Writing a Strong Introduction



Writing a Strong Introduction

As you get started, remember that an essay is not a book report or a summary. The goal is to make a point and prove it!

A strong introductory paragraph must include the following parts (in this order):

1. Hook: A hook pulls the reader into the essay. It should be 1-2 sentences.

Examples of well-written hooks:

* Make a powerful statement using bold words: “Love can lead people to do make destructive decisions” or “Forgiveness can hurt” of “Getting over the loss of a loved one can take a long time” or “Friendship can hurt.”

* Describe the setting, character, or one event from a book. “As the tears slipped into his eyes, Michael glanced down at the shiny medal being draped over his neck, and the memories of his men and the battle flashed through his mind.”

DO NOT, DO NOT, DO NOT:

* Ask a cheesy question: “Have you ever read a book about war?” or “Do you like books about history?” or “Doesn’t everyone love mystery books?”

2. Lead In: (1-2 Sentences) Do not jump right from your hook to your background information and then to your thesis. Lead into it with information form the text that relates to your hook and leads to your thesis. Mention a character or event that ties to your position.

3. Background Information: (1-2 sentences) Title (in italics) and author is a must when writing about literature. You can also describe the main character and/or conflict (briefly).

4. Thesis statement: (1 sentence only-the last sentence in your introduction):

* A thesis statement states: Topic + position + 3 main points/reasons

* Make sure your three reasons have parallel structure (same grammatical pattern)

For example:

Not parallel: The Office is the best T.V show because it can inspire, sadden, and it is really funny.

Parallel: The Office is the best T.V show because it can inspire, sadden, and amuse.

or

Not parallel: When we go to the shore we enjoy swimming in the ocean, playing on the beach, and we love the boardwalk.

Parallel: When we go to the shore we enjoy swimming in the ocean, playing on the beach, and walking on the boardwalk.

Writing a Strong Conclusion

An effective conclusion will:

• Summarize your main points clearly for your reader.

• Restate your main idea.

• Leave the reader with a strong impression (convinced).

Parts of a conclusion:

1. Lead-in:

In conclusion,

Clearly,

It is clear that

Without a doubt,

Most would agree that

Unquestionably,

2. Restated thesis statement using different words: This DOES NOT have to be one sentence. Restate your thesis using different words than in your intro.

3. Restate each main idea.

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