business essay hooks

How to Write Great Essay Hooks (Tips + Examples)

Yona Schnitzer

Blank screen. Cursor blinks. Clock ticks. Brain freezes.

You stressfully wonder, “How will I ever finish this essay?”

I’ve been there.

Every time you write an essay, you want to catch your readers’ undivided attention from the very first word. The opening hook has to be *perfect* — no compromises.

But, instead of reeling under pressure to come up with this elusively perfect essay hook at the eleventh hour, I’ve found a better way to write great essay hooks.

In this guide, I’ll tell you what it takes to write the most compelling and attention-grabbing hooks. I’ll also break down six awesome types of essay hooks you can experiment with and share examples to inspire your next opening statement.

What is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the opening statement of an essay, written to capture readers' attention and nudge them to learn more about the topic. Also known as a lede or lead, this hook introduces readers to the topic/theme of the essay and piques their curiosity to continue reading.

The hook creates the entire narrative for your essay. It tells readers what to expect from the rest of the essay and creates context around your main argument or thesis statement.

6 Types of Essay Hooks You Can Experiment With

I’ve created this handy list of six different types of essay hooks. You can choose the one that best fits your essay’s context and create a stellar opening statement within minutes.

1. Compelling fact or statistic

Lead with evidence and use a powerful fact or statistic as your essay hook. It’s one of the best ways to capture readers’ attention from the start and keep them intrigued throughout your essay.

For example, if you’re writing about the importance of time management for freelancers, you have two options to create your opening sentence:

Generic : “Managing time as a freelancer is no easy feat.”

Impactful : “Nearly 70% of freelancers struggle to effectively divide and manage their time between multiple clients.”

This data point, linked to the original research, sets a strong tone for your essay and draws people in to read more. It communicates

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2. Bold claim hook

When working on an argumentative essay , I always write with the mindset that nobody has the time to read my thoughts from start to finish. So, I have to get to the point quickly and make a solid argument worth people’s time.

That's when opening with a bold claim works best. Condense all your views on the topic into a few thought-provoking lines that would make readers go, hmmm…

But remember, you can't open with a claim that people already know and accept as fact. It has to be something original and unique to make your readers tick, nudging them to dive deeper into your essay.

For example, if you’re writing about water crisis, you have two options to open your essay:

‍ "In some regions, there is not enough clean water for people to use."

‍ "Imagine a world where every drop of water is a battle, a precious commodity fought over by scores of people and animals alike. This can become a reality as early as 2050."

This bold claim presents a convincing argument about the global water crisis. It also emphasizes the urgency of this argument with a research-backed statistic.

Create a bold claim suggestion using AI

Can’t think of a strong opening sentence for your essay? Wordtune can translate your thoughts into a bold claim and create a compelling essay hook.

Open your Wordtune editor and write a few lines related to your topic. These sentences should have a consensus among your audience. Then, choose the 'Counterargument' option from the list of suggestions.

And you’ll have a bold claim for your essay with no effort at all!

3. Story/Anecdote hook

In all my years of writing, I’ve noticed how stories have a unique effect on people. A good story can resonate with a bigger audience, pique their curiosity, and deliver a more personal message.

That's why you can cite a personal anecdote or talk about a publicly known story as a good hook for your essay. This hook allows you to play with words and work in more storytelling .

One of my favorite writing tips applies here: enter the scene as late as possible and leave as early as possible. You have to keep it crisp instead of rambling on and on.

Consider these two examples:

Either of these hooks could work fine if we were just writing a personal essay about a move to a new place. But if we’re specifically writing about the sky, the second example is better. It sticks to the point — the sky and the color of the sky — and doesn’t stray into irrelevant details.

Create a compelling story with AI

I get it—not all of us are natural storytellers. But you can use AI to your advantage to create a concise and exciting story for your essay.

Wordtune can help you write a short story from scratch or trim down your writing into a quick anecdote. Click on the expand or shorten button to edit your story any way you like.

4. Question Hook

Humans have a tendency to immediately look for answers every time they come across fascinating questions. Using questions as essay hooks can reel people into your essay and feed their curiosity.

But questions are also fairly overused in essays. You don't want to use a generic question that makes people say, " Not another question ."

Instead, think of questions that approach your topic from a fresh angle. This means honing in on what was especially interesting or surprising from your research—and maybe even brainstorming different questions to find the most fascinating one.

For example, if you’re writing about the psychology behind why we buy, you have two options to open your essay:

‍ “Do you know what factors compel us to buy certain things?”

Plugged in :

“Before buying anything, have you ever taken a moment to pause and think about possible reasons driving you to this purchase?”

The latter is more descriptive and creates a realistic scenario for readers to truly think about the topic of the essay.

5. Description hook

A descriptive hook works best when writing an explanatory or opinion-led essay. Descriptive hooks, as the name suggests, illustrate a topic in detail to create context for the essay. It's a good way to build awareness for and educate readers on lesser-known themes.

But a descriptive hook can easily become too plain or unexciting to read. To make it work, you have to write an engaging description using imagery, analogies, and other figures of speech.

Remember to make your hook reader-friendly by avoiding passive voice, mainstream cliches, and lengthy sentences.

Consider this example:

Describing a sunset is too cliche, so cross that one off the list. Describing the sky as it is on a normal day wouldn't be shocking or unexpected, so scratch that one, too.

This example creates something unique by using analogies to describe the color of the sky and painting a beautiful picture.

Write a gripping description with AI

Writing an exciting hook for a boring topic is more challenging than it looks. But Wordtune makes it a breeze with just two steps:

Open the Wordtune editor and write your essay topic.
Click on Explain or Emphasize and let it work its magic.

You can also change the tone of voice to make the text more in tune with your theme.

6. Metaphor hook

One of my favorite essay hooks is to open with a persuasive metaphor to contextualize the topic. Metaphors can help you approach the topic from a completely different lens and wow your readers with interesting insight.

Metaphors are also super versatile to make your writing more impactful. You can write a one-line metaphor or create a scenario comparing one thing to another and linking it to your topic.

For example, if you’re writing about the experience of working at a startup, you can open your essay with these two options:

Short & sweet: "Joining a startup is like strapping into a rollercoaster: be ready to witness thrilling highs and sinking drops."

Long & descriptive : “Picture a small sailboat navigating the unpredictable winds and tides in a vast ocean. That’s a startup operating in a massive market. And with the right vision, this journey is filled with risks and rewards.”

Create a convincing metaphor with AI

Writing good metaphors takes up a lot of creative brain power. You can always use Wordtune to find some extra inspiration if you're out of creative ideas.

Type your opening line in the Wordtune editor and click on the 'Give an analogy' option. You can ask for as many suggestions as you want till you find the best one!

What to Know About Your Essay (and Topic) Before You Write the Hook

Whether you’re writing a research paper on economics, an argumentative essay for your college composition class, or a personal essay sharing your thoughts on a topic, you need to nail down a few things before you settle on the first line for your essay.

‍ Let me break them down for you.

1. Gain in-depth knowledge of your topic

Before you start writing your essay, you need to know your topic — not just in name, but in-depth. You don't have to become a subject matter expert overnight. But you do need to research the topic inside out

Your research will help you:

Narrow your focus
Build an argument
Shape the narrative

Your research insights determine your essay’s structure and guide your choice of hook.

After organizing your research in a neat outline, think to yourself: ‍Did you uncover a shocking fact? A compelling anecdote? An interesting quote? Any of those things could be your hook.

⚡ ‍ Take action: After finishing your research, review your notes and think through your essay. Mark or make a list of anything compelling enough to be a good lead.

2. Type of essay

In academic settings, there are generally three kinds of essays:

Argumentative: Making the case for a certain stance or route of action.
Expository: Explaining the who, what, when, where, why, and how of some phenomenon.
Narrative: Telling a true story as a way to explore different ideas.

‍ The type of essay you’re writing is key to choosing the best hook for your piece.

A serious argumentative essay can start with a shocking statistic or a bold claim. And an expository essay can open with a descriptive hook while a metaphor hook would work best for a narrative essay.

⚡ ‍ Take action: Go through your list of potential hooks and cross out anything that doesn't fit the type of essay you're writing, whether it's persuasive , argumentative, or any other type.

3. Audience and tone

A best practice I often share with writers is to think of one reader and keep yourself in their shoes . This exercise can tell you so much about your audience — what kind of tone they like, what matters the most to them, what topics interest them, and so on.

You can use these insights to create a compelling essay hook. Here’s how:

For an argumentative essay, you’re trying to convince someone who doesn’t agree with you that what you’re claiming is right or, at least, reasonable. You don’t want to turn them off with snarky or offensive language — but you do want to be authoritative. Your hook should match that tone and support your effort.
A narrative essay is likely to welcome more lyrical language, so starting with a colorful description or an anecdote might make more sense than, say, a bold claim or surprising fact. Whatever tone you choose for your narrative essay — comical or gentle or bold — should be used for your hook.
‍ Expository essays can use all sorts of tones and be written to a variety of audiences, so think carefully about the tone that best fits your subject matter. An essay explaining how the human body shuts down when overdosed will likely require a different tone than one on the lives of circus masters in the late 1800s.

⚡ ‍ Take action: Look at your list. Can you write these potential hooks in a tone that suits your subject and audience?

4. Length of essay

Are you writing a 10-page paper or a three-page reflection? Or is this your senior thesis, pushing over 100 pages?

‍ If you’re writing a shorter paper, you’ll want to keep your hook quick and snappy.

Readers are expecting a quick read, and they don’t want to spend five minutes only going through the introduction.

In contrast, you can approach a longer essay — like a senior thesis or a term paper — with a longer hook. Just make sure your hook relates to and supports the core point of your essay. You don’t want to waste space describing a scene that ultimately has nothing to do with the rest of your piece.

⚡ ‍ Take action: If you write out the items on your list, how long will they be? A sentence or paragraph? Perfect. Two to five paragraphs? Unless your essay is on the longer side, you may want to save that information for later in the piece.

‍ Now that you know the basic facts about what you’re writing, let’s look at some approaches you could use to catch those readers — and reel them in.

3 Approaches to Avoid When Writing Hooks

I’ve read hundreds of essays — enough to recognize lazy writing from the first few words. It’s equally easy for readers to discard your essays as ‘poorly written’ just by reading the first line.

So, I made a list of three types of essay hooks you want to avoid at all costs because these hooks can only disappoint your readers.

1. Quotations

Quotes are probably the most overused type of hook in any form of writing. What's even worse is rinsing and repeating the same old quotes from Abraham Lincoln or Nelson Mandela in your essays.

No matter how powerful a quote sounds, you shouldn’t slap it at the opening of your essay. It doesn’t give readers the excitement of reading something original and looks lazy.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on productivity, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work” – Stephen King

Did you know that consuming 100 gms of sugar can slash your productivity levels by over 50% in a day?

2. Definitions

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines a hook as "a thing designed to catch people's attention."

If I opened my article with this dictionary definition of a hook, you’d have either dozed off or left this page long back to find something more interesting.

Here's the thing: definitions put people to sleep. Readers don't want to see a formal, jargon-heavy definition of a topic as the very first line of an essay. Your opening statement should have some personality in it to show readers they're in for an exciting read.

For example, if you’re writing about happy hormones, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

Happy hormones are known to boost the happiness levels in your body by creating positive feelings.

Ever wondered why cat videos make you instantly happy, and ice creams give you an extra dose of energy? It's all about how happy hormones control our brain chemistry.

3. “Imagine this”

Opening your essay with "Imagine this" used to be an interesting way to put your readers in a scenario and set the context for your essay. But now, it's far too cliched and just another lazy attempt to write an essay hook.

You can create a relatable scenario for users without asking them to imagine or picture it. Use the descriptive hook format with an interesting choice of words to convey the same ideas more creatively.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on preparing for higher studies abroad, here’s what a good and bad lede looks like:

Imagine this: You’ve been applying to multiple universities, writing SOPs, and preparing for exams without guidance. Everything can go south any minute.

College application season is officially here. But with each passing day, you’re under more and more stress to apply to your chosen colleges and tick all the items off your list.

‍Our Go-To Trick for Writing Catchy Hooks

This opening statement can make or break your entire essay. While I’ve broken down my best tips to create the best essay hooks, here’s a surefire way to write compelling openings :

Go through your notes and either outline your essay or write the whole thing. This way, you’ll know the central thread (or throughline) that runs throughout your piece.

Once your essay or outline is complete, go back through and identify a particularly compelling fact, claim, or example that relates to that central thread.

‍Write up that fact, claim, or example as the hook for your essay using any of the methods we’ve covered. Then revise or write your essay so the hook leads smoothly into the rest of the piece and you don’t repeat that information elsewhere.

Does your hook spark curiosity in you?

Did that fact surprise you in the research stage?

Chances are, your readers will have the same reaction.

And that’s exactly what you want.

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Good Hooks for Essays: 14 Hook Ideas with Examples

Now here’s the clue.

If you want to wow your teacher, polish the introduction. Add something interesting, funny, shocking, or intriguing. Good essay hooks help you build an emotional connection right from the start. Think of an essay hook as bait for your readers.

Our expert team has prepared numerous examples of hooks for essays. You’ll find hook examples for an argumentative essay, personal story, history essay, and other types of papers.

For 100% clarity, we provided examples using each hook tactic. And a short part about how to write a good hook.

Teacher: "I won't forgive you for this essay." Student: "But you gave me an A. What's wrong with it?" Teacher: "I couldn't stop reading it, and I burned my dinner."

💎 What Exactly Is a Hook & How to Write a Good One
📜 Examples of Classical Essay Hooks
💡 Try Some Informative Essay Hooks
🦄 Here are the Most Uncommon Essay Hooks

✅ Good Hooks for Essays: Bonus Tips

🔗 References for More Information

We highly recommend reading all the methods and examples, so you don’t have any questions.

💎 How to Write a Hook That Will Work for Your Essay?

The hook of your essay usually appears in the very first sentence.

The average length of an essay hook should be 3-7 sentences, depending on the topic.

But first, let’s quickly go through the key questions.

What Is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook (or narrative hook) is a literary technique that writers use to keep their readers engaged. It shows that the content below is worth reading.

The hook can have different lengths. Some writers make it last for several pages. Though, it better be a short paragraph or even a sentence.

Why Do You Need a Good Essay Hook?

Writing the right hook is essential for a few reasons:

It heats up your readers’ interest. If you did it right, they read the whole piece.
It shows off your skills . A right hook presents you as an expert in your field.
It attracts target audience. Only the readers you want will keep reading.
It keeps the tension on the right level. Use an intriguing question, and a reader dies to find out the answer.
It makes a good introduction. Starting your essay off a boring fact is simply not a good idea.

How to Write a Good Hook: Ideas and Examples

Next, we will discuss these hook types in more detail. We’ll also provide essay hook examples of less common yet intriguing types: dialogue, story, contradiction, comparison, definition, metaphor, puzzle, announcement, and background information hooks.

💬 The Famous Quote Hook

Use a famous quote as a hook for your essay on history, literature, or even social sciences. It will present you as an established writer. It shows how knowledgeable you are and motivates the readers to engage in the text.

⬇️ Check out examples below ⬇️

Quote Hook Example: Political Science

Hilary Clinton once said that "there cannot be true democracy unless women's voices are heard." Which creates a discussion about how perfect democracy should look like. If it is a form of government that considers all opinions, why are women silenced so often even nowadays? The truth is that we need to ensure completely equal opportunities for women in politics before we talk about establishing the correct version of democracy. And even the most developed and progressive countries are still struggling to get to that level of equality. It can be achieved by various methods, even though they might only work in certain countries.

Social Sciences

"Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country." These words of wisdom from John Kennedy reflect the perspective we need to teach the younger generations. For some reason, it has become popular to blame the government for any problem arising in society. Is it their fault that we don't think about waste and keep trashing our home? Social responsibility is a real thing. The well-being of our countries starts with the actions of every separate individual. It is not entirely right to wait until the government fixes all the issues for us. The best strategy is to start thinking about what we can do as a community to make our home even a better place.

