Three Ways to Write Better Introductions

If the first lines of a novel or magazine article are boring, do you continue reading? If the reading is mandatory or contains essential information, perhaps you reluctantly continue. However, most people lose interest if the first few sentences don’t catch their attention. Often, writers spend hours researching essays. But a lackluster introduction conveys a lack of interest in the subject, rather than a deep passion for it. Is that the impression you want to make on your college professors and classmates? A dull introduction puts the whole paper at risk! This is particularly unfortunate if the rest of the essay is worth reading. No one will ever discover those dazzling later paragraphs if they can’t make it past the flat introduction. Don’t take this chance! Here are three simple steps to writing interesting and engaging introductions.

1Immediately grab your reader’s attention.

How can you get your reader’s attention? There are several effective options:

Questions

The first line of this article began with a question. Most people have, at one time or another, judged an essay by the first couple of phrases. As you read the question, did you think of one of those experiences? Questions are engaging, but you must be careful how you use them. If they are too basic, the potential reader may assume that you do not have any new information to share.

Real-life experiences

Starting with an anecdote is a great way to connect with your readers. Not just any story will do; the story should lay the foundation for some central component of your essay. Leave out unnecessary details or the reader may lose focus.

You could also start by referencing a recent news item. Make sure the story you use is current and accurate. As with personal anecdotes, news items should directly relate to the theme of the essay.

Quotations

Referring to a recognized authority garners respect for your writing. You will want to preface the statement by establishing the credentials of the author of the quote. If your readers do not know who the person is, the quote will not carry much weight.

2Directly state your theme.

In a thesis paper, the thesis statement explains the purpose of your paper and your position on the issue. Even if you’re not writing a thesis paper, your writing should contain one or two sentences that sum up the purpose and content of your essay. Normally, this statement appears in the first paragraph. Be clear and specific.

3Explain why the subject is important.

Imagine that you overhear a conversation. The speakers are discussing a topic you find mundane until you hear your name. All of a sudden, you are hanging on their every word. Why did your ears perk up at the mention of your name? People are interested in the things that touch their lives. If there is a personal connection, they are more engaged in the topic. In your paper, tell your audience how the topic relates to them. Consider their circumstances, beliefs, and concerns. What questions or concerns affect them?

How can you write engrossing introductions? Endeavor to pique reader interest in the first few lines. Explicitly state the purpose of your writing and reveal your position on the subject. Tell why the subject is valuable to the reader. The order that you achieve these three objectives may vary and you might be able to achieve them in one succinct paragraph. Why not practice with a friend? Take turns writing introductory paragraphs. Give each other feedback on how well you met these three vital criteria.

from Grammarly Blog
http://www.grammarly.com/blog/2015/three-ways-to-write-better-introductions/