Barbara P
Barbara P

Jumpstart Your Writing with These Proven Strategies on how to Start an Essay

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Published on: Mar 10, 2023

Last updated on: Mar 9, 2023

how to start an essay

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Are you feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of writing an essay? Are you struggling to come up with a clear focus, introduction, and structure for your work? 

Don't worry—you are not alone! Writing can be challenging but there are ways to make it easier. 

In this blog post, we will discuss proven strategies on how to start an essay that will help jumpstart your creativity and enhance your overall writing process. 

From figuring out which topic is best for you to create a persuasive main argument, these tips are essential tools that any student can use to write powerful essays. 

Let's get started!

How To Start an Essay Introduction

The introduction of your essay is the first thing that your reader will see and it's important to make a strong impression. 

Here are 5 steps that can make your introduction stand out. 

1. Hook your reader

Hook your reader with an interesting story or anecdote. Give your readers a sense of what the essay will be about and why it is important. 

Expert Tip

Check out these hook examples that you may use!

2. Give background information

Provide background information on the topic. Provide context for your readers so they have a better understanding of the content. 

3. Present your thesis statement

This is the main point of your essay and should be clear, concise, and to the point. 

Expert Tip

Here is a detailed guide on how to write a thesis statement - read now!

4. Outline your essay’s structure

Outline the main points that you will be discussing throughout the essay. This helps to organize your thoughts and provide structure for your writing. 

Expert Tip

Follow this guide to create a perfect essay outline like a pro!

5. Check and revise

Once you have written the introduction, go back and check for any grammar or spelling errors that may have been missed. 

Here is an example of how to start your essay!

Social media has drastically changed our lives in the past decade. From connecting with friends and family to influencing political views, it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on our society. In this essay, I will explore how social media usage can both positively and negatively affect individuals as well as discuss its implications for the future.

How To Start an Essay Writing - 8 Best Ways

Writing an essay can be a daunting task, but here are the 8 best ways to start your essay that will help you create a strong introduction and body. 

Introduce your topic

Start your essay by introducing your topic and giving the reader some context. Make sure to include relevant background information so that readers understand how the topic relates to their own lives. 

For example, if you are writing about the effects of social media on modern society, you could introduce your topic with something like: 

“Social media has drastically transformed our lives over the past decade. From connecting us with friends and family to influencing political views, it is undeniable that social media has had an immense effect on our day-to-day lives.”

Start Your Essay With a Quote

Begin your essay with a thought-provoking quote that relates to the topic of your essay. This will engage the reader and give them an idea of what to expect in your essay. 

For example, if you are writing about the importance of education, you could start with a quote such as: 

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ? Nelson Mandela

Set Up a Mystery

Start your essay with a mysterious scenario that will draw the reader in. You can create a sense of intrigue by leaving out important details so that readers are curious to learn more. 

For example, if you are writing about the effects of climate change, you could start with something like: 

“The sun rose slowly over the horizon, casting a mysterious orange glow across the sky. It was hard to ignore the feeling that something ominous was about to happen.”

Use Rhetorical Questions

Start your essay with a rhetorical question that will leave readers thinking and wondering what will come next. 

This can be an effective way to draw readers in and make them want to find out more. 

For example, if you are writing about the importance of standing up for your beliefs, you could start with a rhetorical question such as: 

“What would you do if someone told you that you couldn’t believe in something? Would you stay quiet, or would you stand up for what you believe in?”

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Provoke Emotion

Start your essay with a vivid description that will evoke emotions in the reader. This is an effective way to grab their attention and set the tone for your essay. 

For example, if you are writing about the effects of poverty, you could start with something like: 

“The streets were filled with an eerie silence as I walked by rows of dilapidated buildings. Everywhere I looked, I saw people struggling to make a better life for themselves.” 

Use An Anecdote

Start your essay with an anecdotal story that will give readers a glimpse into the topic. 

This can be an effective way to capture their attention and make them more interested in learning more about your topic. 

For example, if you are writing about the impact of technology on our lives, you could start with something like:

“I remember when I was first introduced to computers. I was amazed at how quickly they could do calculations and complex tasks. Little did I know, this technology would shape my life in so many ways over the years.” 

Stamp Of Authority

Start your essay with a statement of authority that will give readers a sense of legitimacy. 

This can be an effective way to establish yourself as an expert on the topic and make readers trust you more. 

For example, if you are writing about the history of human rights, you could start with something like:

“Since the dawn of civilization, the struggle for human rights has been a defining aspect of our species. From ancient societies to modern democracies, this fight has shaped the world as we know it today.”

Start Your Essay With A “Contrary To” Or “Fill The Gap” Sentence

Start your essay with a sentence that introduces an idea contrary to popular opinion, or one that “fills the gap” between two competing theories. 

This can be an effective way to make readers think more deeply about the topic and challenge their preconceived notions. 

For example, if you are writing about the importance of diversity, you could start with something like: 

“Contrary to popular belief, diversity isn’t just about superficial differences. It’s also about embracing different perspectives and ideas which can lead to greater understanding and progress.” 

Interesting Essay Starting Examples for Students

These examples of essay starters are designed to help students craft interesting and attention-grabbing introductions.

With a few tweaks, these ideas can be adapted to any type of essay topic or style. 

Use them as inspiration when writing your own introduction and you’ll be sure to capture readers’ interest right away. 

Writing an effective essay introduction can be tricky, but using the tips in this guide and some creative thinking, you can craft a great opening that will entice your readers to read on.

 Whether you’re writing about yourself, a historical figure, or any other topic, these strategies will help make sure your essay starts off on the right foot. 

If you’re still having trouble getting your essay started, consider using CollegeEssay.org – they offer professional assistance to help you write an introduction that will make a lasting impression. 

Need more help with writing your essay introduction? Check out CollegeEssay.org for professional essay writing help.  

Get started now and get the best essay introduction possible! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good introduction?

A good introduction should include a few key components: 

  • Identifying the topic 
  • Providing context 
  • Thesis statement 
Barbara P

WRITTEN BY

Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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