, or geographical facts
- Brief research question overview
- Interpretation of critical points
In this section, you should walk a fine line between stating general facts and keeping your writing focused on a specific topic. Avoid unnecessary or too narrow details — you will have a chance to explore your key points in the body part. Remember that your background shouldn't exceed 2-3 sentences.
4. Introduce a Thesis
Now that you know how to give the proper context, we will shed more light on presenting a thesis statement. It should be 1-2 sentences long which is enough to state your main argument. Be direct and stay on point. A claim that you make in this introduction's part works as a base for the whole essay. Clearly express your viewpoint on the topic or state specific ideas that you will explore. Again, a bold claim (e.g., "In this essay I will tell you about…", or "This essay covers…") isn't something you want to write.
Starting an Essay: Mistakes to Avoid
Chances are you've heard that integrating a quote or asking a rhetorical question are great ways to start an essay. Those students who really believe that these techniques work in 100% of cases are mistaken, and we'll explain why. There is nothing easier than coming up with a question or copy-pasting some dictionary definitions. In fact, these are just shortcuts that fit more high-school writing. When in college or university, you probably want to approach introduction in a more sophisticated way. In addition, many students misuse these techniques creating perfect opportunities for mistakes. Let's see what can be wrong with some common strategies and how to fix these issues.
How to Start an Essay With a Quote
If you want to start an essay with a quote and not sound too ordinary, here's an expert tip: pick a unique quotation tailored to the chosen subject. If you have never done it before, look at an appropriate quote example . Using quotes in the introduction is a common practice, but the majority misuse them. Consequently, teachers end up reading lots of pieces that begin with irrelevant quotations. Avoid cliche sayings and proverbs unless you want to exhaust your readers. Find an extraordinary quote related to your thesis statement.
How to Start an Essay With a Question
Another idea to open an essay is posing a rhetorical question. This device is widely taught at school since it's an easy way to engage your readers and provide some food for thought. But don't get trapped in choosing a question with a too evident answer. In addition, such approach may be unsuitable in college-level research; it's more common in narrative essay writing. One simple rule you should remember— any question you ask in the introduction should be unusual and resonate with a thesis statement.
Can I Begin an Essay With a Definition
Some students may wonder whether it's worth starting an essay with a definition. The answer is yes and no. Don't define a term that everyone is familiar with. Teachers don't need the interpretation of apparent concepts (such as "friendship" or "education"). After all, you want your reader to take your writing seriously. It makes sense to include a brief explanation if your essay focuses on a complicated subject or exotic phenomenon.
How to Open an Essay With an Anecdote
An opening sentence for an essay starting with an anecdote, joke, or fun fact is a great way to set a friendly tone. A little fun story serves two purposes: it demonstrates your argument while engaging the reader. Such essay starters are widely used in narrative and descriptive writing . However, using this technique in academic research would be inappropriate. Begin your essay in a humorous way only when it fits the context and aligns with the main subject.
Final Thoughts
As you can see beginning an essay isn’t that complicated; it just takes some time and practice to nail it. You should get ready for testing which tactic works best. Explore what strategies do help engage your reader and apply them next time. But before submitting an essay, double-check it for grammar mistakes and make sure it's easy-to digest using our readability calculator . Believe, no tactic will work if the final piece is full of errors.
In case you don’t have much time to create an appealing introduction or just need extra assistance, entrust your assignment to our expert writers. They are always here for you to jump-start any essay and deliver the final piece that’s beyond all expectations.
Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.
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Essay Writing Guide
Writing An Essay Introduction
A Complete Essay Introduction Writing Guide With Examples
13 min read
Published on: Feb 24, 2023
Last updated on: Mar 16, 2023
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Writing an essay introduction can be a daunting task, especially if you don't know where to start.
Essay introductions are the first impression that your reader will have of your paper. So, it's important to make sure they're well written and engaging. You want to draw in your readers with an interesting opening that sets the tone for the rest of your work.
If you're having difficulty crafting your essay introduction, let MyPerfectWords.com lend a hand!
We offer expert advice on how to write an effective essay introduction that will grab your reader’s attention from the very beginning and keep them engaged throughout.
With our tips and examples, you can create an incredible essay introduction that will set the tone for a well-written, powerful paper.
Without further ado, let's begin!
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The Definition of an Essay Introduction
An essay introduction is the first part of your paper that introduces the main points and presents your stance on the topic.
It should provide a brief overview of what readers can expect from the body of your paper, as well as any relevant background information. It should also be concise and direct, as too much fluff can quickly detract from your overall argument.
Purpose of the Essay Introduction
The purpose of an essay introduction is to provide the reader with a brief overview of your paper and its main points.
It should also set the tone for the rest of the paper by summing up your argument or presenting any pertinent background information. Essay introductions should be written in such a way as to capture the reader’s attention and keep them interested in reading the rest of your paper.
How To Write An Essay Introduction
The beginning of the essay sets the tone for the reader. It is essential to write an essay introduction that picks your reader’s interest and encourages them to read further.
