How to start an essay?

Answer 1

Remember, the point of your starting sentence (grabber) is to "grab" the reader's attention. Make the reader want to read on.

• start by referring to the title. introduce the object/person you are talking about. be creative with it.
• start with a short story. Use a story that illustrates your thesis as your opening sentence.
• start with a thought provoking question. This technique is perfunctory and pedestrian, use it as a last resort.
• start with a definition. Define your topic. For example if you are writing on depression, open with:

  * depression is a psychological disorder in which... (continue definition) REMEMBER TO CITE YOUR SOURCE

• Start with a startling fact. State a fact that will surprise your readers and make them want to read on.
• Start with a self-written summary. Summarize your essay in your opening paragraph. (This works well for newspaper articles. Most people do not finish reading articles. They want the basic information. By summarizing in the first paragraph, your reader gets all the info to gain legitimate knowledge on the subject)
• Start with a quote. From a famous person, family member, known sapient. Use a quote that will grab the reader's attention.

For your closing paragraph:

• Conclude with a thought-provoking question. Make the reader think about what you've written.
• Conclude with a call to action. (use for persuasion essays.) Encourage the reader do what you've suggested.
• Conclude with a summary
• Conclude with an appropriate quote.
• Conclude with your opinion.