And excellent sources of quotes for you:

Brainyquote.com – you can search quotes by topic or by author.
Goodreads.com is not only a great collection of e-books but also quotes.
Quoteland.com has plenty of brilliant words for all imaginable situations.
Quotationspage.com – more than 30,000 quotations for unique essay hooks.

❓Rhetorical Question Essay Hooks

It doesn’t have to be rhetorical – any type of question addressed to your audience will do its job. Such a universal kind of hook can spike the interest of your readers immediately.

Some useful patterns of rhetorical questions:

What could be more important than…?
What if there was only one… (chance/day/hour)?
Who wouldn’t like to… (be a cat/turn visitors into clients)?
Why bother about… (inequality/imperfect education system)?
Which is more important: … (making money or realizing potential)?

And more in examples:

Example of a Question Hook on Education

Wouldn't free access to education for everyone be wonderful? The answer would most likely be positive. However, it is not as simple as it seems. As much as the governments try to achieve this goal, there are still many uneducated people. On the bright side, in the era of technology, learning has never been so easy. Of course, some young adults just prefer the shortcut option of taking a student loan. Other ways are much more challenging and require a lot of responsibility and patience. Finding free educational resources online and gaining experience with the help of video tutorials might sound unprofessional. Still, you will be surprised how many experts hired in different fields only received this type of education.

Question Hook Example: Health

Is there anything that can help you lose weight fast? You have probably heard of this magical keto diet that is getting more and more popular worldwide. People claim that it helps them shred those excess pounds in unbelievably short terms. But how healthy is it, and does it suit anyone? The truth is that no diet is universal, and thanks to our differences, some weight-loss methods can even be harmful. Keto diet, for example, leads your body into the state of ketosis. What happens is that you don't receive carbohydrates, and in this state, fat is used as the primary source of energy instead them. However, it carries potential threats.

😂 Anecdotal Essay Hooks

This type would usually be more suitable for literary pieces or personal stories. So, don’t use it for formal topics, such as business and economics. Note that this hook type can be much longer than one sentence. It usually appears as the whole first paragraph itself.

It wouldn't be Kate if she didn't do something weird, so she took a stranger for her best friend this time. There is nothing wrong with it; mistakes like that happen all the time. However, during only five minutes that Kate spent with the stranger, she blabbed too much. Thinking that she sat down at the table that her friend took, Kate was so busy starting on her phone that she didn't notice that it wasn't her friend at all. Sure enough, the naive girl started talking about every little detail of her last night that she spent with her date. It was too much for the ears of an old lady. Kate realized she took the wrong table only when it was too late.

Literature (personal story)

Do not ever underestimate the power of raccoons! Those little furry animals that may look overly cute are too smart and evil. It only takes one box of pizza left outside your house by the delivery person for the disaster to begin. When they smell that delicious pizza, no doors can stop them. They will join the forces to find a hole in your house to squeeze into. Even if it's a window crack four feet above the ground, they know how to get to it. Using their fellow raccoons as the ladder, they get inside the house. They sneak into the kitchen and steal your pizza in front of your eyes and your scared-to-death dog. Not the best first day in the new home, is it?

📈 Fact or Statistic Hook

Looking deeper into your essay topic, you might find some numbers that are quite amusing or shocking. They can serve as perfect hooks for economics- and business-oriented writings. Also, it is better if they are less known.

Business/social sciences

The UAE workforce is culturally diverse since around 20% of employees (usually called expatriates) come from different countries. Ex-pats tend to take managerial positions, which makes communication within companies quite tricky. The training focused on raising cultural awareness is getting more common, but such educational strategies as games (or gamification) are still rarely applied in the UAE companies. Yet, gamification was a useful tool in other places, making it an attractive UAE team building method. It can significantly help integrate ex-pats and create a more culturally aware environment.

Statistic Hook Example in Economics

The United Arab Emirate's debt has been rising drastically in past years, from about US$17 billion in 2003, which is almost 19 percent of GDP, to US$184 billion in 2009. Only a small proportion of the debt can be tracked directly to the public sector. A report by UBS bank shows that most of the debt comes from the corporate sector. Most of the companies that hold the main section of the debt are financial institutions. The public sector partly owns them. Banks in the UAE have been accumulating their debt amounts in the years mentioned above and could now account for 75 percent of the total foreign debt. The discussion is about the reasons why the UAE debt has been rising at an alarming rate.

Some good sources for statistics

Finance.yahoo.com is perfect for business papers.
Usa.gov/statistics is an easy-to-use governmental engine for searching data and stats.
Unstats.un.org provides a massive collection of statistics published by UN organizations
Oecd-ilibrary.org is the online library of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), featuring its books, papers, and statistics and is a gateway to the OECD’s analysis and data.

🤯 Shocking Facts are Very Good Hooks for Essays

Very similar to a statistical hook, a fact can serve as a perfect engaging introduction. Search your field for some shocking phenomenon and gently insert it in the beginning.

Don’t forget to include a reliable source reinforcing your words!

Fact Hook Example in Economics

Nowadays, much attention is paid to the problem of shark finning around the world. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their fins, and many of them are dropped back to the ocean finless, where they die because of suffocation. In many countries, the idea of shark finning remains illegal and unethical, but the possibility of earning huge money cannot be ignored (Dell'Apa et al. 151). Regarding available technologies, market economies, trade relations, and cheap employment, it does not take much time to organize special trips for shark hunting. The Trade of shark fins is alive and well developed in countries like the United States and China. However, the number of people who are eager to try shark fin soup has considerably decreased during the last several years because of the popularity of anti-shark fin soup campaigns and laws supported worldwide (Mosbergen). The situation continues to change in China.

Daniel Stacey and Ross Kelly observed that long lines and a new gray market trend for bigger screen phones marked Apple's new iPhones debut. As expected, new phone models drew Apple fans outside retail stores (Stacey and Kelly). Global critics, however, noted that this year's lines were generally longer relative to previous periods mainly because of the developing gray market for Apple products. The new Apple's iPhones have larger screens than the previous models. Also, they boast of improved battery life, faster processors, and an enhanced camera. Tim Cook called them "mother of all upgrades" (Stacey and Kelly).

Sources to look for reliable facts:

Buzzfeed.com – news, videos, quizzes.
Cracked.com – a website full of funny stuff, like articles, videos, pictures, etc.
Webmd.com – an incredible collection of medical facts you will love.
Livescience.com – discoveries hitting on a broad range of fields.
National Geographic – needs no introduction.
Mental Floss answers life’s big questions, a compilation of fascinating facts and incredible stories.

🗣️ Dialogue as a Catchy Hook for Essays

Dialogue is another type of hooks that goes perfectly with pieces of literature and stories. It can even make your short essay stand out if you include it at the beginning. But don’t forget that it only concerns specific topics such as literature and history.

Here it is:

Dialogue Hook Example in Literature

– Why did you do it? – I don't know anymore… That's why I'm leaving for a little bit right now. I need time to think.

With these words, Anna stepped back into the train car and waved goodbye to Trevor. She couldn’t even find the right words to explain why she ran away on her wedding day. It wasn’t that she didn’t love Trevor, but there was this deep, natural, and unexplored feeling that told her it wasn’t time yet. But the only thing Anna realized was that the city made her sick. That day, she took off her wedding dress, bought a ticket on the next flight leaving that afternoon, and hopped on the train taking her to the airport. She couldn’t even remember the country’s name she was going to so blurry everything was from her tears.

Dialogue Hook for History Essay

– If we still had inquisition, we could probably set him on fire. – Some dark magic, indeed, my friend! It would have probably been a real dialogue if we knew who was the first automobile inventor for sure. People were undoubtedly shocked to see the cars moving by themselves without horses. However, since they started appearing around the globe around the same time, it is almost impossible to identify who was the original creator of the idea and the first automobile itself. The credit was usually given to Karl Benz from Germany, who created a gasoline car in 1885-1886. But there are also much earlier records of a gentleman named Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot, who built the first vehicle powered by steam in France in 1769.

🔮 A Story Looks Like an Extremely Good Essay Hook

A universal essay hook is a story. You can use this trick pretty much anywhere. The main challenge is to be as authentic as possible, try to tell something fresh and engaging. The more specific and narrow the story, the more chances for a successful introduction.

Story Hook Example for an Essay on Business

Dell started fast and strong. The original company was founded in 1984 when the founder was only a 19-year-old student at the University of Texas. Four years after the inception of the company, Michael Dell became the Entrepreneur of the Year. Eight years after he started the company from his dorm room's comfort, Dell was chosen as the Man of the Year by PC Magazine. […] The company was acknowledged as the world's leading direct marketer of personal computers. At the same time, Dell was known as one of the top five PC vendors on the planet (Hunger 9). […] However, the company's journey encountered a major hurdle down the road. Even after recovering from an economic recession in 2010, the company continued to experience declining sales.

🦚 Contradictory Statement – Queen of Good Hooks

Everybody loves to start an argument by contradicting some facts. Therefore, you simply need to add a controversial statement at the beginning of your essay. People of all ages and beliefs will not be able to stop reading it!

Challenging your readers works well for social sciences, business, and psychology topics.

Examples of contradictory statements essay hooks:

If you think being a manager is a calm and relatively easy task, try surviving on five cups of coffee, a sandwich, and two packs of cigarettes a day. You would rather believe that managers only walk around the office and give their staff orders, wouldn't you? Unfortunately, the reality is much harsher than such rainbowy dreams. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. A whole set of personal qualities and professional skills must keep up with the successful strategic planning, assessment, and development. All the tasks the managers need to attend to are nerve-wracking and sometimes almost impossible to do. The stress from the demanding managerial position is often overlooked or underestimated.

Social sciences

Video games have been ruining our kids' lives and leading to an increase in crime. Since the gaming industry's development in recent years, the fear of its adverse effects on the younger generations' brains has become a significant concern. There is such a wide variety of games, ranging from educational to violent shooters and horrors. Almost immediately, caring parents jumped on the latter category, claiming that its impact is too significant and children become more aggressive and uncontrollable. Some supporters of this theory went even further. They decided to link real-life crimes to the effects of violent video games on child and adult behavior. However, as we will see later in this article, there is no or little scientific evidence supporting those ideas.

🔁 Vivid Comparison Essay Hook

Introducing your topic with an engaging, vivid comparison is a universal strategy. It is suitable for any kind of writing. The main idea is to grab your readers’ attention by showing them your unique perspective on the topic. Try to make the comparison amusing and exciting.

Comparison Essay Hook Options:

Comparison with daily chores (e.g., Proofreading your essays is like cleaning your teeth.)
Comparison with something everyone hates (e.g., Learning grammar is like going to the dentist.)
Comparison with something everyone loves (e.g., John was happy like a child eating a free vanilla ice cream.)
Comparison of modern and old-school phenomena (e.g., Modern email has much in common with pigeon post.)
Funny comparison (e.g., Justin Bieber is the Michael Jackson of his time)

Check out examples:

Environment

For many people, flying feels like a dream come true. More and more people take their first-ever flight thanks to the rapidly developing aviation technologies. Aircraft and airports are advancing, and air traveling is getting cheaper. However, except for transporting eager travel addicted and business people, planes are used in other ways. It appears that the whole economies across the world depend on the effectiveness and efficiency of airlines. Import and export demand this kind of transportation to work at all times. Aviation development seems like a great thing. However, just like any other technological breakthrough, it comes with a price. Environmental issues did not wait too long to show up.

Social sciences/psychology

Leaving home for the first time as a freshman can only be compared to the level of stress you had in childhood when your mother left you in the line at the checkout for too long. Indeed, becoming a student and moving out of the parent's house comes with a great deal of stress. All the unknown that lies ahead makes youngsters too anxious. Then, the difficulties of financial planning and increased academic pressure come as additional sources of worries. However, it does not have to be such a negative experience. Particular techniques can help students overcome their stress related to the separation from their parents.

📄 Definitions = Easy & Good Hooks for Essays

Another versatile essay hook option is introducing a qualitative definition. Try to make it capacious, and don’t fall into verbal jungles. This narrative hook is perfect for short scientific papers where there is only one focus subject.

Business Ethics

White-collar crime refers to the peaceful offense committed with the intention of gaining unlawful monetary benefits. There are several white-collar crimes that can be executed. They include extortion, insider trading, money laundering, racketeering, securities fraud, and tax evasion. Enron Company was an American based energy company. It was the largest supplier of natural gas in America in the early 1990s. The company had a stunning performance in the 1990s. Despite the excellent performance, stakeholders of the company were concerned about the complexity of the financial statements. The company's management used the complex nature of the financial statements and the accounting standards' weaknesses to manipulate the financial records. The white-collar crime was characterized by inflating the asset values, overstating the reported cash flow, and failure to disclose the financial records' liabilities. This paper carries out an analysis of the Enron scandal as an example of white-collar crime as discussed in the video, The Smartest Guys in the Room.

Motivation is the act of influencing someone to take any action to achieve a particular goal (Montana& Chanov, 2008). Employees' motivation depends on the job's nature, the company's organizational culture, and personal characteristics. In this case study, various theories influence and show how employees can be motivated in the workplace.

📚 Metaphor Hook for Essays

Naturally, using a metaphor as a hook for your essay comes with some limitations. You should only use this type in literature and sometimes in psychology. However, it serves as a great attention grabber if it’s engaging enough.

Let’s see how you can use a metaphor:

When life gives you dirt, don't try to squeeze the juice out of it. It's better to leave it alone and let it dry out a bit. Kate decided to follow this philosophy since nothing else seemed to work. After the painful divorce process, last week's ridiculous work assignments and managing two kids alone almost drove her crazy. No polite discussions, arguing, or bribing helped take care of seemingly a million tasks these little women had to deal with. Even letting out the anger just like her phycologist recommended did not help much. Instead, Kate referred to the last remedy. She put all the issues aside with the hope that it would get better later.

The recipe is relatively easy – take a cup of self-respect, two cups of unconditional love, half a cup of good health, a pinch of new positive experiences, and mix it all for a perfect state of happiness! We all wish it would be possible, right? However, the mystery of this state of being happy is still unsolved. The concept and its perception considerably change depending on time and values. Happiness is so complicated that there is even no universal definition of it. Besides, humans are social creatures, so associating your level of success with others is not unusual. Therefore, being happy means achieving a certain level of several aspects.

🧩 Puzzle? Yes! Amazing Hook for Your Essay

Doesn’t a good riddle grab your attention? Sometimes you just want to find out the answer. The other times, you want to figure out how it is related to the topic. Such a hook would be great for writings on psychology and even economics or business.

Here are the examples:

How many Google office employees you need to destroy a box of fresh donuts? Google is indeed famous for some of the most accommodating and unique working places around the whole world. However, the success of the company does not only appear from treats for employees. It seems that the organizational culture has many effects on business decisions and overall performance. All the staff working in Google share the same visions and values, helping them cooperate and lead the company to success. However, there is one aspect to consider. The organizational culture needs to be adapted to the ever-changing business environment.

Who survives on dirt-like substance, is never joyful, and only returns to the cave to sleep? It sounds horrible, but the correct answer is human. Nowadays, the demands for any kind of workers are rising, which brings tremendous effects on people. As the number of duties increases, it is getting harder for employees not to chug on coffee and come back home in time for a family dinner. The work-life balance is disturbed, leading to anxiety, relationship issues, and even health problems. Social life appears to be as important as making money. Therefore, the correct distribution of time between personal life and work duties is necessary for happiness.

📢 Announcement Is Also a Good Essay Hook Option

Announcements could be suitable for literary pieces and historical essays.

Such a hook doesn’t have to be too long. It should be significant enough to persuade your readers to stick to your writing. Make sure it aligns with your topic as well.

