Introductory in essay

【Writing Series📝】

[The Introductory Paragraph in an Essay]

In the previous weeks, we have covered the general structure of writing an academic paragraph, this month we’ll move on to a full five paragraph essay. This includes: an introductory paragraph, usually three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.

An essay exhibits resemblance to a paragraph in terms of its structure and sequence. However, an essay includes a greater amount of information pertaining to a particular subject matter. Within an essay, each main point is illustrated in a separate body paragraph. The paragraph substantiates the point by providing examples, explanation, and details.

In this post, we will explore the first paragraph called the introductory paragraph.

The introductory paragraph in an essay: 

In an essay, the introductory paragraph starts with a hook, followed by connecting information, which leads to the thesis statement.

The hook:

A hook is found on the end of a fishing line and is used to catch fish. In writing, a hook is a sentence (or sentences) that catches the reader's attention at the beginning of the essay. Good writers use a hook to get the reader interested in the first paragraph of an essay. The hook gives the reader a reason to keep reading. Hooks can be questions, quotes, descriptions, or other interesting pieces of information that attract the reader. 

Connecting Information:

After the hook, the writer usually gives several sentences with connecting information, leading from the hook to the topic. These sentences logically lead to the thesis. 

The Thesis Statement:

The key sentence in a paragraph is called a topic sentence. In an essay, the key sentence is in the introductory paragraph and is called the thesis statement. The thesis statement gives the reader a clear idea of how the essay will be developed. The thesis statement may also include the points of development, or the main ideas that will be developed in the supporting paragraphs. It is often, but not always, the last sentence in the introduction. Sometimes the main idea or thesis may be found in two sentences. 

Study the following introductory paragraph:

[HOOK] On hearing the word vacation, most people react positively. It can be a weekend trip, a last-minute getaway, or a trip around the world. [CONNECTING INFORMATION] Prospective travelers spend days, if not weeks, researching their travel destination. While the destination has a lot to do with the success of a trip, there are other factors to consider. Experienced travelers will argue that more important than where they go on vacation is who they go with. [THESIS STATEMENT WITH POINTS OF DEVELOPMENT] Vacations can be classified on the basis of who vacationers choose to travel with: with family, with friends, or alone.

Your favorite EMI Friend, JJ

—Signing off—