Essay introduction paragraph

There are countless ways to start an essay effectively. A solid introductory paragraph both informs and motivates.

Essay introduction examples university

Short essay introduction examples

Introduction paragraph examples

Words to start an essay introduction

How to start an introduction paragraph

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.

Essay introduction examples

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 ques

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