Ways to use announcements as essay hooks:

It was a revolution! The Beatle's first song came out in 1962, and almost immediately, hordes of fans pledged their loyalty to this new band. Nearly all youngsters became obsessed with their music. No one can deny that the Beatles are still considered the creators of some of the best songs in history. However, the arrival of the British band influences culture as well. Many photos depict girls going crazy on live concerts and guys shaping their haircuts after the Beatles' members. The revolution that the band brought left an impact, evidence that we can still trace in modern British culture and music.

I will never go to Starbucks again! Oh, no, mind me. I love their coffee. At some point in my life, I even thought I had an addiction and had to ask my friends to watch my consumption of Pumpkin Spice Latte. Then, the wind of change turned everything upside down. On my usual Starbucks morning run, I noticed a homeless man holding a paper cup begging for money. At first, I didn't pay much attention since it's a usual occurrence in our area. However, one day, I recognized my old neighbor in him. The only cash I had on me, I usually spent on my cup of coffee, but I decided it was not much of a sacrifice. From that moment, I only showed up on that street to shove a few bucks into that poor guy's cup. One day, to my surprise, he talked to me.

ℹ️ Background Information Essay Hook

Last but not least, give background information on your subject to make a good intro. Such an essay hook is effortless and suitable for practically any paper. Try to find the most unobvious angle to the background information. At the same time, keep it short and substantive.

Here are the ways to use background information essay hooks:

Air Arabia is among the leading low-cost carriers in the global airline industry. The airline is mainly based at the Sharjah International Airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) (Air Arabia, 2012). The airline came into inception in 2003 after His Highness Dr. Sheik Mohammed Al Qassimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Emiri Decree. Later, Air Arabia was transformed into a limited liability company. For nearly a decade, Air Arabia has witnessed tremendous growth, resulting in increased fleet size and improved sales revenues. At the same time, Air Arabia has created a renowned brand that offers reliable and safe services (Dubai Media Incorporated, 2012). Air Arabia identifies itself as a low-cost carrier by providing low fares in the industry. Some of the key strengths of the airline include punctuality and safety. This aims to ensure that the airline serves its customers most efficiently by observing its safety requirements and adhering to the landing and takeoff schedules (De Kluyver, 2010).

Walmart was founded by Sam Walton in the Arkansas United States in 1962 as a grocery store. The company, which operates a chain of over 8,000 stores in fifteen countries, is estimated to employ over two million employees from diverse backgrounds. Wal-Mart was incorporated in 1969 and started trading in the New York Stock Exchange in 1972. […] Although the company can leave its consumers with a saving due to its low-price policy, it has faced some sharp criticisms over how it treats its employees and other stakeholders. Wal-Mart boasts of its ability to save its customers' money, an average of $950 per year. This, however, has been criticized as harming the community. Also, the feminists' activists have focused on Walmart's misconduct in offering low prices. (Fraedrich, Ferrell & Ferrell 440)

Now we won’t keep you for long. Let’s just go through simple points of essay hook writing.

Someone may think that you have to write your hook first. It comes first in the paper, right?

In reality, though, you can wait until your entire essay is nearly finished. Then go back and rewrite the very first paragraph. This way, you can have a fresh look at what you’ve written in the beginning.

Here’s a simple plan you can follow.

First, write a basic version of your thesis statement.
Then, provide supporting evidence for your thesis in every body paragraph.
After that, reword your thesis statement and write your concluding paragraph.
Finally, search for an attention-grabbing fact, statistic, or anything from the list above to serve as an engaging essay hook.

Add this essay hook to the beginning of your introduction. Make sure that your ideas still flow naturally into your thesis statement.

⚠️ Pro tip: choose various hooks and play around, adding each hook to your introduction paragraph. Like this, you can determine which one makes the most impressive beginning to your paper.

Some of your choices may sound interesting but may not lead to your essay’s main point. Don’t panic! Paper writing always involves trial and error. Just keep trying your essay hook ideas until one fits perfectly.

That’s it 😊

Good luck with your work!

🔗 References

Hook – Examples and Definition of Hook
How to Engage the Reader in the Opening Paragraph – BBC
Hooks and Attention Grabbers; George Brown College Writing Centre
Hook Examples and Definition; Literary Devices
What Is a Narrative Hook? Video
How to: Writing Hooks or Attention-Getting Openings-YouTube

Research Paper Analysis: How to Analyze a Research Article + Example

Film analysis: example, format, and outline + topics & prompts.

Essay Writing Guide

Hook Example

Learn How to Write an Essay Hook, With Examples

16 min read

What is an Essay Hook?

Hooks for essays, often found at the beginning of an essay introduction , serve as an opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. These hooks are a common feature in high school, college, and various academic assignments.

Keep in mind that hooks are not the same as introductions; they complement introductions and make them engaging. A good hook should be self-contained, avoiding the pitfalls of being dull or predictable.

Purpose of Hook in Writing

An effective hook serves two primary purposes.

Firstly, it sets the tone for the essay by giving a sneak peek into what it's about.
Secondly, it creates an engaging start that makes the reader want to explore the essay further.

How to Write a Good Essay Hook?

Here are the points that you need to keep in mind to write a hook for your essay.

Step#1 Know the Kind of Literary Work

First, it is important to have a clear vision in mind of the literary work you have selected for your paper. Here you need to describe what a certain essay type demands and what types of techniques you require to support your arguments in your essay.

Step#2 Create an Outline

Always create an essay outline to see how the information can be organized better and which points need to be highlighted. Try to find an attention grabber that adds to the significance of that point.

Step#3 Who are You Writing for?

Know your target audience and choose a way in which you want to develop your work. Your hook statement should be according to it. If you are writing for students, write in simple language. If you are writing for professionals, take the specific language into account.

Step#4 Know the Purpose of Writing Your Essay

Choose hooks that fit your paper. Know the type of essay you are writing and its purpose. You can go for funny hooks if you are writing a paper on a light topic. If you are writing a conference paper, then you should be more formal.

Step#5 Revise and Refine

After writing your hook, revise it to ensure it's polished and impactful. Ask yourself if it effectively grabs attention and sets the stage for your essay.

Different Types of Hook

Let’s take a look at different types of essay hooks and explain them briefly with examples.

Type 1: Question Hook

A question hook is when you start something, like a story or an essay, by asking a question. It's a way to immediately get people thinking about what you're going to say next. It's like hooking their attention by making them wonder and want to find out the answer.

When posing a question, think about the interest of the reader and the things they would want to learn more about. Avoid making your question generalized or simple Yes or No questions.

For example, asking a general question such as “Do you watch television?” won’t grab their attention and make them think it over.

Always use rhetorical questions!

Question Hook Example

Here are some hook question examples:

Type 2: Anecdotal Hook

An anecdotal hook is like starting your essay with a short, interesting story or personal experience. It catches someone's attention by sharing a real-life example or a funny incident before getting to the main topic.

This type of hook should be directly related to the central theme of the paper, showing its relevance and connection to the main idea.

Anecdotal hooks shouldn't contain cliched phrases or unrealistic scenarios that feel fake or unrelated to the essay topic.

Anecdote Hook Example

Let’s take a look at the anecdotal hook example:

Type 3: Quotation Hook

A "quote hook" is a type of hook used in writing that involves opening an essay with a quotation from a notable person, a famous author, or a respected source. The purpose of a quote hook is to instantly capture the reader's attention and establish the relevance of the topic by providing an authoritative statement.

A well-chosen quote can add credibility to your writing, evoke emotion, or introduce a key theme that you intend to explore in your essay. It can also set the tone for the piece, whether it's persuasive, informative, or narrative.

Quotation Hook Example

For example, if you're writing an essay about the importance of perseverance, you might start with a quote like this:

Type 4: Statistical Facts Hooks

Statistical facts hooks are when you start an essay with numbers or data to grab people's attention. The purpose of a statistical facts hook is to engage the reader's interest by presenting them with a surprising, statistic related to the essay's topic.

This type of hook is particularly effective when writing an informative essay or persuasive essay that relies on data and evidence to support the main argument.

Statistical Hook Example

Take a look at the sample statistical hook below:

Type 5: Personal Story Hook

Starting a piece of writing with a personal short story is a good idea when writing narrative essays or a college application essay .

It doesn’t have to be an experience that you faced firsthand; it could be something that happened with a friend or a relative.

Personal Story Hook Example

Here is what a good personal story hook looks like:

Type 6: Description Hook

This type of hook is like painting a picture with words. Instead of jumping right into the action or topic, it starts by vividly describing something related to the main idea.

This draws readers in by appealing to their senses and creating a clear image in their minds. It sets the scene and gets them interested in what's to come. Descriptive hooks are most commonly used in narrative essays but can be used in any type of writing.

Description Hook Essay Example

Here is an example of a description hook:

Type 7: Metaphor/Simile Hook

A metaphor or simile hook is like comparing something in your essay to something else, using words like "as" or "like."It directly compares two things that are not related to each other.

It's a way to paint a vivid picture in the reader's mind, making your point more interesting and memorable.

Metaphor/Simile Hook Example

Let’s take a look at the metaphor/simile hook example:

Type 8: Common Misconception Hook

This type of hook starts by talking about something that most people believe, but then reveals that it's actually not true. It's like saying something surprising to make your reader curious and interested in what you're going to say next.

Avoid adding information that's too complex or confusing, keeping it simple and straightforward to maintain clarity and impact.

Common Misconception Hook Example

Here is a sample common misconception hook:

Hook Examples for Types of Essays

In academics, there are different types of essays according to their structure and purpose. For instance, an argumentative essay is a serious essay written to persuade the reader of an argument. Whereas a narrative essay could be a light-hearted narration of an event.

You can not use a funny question to start an argumentative essay. Similarly, you can not use a serious fact to start a funny narrative essay.

The table shows hook examples for different types of essays:

Let’s explore in detail some interesting hook examples according to different types of essays.

Expository Essay Hook Example -

Argumentative essay hook example.

Here are two different hook examples for argumentative essay:

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Descriptive Essay Hook Example

A hook example sentence for a descriptive essay is as follows:

Persuasive Essay Hook Example

A hook example sentence for a persuasive essay is as follows:

Narrative Essay Hook Example

A hook example for narration is as follows:

Compare and Contrast Essay Hook Example

Here is a sample hook:

Process Essay Hook Example

A hook example sentence for a process analysis essay is as follows:

Cause and Effect Essay Hook Example

A hook example sentence for a cause and effect essay is as follows:

Analytical Essay Hook Example

A hook example sentence for an analytical essay is as follows:

Informative Essay Hook Example

Here is a hook example for an informative essay:

Research Paper Hook Example

Here is a hook example for research paper :

Hook Examples In Speeches

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Tips to Choose a Good Hook

Choosing a good hook involves engaging your audience, creating interest, and setting the stage for your content. Here is how to choose a good hook:

Know Your Audience: Understand the interests and preferences of your target audience.
Relevance is Key: Ensure your hook directly relates to your content's topic.
Shock or Surprise: Use shocking facts, surprising statistics, or intriguing anecdotes.
Tell a Story: Engage emotionally with personal stories or narratives.
Pose a Question: Ask thought-provoking questions that make readers curious.
Quotations: Share powerful quotes from relevant authorities.
Visual Imagery: Use descriptive language to create vivid mental images.
Conciseness: Keep your hook brief and to the point.

To Sum it Up!

Now you know the different ways to start your essay or research paper. You are the one to decide which hook is better and more effective to use according to the type of paper. Don’t forget to take into account the preparatory steps and figure out what type of hook is best to use. You know that starting with a hook can make or break your academic essay. However, it is not always easy to come up with the perfect anecdote or statement for an opening line.

Luckily, you can get help from MyPerfectWords.com . Our team of professional writers is ready to craft impeccable essays tailored to your needs, ensuring academic success without the stress.

Why struggle with complex assignments when you can ask us to " write my essay online " and experience the difference firsthand?

Order your essay now and unlock a world of academic excellence!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good hook sentence.

A good hook sentence is a sentence that grabs the reader’s attention or compels them to read your essay further. It is supposed to make your essay more interesting and engaging for them.

What comes first, thesis or hook?

The hook of your essay is the first line of your introductory paragraph or can be more than one also. But the essay hook is written first. A thesis statement follows it. It is included as a mini-outline of the essay and tells the readers about the essay’s content.

What is a hook statement?

The hook is the first sentence of your introduction, and it should be interesting. A great way to start a strong introduction is by writing an engaging, concise, and clear hook. This will spark curiosity in the reader, which leads them through all that you have written about.

How long is a hook in an essay?

The hook is 1-2 sentences of your essay are important because they help capture the reader's attention. They will continue reading if they are interested in what you have to say.

What is the difference between a hook vs lead-in transition to the thesis?

A hook captures the reader's attention at the beginning of an essay with an intriguing statement or question. A lead-in transition smoothly connects the hook to the thesis statement, guiding the reader from the attention-grabbing opening to the main argument of the essay.

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Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

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Writing Tips

How to Write the Ultimate Essay Hook

4-minute read

6th May 2023

Never underestimate the power of an essay hook . This opening statement is meant to grab the reader’s attention and convince them to keep reading. But how do you write one that’ll pack a punch? In this article, we’ll break this down.

What Is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the first thing your audience will read. If it doesn’t hook them right off the bat, they might decide not to keep reading. It’s important that your opening statement is impactful while not being too wordy or presumptuous.

It’s also crucial that it clearly relates to your topic. You don’t want to mislead your readers into thinking your essay is about something it’s not. So, what kind of essay hook should you write? Here are seven ideas to choose from:

1. Story

Everyone likes a good story. If an interesting story or anecdote relates to your essay topic, the hook is a great place to include it. For example:

The key to a good story hook is keeping it short and sweet. You’re not writing a novel in addition to an essay!

2. Fact

Another great essay hook idea is to lay out a compelling fact or statistic. For example:

There are a few things to keep in mind when doing this. Make sure it’s relevant to your topic, accurate, and something your audience will care about. And, of course, be sure to cite your sources properly.

3. Metaphor or Simile

If you want to get a little more creative with your essay hook, try using a metaphor or simile . A metaphor states that something is something else in a figurative sense, while a simile states that something is like something else.

Metaphors and similes are effective because they provide a visual for your readers, making them think about a concept in a different way. However, be careful not to make them too far-fetched or overly exaggerated.

4. Question

Asking your audience a question is a great way to hook them. Not only does it make them think, but they’ll also want to keep reading because you will have sparked their curiosity. For example:

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Try to avoid using questions that start with something along the lines of “Have you ever wondered…?” Instead, try to think of a question they may never have wondered about. And be sure not to answer it right away, at least not fully. Use your essay to do that!

5. Declaration

Making a bold statement or declaring a strong opinion can immediately catch people’s attention. For example:

Regardless of whether your reader agrees with you, they’ll probably want to keep reading to find out how you will back up your claim. Just make sure your declaration isn’t too controversial, or you might scare readers away!

6. Common Misconception

Laying out a common misconception is another useful way to hook your reader. For example:

If your readers don’t know that a common belief is actually a misconception, they’ll likely be interested in learning more. And if they are already aware, it’s probably a topic they’re interested in, so they’ll want to read more.

7. Description

You can put your descriptive powers into action with your essay hook. Creating interesting or compelling imagery places your reader into a scene, making the words come alive.

A description can be something beautiful and appealing or emotionally charged and provoking. Either way, descriptive writing is a powerful way to immerse your audience and keep them reading.

When writing an essay, don’t skimp on the essay hook! The opening statement has the potential to convince your audience to hear what you have to say or to let them walk away. We hope our ideas have given you some inspiration.

And once you finish writing your essay, make sure to send it to our editors. We’ll check it for grammar, spelling, word choice, references, and more. Try it out for free today with a 500-word sample !

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How To Write A Great Essay Hook (With Examples)

Smodin Editorial Team
Published: November 24, 2023

Learning the secrets behind an effective essay starts with understanding the power of a hook. Your hook is the opening statement of your introduction and ultimately acts as an invitation to your readers. It invites them to explore the ideas you’re presenting, while also engaging their attention for a long enough time to read your work.