There is no one way of starting an essay. Some people prefer getting started with the essay and write the introduction at the end of the writing process.
Whenever you decide to write the introduction, always focus on the tone and purpose of your essay.
Here is a quick guide on how to write an introduction paragraph for an essay.
Step 1: Start With a Hook
Start your essay introduction with an interesting hook statement that should pull the readers in. This is usually the first sentence that sets the tone of your essay. Start with something interesting, clear, and concise to grab the reader’s attention.
Here are some expert suggestions on how to create a hook:
- Start with an interesting fact
- Share an anecdote
- Write about a common misconception about your essay topic
- Start with a rhetorical question
Hook Example "Did you know that more than 70% of teenagers in the United States are active social media users?" |
You can also refer to other catchy hook examples for writing a captivating start of the essay introduction.
Step 2: Background Information
Give the background of your essay topic first, and then identify the themes.
The introduction always begins with an orientation. It contains statements that show how the topic relates to bigger issues addressed in the next part of the essay.
The information you present here should be focused and must relate to the main argument of your essay. You can mention points that you will discuss in the body section. But do not give much information in this section.
Here's an example of it:
"Social media has become an integral part of our lives in the 21st century. Studies have shown that teenagers are more prone to using social media platforms than any other age group. In this essay, we will discuss the impact of social media on young people's mental health and wellbeing." |
Step 3: State the Limitations of Your Essay or Discussion
Since you cannot discuss everything that is present about the given topic, it is important that you limit your discussion. Narrow down your focus and inform the readers how and why you have chosen the given topic or subject.
Here's a demonstration of it.
"This essay will explore the effects of social media on young people's mental health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on how it affects their self-esteem." |
Step 4: Write the Thesis Statement
The last part of the introduction is the thesis statement. The thesis statement is a brief overview of the entire essay. It demonstrates the fundamental idea and approach of the writer toward the essay topic.
The thesis statement is written at the end of the introductory paragraph.
"This essay will show that the use of social media has both positive and negative effects on young people's mental health, and that parents and educators should take steps to help them manage their online presence." |
Step 5: Conclude the Essay Introduction
Finally, you must conclude your essay introduction by summarising the points mentioned in it. This should be done in such a way that readers are encouraged to read further and start exploring the rest of your paper.
Your conclusion should also include a call-to-action that encourages readers to engage in further discussion.
Here's an example of a well-crafted introduction:
"Did you know that more than 70% of teenagers in the United States are active social media users? Social media has become an integral part of our lives in the 21st century. Studies have shown that teenagers are more prone to using social media platforms than any other age group. This essay will show that the use of social media has both positive and negative effects on young people's mental health, and that parents and educators should take steps to help them manage their online presence. With this in mind, we must ensure that our youth are aware of the risks and rewards of using social media, so that they can make informed decisions about their online presence." |
The Essay Introduction Structure
An essay introduction serves as the first impression for your reader. It sets the tone for the rest of your paper and tells the reader what to expect from your work. The structure of an essay introduction should include a hook, contextual information, and a thesis statement.
A hook is used to grab readers' attention and draw them in. It can be a quote, an anecdote, or an interesting fact. The goal of the hook is to make your reader interested in reading your essay and keep them engaged until the end.
Contextual Information
Contextual information gives the reader background on the subject you are writing about. This can include facts, definitions, and historical information. By providing this information, your reader will be better equipped to understand the rest of your essay.
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Thesis Statement
Your thesis statement is the main point of your paper and should be stated clearly in one sentence. It should briefly explain what you plan to discuss in the body of your paper. A good thesis statement should be specific and narrow in focus so that the reader can easily understand your argument.
Essay Introduction Outline
Essay Introduction Sample
Essay Introduction Examples
Here are some interesting introduction examples for different types of essays for you to go through and take help from.
Argumentative Essay Introduction Example
A good argumentative essay introduction is like an opening statement of the court. It involves presenting the facts at hand and the main argumentative approach in a rational and intellectual manner.
Here is an example for you to understand how to write an argumentative essay introduction.
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Persuasive Essay Introduction Example
Writing a persuasive essay introduction is a tricky one. One of the reasons persuasive essay introductions are difficult to write is because it is difficult to persuade readers. As an author, you need to apply a subtle approach to your introduction.
Below is a perfect example of a persuasive essay introduction.
|
Compare and Contrast Essay Introduction Example
The compare and contrast essay introduction analyzes the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. They are often assigned to enhance the student’s critical abilities, analytical reasoning, and academic writing skills. A compare and contrast essay introduction is different in many ways; for instance, it introduces two elements within its first paragraph.
The following is a great introduction for a compare and contrast essay that you can refer to.
Descriptive Essay Introduction Example
Writing a descriptive essay introduction is easy when you know how to pen down your ideas. A descriptive essay provides a clear image of the topic and conveys a comprehensive understanding of the topic to the reader.