With a great hook, you can improve your writing skills and set the stage for a masterfully written essay. But what else is a good hook able to do? And what kind of hook can you use to write an incredible essay?

This guide (complete with hook sentence examples) will help walk you through the steps of writing a hook and how to use it to boost your grades and make your work more compelling than ever!

What Is An Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the opening sentence or paragraphs of your essay and is designed to pique the curiosity of your reader while also holding their attention long enough to read the rest of your work. Think about it – would you want to read an essay if the first sentence is long-winded and boring?

Generally, writers use an effective hook to set the tone for the rest of the work and give you a quick look ‘behind the curtain’. The hook tells you exactly what the essay is about in a thoughtful and thought-provoking way that leaves you hungry for more.

For example: “ Did you know that the average person eats around five pounds of shark meat every year? In a shocking study by the Shark Lovers World Organization, it was revealed that around 4% of all fish-based products contain shark meat. ”

Of course, this isn’t true (at least, we hope not!). But it did capture your interest and make you want to find out more. That’s exactly what a hook does.

A good essay hook can keep your readers interested and helps to engage them in what you’re saying. It also leaves a lasting impression on them, which means you’ve accomplished your goal of starting a conversation about your essay topic.

Types Of Essay Hooks

With the many types of essays and writing structures you can use for your work, there are just as many hooks to suit your topic. But which ones are relevant? And which one should you use to effectively introduce your writing?

Below, we’ve listed some of the most common types of essay hooks to help you narrow down your search.

Question hook

If you start your essay with a thought-provoking question, you have a great chance of engaging your readers from the get-go. This is because a question can encourage them to actively think about what you’re saying and spark curiosity about what the real answer to the question is.

It’s important to ensure that your question is relevant and intriguing, but it’s even more important that it aligns with the theme of your essay. Usually, your readers will want to keep reading to find the answers in the body of your essay.

Quotation hook

When you open your essay with a quote from a notable person or reputable organization, you add credibility to your work. This can be particularly important when you’re discussing a topic that needs expertise to build trust.

After you use a relevant quote, you’ll also need to explain why it’s relevant to set the stage for the discussion or argument that you’re presenting.

Statistic hook

Introducing your topic with a compelling statistic or data is another great way to add credibility to your paper. It shows your reader that you’ve done your research, and you have proof to back up the claims that you may be making in the body of your essay.

It’s essential to use statistics that are accurate, though, and they should come from credible sources. Otherwise, you may be undermining your work, which could lead to losing the trust of your reader.

Anecdote hook

The last time I started an essay with an anecdote, my professor gave my work a stellar review and I got the best grades in my class .

Did we grab your attention? Good. That’s how an anecdote hook works. An anecdote is a short personal story that establishes trust with your reader and creates an emotional connection. It can also add a layer of interest to narrative or descriptive essays.

In some essays, you can write an anecdotal hook from the perspective of a fictional character. As long as it sounds like a personal experience, it should reel your readers in.

Surprising statement hook

If you can, try to capture your reader’s attention with a bold or unexpected statement. When you catch them off guard, you can stimulate their curiosity. They’re going to want to keep reading to see how you address or support your surprising statement.

You can use this type of hook in several different ways. Whether you’re challenging a common misconception, giving counterintuitive insights, or presenting intriguing facts that will wow or shock your reader, you can start your essay off on the right note.

Description hook

A description hook helps to engage readers by painting an image or setting a scene using descriptive language. Typically, it appeals to the senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell) and describes something in enough detail that it makes the reader feel as if they’re actually experiencing it for themselves!

This type of hook is suited for narrative or descriptive essays because it allows you to set the tone, establish a certain atmosphere, and even evoke an emotional response in your reader. In turn, the reader becomes fully immersed in the scene that you’re setting.

How To Write A Great Essay Hook

Now that you understand the basics, it’s time to put your pen to paper (or fingers to the keyboard) and write a hook that will draw readers in and keep them reading. If you follow the steps we’ve outlined below, you’re sure to craft a hook that will reel in your audience – hook, line, and sinker .

1. Know your audience

Knowing your audience is perhaps one of the most important things to consider when you’re writing an essay hook. Are you writing for your teachers, peers, or a broader audience? Once you know that, you can move on to understanding their motives, and values, and how their emotions will affect how impactful your hook is.

Creating a connection with your audience grabs the reader’s attention and encourages them to keep reading your essay. And, by fostering this connection, you can make them more receptive to the message you’re trying to convey.

2. Understand the purpose of your essay

Before you can write your hook, you’ll need to know what the purpose of your essay is. Generally, your essay will try to inform, persuade, or narrate your subject. Either way, narrowing down the motivation behind writing the essay will help you on your quest to write a hook that suits your writing.

Your hook should always align with the concept of your essay since it’s used to introduce the main theme or argument. You can think of it as a preview of what you’re going to talk about – it gives your readers a glimpse into the direction of your written work and sets expectations for what your essay will cover.

3. Choose the right type of hook

The type of essay hook you choose significantly impacts your essay’s style and whether it will keep your reader’s interest. You can pick from a question, quotation, anecdotal hook, or any of the others we’ve listed.

By carefully selecting what types of hook sentences will captivate your reader and establish the right tone for your essay, you’re guaranteed to have a compelling introduction. You just need to make sure that your hook suits the essay you’re writing.

For example, if you’re writing a personal story hook as an introduction to a historical essay that relies on a chronological structure, it wouldn’t be very impactful. Instead, a quotation or statistic hook may be better suited to an academic essay like this.

4. Make sure your hook is relevant

Relevance is the key to creating a compelling essay hook. The hook should always connect to the topic of your essay, and the link between the two needs to be clear from the get-go.

This does mean, however, that you need to avoid unrelated information in your hook. Keeping with the example of writing a historical essay, we can illustrate this point perfectly.

Say you’re writing an essay on World War II, and you’ve chosen a statistical hook to open your writing. Adding statistics about coffee sales during the same time period is completely irrelevant and won’t have much of an impact.

Unrelated hooks can confuse your audience and completely lose the reader’s interest. On the other hand, a focused and relevant hook can grab the reader’s attention and make your essay more exciting.

5. Spark curiosity

The way that you phrase your essay hook is just as important as the type of hook you use. Ideally, your hook should excite the reader and spark curiosity that makes them want to keep reading.

A poorly worded hook can be confusing or – let’s face it – boring! And you don’t want to bore your audience before they even get past your introduction. Whether you’re asking a question or introducing the topic for your ideas, your hook should set the stage for the rest of your essay.

You may need to use some creativity for this step. But putting yourself in the shoes of your reader can help. Ask yourself ‘What would make me want to keep reading?’. Your answer is usually a good place to start!

6. Keep it short

Although an attention-grabbing hook is ideal, it’s essential to keep it short. You should focus on using impactful language that can effectively convey your message. This is mainly because a shorter hook can keep your reader’s attention without overwhelming them with too much information.

Remember, it’s all about balance. When it comes to essay hooks, you want to strike a balance between capturing your audience’s attention and giving them a concise overview of what your essay is about.

7. Tweak the tone

The tone of your hook sets up the tone for the rest of your essay – so it’s pretty important that you align your tone with the topic. To do this, you first have to ask yourself what the tone is . Is it serious? Or perhaps you want to come across as humorous? Either way, you’ll want to maintain a consistent tone throughout.

A good example of this would be when writing a personal essay. In this case, an anecdote hook would be a great way to kick off your writing. However, if your personal story is serious, a funny anecdote isn’t necessarily the best choice. Instead, you’ll want to pick an anecdote that matches the seriousness of what you’re discussing in the body of your work.

8. Revise your hook with Smodin

After you’ve written your hook, it might still need a little nip and tuck to go from almost perfect to perfectly polished. To do this, you can use several different techniques to rewrite it.

But the easiest way to ensure that your hook is bulletproof is to use Smodin’s AI Paraphrasing tool . It can spin your words to sound like it was crafted by an expert – in a matter of seconds. It’s also a good way to avoid plagiarism and check your text to see how well it performs (the flow, tone, and relevance).

You can also use our free AI Writer to generate a unique, plagiarism-free, and professional essay in just a few prompts. This can help you draft a rough copy of your work before making any adjustments or modifications to your final product.

Catchy Hook Examples For Your Essay

With a better understanding of the types of essay hooks, and how to use them, you are well on your way to crafting an effective and attention-grabbing introduction to your writing. But, if you still need a little help with tailoring hook types to suit your writing structure, take a look at some of these examples of hooks for different types of essays:

Argumentative essay hook examples

Statistical hook: “ According to a recent study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Americans generate around 4.48 pounds of trash every day. This highlights the urgent need for recyclable products and packaging to address this pressing issue. ”

Question hook: “ Have you ever wondered how our experiences as children impact our daily lives and our resulting choices as adults? This critical question has prompted us to explore the topic of childhood trauma and the profound implications that it could have on our futures. ”

Persuasive essay hook examples

Statistic hook: “ Did you know that over 1.3 million tons of plastic waste are dumped into our oceans every year? This alarming statistic demands our attention and immediate action to address the pressing issue of plastic pollution. ”

Surprising statement: “ In a world that’s run by technology, it’s shocking to realize that the average person spends more time in their day scrolling through social media than sleeping. The digital age has not only revolutionized communication but has also left us questioning the true value of our time and relationships. ”

Narrative essay hook examples

Anecdotal hook: “ Raindrops tapped lightly on the window pane, and the slight rustling of the leaves seemed to whisper secrets in the wind. Little did I know that this ordinary evening would soon become an extraordinary chapter in the story of my life. It all began with a letter—an old, weathered envelope that held the key to a long-buried family mystery .”

Question hook: “ Have you ever wondered what it feels like to stand at the edge of a cliff, staring into the vast unknown below? The adrenaline coursing through your veins, the wind tousling your hair—each moment pregnant with the possibility of adventure. What if I told you that such a moment would change the course of my life forever? ”

Compare and contrast essay hook examples

Quotation hook: “ In the words of Aristotle, ‘Excellence is an art won by training and habituation’. As we delve into the realms of two seemingly disparate subjects, we must consider how their unique qualities and shared traits contribute to the pursuit of excellence in their own distinct ways. ”

Anecdote hook: “ As the sun went down, the city lit up with its busy streets, and I stood there, feeling stuck between two different places—the lively city and the peaceful countryside. In that moment, I noticed how city life and rural living are alike in some ways but also have their unique features. ”

Can I use the same type of hook for different essays?

While some hooks are versatile, it’s best to tailor your hook to the specific essay you’re writing and the topic you’re covering. You’ll need to consider the audience, purpose, and nature of your writing before choosing a hook.

Can I use a combination of different types of hooks in one essay?

Yes, you can experiment with combining different types of essay hooks in your writing, especially if your topic allows for different approaches. However, you should always make sure to include a smooth transition between the hooks and keep them simple. Otherwise, you risk confusing your reader.

Writing catchy hooks is more than just finding something clever to say at the opening of your essay. It’s about leaving an impression on your reader that will carry through the body of your work and leave them hanging on every word you say. Ultimately, your hook can make or break your essay.

With Smodin, coming up with, writing, and revising your hook is as simple as one, two, three. So why not try out our tools to streamline your writing process? There’s nothing to lose – and everything to gain!

Hook Writing: 20 Great Hook Examples and Strategies to Write an Awesome Hook Essay

Do you ever wish readers were more hooked on your phonics? I did. So I researched, practiced, and found a whole bunch of new ways to write a great hook for essays.

And guess what?

It works for me!

Well, most of the time anyway. Other times, not so much. Those are usually the occasions I free-write and don’t follow any proven tactics. And, as expected, those are the time the articles usually flop because they had no proper hook in writing. (But I enjoyed writing them nonetheless).

Table of Contents

What is the meaning of a hook in writing?

A hook is the opening part of a work of writing that’s meant to capture a reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading.

As some say, the headline brings a reader in, the hook makes them stay. Think of great beginnings to essays where the author prompts you with a nugget of curiosity.

“In breaking news, scientists have discovered the cure to hunger — peanut butter tuna sandwiches.”

Surely, you’d want to read on. At least until the next paragraph, right? That’s the magic of a hook, it keeps the reader wanting more.

In essays, hooks typically are the first one to three sentences. In longer works, hooks can be more of a broader part of the introduction, but still, the earlier they can appear, often the better — people have short attention spans these days!

In this article, we’ll go over the meaning of a hook, why having a hook in an essay is important, how you can write a hook for an essay, and 20 hook examples in writing.

If you truly want to addict your reader into seeking out every delicious drop of your pen, here are 20 ways to place an awesome hook in writing, with just a tiny bit of extra effort.

20 Proven Strategies to Write a Hook in Essays

A hook on a wall representing the opening hook of an essay

#1: State Your Thesis Directly and Concisely

If you’re writing an argumentative essay, your hook should directly state your position on the topic. Your thesis should be clear, concise, and arguable.

Boldness is your friend for this strategy, especially if you’re looking to challenge a common perception or force a point.

Example hook:

“The death penalty is a necessary evil that has been proven to deter crime in countries around the world.”

Did that trigger anyone even in the slightest? Good. That’s kind of the point of this strategy.

#2: Use a Startling Fact or Statistic

If you’re looking to hook your reader with a more fact-based approach, try starting off with a startling statistic or fact. This will help grab your reader’s attention while also giving them some context for the rest of your essay.

It’s also a cool way to show everyone how much of a (pleasant) know-it-all you are!

“Did you know that J.J. Pryor was scientifically proven to be the most handsome man on Earth for 0.0001 milliseconds on May 27th, 2008?”

#3: Ask a Related Question

Posing a question related to your subject helps engage them in the topic and encourages them to keep reading to find out the answer.

In case you have any doubts about this one, ever heard of a cliffhanger?

“Have you ever wondered if Jesus could microwave a burrito so hot that even he couldn’t eat it?”

#4: Share an Anecdote or Personal Story

If you’re writing an essay close to your heart, sharing an anecdote or personal story can be a great way to hook your reader. Connecting on a personal level is always a great way to spur interest in your writing.

Personal touches like these are often what helps build a writer’s voice in the first place, too.

“I’ll never forget the first time I went surfing. I was eight years old and it was the summer before my family moved from Hawaii to California. The waves were huge and I was terrified, but I paddled out anyway. After all, a mystical siren in the form of a peanut butter tuna sandwich beckoned me to the deep.”

#5: Use Descriptive Language to Set the Scene

If you’re writing a narrative essay, using descriptive language to set the scene helps lock a reader’s brain in the right mood. Picturing the setting literally changes the way a person thinks and immerses them in a story far quicker than other methods.

“It was a dark and stormy night. Lightning flashed and thunder roared as I walked down the street completely naked, much to my neighborhood’s chagrin.”

#6: Display Your Idea as a Recent Revelation

If you want to hook your reader with a more dramatic approach, try presenting your thesis as a recent discovery or revelation. This can help create a sense of suspense and encourage them to keep reading to find out more.

“Everyone knows the Earth revolves around the Sun. But after consulting with my astrologist/psychic, I realized everyone is completely, hopelessly, utterly wrong.”

#7: Use a Famous Quotation or Person

Another great way to hook your reader is to use a famous quotation or person. This will help add some weight to your argument and make it more credible.

“As Aristotle once said, ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’ So, it is in this fashion, that the addition of peanut butter and tuna can form a masterpiece of culinary excellence.”

#8: Try Historical Present Tense

Bring the drama, mama, and try using historical present tense in a hook. This is when you jump back in the past and talk as if you’re still living it out.

For example:

“It is the first day of Earth. I haven’t created humanity, and yet, I find myself compelled to attach legs, a top hat, and something called a monocle to a hardened shelled nugget of deliciousness. I will call him Mr. Peanut. He pleases me.”