Here is an outstanding descriptive essay introduction example for your help.
|
Covid - 19 Essay Introduction Example
The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on life in many countries. But it has also shown how resilient people can be in the face of adversity. Writing an essay on this topic requires careful analysis of the current situation and its effects.
The following is a great example of an introduction to a Covid-19 Essay.
Abortion Essay Introduction Example
The abortion debate remains one of the most controversial topics in modern society.
Pro-choice and pro-life advocates have been debating this issue for decades, with no end in sight. Writing an essay on this topic requires thoughtful research and a clear understanding of both sides.
Here's an example of how to write an abortion essay introduction.
. |
Heritage Day Essay Introduction
Heritage Day is an important holiday that celebrates the multicultural heritage of South Africa.
It's a day to remember and appreciate the nation’s diverse culture, while also reflecting on our shared history. Writing an essay on this topic requires careful consideration of its history and purpose.
Here is an example of a great Heritage Essay Introduction:
Essay Introduction: Mistakes to Avoid
For a good introduction, here are some mistakes that you should avoid writing in your introductory paragraph.
- Try to avoid writing a vague introduction of irrelevant details about the topic.
- Do not provide too much information and facts in the introduction. Simply present the topic with sufficient information for the reader’s understanding.
- Avoid using informal language or slang terms in the introduction. Essay introductions should be written in formal and academic language.
- Do not make assumptions about the reader’s knowledge of the topic. Provide only basic background information to fill any gaps in understanding.
- Finally, do not introduce any new information in the introduction. The introduction should only provide an overview of what will be discussed in the essay, not dive into details.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your essay introduction is clear and concise. It will help readers easily understand the topic and follow your argument throughout the paper.
Essay Introduction Writing Tips
The following are some expert essay writing tips that you can follow for an interesting introduction.
- The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and inculcate a sense of curiosity amongst them to read the whole essay.
- Provide background information. The background gives context to your essay. But the claims, arguments, and information should always be present within the body of the essay.
- Don’t forget to provide a thesis that is the main argument of the essay.
- Always leave out irrelevant information and use appropriate language that adds precise information.
Remember, an essay introduction is very important as it is the first element of an essay outline . However, it is not an easy task to accomplish.
Watch this video to learn the steps required for crafting a compelling essay.
Lastly, keep in mind that there are many ways you can be creative with your essay introduction. Well-composed opening lines will help you grab the reader’s attention.
Hopefully, the guidelines in this blog helped you in coming up with a strategy to engage your readers from the start.
If you are struggling to make your essay introduction engaging, look no further. We are a professional online essay writing service that guarantees top-quality essays.
MyPerfectWords.com will provide the perfect "hook" for an introductory paragraph and write a compelling story from start to finish!
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Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.
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How to Write an Essay Introduction Paragraph & 4 Examples
Mar 7, 2023
Mar 7, 2023 | Blog
For write my essay or research papers, the introduction is the first paragraph of your paper.
Writing this paragraph is tricky.
It is the first thing a reader encounters; therefore, it must be exciting and engaging.
An excellent introduction paragraph for an essay not only introduces your essay but convinces a reader that it is worth their time reading it.
Just because it is the first section of your essay doesn’t mean you have to write it first.
Writing it last is a smart approach. By then, you will have a clear idea of the direction of your essay, and you will have mastered the content of your essay.
This article will provide a step-by-step guide on introduction essay writing.
We have provided some interactive introduction paragraph examples below from different types of essays so that you can see what our writers do when they write their opening paragraphs.
To better understand what a terrific introduction looks like, watch the video tutorial from James , who explains the perfect essay introduction method.
The Definition of an Essay Introduction
Readers starting their academic careers must learn to construct a strong essay introduction. The introductory paragraph should contain an overview beyond simply stating your assignment and then talking in-depth about different points.
Your opening sentences should bait readers by presenting them with an essay question. Ideas or other information they can’t help but be curious about.
As a student, you know the feeling of being stuck in an introductory paragraph. It’s hard to make your first sentence interesting enough to capture attention and continue reading for more paragraphs. But don’t worry! I’m here with tips to help you write those introductions and conclusions so they’re not as painful or difficult anymore.
Purpose of the Essay Introduction
As a reader’s first impression of your essay, the introduction paragraph’s main goal should introduce your paper’s topic. Your introduction will also state any claims, questions, or issues your paper will focus on. This is commonly known as your paper’s thesis. This condenses the overall point of your paper into one or two short middle sentences that your reader can reference later.
The introduction is an essential part of any academic essay. The purpose of an introduction is to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more. So make sure your introduction is interesting and engaging!
The introduction is an important part of the essay, providing a roadmap for your paper. It contains background information and describes how you will write about it to provide perspective and direction.
How To Write An Essay Introduction
The beginning of the essay sets the tone for the reader. It is essential to know how to write an essay introduction that picks your reader’s interest and encourages them to read further.