#9: Describe What You Plan to Prove

For a more direct approach to your opening, try describing what you plan to prove in your essay. This can help guide a better understanding of your argument and follow along with the rest of your essay.

It doesn’t have to be bold, but it does have to be clear. This is more suitable for more formal essays and articles.

“In this essay, I will be arguing that the death penalty is the legal societal equivalent to a ban on peanut butter.”

#10: State Your Thesis in the Form of a Question

Posing your thesis in the form of a question is another great way to hook your reader. This isn’t too different from some of the other strategies, but it can help evoke a different, more inquisitive, mindset.

It can relax the reader slightly as compared to a more hostile, bold statement of opinion or fact.

“Do we really need any other sandwiches besides peanut butter tuna?”

#11: Delay Identifying the Subject

Another option is using a narrative strategy of delay. This involves putting off identifying the subject until the moment is just right.

Think of it as describing everything about a subject but what it is, until the very last moment. It tweaks the reader’s brain to keep on venturing forward, just to discover what the hell the name of the person/place/thing is!

“He was the most influential figure in my young life, if not my entire life, too. Confident, poised, eternally prescient no matter the moment, Bartholomew Richard Fitzgerald-Smythe was truly the guiding light of my being.”

#12: Introduce With Contrasting Statistics

For a more inquisitive approach, try introducing your subject with two contrasting statistics. The juxtaposition of two conflating factors can often do more to spur further reading of an essay than many other methods.

It’s a puzzle, and most readers will want to solve it.

“Peanut butter is scientifically proven to be the tastiest nut, and yet, 99.5789% of people are disgusted by the idea of combining it with the scientifically tastiest fish, tuna.”

#13: Embellish a Situation

Another personal approach is to try recalling a moment that dramatizes your subject. This can help a reader see the importance of the issue and make them more invested in your argument — especially if it’s a subject they can relate to themselves, too.

“I’ll never forget the day my soul died. I was only eight years old, but the cold shivers running up my spine still quiver to this day from the moment the PB&T hit the floor.”

#14: Use Rhetorical Questions

Asking questions is a great way to hook your reader and get them thinking about your argument, especially ones that are slightly combative, bold, or contrary to a portion of the audience’s expected thinking.

“Does this sound like a rhetorical question to you?”

#15: Talk About the Process That Leads To Your Idea

For another suspenseful approach, try briefly describing a process that leads into your subject. This is a chance to be clever, descriptive, and perhaps delve into details not commonly known about a process or task.

“I first lather the bottom and then the top. Occasionally I toast it first. More crunch the better, of course. The slow crank of the opener reveals the sweet tasty scent of the juicy meat within. A slow clamped drain, a hard plop, and the PB&T is complete. Breakfast is served. Some guests might vomit profusely, beware.”

#16: Startle Readers With a Shocking Secret or Idea

Another method is to try revealing a secret about yourself, a related narrative, or the subject itself.

“Most people don’t know this about me, but I once was a peanut myself.”

#17: Use a Funny Joke or Quote

If you want to hook your reader with a more light-hearted approach, try opening with a riddle, joke, or humorous quotation. Everyone loves a good laugh or even a chuckle. Everyone loves peanuts even more. Some people like sighing too, I hear.

“Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the other side of these neverending peanut butter tuna jokes.”

#18: Show Contrasts Between the Present and Past

Contrasting situations, much like contrasted statistics, can give a reader a sense of suspense, puzzlement, and desire to finding out the answer.

“Things have changed a lot since I was a peanut. I used to be afraid of being consumed, now I am the consumer. I have become Mr. Peanut, the destroyer of worlds.”

#19: Use Contrasting Imagination Vs. Reality

The last contrasting strategy involves simply comparing a proposed situation, or even imaginary, against what is actually experienced or true in real life. Think of it as a contrast between misconceptions and what you are proposing is the true, often hidden, reality.

“Everyone knows the simple peanut is a salty little occasional treat. And yet, for us gooberphiles, it is so much more. It is delicious. It is the sunrise, the sunset, perhaps it is even life itself.”

#20: Ask a Question That Requires More Than a Yes or No Answer

For a slightly more engaging offshoot of the question style hook, try asking one that can’t be answered simply with a yes or no. It can help evoke more deep thought, and hopefully, more intrigue to keep on reading.

“What would you do if you were stranded on a boat in the middle of the ocean with only with only bread and tuna?”

Writing a good hook isn’t easy, but it is easy to practice and get better. Knowing the different methods to write them is a great place to start.

The next step is up to you. After all, practice makes perfect.

So, as a suggestion, try looking through the above list and see which ones stick out in your head, jot them down somewhere, and try them out in your next articles and essays.

Hopefully, one or more of them will resonate with readers if you can get any of that precious feedback we all need.

So, the next time you’re stuck on how to start an essay, try one of these approaches and see where it takes you. Who knows, you may find yourself with a more engaging and successful essay than you ever thought possible.

Lastly, if you liked this, be sure to check out 90 of the Best Opening Hooks From Articles With Over 10,000 Claps Each for a bunch of uber-successful examples of hooks from mega-viral essays on the internet.

You might also be interested in learning about 100 famous metaphors .

About The Author

What is a Pun? Examples, Definitions, and How to Create Them

What is a Juxtaposition? Examples, Definitions, and How to Create Them

What is Mood in Writing? Examples, Definitions, and How to Create Them

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Essay Hooks: How to Grab Your Reader With Your Writing

April 18, 2019

Imagine an admissions officer reading your application: they start with the mundane, beginning with your home address and biographical information, then moving down your application to your test scores and activities list next. What exactly have you been doing for the past four years? Are you a student leader, community game-changer, future tech mogul? And then - your personal statement .

It’s not much of an exaggeration to say that this essay is the soul of your application. With 650 allotted words, you have the power to craft a captivating narrative about who you are, what you value, and most importantly - where you see yourself going. The very first sentence of your essay - commonly referred to as the ‘hook’ - is a direct invitation to the reader to walk into your world for the next few minutes. Essay hooks can also simultaneously be the hardest piece of your essay to write.

For most high school writers, composing essay hooks can take some practice. It’s hard to know what will feel appropriate for your essay, and what captures someone’s attention is so innately personal. What you find humorous or intellectual might come across to your reader as boring or overdrawn. In this blog, I’ll introduce common “hook” styles that have been successful for past students, caution against the pitfalls that many applicants fall into, and share my top strategies for practicing writing your own essay hooks .

What Types of Hooks Are There?

Open with the unexpected.

“On the day my first novel was rejected, I was baking pies.” (Hamilton)

“Not all sons of doctors raise baby ducks and chickens in their kitchen. But I do. My dad taught me.” (NYT)

Starting your essay with a contradiction or surprising juxtaposition immediately catches any reader’s intrigue. These essay hooks work well because they’re unusual, but not hyper dramatized: both of the hooks above read as genuine. There’s also an implicit sense of humor here: who catches themselves baking pies when they receive upsetting news? These hooks position the speaker as quirky, likable, and ready to offer some insight about what their unique life experiences have taught them. Simply put, this is a great way to grab your reader’s attention.

However, these types of hooks can also be more difficult to write. Unless you have a clear (or funny) story to tell from the beginning, they can be harder to write naturally. Try reflecting on the story you plan to tell: what about your identity, circumstances, or surroundings provides an insightful and unexpected angle into what you want to say? Jot down a few ideas and try several approaches before settling on your final opening line.

Details, Details, Details

“The way the light shined on her skin as she sewed the quilt emphasized the details of every wrinkle, burn and cut. While she completed the overcast stitch, the thimble on her index finger protected her from the needle pokes. She wore rings on every finger of her right hand, but on her left she only wore her wedding ring.” (NYT)

“My grandmother hovers over the stove flame, fanning it as she melodically hums Kikuyu spirituals. She kneads the dough and places it on the stove, her veins throbbing with every movement: a living masterpiece painted by a life of poverty and motherhood. The air becomes thick with smoke and I am soon forced out of the walls of the mud-brick house while she laughs.” (NYT)

Both of these opening paragraphs have successful essay hooks because they jump straight into the thick of it - there’s no time for slow building action here. They rely on the speaker’s senses, drawing from details that are visual, tactile, or auditory to draw the reader into the essay.

While both of these hooks center a female relative, the reader is ultimately learning about you: how do you perceive the world around you, what do you direct your attention towards, and what details matter to you ? This style of hook is perfect for a speaker who is insightful, self-aware, and nuanced. It’s also a great approach to showcase young writers’ creative capacities.

If you’re unsure about how to start writing this hook, try writing your essay as you see fit from start to finish. Then, look for ways to rearrange your structure - a lot of times it’s easier to find detailed imagery in the middle of an essay before moving it to the beginning. Another hint: opening with dialogue can always be a great way to jump right into the meat of your essay.

Bring a Fresh Perspective

“For as long as I can remember, one of my favorite pastimes has been manipulating those tricky permutations of 26 letters to fill in that signature, bright green gridded board of Wheel of Fortune.” (Johns Hopkins)

“I have old hands.” (Stanford)

One of my favorite personal strategies for tackling essay hooks is to bring light to something that happens every day. What’s such a normal experience of your daily occurrence that it’s led you to new insight, perspective, or thought? Do you spend every day watching Wheel of Fortune, or investigating your hands? Have you experimented with perfecting the best sandwich ever, harnessed inspiration from mowing the lawn, or made an art form out of writing moving birthday cards to your friends? Drawing focus towards moments that most people take for granted shapes your persona as a speaker - it shows you as creative, mature, and a forward-thinker.

This style of hook grabs your reader’s attention by signaling that you’re about to add a new twist on something that’s already established and it maintains a high level of authenticity, too. A lot of students writing their essays will try to talk about something big that makes them seem impressive - but actually, zoning in for the “small” moments that have been meaningful to you showcases more of your positive qualities as an applicant, and better demonstrates who you are.

If All Else Fails - Try Going Simple

“I always assumed my father wished I had been born a boy.” (NYT)

What’s the bare-bones, unshakable truth of your essay? This hook is effective because it’s moving - it speaks to the essay’s truth, and foreshadows content (the speaker’s relationship with her father, gender expectations and/or dynamics, navigating assumptions). In this case, simple is better: in one sentence, the speaker is able to distill the emotional core of her essay. The speaker’s voice reads as reflective, mature, and confident - she’s not afraid to be vulnerable, and has a clear voice.

This approach is perfect for students who aren’t sure what strategy might work for them, because it’s easy to tell when you’ve been successful. Try writing a single sentence that captures the emotional weight of your essay - then read it back to yourself (and others!). Do you have chills? Great - keep writing.

Common Pitfalls

You can’t win an oscar.

“Blood-soaked. 3am.”

Okay, there are two things that need to be addressed here. First - this is not a screenplay! You don’t need a shot-by-shot action take. Secondly - this is not the type of detail (or imagery) that’s going to work in your favor. While I’m a proponent for the “detailed” approach to hooking your audience, this isn’t quite what admissions officers are looking for. The essay in this case is actually about playing video games, so the dramatic (and violent) start is unnecessary. It also feels a little cheap - as if the speaker is trying too hard to grab the reader’s attention without putting thought into the impact of their words.

You Don’t Have to Prove Yourself

Please don’t open your essay with a really convoluted, philosophical, or critical outlook on the state of humankind, technology, or any other large-scale topics. Sure, you want to seem intellectually curious and come across as a deep thinker, but it shouldn’t feel contrived. Worst of all, these essays aren’t about you . The college essay isn’t the time to try and prove your intellectual prowess - it’s a space for introspection and mature reflection. By forcing your (intense) opinions on a reader, you come across as arrogant. What can colleges teach someone who is proclaiming to already know everything?

Use Your Own Words

While I’m sure there have been many works - poems, songs, memoirs, or plays - that have had a vast impact on your personal development, your reader wants to know more about you , not a writer that’s already established. Using quotes as essay hooks is a huge risk. For me, it elicits an immediate sigh and (depending on the quote), eye roll.

You’re Not En(titled) to Do This

If you only have 650 words to make your mark: don’t use a title! It’s a waste of space that disrupts your essay’s formatting and seems uninformed. Titling your essay isn’t a part of the personal statement’s typical conventions, so it’s completely unnecessary. Thumbs down.

How To Write Your Own Essay Hooks

So, how do you create your own?

Here are my best suggestions:

Try several points of entry. Different styles are going to work with different students - it’s going to depend on your writing style, personality, sense of humor, experience with creative or reflective writing, and what your essay is about. Not everything will land the way you want it to - but that’s okay! Try writing essay hooks that model each of the styles above. Which feels most sincere for your piece and most true to you?
Get feedback - the right kind. While too many different critics can agitate the writing process, feedback is important. Try a peer share or mini writing seminar with some of your friends - you all have to write essays, after all. Why not do it together? Try sharing a few different hooks and see what works best for your crowd. Make sure you keep your sanity by not sharing too much of your essay - just the pieces that you truly want feedback on. Most importantly, make sure you know when to incorporate the feedback, and when to use your best judgment and keep something you believe is an essential part of your essay.
Write, write, write. It’s not fair to assume that because essay hooks come first, that you must write it first. That’s almost never the case! I personally always draft introductions before the rest of any piece, then circle back at the end to rewrite the beginning. You may have to keep writing before you land your point of entry - that’s how it should be!

After learning more about what types of essay hooks there are, and how to craft your own, I hope you’re ready to take on the hardest piece of the writing process with ease. You may surprise yourself with where your story begins.

JHU: https://apply.jhu.edu/application-process/essays-that-worked/
Stanford: https://stanfordmag.org/contents/let-me-introduce-myself
Hamilton: https://www.hamilton.edu/admission/apply/college-essays-that-worked/2014-essays-that-worked
NYT: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/11/your-money/college-essay-topic-money-social-class.html

Tags : college application essay , Personal Essay , Personal Statement , college essay tips , essay hooks , college application tips

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Essay Writing Guide

Hook Examples

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Hook Examples: How to Start Your Essay Effectively

By: Nova A.

15 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Feb 19, 2019

Tired of getting poor grades on your high school or college essays? Feeling lost when it comes to captivating your professor's attention?

Whether you're a high school or college student, the constant stream of essays, assignments, and projects can be overwhelming. But fear not!

There's a secret weapon at your disposal: hooks.

These attention-grabbing phrases are the key to keeping your reader hooked and eager for more. In this blog, we'll explore powerful essay hook examples that will solve all your essay writing concerns.

So let’s get started!

On this Page

What is an Essay Hook?

An essay hook is the opening sentence or a few sentences in an essay that grab the reader's attention and engage them from the very beginning. It is called a " hook " because it is designed to reel in the reader and make them interested in reading the rest of the essay.

The purpose of an essay hook is to:

Grab the reader's attention from the very beginning
Create curiosity and intrigue
Engage the reader emotionally
Establish the tone and direction of the essay
Make the reader want to continue reading
Provide a seamless transition into the rest of the essay
Set the stage for the main argument or narrative
Make the essay memorable and stand out
Demonstrate the writer's skill in captivating an audience

Check out our complete guide on how to start an essay here!

How to Write a Hook?

The opening lines of your essay serve as the hook, capturing your reader's attention right from the start. Remember, the hook is a part of your essay introduction and shouldn't replace it.

A well-crafted introduction consists of a hook followed by a thesis statement . While the hook attracts the reader, the thesis statement explains the main points of your essay.

To write an effective hook, consider the following aspects:

Understand the nature of the literary work you're addressing.
Familiarize yourself with your audience's preferences and interests.
Clearly define the purpose behind your essay writing.

Keep in mind that the hook should be directly related to the main topic or idea of your writing piece. When it comes to essays or other academic papers, you can employ various types of hooks that align with your specific requirements.

Learn more about Hook Statements in this informative Video!

Hook Sentence Examples

To give you a better understanding of the different types of essay hooks, we will be discussing essay hook examples.