The essay introduction is your chance to “catch the reader’s attention” and get them intrigued enough that they want to read more. You can use an intriguing quote, a compelling fact or statistic, or even a short anecdote about how you started writing this piece.
How to start an introduction paragraph
Starting an essay is a daunting process that can be difficult to manage. Some prefer starting with the introduction and writing it first, while others find themselves more comfortable writing their work right away and writing the introduction at the end.
An introduction is a great place for you, as the writer, to set up what kind of tone and purpose you will have throughout this particular piece. Here are some guidelines on how to write introductions:
- Start With A Hook
Background Information
- Thesis Statement
Below, I provide a detailed description of how to write an essay introduction according to the essay structure.
Start With a Hook
Regarding the introduction, you can’t go wrong with a killer hook sentence that grabs your reader’s attention from page one and never lets them go.
Think of the first sentence of your essay as an intro. What’s a good way to get people interested?
Start with something concise, clear, and interesting to grab the reader’s attention.
Take a look at these expert tips to create the most effective hook. You’ll be surprised how many people may not have heard of this technique, and you can use it instantly.
- Start with a rhetorical question.
- Write about a common misconception about your essay topic
- Start with an interesting fact
- Share an anecdote
The introduction to your essay should provide background information on your topic and identify a few key themes. These themes will be addressed in more detail in the next section.
Remember to give your readers and listeners enough context so they understand what they’re getting into, but not too much. You’ll have more space to do this in the body of your essay. All you can do is mention points without providing any detail.
The last part of the introduction is always a thesis statement. It’s an overview of what you’ll write about in your essay. It should stand out as something that sparks interest immediately because it will determine how well readers understand the rest of your paper.
The writer must keep the reader at heart when constructing this important sentence with words, so they don’t give up before finishing reading.
The thesis statement is the most important part of the introduction. It gives the reader clear information about the content of the essay, which will help them understand the essay more easily. The thesis statement states the specific topic and often lists the main (controlling) ideas you will discuss in the essay’s main body.
The Essay Introduction Structure
When writing an effective essay introduction, it can be easy to forget the little things that make a good one.
The introduction to an essay should have the following two parts: a general statement (to introduce the topic and give the background); a thesis statement (to show the structure).
The general statements will introduce the topic of your paper and give background information. This information for a short essay will generally be one or two sentences.
Many people have difficulty formulating the perfect introductory sentence for their essays.
Below is the sequence of ideas that should be followed when writing an essay introduction:
- Background/ Definition/ Importance
- Overview of the claims
Essay Sample Introduction
Writing an essay is a tricky task. It requires thinking and using structure, organization, and coherent arguments; it’s hard work! But don’t be discouraged. This introduction sample paper will provide some inspiration.
Essay Introduction Outline
Let me show you the importance of an introductory paragraph in your essay. The introduction should set up what is to come, but not without first introducing its components.
Do you want a captivating opening that will intrigue and engage readers? A strong intro paragraph can make or break any work – including essays.
It is important to know what typically goes in the introductory paragraph of an essay.
Take a look at the following essay introduction outline:
Essay Introduction Examples
Below are great introductory paragraph examples for different essays you can use to create a captivating opening paragraph.
Argumentative Essay Introduction Example
A good argumentative essay introduction is like the opening statement of a trial. It should offer clear facts that support your main point of view and intellectually present them to sway the reader’s opinion on your side.
When drafting your argumentative essay introduction, it’s important to have a solid grasp of the facts.
What are the key points of contention? Who will this decision affect, and why is that person or group targeted specifically?
The key takeaway from these preliminary questions should inform how we present our arguments intellectually, similar to when constructing our opening statement for court.
Here is an example that will make your task a little bit easier on how to write an argumentative essay introduction:
Whether we should allow youngsters to smoke is a mounting issue. It is a highly important issue because it concerns the young population’s basic health and psychological implications.
A variety of different arguments have been penned down on this issue. This essay will consider arguments that states should ban it or not. It will then put forward reasons for introducing laws that outlaw these tobacco industries from operating at the expense of youngsters.
Persuasive Essay Introduction Example
Persuasive essays are tricky, and one of the reasons they’re so hard to write is that it’s tough persuading the readers. As a writer, you’ll have to be subtle about your introduction to persuade them – below is an excellent example of what a persuasive essay introduction might sound like:
Recycling waste material preserves the environment. Recycling programs are present throughout the country. They clean and process garbage and other waste materials to produce useful products. It contains the need to extract more resources from the planet.
Compare and Contrast Essay Introduction Example
The compare and contrast essay is an academic writing assignment that analyzes the similarities and differences between two or more subjects.
A compare-and-contrast introduction usually introduces both elements in the opening paragraph, which can help students develop their critical reasoning and analytical and critical thinking abilities.
Comparing and contrasting is one of the most important skills to learn in academia. It helps students develop analytical reasoning, improve creativity, and boost their academic writing ability.
You must introduce two subjects so the reader knows what the essay is about.