Question Hook

Starting your essay by asking a thought-provoking question can be a good way to engage the reader. Ask your reader a question that they can visualize. However, make sure to keep your questions relevant to the reader's interest. Avoid generalized, and yes or no questions.

Rhetorical questions make up good hooks.

“How are successful college students different from unsuccessful college students?”
“What is the purpose of our existence?”
“Have you ever wondered whether Hazel Grace and Augustus Waters would have been still together if he didn’t die of cancer?”
"Ever wondered what lies beneath the ocean's depths? Dive into an underwater adventure and uncover the wonders of the deep sea."
"Have you ever pondered the true meaning of happiness? Join us on a quest to unravel the secrets of lasting joy."
Ready to challenge your limits? How far would you go to achieve your dreams and become the best version of yourself?"
"Curious about the future of technology? Can you envision a world where robots and humans coexist harmoniously?"
"Are you tired of the same old recipes? Spice up your culinary repertoire with exotic flavors and innovative cooking techniques."
"Are you ready to take control of your finances? Imagine a life of financial freedom and the possibilities it brings."
"Ever wondered what it takes to create a masterpiece? Discover the untold stories behind the world's most celebrated works of art."

Quotation Hook

A quotation from a famous person is used to open an essay to attract the reader's attention. However, the quote needs to be relevant to your topic and must come from a credible source. To remove any confusion that the reader might have it is best to explain the meaning of the quote later.

Here are the quotes you can use to start your essay:

“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
If your topic is related to hard work and making your own destiny, you can start by quoting Michael Jordan.
“Some people want it to happen; some wish it would happen; others make it happen.”
The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs
"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." - Albert Einstein
"Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going." - Sam Levenson
"Believe you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Peter Drucker
"The harder I work, the luckier I get." - Samuel Goldwyn
"Don't let yesterday take up too much of today." - Will Rogers

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Statistic Hook

Here you use statistical data such as numbers and figures, percentages, etc. to hook the reader. This is mostly used in informative writing to provide the reader with new and interesting facts. It is important to mention the source.

“Reports have shown that almost two-thirds of adults in the United States of America have lived in a place with at least one gun, at some point of their life.”
Another persuasive essay hook example about people’s psychology and lying is mentioned below:
“It is noted by Allison Komet from the Psychology Today magazine that people lie in every one out of five conversations that last for at least 10 minutes.”
"Did you know that 8 out of 10 entrepreneurs fail within their first year? Discover the secrets of the successful 20% and defy the odds."
"According to recent studies, people spend an average of 2 hours and 22 minutes on social media every day. Is it time to reevaluate our digital habits?"
"Did you know that over 75% of communication is non-verbal? Explore the power of body language and unlock the secrets of effective communication."
"Research shows that 1 in 4 adults suffer from mental health issues. It's time to break the stigma and prioritize our well-being."
"Did you know that nearly 70% of consumers rely on online reviews before making a purchase? Build trust and boost your business with positive feedback."
"According to recent data, the global e-commerce industry is projected to reach $6.38 trillion by 2024. Don't miss out on the digital revolution."
"Did you know that 80% of car accidents are caused by distracted driving? Let's put an end to this dangerous epidemic."

Anecdotal Hook

An anecdote is a short story relevant to the essay topic, illustrated to gain the reader’s attention. This story can be derived from a personal experience or your imagination. Mostly, an anecdote is humorous; it makes the reader laugh and leaves them wanting to read more.

It is mostly used when writing narrative or descriptive essays.

If you are a non-English speaker and call the support department or the helpline and hear:

“If you want instructions in English, press 1. If you don't understand English, press 2.”
“ An elderly person came to buy a TV, asked the shopkeeper if they had colored TVs. When told that they are available, he asked to purchase a purple one.”

Here are some more anecdotal hook examples:

"Picture this: It was a cold winter's night, the snowflakes gently falling from the sky, as I embarked on a journey that would change my life forever..."
"I still remember the day vividly, sitting in my grandmother's kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the air. Little did I know, that day would teach me a valuable lesson about the power of kindness..."
"It was a crowded subway ride during rush hour, everyone lost in their own world. But then, a stranger's act of generosity restored my faith in humanity..."
"As I stepped onto the stage, the spotlight shining down, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. It was in that moment, I realized the transformative power of facing your fears..."
"In the heart of the bustling city, amidst the noise and chaos, I stumbled upon a hidden park, an oasis of serenity that reminded me of the importance of finding peace within ourselves..."
"The dusty attic held countless treasures, but it was the tattered journal that caught my eye. As I flipped through its pages, I discovered the untold story of my ancestors, and a connection to my roots I never knew I had..."
"Lost in the maze of a foreign city, unable to speak the language, I relied on the kindness of strangers who became my unexpected guides and lifelong friends..."
"As the final notes of the symphony resonated through the concert hall, the audience erupted in a thunderous applause. It was in that moment, I witnessed the pure magic that music can evoke..."

Personal Story

Starting with a personal story is the right way to go when writing a personal narrative or admissions essay for College.

There is no such rule that the story has to be yours. You can share your friends' story or someone you know of.

Remember that such hooks aren't suitable when writing a more formal or argumentative piece of writing.

“My father was in the Navy; I basically grew up on a cruise. As a young boy, I saw things beyond anyone's imagination. On April 15, 2001…”
"Growing up, I was the shyest kid in the classroom. But one day, a simple act of courage changed the course of my life forever..."
"I'll never forget the exhilarating rush I felt as I crossed the finish line of my first marathon, defying all odds and proving to myself that anything is possible..."
"At the age of 18, I packed my bags, bid farewell to familiarity, and embarked on a solo adventure across the globe. Little did I know, it would become the journey of self-discovery I had always longed for..."
"As a single parent, juggling multiple jobs and responsibilities, I faced countless obstacles. But my unwavering determination and the support of my loved ones propelled me towards success..."
"It was a rainy day when I stumbled upon an old, forgotten journal in my grandmother's attic. Its pages held untold stories and secrets that would unearth the hidden truths of our family history..."
"The sound of applause echoed through the auditorium as I stepped onto the stage, my heart pounding with a mix of nerves and excitement. Little did I know, that performance would be a turning point in my artistic journey..."
"After years of battling self-doubt, I finally found the courage to pursue my passion for writing. The moment I held my published book in my hands, I knew I had conquered my fears and embraced my true calling..."
"As a volunteer in a remote village, I witnessed the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The people I met and the stories they shared forever changed my perspective on life..."
"In the midst of a turbulent relationship, I made the difficult decision to walk away and embark on a journey of self-love and rediscovery. It was through that process that I found my own worth and reclaimed my happiness..."

In the next section we will be discussing hook examples for different kinds of essays.

Surprising Statement Hook

A surprising statement hook is a bold and unexpected statement that grabs the reader's attention and piques their curiosity. It challenges their assumptions and compels them to delve deeper into the topic. Example:

"Contrary to popular belief, spiders are our unsung heroes, silently protecting our homes from pesky insects and maintaining delicate ecological balance."
"Forget what you know about time management. The key to productivity lies in working less, not more."
"In a world where technology dominates, studies show that the old-fashioned pen and paper can boost memory and learning."
"You'll be shocked to discover that the average person spends more time scrolling through social media than sleeping."
"Contrary to popular belief, introverts possess hidden powers that can make them exceptional leaders."
"Prepare to be amazed: chocolate can actually be beneficial for your health when consumed in moderation."
"Buckle up, because recent research reveals that multitasking can actually make you less productive, not more."
"Did you know that learning a new language can slow down the aging process and keep your brain sharp?"
"Hold onto your hats: studies suggest that taking regular naps can enhance your overall productivity and creativity."
"You won't believe it, but playing video games in moderation can enhance problem-solving skills and boost cognitive function."

Argumentative Essay Hook Examples

The opening paragraph of an argumentative essay should be similar to the opening statement of a trial. Just as a lawyer presents his point with a logical system, you must do the same in your essay.

For example, you are writing about the adverse effects of smoking, and arguing that all public places should be turned into no smoking zones. For such essays, good hook examples will be statistical such as:

“According to the World Health Organization consumption of tobacco kills about five million people every year, which makes it more than the death rate from HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria altogether.”

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Persuasive Essay Hook Examples

The main idea or aim for writing a persuasive essay is to convince and persuade the reader to do something. It is also written to change their beliefs and agree with your point of view.

Hook sentences for such essays are a shocking revelation that the reader is curious to learn more about.

“On average each year, humans release 38.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide approximately. Due to this, the level of carbon dioxide has increased significantly, more than it has been in centuries. If you think climate change is nothing to worry about then you are highly mistaken.”

Narrative Essay Hook Examples

Simply put, a narrative essay is just like a story. In other types of essays you need to pick a side, argue and prove your point with the help of evidence. A narrative essay gives you a freehand to tell your story however you may please.

It can be a story inspired by your life, something you may have experienced. If you feel like it isn’t exciting enough you can always transform it using your imagination.

Examples of a hook sentence for a narrative essay can be something like:

“I was riding the bus to school; the other kids were making fun of me thinking I couldn’t understand them. “Why are his eyes like that?” “His face is funny.” A Chinese kid in America is probably like a zoo animal.”

Subject-wise Hook Examples

Here are 20+ interesting hook examples across various subjects:

Technology: "Imagine a world where machines can read our thoughts. Welcome to the future of mind-reading technology."
Health and Wellness: "Did you know that a simple 10-minute meditation can change your entire day? Unlock the transformative power of mindfulness."
Environment: "The clock is ticking. Discover the urgent and astonishing truth behind the disappearing rainforests."
Travel: "Pack your bags and leave your comfort zone behind. Uncover the hidden gems of off-the-beaten-path destinations."
History: "Step into the shoes of a time traveler as we unravel the untold secrets of ancient civilizations."
Science: "Prepare to be amazed as we dive into the mind-bending world of quantum physics and its implications for our understanding of reality."
Education: "Traditional classrooms are a thing of the past. Explore the innovative and disruptive trends shaping the future of education."
Food and Cooking: "Savor the tantalizing flavors of a culinary revolution, where unexpected ingredient pairings redefine the boundaries of taste."
Psychology: "Unmask the hidden forces that drive our decision-making and explore the fascinating world of subconscious influences."
Art and Creativity: "Witness the collision of colors and ideas in a mesmerizing display of artistic expression. Unlock your inner creativity."
Finance: "Escape the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle and discover the path to financial freedom. It's time to take control of your wealth."
Sports: "Feel the adrenaline surge as we uncover the captivating stories behind the world's most legendary sports moments."
Relationships: "Love in the digital age: How technology has transformed the way we connect, flirt, and navigate modern relationships."
Self-Improvement: "Embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn the life-changing habits that lead to personal growth and fulfillment."
Business and Entrepreneurship: "From startup to success story: Explore the rollercoaster ride of building and scaling a thriving business."
Fashion: "Step into the fashion revolution as we decode the latest trends and unveil the stories behind iconic designer collections."
Music: "Unleash the power of music: How melodies, rhythms, and lyrics can touch our souls and evoke powerful emotions."
Politics: "Behind closed doors: Delve into the intriguing world of political maneuvering and the impact on global affairs."
Nature and Wildlife: "Journey to the untouched corners of our planet, where awe-inspiring creatures and breathtaking landscapes await."
Literature: "Enter the realm of literary magic as we explore the profound symbolism and hidden meanings within beloved classics."

In conclusion, these were some catchy hook examples just to give you an idea. You can make use of any one of these types according to your paper and its requirements. Generate free essays through our AI essay writer , to see how it's done!

The key to making your essay stand out from the rest is to have a strong introduction. While it is the major part, there’s more that goes into writing a good essay.

If you are still unable to come up with an exciting hook, and searching “ who can write my essay ?”. The expert essay writers at 5StarEssays.com are just a click away. Reach out to our essay writer today and have an engaging opening for your essay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a visual hook.

The visual hook is a scene that captures the audience's interest by encapsulating something about the movie. It usually occurs around 15 minutes into it, and can be found in marketing or reviews of movies.

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Detailed Guide: Types and Examples of Hooks For Essays

Table of Contents

The types of hooks for an essay vary greatly depending on the focus of the essay. In the field of writing, the art of the hook is a crucial component.

Similar to how bait entices fish to bite, the hook of an essay should fascinate the reader and make them want to continue reading.

Hooks are often the first one or two phrases of an essay or article and are intended to captivate the reader. However, the ability to develop an essay hook is difficult to learn.

Tweets, blogs, stories, and emails, among other forms of online material, make it difficult to compete for readers’ attention. People are easily distracted. if you do not capture their attention fast, you risk losing them.

Understanding how to construct a strong hook is crucial for effective essay writing. By examining the different types of hooks , you would discover how to most effectively attract audiences for your article. Read on!

person holding blue and black fishing baits

What Exactly are Hooks?

A hook is a literary concept that captivates and leads readers through the text. It’s what keeps the reader engaged.

Hooks are compact, often brief, and have a single function. A hook provides a tantalizing glimpse of the potential within a phrase to induce customers to keep reading.

There are many different forms of hooks, and there is no one uniform definition of what constitutes a hook. Depending on the subject and context, different hooks might have different meanings. Here are six types and examples of essay hooks.

Types of Hooks With Examples

There are many types of hooks. Hooks come in many shapes and sizes to further entice the reader. They can be embedded in texts, illustrations, and diagrams.

1. Statistical Hook

The statistic hook provides the listener with an objective and compelling fact from the outset. Gaining the reader’s trust early on through your knowledge can strengthen the remainder of your case. In addition, an arresting statistic might pique your audience’s interest in the topic at hand, encouraging them to continue reading and learn more.

For instance, if you are writing a research paper on the relationship between sleep and performance, you could begin with the following research report:

“Recent research reports that while six hours of sleep a night is vital for normal mental function. One night of insufficient sleep can cause a person to perform poorly at school, work, and at leisure activities.”

2. Quotation hook

If you choose a memorable quote that directly relates to your topic, the words alone will capture the reader’s attention. Just be sure to attribute and explain the citation, so the reader is not confused.

And most significantly, the quotation you select should enhance the legitimacy and depth of your argument, rather than appearing random or singular.

“ People are not handicapped by stupidity. They are handicapped by not having the right kind of eyes to see where intellect would lead them…” – George Bernard Shaw

3. Anecdotal hook

Depending on the nature of your essay, anecdotal hooks can serve as an intimate introduction that reveals more about you to the reader.

Although it is uncommon to write an essay in the first person, there are exceptions, such as when writing a narrative essay. This form of hook may be slightly longer than others; nonetheless, its length should be proportional to the rest of your article.

“I happened to follow someone who was depressed and fragile, a victim of a series of bad breaks, and unable to improve his situation. The more intrigued I was by his character, the more I wanted to help him.”

4. Open-ended question Hook

Using a question at the beginning of the work will captivate the reader’s interest and leave them wanting more. Be sure that the inquiry is open-ended.

Rather than asking a straightforward yes or no question, you should provide the reader with something to investigate further. People are naturally curious, so give them something worthwhile to ponder.

“Why am I never the lucky one?”

5. Statement hook

Beginning your essay with a strong statement of your argument or position is another clever technique to engage the reader.

Even if they entirely disagree with your argument, they will be fascinated to see how you support it.

Typically, statement hooks induce the reader to either disagree with your position or continue reading to see how you support it.

“Alpha Gourmet refuses to provide an employee with their sick leave, even if they are experiencing a severe illness”.

6. The Shocking Hook

You can utilize a surprising statement (either positive or negative, depending on the substance of your book). This will pique the reader’s interest in discovering how you will prove or refute the statement.

An example of a shocking hook is to write, “I was a slave for 18 years and lived in horror and nightmares.”

The types of hooks you use depends upon your essay and purpose. Ensure you are clear on what type of hook you want to use. This is important as you don’t jam the reader with unnecessary information and clutter the essay with unnecessary detail.

Detailed Guide: Types and Examples of Hooks For Essays

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Good Hooks to Start Your College Essay

Table of contents

Imagine starting your essay with this statement: ' By 2035, half of the world’s population will live in water-stressed areas. '

How would your professor react to such an opening?