It would help if you also had a central idea that will be used as your comparison/contrast point throughout the paper. Otherwise, there would be too many points on either side not related by anything other than being opposite of each other but still needing an equal example space.
The following is a great compare-and-contrast essay introduction that you can refer to:
A few years ago, before the advent of modern technology, people used traditional means. You used telephones and letters for communicating over long distances.
With the advent of computers, many new communication tools have been developed. Video calls, instant messages, and social media have brought people closer.
While the conventional and modern means of communication serve the same purpose, they still differ in speed and range.
Descriptive Essay Introduction Example
The thing about a descriptive essay introduction is that it paints the reader with an image. It allows them to see, feel and smell what you’re describing. This way, they can understand everything independently without judgment or bias from the writer’s perspective – just clear images of whatever topic we choose for our paper.
The following descriptive essay introduction example will show how it’s done:
Many people live in the cities for better life prospects. However, air pollution has taken over cities like a villain. Air pollution is one of the most dangerous forms of pollution.
When people go out to work, they breathe in smog, sewage, and other contaminants. They harm their immune system and health. The implications of air pollution are alarming. It does not only harm humans but the ecosystem altogether.
Essay Introduction: Mistakes to Avoid
For a good introduction, avoid these common mistakes:
- Try avoiding vague introductions or writing irrelevant information about the essay topic.
- You don’t need to give too much information and facts in the introduction. Introduce your topic with enough knowledge for a reader’s understanding.
Essay Introduction Writing Tips
The following tips will help you write a captivating introduction paragraph for an essay.
Reveal just enough
In your intro, you are supposed to let the reader know what to expect in your essay.
That explains why good introductions have relevant information on the topic, a thesis statement , and a summary of the main points.
When summarizing your major points, don’t give away too much information. Otherwise, your audience won’t see the point in continuing to read your essay.
Give your reader a sense of what to expect without revealing details.
Provide relevant background before revealing your thesis (main argument)
Your introduction paragraph for an essay should provide the context of your essay.
The point is to provide information that leads to your thesis.
However, remember that you are not trying to prove your argument by introducing it.
So, before writing the thesis , provide context and relevant information, not proof.
Write your thesis statement.
The thesis goes towards the end of the introduction paragraph for an essay, especially if you do not plan to highlight your central points in the intro.
Your thesis should concisely inform the reader of your stand on the topic.
In essays, most of the time, the thesis statement is only one sentence.
Relevant information
It is common for people to include hooks in the introduction paragraph of an essay.
A good hook could be an anecdote, a fact, a piece statistic, or a rhetorical question.
Hooks help capture the attention of the reader.
However, any information you include in the intro paragraph should be relevant to the topic.
It will not make sense to capture the reader with something off-topic; you will still lose them somewhere in the middle sentences.
Persuade the reader your essay is worth reading.
When a reader finishes the introduction paragraph for an essay, they should be eager to read the rest.
One way of doing that is by showing them how the topic of discussion relates to their lives.
People are likely to show interest in something that affects their lives.
Another way to convince readers to read an essay is by providing a questionable or challenging thesis.
If your argument is controversial, they will want to continue reading to see how you support your main argument.
Final Thoughts on How To Write An Introduction Paragraph For An Essay
An excellent introduction paragraph for an essay provides background on a topic and includes a strong thesis statement and a summary of the key points in the essay.
More importantly, a captivating intro paragraph is appealing and engaging enough to inspire readers to go through the rest of the essay.
Follow the tips in this article to develop a great introduction paragraph for your essay.
Get Help from the Experts with your Essay Introduction Paper
We know how hard it is to write a good essay introduction. This blog post provides information on what an essay introduction should look like, including examples of introduction paragraphs.
With these tips, you can start crafting compelling introductory paragraphs without worry. Let us take care of everything for you – our talented writers are happy to do it all!
Please chat with us on our website or email us via our contact us form. And remember, once again: The key theme throughout our discussion today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write a good introduction paragraph.
In your intro, you are supposed to let the reader know what to expect in your essay. A great introduction should have background information, a thesis statement, and a summary of the major points.
How do you write an introduction for an essay?
A great introduction should have relevant information on the topic, a thesis statement , and a summary of the main points. Provide background before revealing your thesis (main argument). Write your thesis before Persuading the reader your essay is worth reading.
How do you start a paragraph in an essay?
A great introduction should start with background information on the topic, a thesis statement , and a summary of the main points.
What is the introduction paragraph?
For an essay the introduction is the first paragraph of an essay. An excellent introduction not only introduces your essay but convinces a reader that it is worth their time reading it.
This blog post provides information on what an essay introduction should look like, including examples of introduction paragraphs.
Jamie is an expert on Dissertation writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.
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How to Write a Comparative Essay Effectively- Learn with Examples
Table of Contents
In a scholastic career, writing a comparative essay is one of the most common assignments. Generally, to write an engaging comparative essay, you should first pick two topics with enough similarities and dissimilarities, and then compare them in a meaningful way. Moreover, your essay should be well-organized and should have valid comparisons with supporting facts. On the whole, the content should also captivate your readers. In case, you are unsure of how to write a successful comparative essay, check this blog post. Here, we have explained how to write a comparative essay effectively with examples.