Chances are, they'd be intrigued and eager to read more. That's the magic of a compelling hook in an academic essay. It grabs attention and piques curiosity, drawing the reader into your argument.

In a world where attention spans are shrinking, the ability to engage your reader from the very first sentence is invaluable. This blog post will explore effective strategies to create hooks that make your academic essays stand out.

What are essay hooks?

As the name suggests, an essay hook refers to the first one or two sentences of your essay that ‘hooks’ your reader instantly and generates interest right from the beginning.

The first sentence of your essay has the power to make or break it, so ensure you choose the ‘hook’ well. As per our professional essay writers , essay hooks should be limited to 1-2 sentences.

7 Hook Examples to Make Your College Essay Catchy

From using humor to posing a rhetorical question, there are several ways to begin your essay on an engaging and interesting note. Here are 16 hooks you can consider using for your college essay, along with examples for each.

#1. Famous quote

A common way to begin your essay is with a famous quote, especially when you are writing a leadership essay . The quote you choose needs to be in line with your essay topic. You cannot insert a random quote that has no connection with the rest of your essay.

Quotes reaffirm your essay topic and give it a compelling start. However, make sure you don’t include vague and cliché quotes or phrases such as ‘Practice makes perfect’ or ‘What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger’ – they add no value to your essay because they are so over-used.

If you are writing an essay on public relations and reputation management, you can start with this famous quote by Warren Buffet, " It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently."
Similarly, if your topic revolves around success and leadership, you can begin by quoting Bill Gates, " Success is a lousy teacher. It makes smart people think they cannot lose."

#2. Rhetorical question

It is also a good idea to start your common essay with a rhetorical question that compels readers to think about the topic and generates interest to read further. Rhetorical questions are not meant to be answered. They are instead used to deliver a point.

Make sure the question isn’t too obvious, and the answer certainly shouldn’t be a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ From highlighting a pain point/problem to striking an emotional connection or stating a startling fact – you can hook readers with various rhetorical questions.

When you walk into a brick-and-mortar store, you have people around you to reach out for assistance, but what happens when you log onto an e-commerce site?
Think about it - when did life stop being fun and exciting? When did it turn into a relentless race that leaves you exhausted, and whatever you do does not seem to be enough?

#3. Interesting statistic

Shocking or unusual facts or statistics always grab the reader’s attention and validate the point you are trying to make, especially in your compare and contrast essay. It is a powerful way to set the essay's tone and intrigue your audience.

Spend quality time researching your topic and gathering exciting data that you could begin your piece of writing with. Make sure you pick data from credible sources and remember to reference its source.

With around 3 billion active social media users worldwide, this platform poses as one of the most significant marketing tools to reach and engage with your target audience.
According to Gallup research, 75% of employees in the U.S. leave managers and not companies.

#4. Anecdote

An anecdote will be a perfect hook to start your rhetorical strategies essay. The best part about anecdotes is the personal touch they bring to your essay. The perfect college essay anecdotes are engaging, concise, and relevant.

However, ensure the anecdote is followed by a strong transition statement that links the story to the rest of your essay so it doesn’t seem to end abruptly.

As I stood in the metro and looked at the city passing by, I realized how much this place had given me. I came here as a shy, anxious woman in her early 20s, and today, the transformation I see in myself is phenomenal.
Just when I was getting ready for a long, relaxing weekend, the unthinkable happened – I fractured my leg. What followed was weeks of bed rest, and little did I know that those six weeks were going to be such an eye-opener.

#5. Make a declaration or a bold claim

Making a strong statement or a bold claim can draw in readers and signal that you will make some compelling points. It will make them interested in further exploring what you want to say. This strategy works best if you can find a unique perspective on the topic that will surprise readers.

It doesn’t matter if your reader agrees with you— the important thing is that they are engaged and interested enough to want to learn more about your argument.

Global warming is not just an issue – it’s an absolute crisis.

#6. State the obvious (but in an exciting way)

However, for this strategy to make a lasting impact, you have to make it interesting enough. This hook is a good way to start your essay on feminism, for example.

Women and men are equal, right? Yet, why does it still seem revolutionary when women demand the same pay, respect, and opportunities as men?

#7. Historical event

Another creative way to introduce an essay and hook your readers is by describing a historical event related to your topic. For a "Why University" essay, this hook can make a strong first impression. A historical event can establish context and provide an interesting starting point for the Why essay.

It can be anything from a significant event like World War II or a more localized event, such as the founding of your hometown or college. You don’t need to go into too much detail—just enough to set the scene and provide context for the story you are telling in your essay.

Final thoughts

The art of crafting an engaging essay starts with a compelling hook. By utilizing one of the 7 diverse strategies outlined, from quoting influential figures to presenting startling statistics or intriguing rhetorical questions, you can captivate your reader from the outset.

Each essay hook offers a unique way to draw readers into your narrative, setting the stage for an insightful and thought-provoking essay. This gives you an answer to why we need great essay hooks.

Remember, the initial sentences of your essay hold the power to engage and inspire your audience, paving the way for your ideas to resonate profoundly. Choose your hook wisely, and watch your essays transform into captivating pieces of writing that stand out in the realm of academic discourse.

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73 Essay Hook Examples

essay hook examples and definition, explained below

An essay hook is the first one or two sentences of your essay that are used to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into your discussion.

It is called a hook because it “grabs” the reader and doesn’t let them go! It should have something in there that makes the reader feel curious and intrigued, compelling them to continue reading.

Techniques for Good Essay Hooks

Here are a few techniques that you can use to write a good essay hook:

Use a Quotation : Sometimes, a relevant quotation from a well-known author or expert can help establish the context or theme of your essay. Next time you’re conducting research for an essay, keep an eye out for a really compelling quote that you could use as your hook for that essay.
Start with a Statement that is Surprising or Unusual: A surprising or unusually statement will draw a reader in, making them want to know more about that topic. It’s good if the statement contradicts common knowledge or reveals an insight about your topic that isn’t immediately obvious. These can be particularly good for argumentative essays where you’re putting forward a controversial or compelling argument as your thesis statement .
Tell a Brief Anecdote : A short, interesting story related to your topic can personaize the story, making it more than just a dry essay, and turning it into a compelling narrative that’s worth reading.
Use Statistics or Facts: Interesting, surprising, or shocking facts or statistics work similarly to surprising statements: they make us want to know more about a topic. Statistics and facts in your introductions are particularly useful for analytical, expository , and argumentative essays.
Start with a Question: Questions that make the reader think deeply about an issue, or pose a question that the reader themselves has considered, can be really effecitve. But remember, questions tend to be better for informal and personal essays, and are generally not allowed in formal argumentative essays. If you’re not sure if you’re allowed to use questions in your essays, check with your teacher first.

Below, I’ll present some examples of hooks that you could use as inspiration when writing your own essay hook.

Essay Hook Examples

These examples might help stimulate your thinking. However, keep in mind that your essay hook needs to be unique to your essay, so use these as inspiration but write your own essay hook that’s perfect for your own essay.

1. For an Essay About Yourself

An essay about yourself can be personal, use “I” statements, and include memories or thoughts that are deeply personal to you.

Question: “Have you ever met someone who could turn even the most mundane events into a thrilling adventure? Let me introduce myself.”
Anecdote: “The smell of freshly baked cookies always takes me back to the day when I accidentally started a baking business at the age of nine.”
Intriguing Statement: “I’ve always believed that you haven’t truly lived until you’ve read a book upside down, danced in the rain, or taught a parrot to say ‘I love pizza.'”
Quotation: “As Mark Twain once said, ‘The secret of getting ahead is getting started.’ That’s a philosophy I’ve embraced in every aspect of my life.”
Humorous Statement: “I’m a self-proclaimed ‘professional chocolate tester’ – a title that’s not only delicious but also requires extreme dedication.”
Start with your Mission Statement : “My life motto is simple but powerful: be the person who decided to go for it.
Fact or Statistic: “According to a study, people who speak more than one language tend to be better at multitasking . As a polyglot, I certainly live up to that statistic.”
Comparison or Metaphor: “If my life were a book, it would be a blend of an adventurous novel, a suspense thriller, and a pinch of romantic comedy.”
Personal Revelation: “Ever since I was a child, I’ve had an uncanny ability to communicate with animals. It’s an unusual skill, but one that has shaped my life in many ways.”
Narrative: “The day everything changed for me was an ordinary Tuesday. Little did I know, a single conversation would lead me to discover my true passion.”

2. For a Reflective Essay

A reflective essay often explores personal experiences, feelings, and thoughts. So, your hooks for reflective essays can usually be more personal, intriguing, and engaging than other types of essays. Here are some examples for inspiration:

Question: “Have you ever felt as though a single moment could change your entire life? This essay is going to explore that moment for me.”
Anecdote: “I was standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, looking at the vast emptiness, and for the first time, I truly understood the word ‘perspective’.”
Bold Statement: “There is a part of me that is still trapped in that room, on that rainy afternoon, holding the letter that would change everything.”
Personal Revelation: “The first time I truly felt a sense of belonging wasn’t in a crowded room full of friends, but in the quiet solitude of a forest.”
Intriguing Statement: “In my life, silence has been a teacher more profound than any words could ever be.”
Quotation: “Einstein once said, ‘The only source of knowledge is experience.’ Now, looking back, I realize how profound that statement truly is.”
Comparison or Metaphor: “If my life is a tapestry, then that summer was the vibrant thread that changed the entire pattern.”
Narrative: “As the train pulled out of the station, I realized I wasn’t just leaving my hometown, I was leaving my old self behind.”
Philosophical Statement: “In the theater of life, we are both the actor and the audience, playing our part and watching ourselves simultaneously.”
Emotive Statement: “There is a sort of sweet sorrow in remembering, a joy tinged with a hint of sadness, like the last notes of a beautiful song.”

For an Argumentative Essay

Essay hooks for argumentative essays are often the hardest. This type of essay tends to require the most formal type of academic writing, meaning your hook shouldn’t use first person, and should be more based on fact and objectivity, often at the expense of creativity. Here are some examples.

Quotation: “Thomas Jefferson once said, ‘Whenever the people are well-informed, they can be trusted with their own government.’ If Jefferson were alive today, he would likely feel that this meed for a well-informed citizenry is falling well short of where he would aspire.”
Provocative Statement: “Despite what romantic films may portray, love at first sight is merely a myth perpetuated by society. This essay will prosecute the argument that love at first sight is a myth.”
Statistical Fact: “According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading psychological disability worldwide. Yet, mental health is still stigmatized and often overlooked. This essay will argue that depression should be seen as a health issue, and stigmatization of depression causes serious harm to society.”
Comparison: “Much like an unchecked infection, climate change, if left ignored, can spread far beyond what it is today, causing long-term economic and social problems that may even threaten the longevity of humanity itself.”
Contradiction : “While we live in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, millions around the world are still denied basic internet access.”
Bold Declaration: “Animal testing is not only ethically unacceptable, but it also undermines the progress of medical research.”
Challenging Belief: “Despite popular belief, the automation of jobs is not a threat but an opportunity for society to evolve.”
Quotation: “George Orwell wrote in ‘1984’, ‘Big Brother is Watching You.’ In our modern society, with the advancement of technology, this is becoming more of a reality than fiction.”
Intriguing Statement: “Despite countless diet fads and fitness trends, obesity rates continue to rise. This argumentative essay will argue that this is because medical practitioners’ approaches to health and weight loss are fundamentally flawed.”
Statistical Fact: “Research reveals that over 90% of the world’s plastic waste is not recycled. This alarming figure calls for a drastic change in social attitudes towards consumption and waste management.”
Challenging Assumption: “Society often assumes that progress and growth are intrinsically good, but this is not always the case in the realm of economic development.”
Contradiction: “Western society upholds the value of freedom, yet every day, members of society cede personal liberties in the name of convenience and security.”
Analogy: “Like an overplayed song, when a news story is repeated too often, it loses its impact. In the era of digital media, society is becoming desensitized to critical issues.”
Relevant Anecdote: “In a village in India, the arrival of a single computer transformed the lives of the residents. This small anecdote underscores the importance of digital inclusion in today’s world.”
Call to Rethink: “In a world where success is often equated with financial wealth, it is time for society to reconsidered what truly constitutes a successful life.”

For a Compare and Contrast Essay

A compare and contrast essay examines two issues, looking at both the similarities and differences between them. A good hook for a compare and contrast essay will immediately signal to the reader the subjects that are being compared and why they’re being compared. Here are sine ideas for hooks for a compare and contrast essay:

Quotation: “As Charles Dickens wrote in his novel ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times’. This could equally apply to the contrasting dynamics of urban and rural living.”
Provocative Statement: “Despite popular belief, cats and dogs have more in common than society tends to think.”
Comparison: “Comparing being an only child to growing up with siblings is like contrasting a solo performance with an orchestral symphony.”
Contradiction: “While many view classic literature and contemporary fiction as worlds apart, they are more akin to two sides of the same coin.”
Bold Declaration: “Android and iPhone may compete in the same market, but their philosophies could not be more different.”
Statistical Fact: “Statistics show that children who grow up reading books tend to perform better academically than those who do not. But, the jury is out on how reading traditional books compares to reading e-books on screens.”
Quotation: “As Robert Louis Stevenson once wrote, ‘Sooner or later, we all sit down to a banquet of consequences.’ This statement can be used to frame a comparison between short-term and long-term thinking.”
Provocative Statement: “Democracy and dictatorship are often seen as polar opposites, but are they are not as different as they seem.”
Comparison: “Climate change and plastic pollution are two major environmental issues, yet they demand different approaches and solutions.”
Contradiction: “While traditional classrooms and online learning are seen as separate modes of education, they can often blend into a cohesive learning experience.”
Bold Declaration: “Though both based on merit, the structures of capitalism and socialism lead to vastly different societal outcomes.”
Imagery: “The painting styles of Van Gogh and Monet can be contrasted as a stormy sea versus a tranquil pond.”
Historical Reference: “The philosophies of the Cold War-era – capitalism and communism – provide a lens to contrast economic systems.”
Literary Comparison: “The dystopian societies portrayed in George Orwell’s ‘1984’ and Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’ serve as contrasting visions of the future.”
Philosophical Question: “Individualism and collectivism shape societies in distinct ways, but neither one can truly exist without the other.”

See Here for my Guide on Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

For a Psychology Essay

Writing an engaging hook for a psychology essay involves sparking the reader’s interest in the human mind, behavior, or the specific psychology topic you’re discussing. Here are some stimulating hooks for a psychology essay:

Rhetorical Question: “How much control do we truly have over our own actions?”
Quotation: “Sigmund Freud once said, ‘Unexpressed emotions will never die. They are buried alive and will come forth later in uglier ways.’ This essay will explore whether this is universally true.”
Provocative Statement: “Contrary to popular belief, ‘venting out’ anger might actually be fueling the fire of fury.”
Comparison: “Just as an iceberg reveals only a fraction of its bulk above water, conscious minds may only be a small piece of who humans truly are.”
Contradiction: “While it may seem counterintuitive, studies show that individuals who are more intelligent are also more likely to suffer from mental health issues.”
Bold Declaration: “Despite advances in technology, understanding the human brain remains one of the final frontiers in science.”
Statistical Fact: “According to a study by the American Psychological Association, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness. Yet, mental health continues to be a topic shrouded in stigma.”