Definition of Comparative Essay
What is a Comparative Essay? A Comparative Essay is an essay that contains paragraphs explaining how the two subjects of discussion are either similar or different. It mainly focuses on various ‘compare and contrast’ aspects of the two subjects. Compare will describe the similarities between the subjects while contrast will highlight the differences.
For example, if you are assigned a task to write the Comparison between the Indian Cricket Team and the Australian Cricket Team, then you should do proper research about the two sports teams and discuss the similarities and differences both the teams share in the form of a specific essay structure.
To write a comparative essay, the two topics need not have a close relation, it can also be different. Furthermore, in a comparative analysis essay, you can choose to discuss the similarities and differences of ideas, places, items, views, events, concepts, etc.
What is the Purpose of a Comparative Essay?
The main purpose of a comparative essay is to
- Systematically, present the similarities and differences.
- Give clarity to the readers about the subject of discussion.
- Analyze two things and highlight their advantages and disadvantages.
Steps for Writing a Brilliant Comparative Essay
So, how to write a comparative analysis essay? Simply jumping directly to the topic and generating ideas is not an effective way of writing a compare-and-contrast essay. To address the comparison in a meaningful way, remember to follow the comparative essay writing steps mentioned below.
Analyze the essay topic
If you are given an essay prompt or a question, then, first try to understand what is stated in the question by marking the important words or key phrases. The question for a comparative essay usually contains keywords such as “compare, contrasts, similarities, and differences” with which you can easily identify what you need to present in your essay.
Your essay topic can be specific or general too. For example, if you are asked to compare the Indian Cricket Team and the Australian Cricket Team, then you need to specifically focus only on these two teams. But if your question says, to compare any two International Cricket Teams, then you can research various teams and pick any two ideal teams for your discussion. In the case of general topics, you need to build the basis of comparison by yourself.
List out the key points
If you are clear with your essay prompt, then go ahead and find out what points need to be included in your essay. The content should contain all the similarities and differences. So, list out the main points that you wish to speak about in your essay. The hints you have noted will act as your essay plan with which you need to develop the content. Ignore the less significant points and consider speaking only about the points that add value to your comparison.
Create a Thesis Statement
No matter whether your essay topic is specific or general, you need to create a thesis statement. To build a clear thesis statement, first, analyze the key points you have listed and spot whether your topic is more inclined towards similarities or dissimilarities, and then based on that develop a simple thesis statement. Your thesis statement should highlight the comparisons in a crispy way.
Develop and Structure the content
After creating a thesis statement, develop the key points you have noted and structure the essay by adding paragraphs. The content should be written in a simple manner. Most importantly, your readers should be able to understand what you have discussed in your comparative essay.
Comparative Essay Structure
When you write a comparative essay, make sure to structure the essay in an easy way to deliver the key points of your comparison. Generally, you can write an essay in many different structures.
Here are some important methods that you can use to structure a comparative essay.
Alternating Method
Mixed paragraphs methods, block method.
The alternation method focuses on the discussion of one aspect of comparison in one paragraph. That means, at first you need to pick one item of comparison in relation to the first subject and explain that in detail in the first paragraph. Then, followed by that paragraph, you need to explain the same item of comparison in relation to the second subject. The third and fourth paragraphs will deal with another aspect of comparison in relation to the first and second subjects respectively. Sequentially, explain your comparative points until the end of your essay.
Example: Compare Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro and Samsung Galaxy M31
Paragraph 1: Display Features of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
Paragraph 2: Display Features of Samsung Galaxy M31
Paragraph 3: Camera Quality of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
Paragraph 4: Camera Quality of Samsung Galaxy M31
The alternating method helps to present a well-analyzed paper, and also with this method you can effectively handle two different subjects and explain your items of comparison in a deep and neat manner.
You can use the alternating method to structure your comparative essay if your topic needs a detailed comparison or when the comparison points of two subjects are not related.
Read more topic: What are Narrative Essay Topics?
In this method, one paragraph should be devoted to explaining the subject comparison in one aspect. That means you need to explain one item of comparison with respect to both subjects in a single paragraph.
Paragraph 1: Display Features of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro/ Display Features of Samsung Galaxy M31
Paragraph 2: Camera Quality of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro/ Camera Quality of Samsung Galaxy M31
The mixed paragraph method gives equal weight to the subjects in terms of comparison. In this method, the readers can easily find the comparison factor.
You can use the mixed-paragraph method to write a long comparative essay. Also, this method is effective to deal with complex subjects that need special attention.
The block method is one of the easiest methods in which you can divide the essay into two parts and then, discuss the first subject in one part and the second subject in another part. But here, all the items of comparison in relation to the first subject should be explained in a particular order. When you write the second paragraph, the comparison points should be presented in the same order as explained in the first paragraph.
Paragraph 2: Camera Quality of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
Paragraph 3: Display Features of Samsung Galaxy M31
You can use the block method when dealing with a short essay, simple subjects, and multiple subjects. With this method, you can develop the ideas of subject two from the ideas listed in subject one. Also, you can use this method if there is no clear relation between the comparison items of both subjects.
How to Prepare a Comparative Essay Outline?
By now, you have gained an idea of how to structure a comparative essay with the methods such as alternating, mixed paragraphs, and blocks. But to effectively write a comparative essay, you should first create a good comparative essay outline in a specific format.
Discussed here is the Comparative Essay Outline Format. While sketching the comparative essay outline, remember to include the following essential components.
Introduction
Like every other essay, the comparative essay should also begin with an introduction paragraph. In this paragraph, you need to give a glimpse of the essay to the reader in terms of the content. The introduction should be simple, and concise, and should have a clear thesis statement.
It is the heart of the essay where you need to compare and contrast the two subjects in a preferred structure.
End the essay by giving an overview of what you have discussed in the body paragraphs. Your conclusion should be based on the similarities and dissimilarities you have identified and should not be on a personal note.
Comparative Essay Format
Follow the below-mentioned format whenever you are asked to write a comparative essay.
Introduction General Statement (connected to the ideas in thesis – inarguable) Introduction to texts and authors (mention connection to key ideas) Background Information of the Topic Thesis Statement Body Paragraphs Topic Sentence [Abstract opinion] In each body paragraph, you can have up to 5 points. Point 1 [Connect Text with Abstract Opinion] Compare A and B Present Proof Transition statement leading to next point Point 2 Compare another element of A and B Present Proof Connection Statement (review all points and connect to THESIS) Conclusion Review topic Conclusion statement Restate thesis
Comparative Essay Example
For your better understanding, here, we have shared a sample of a Comparative Essay.
Example – A Comparative Essay on summer and winter
Summer and winter are two of the four important seasons in the world. Like winter, the view of plants is also beautiful in summer. Even though there are several similar points between summer and winter, they both have some differences when it comes to clothing, activities, and food.
In summer, because of the extreme hotness, people prefer wearing short pants or skirts. But in contrast, people love to cover their full bodies and protect themselves from the cold climate by wearing long pants, sweaters, scarf, and gloves.
Another difference between summer and winter is the activities. During summer, people like to take part in various activities such as surfing, spending time in the water park, visiting beaches, etc. But such activities are not convenient to do at the time of winter.
The final different thing between them is the food. In summer, because of the temperature, people prefer eating ice creams, watermelons, cucumbers, coconut water, and so on to keep the body cool. On the other hand, during winter, to keep the body warm, people eat hot pot.
Basically, these are the three common things between summer and winter. Besides clothing, activities, and food, a few other differences between them include temperature, daytime, and the views. Even though there are a lot of differences between summer and winter, one can still enjoy the season by doing many fun things.
Wrapping Up
By following the essential points discussed in this post, you can write an engaging comparative essay. After writing, be sure to proofread the content . Remove the errors if there are any and prepare a final draft that addresses both the subjects and their items of comparison in detail.
If you are still not sure how to write a comparative essay, then reach out to us. At greatassignmenthelp.com, we offer 24/7 essay help services at an affordable price. Especially, to assist you in writing an outstanding comparative essay, we have plenty of essay helpers in our team who are skilled enough to draft content for all types of academic essays. According to the essay writing instructions you share with us, our experts will come up with a brilliant well-structured essay on time.
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How To Write a College Essay, With Examples
Whether you’re prepared or not, there comes a time when every student is faced with writing their first college essay. Even if you’re a natural writer, writing a college essay is still a daunting task. Here’s a method for tackling the process and a few examples to inspire you.
Here’s a tip: Want to make sure your writing shines? Grammarly can check your spelling and save you from grammar and punctuation mistakes. It even proofreads your text, so your work is extra polished wherever you write.
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Preparing to write your college essay
The old saying goes, “Those who fail to prepare prepare to fail.” Why spend time and energy cleaning up a mess when you can avoid making one in the first place?
- Make sure you understand the assignment. There’s no shame in asking your professor to clarify. Your success depends on understanding what she wants Here are some ways to ask for clarification .
- Research and create a basic outline as you go. Roll research and the initial outlining process into one simple step. As you research, create an info dump—a bullet-pointed list of the topics you want to cover. Add links to articles and citations as you go so you can refer to them easily.
- Figure out what you want to say. What’s the main argument or idea you’ll express? You need to know before you begin. In order to make a point, you have to have one.
- Create a classic, canonical outline. Once you have a clearer vision for your central idea or argument, it’s time to organize your info-dump. Prune out anything irrelevant and organize your outline into the classic structure .
Drafting your essay
By the end of the research and planning process, you’ll feel energized and ready to write about all this interesting stuff your research (or your brainstorming process , if your essay requirement is more personal) has uncovered. Use that energy to write a draft.
Here’s a tip: Don’t spend a lot of time drafting your intro up front. Often, the article itself informs the introduction, and you won’t know what your intro should say until your essay is finished.
The parts of a college essay
Introduction.
Your intro tells your reader what to expect from your essay. Think of it as a brief roadmap that begins with an intriguing opening line, includes a quick summary of the topic and ideas you’ll present, and concludes with a thesis statement.
Opening hook
It’s important to draw your reader in from the very first sentence. Take a look at some of these opening lines from college entrance essays submitted to Stanford University .
While traveling through the daily path of life, have you ever stumbled upon a hidden pocket of the universe?
Some fathers might disapprove of their children handling noxious chemicals in the garage.
I change my name each time I place an order at Starbucks.
Summary of your topic, ideas, or argument
Your opening paragraph should introduce the subject matter and the points you intend to make. They should give some background to support the thesis statement you’ll make at the end of the introduction.
The debate over athletes’ use of performance-enhancing substances is getting more complicated as biotechnologies such as gene therapy become a reality. The availability of these new methods of boosting performance will force us to decide what we value most in sports—displays of physical excellence developed through hard work or victory at all costs. For centuries, spectators and athletes have cherished the tradition of fairness in sports.
— Argumentative Essay Examples, Skyline College
Thesis statement
Your thesis statement comes at the end of your introduction. Here’s the thesis statement from the Skyline College example above. It states the main point of the essay, which the author intends to make a case for.
While sports competition is, of course, largely about winning, it is also about the means by which a player or team wins. Athletes who use any type of biotechnology give themselves an unfair advantage and disrupt the sense of fair play, and they should be banned from competition.
The introduction states what’s at stake, and the body presents the evidence. In the case of an argumentative essay, the evidence might be research. In a more personal essay, it might be made up of the author’s own experiences.
Write the body in a logical order. Some essays work well chronologically, where the events are presented in the same sequence that they happened in time. Argumentative essays are often emphatic, where the least important points are presented first and build up to the most important.
If your essay includes research, don’t be shy about including substantial statements, just make sure they’re properly cited. Use Grammarly’s plagiarism checker to help you find any citations you may have missed and properly attribute them. (Trust us—your professor will check for plagiarism and find it if you don’t!)
In your conclusion , you wrap everything up in a neat package. Restate your thesis in a clear way without repeating it word for word. Leave your reader with a takeaway or something to think about. Here’s the conclusion of the Skyline College essay sample.
Unless we are willing to organize separate sporting events and leagues—an Olympics, say, for athletes who have opted for a boost from the test tube and another for athletes who have chosen to keep their bodies natural—we should ask from our athletes that they dazzle us less with extraordinary performance and more with the fruits of their hard work.
Ways to start an essay
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- Ways to start an intro for essays Done by:Chia Wei,Abel,Jasper,Lucian,Ao shen, Justin
- Starting with question When you are starting with a question,try to create a picture in the reader’s mind by using the words:who, what, when, where, why, is, how or are at the beginning of the sentence
- Starting with quotes When you are starting a quote, you can extract a quote from a book, TV show, movie or from a famous person
- Starting with Onomatopoeia Onomatopoeia is a word that makes sound.In simple words …….. starting an essay using a sound opening
- Starting with poems You can use a poem from a famous author or make out your own to give the reader a little spoiler about the story
- Starting with lyrics of song You can use a line or two from the lyrics of a song that fite what you are going to write about
- Starting with Interjection Interjections express emotions.For example , starting with a sound like ‘aha!’ or ‘ahhh!’ and more
- Starting with Dialogue By starting with a dialogue, it usually will be about two people conversing to each other about a certain topic
- Starting with Horror/Thriller By starting with this you may need to ensure that the rest of your story is action punched as the reader may lose interest as he/she reads on and find out that the climax is actually over.
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COMMENTS
So, before starting your essay, outline the core ideas according to the structure shown below. As mentioned before, you should write a good hook or use powerful words to start an essay
Some people prefer getting started with the essay and write the introduction at the end of the writing process. You can also refer to other catchy hook examples for writing a captivating start of the essay introduction
Ways of Structuring An Essay On Legal Studies. In section II, an essay will examine the implementation of the act and in Section III, the essay will critic the amendment instrument and finally indicate the position in the argument in section IV
The outline of the essay is the skeleton that you will fill out with the content. Given below are essay outline examples for different types of essay writing. Take a look at this argumentative essay outline
In a scholastic career, writing a comparative essay is one of the most common assignments. Generally, to write an engaging comparative essay, you should first pick two topics with enough similarities and dissimilarities
Even if you're a natural writer, writing a college essay is still a daunting task. By the end of the research and planning process, you'll feel energized and ready to write about all this interesting stuff your research
Ways to start an intro for essays Done by:Chia Wei,Abel,Jasper,Lucian,Ao shen, Justin. starting an essay using a sound opening. Starting with Interjection Interjections express emotions.For example