For a Sociology Essay

Writing an engaging hook for a sociology essay involves sparking the reader’s interest in social behaviors, cultural phenomena, or the specific sociology topic you’re discussing. Here are ideas for hooks for a sociology essay:

Quotation: “As Karl Marx once noted, ‘Social progress can be measured exactly by the social position of the fair sex.’ Sadly, society has not made much progress in gender equality.”
Provocative Statement: “Social media, initially created to connect people, is ironically leading society into an era of unprecedented isolation.”
Comparison: “Comparing society to a theater, where each individual plays a role, it is possible to start to see patterns and scripts embedded in daily interactions.”
Contradiction: “While people often believe that technology is bringing society closer together, evidence suggests that it’s actually driving a wedge between people, creating ‘digital divides’.”
Bold Declaration: “Human societies are constructed on deeply ingrained systems of inequality, often invisible to those benefiting from them.”
Statistical Fact: “A recent study found that women still earn only 81 cents for every dollar earned by men. This stark wage gap raises questions about equality in the workforce.”

For a College Application Essay

A college essay is a personal statement where you can showcase who you are beyond your grades and resume. It’s your chance to tell your unique story. Here are ten potential hooks for a college essay:

Anecdote: “At the age of seven, with a wooden spoon as my baton, I confidently conducted an orchestra of pots and pans in my grandmother’s kitchen.”
Provocative Statement: “I believe that life is like a game of chess. The king might be the most important piece, but it’s the pawns that can change the entire course of the game.”
Personal Revelation: “It wasn’t until I was lost in a foreign city, armed with nothing but a map in a language I didn’t understand, that I truly discovered my love for adventure.”
Intriguing Question: “Have you ever wondered how it feels to be part of two completely different cultures, yet wholly belong to neither?”
Bold Declaration: “Breaking a bone can be a painful experience. Breaking stereotypes, however, is an entirely different kind of challenge.”
Unusual Fact: “I can recite the periodic table backwards while juggling three tennis balls. It’s a strange talent, but it’s a perfect metaphor for how I tackle challenges.”
Quotation: “As Albert Einstein once said, ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’ This quote has defined my approach to learning.”
Narrative: “It was a cold winter’s day when I first discovered the magic of turning a blank page into a world full of characters, stories, and ideas.”
Metaphor: “Like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, my high school years have been a period of profound metamorphosis.”
Humorous Statement: “Being the youngest of five siblings, I quickly learned that the best way to be heard was to become the family’s unofficial lawyer.”

Conclusion: The Qualities of a Good Essay Hook

As I wrap up this article, I want to share a few last tips on qualities that a good essay hook should have. Keep these tips in mind when writing your essay hook and using the above essay hook examples:

First, relevance . A good hook should be directly relevant to the topic or theme of your essay. The hook should provide a preview of what’s to come without giving too much away.

Second, Intrigue. A great hook should make the reader want to continue reading. It should create a question in the reader’s mind or present a fascinating idea that they want to know more about.

Third, uniqueness. An effective hook should be original and unique. It should stand out from the many other essays that the reader might be going through.

Fourth, clarity. Even though a hook should be captivating and original, it should also be clear and easy to understand. Avoid complex sentences and jargon that might confuse the reader.

Fifth, genre conventions. Too often, my students try to be so creative in their essay hooks that they forget genre conventions . The more formal an essay, the harder it is to write the hook. My general approach is to focus on statistics and facts, and avoid rhetorical questions , with more formal essay hooks.

Keep in mind that you should run your essay hook by your teacher by showing them your first draft before you submit your essay for grading. This will help you to make sure it follows genre conventions and is well-written.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Maintenance Rehearsal - Definition & Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Piaget vs Vygotsky: Similarities and Differences
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Conditioned Response Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 25 Humanistic Psychology Examples

7 Sensational Essay Hooks That Grab Readers’ Attention

by Suzanne Davis | Jul 14, 2022 | Writing Essays and Papers | 12 comments

Do you want people to feel excited when they read your essay?

The secret is to get them interested in reading your essay by making the first part of your introduction intriguing. The best way to do that is by using attention-grabbing essay hooks.

So, what is a hook? It’s a piece of writing at the beginning of your essay that engages your reading audience. Usually, a hook is a sentence or group of sentences that draw people into reading your essay or research paper. A hook sparks a person’s curiosity. You want whoever reads your essay to wonder what happens next. Hooks also make an introduction stand out (which raises your chance of getting a high grade on your essay).

If you want to see all the elements of great introductions for research papers check my post, How to Write a Strong Introduction to a Research Paper at https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/how-to-write-a-strong-introduction-to-a-research-paper/.

When you write essay hooks that make your rea ders curious, you’ve taken the first step toward making them fall in love with your writing. Let’s dive in and look at essay hooks that will elevate your writing style!

7 Types of Essay Hooks

Here are 7 writing hooks that make readers want to find out what you will say in the rest of your essay.

Interesting Question Hook
Strong Statement/Declaration Hook
Fact/Statistic Hook
Metaphor/ Simile Hook
Description Hook
Quotation Hook.

1. The Interesting Question Hook

An interesting question hook is when you ask a question that relates to your essay or paper. And the only way a person can know the answer to that question is by reading your writing.

People are inquisitive. When we hear or read a question we want to know the answer. If we don’t have an answer then we need to find out.

So, when you start your essay with a question hook, this signals to your readers that if they keep reading you’ll give them the answer.

Here’s an example of an interesting question hook on the topic of succeeding in college:

What is the difference between successful college students and unsuccessful college students?

The goal of this essay hook is to make you want to learn what students who succeed in college do, and what college students who don’t succeed in college do wrong.

2. The Strong Statement/Declaration Hook

A strong statement hook is a sentence that makes an assertive claim about your topic. It connects to the thesis statement and shows the importance of your essay or paper.

A strong statement is a great technique because it doesn’t matter if your reader agrees or disagrees with your statement. They will want to see how you support your statement.

This is an example of a strong statement on the topic of the vegan diet.

Vegans are the healthiest group of people in the world.

This statement either supports your point of view about the vegan diet, or it makes you want to argue against it (especially if you love meat). Either way, you are curious about what the writer says.

3. The Fact/ Statistic Hook

Facts and statistics hook your reader because they give real information about a topic. You can impress your reader with your knowledge and evidence from the very beginning of your essay. But, you need to include facts that are accurate, interesting, and reliable. Evaluate your information and make sure it comes from a credible source. Some places to visit for statistics are The Pew Research Center https://www.pewresearch.org/ , and The CIA World Fact Book, https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/.

Here’s an example of a factual hook about an essay on gun ownership in the United States.

Almost two-thirds of American adults at some point in their life lived in a home with at least one gun.

The Pew Research Center, “America’s Relationship With Guns: An In-Depth Look at the Attitudes and Experiences of US Adults” http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2017/06/22/americas-complex-relationship-with-guns/

4. The Metaphor / Simile Hook

The metaphor/simile hook engages your readers because it makes them think about a topic in a different way. Your audience wonders what you mean and how you compare a topic to something that seems unconnected.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares one thing to another, but these two things seem unrelated. An example of a metaphor is: Her boyfriend is a rat. The boyfriend is not really a rat, but he behaves like one.

If your essay topic is on business blogging you could write the metaphor hook:

A business blog is a magnet pulling clients to a company.

A simile is like a metaphor. Both compare two unrelated things to each other, but a simile uses the words like or as to connect them. A simile is less strong than a comparison in a metaphor. An example of a simile is : Writing a research paper is like running a marathon when it’s 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

A simile hook for the essay about business blogging could be:

A business blog is like a magnet that pulls clients to a company.

5. The Story Hook

This is a hook where you begin with a short story or episode that relates to your topic. Readers love stories, especially a well-written story that is memorable. The key to a great story hook is making sure the story directly connects to your essay or paper topic. Your story can be personal or someone else’s story.

Here’s an example of a story hook for an essay about the differences between British and American English. I used my own story about a trip to England.

I got off the train and pulled my luggage behind me. A cab pulled up to the curb, and the driver got out. He lifted my luggage and said, “Miss, I’m just going to put your stuff in the boot.” I didn’t know what he meant until I saw him open the car’s trunk. Then I realized the boot means car trunk. I got in the cab, wondering how many other words would be different in England.

You’ll see this sto ry hook is longer than other types of essay hooks. That’s okay. Your hook can be longer, but it shouldn’t be a large part of your essay or paper. Compare the length of your hook to the length of the essay.

Also, consider your audience (especially an academic audience). Ask yourself, “Will a story hook be acceptable in this course?” If you’re unsure you can ask your teacher or professor or you could select a different type of hook.

6. The Description Hook

This is a hook where a vivid description of a scene draws your readers into your writing. A good description hook will make your reader want to know what comes next in your writing. It’s most popular in narrative essays, but you can use a description hook with any type of writing (yes even academic papers). But, like the story hook ask yourself, “Will this description hook be acceptable in this course?”

Here’s an example of a description hook for a personal narrative essay about saving a dog:

The dog howled in pain and limped along the side of the road. His leg was cut and blood streamed down his leg.

Doesn’t this scene make you curious about what will happen to the dog?

7. The Quotation Hook

This is a hook where you begin your essay with a quotation. The quotation could be from a famous person, but it doesn’t have to be. You can quote anyone if it connects to what you’re writing about.

If you write an essay on the topic of education you could start

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

If you want to use a quotation for a hook, make sure you quote the words exactly. Choose quotations where the words are striking, powerful, and/ or memorable.

Writing Challenge: Write 2 Essay Hooks

Essay hooks are a great way to intrigue all your readers. Select your favorite 2 types of essay hooks. Then write a hook for each kind you choose. Comment below and share your favorite one!

Have fun and be creative.

Photo by Bram Naus on Unsplash

I find that switching it up makes my content better. My favorite is to start with a question or a strong statement. I love this infographic. Well done!

Thanks Joanne! Question and strong statement hooks are great for getting readers to wonder what’s in your essay. I’m so glad you liked the infographic.

This is a great article, showing the variety of openings you can use in writing. Thank you for the tips!

I’m glad you liked it. I think hooks are great for writing.

[…] For more information about essay hooks see-https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/7-sensational-types-of-essay-hooks/ […]

Very good blog! Do you have any recommendations for aspiring writers? I’m hoping to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything.

Would you recommend starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m totally overwhelmed ..

Any suggestions? Many thanks!

Hi Cindy, Those are great questions about blogging. I think the beginning point with starting a blog is determining your niche/focus, goals and your ideal readers. The next piece of advice is to really learn the style of writing blog posts. It’s a craft, so you should really start with a good grasp of the formatting, style, and techniques, etc. Since I don’t know your blog’s focus I can’t offer you more specific advice.

If you can afford it, I suggest paying for a domain name and hosting. There are free ones like WordPress.com etc. These will get you started, but if you want to use your blog for a business I really recommend starting with a paid option. I hope this helps you. Good luck blogging!

Thank you for this informative Eda’ya. My favorite hooks are question, strong statement and the fact. I think these are the best for an academic paper. Your infographic is excellent and memorable. Thank you! ??

Mehmet, Those are all great hooks! I think they would each be a great way to begin an academic paper too. I’m glad the infographic is useful to you. Thank you for the compliment.

These are great. I’ll have to file this away for my next writing student (and my next blog post!). For research papers, I used to use the fact/statistic hook a lot.

Beth, I’m glad you liked these essay hooks. I like the fact/statistic hook a lot too, and you’re right it is a great one for research papers.

I like question hooks & metaphoric ones…

I need to write to essays for tomorrow at English (preparing for Baccalaureate) & I’ll choose “success is not about luck” & “the importance of music in our lives” …

For the first one I’ll choose the first type of hook (for me it’s the easiest): “How can you be sure that when it comes to success, luck isn’t so important” or sth like this.

But for the second essay I’ll choose a metaphoric hook “music is the spot of light who makes shine in gray tones” or sth like this.

For the first one I was also thinking about sth statistically but idk not a kind of statistics about luck help in success or sth like this…

Ik, you can’t give me advices till tomorrow but I’ll be OK. Thx for this gorgeous inform. God bless you. All the best!

I think those are 2 great hooks to use with those essays. I love the metaphoric hook you came up with–it’s beautiful. I hope you do well with your essays. Good luck!

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Hook Examples Generator

🎣 Do I Need a Hook?
💡 Examples of Hooks

🔗 References

🎣 do i need a hook for essays.

Students often spend a lot of time procrastinating on their work because they need help figuring out where to start. Writing an introduction to any paper is a challenge. That's why here, we bring to your attention our hook examples generator. This straightforward and easy-to-use tool not only will not only support you in getting started on your project, but will also make it even more engaging for your audience.

So, what is a hook? And what is it for? Let's find out together!

What Is a Hook?

A hook appears in the text as an opening sentence or paragraph that forms first impression and encourages readers to continue reading.

The hook aims to set the essay's tone and style, allowing you to stand out, but this part differs from the introduction.

So, after you have intrigued the reader, you can introduce the topic by giving background information and a thesis statement.

As for the size, the hook can range from 1 sentence to an entire 6-sentence paragraph . It all depends on the expected length of your paper, the hook type, and your preferences. When you choose the hook type, consider the audience and the purpose. However, you shouldn’t overload it with unnecessary details. It may have good content and lots of information, but it won't be as appealing and memorable as you could imagine.

How to Write a Good Hook

Whether you're writing a philosophy essay , a descriptive essay , or an essay about your personal story , you will find help in our advice. In the following section, we'll tell you what to pay attention to. We'll also give you some tips to make your hook writing process easier and point you in the right direction.

💡 Examples of Hooks in Writing

The truth is, almost anything can be a hook. A well-constructed statement, an interesting fact, or an appropriate quote can make excellent openings for your introduction. Nevertheless, some of them will be more effective than others, depending on the kind of work you do. Here, we'll tell you about different examples of hooks in writing.

Argumentative Essay Hooks

As this essay type aims to research, present, and explain evidence, two hooks will work for you — fact and common misconception . If you choose to go with the factual approach, you should find something captivating. We can't use a fact that we've heard many times before. If you can’t find a piece of impressive information, then use a common misconception. This will intrigue your audience and motivate them to read on to find the truth.

Bacteria are tiny but scary-looking organisms that can make one frightened even on a photograph. However, not all of them are harmful. While some bacteria spread disease, others help our bodies absorb nutrients and digest food.

Informative Essay Hooks

As a rule, an informative essay aims to educate your readers or advance in-depth on a topic. A hook with statistical data will work fine in this case. The main thing is to cite the source to avoid sounding baseless. It’d also be interesting to start with a question to stimulate reasoning from the audience. There is a good chance that a provocative question will motivate reading.

What would you do if a tarantula bit your friend?

Expository Essay Hooks

An expository essay is a revealing text with factual information for comparisons and contrasts. Consequently, it'd be ideal to use conflict as a hook. For example, you could give several opinions on the topic.

On the one hand, genetic engineering helps us to fight diseases and gene defects, but on the other hand, people find it unethical and unnatural.

Another option is to use a definition as a hook, which can be straightforward yet effective.

Success is often used to describe achieving a desired outcome. However, success means different things to different people.

Literary Analysis Hooks

A literary analysis aims to examine or evaluate a work of literature carefully. Therefore, a quotation hook is excellent because you can take a famous or relevant quote to make an essay memorable and thought-provoking.

“So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past” - this is how Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby ends.

The same powerful impact on reflection has a hook phrased as a metaphor . The reader may need time to understand what the paper is about or interpret it differently.

Presentation Hooks

You can present your material in many ways, depending on the topic and the tone you want to set. You can start with an exciting question for intrigue or use a striking fact . It's equally effective to give statistics , if those are relevant to your presentation. But one unusual choice would be a strong statement hook. We use it to provide an affirmative stance about a certain topic that leaves no room for discussion. In turn, your audience will definitely be intrigued to see how you can back up your position.

Vegetarianism is an example of a healthy and balanced nutrition.

Personal Statement Hooks

A personal statement is used by university applicants or job candidates . Therefore, the primary purpose of such an essay is to stand out among competitors. So, a great option is to start with an anecdote , immediately setting the readers into a positive mindset. Then, you increase your chances of being remembered with good associations. Alternatively, you can start with a story or a relevant. But remember that this is an academic type of writing, and you need to know the measure and stay formal.

The most memorable experience during my undergraduate studies was...

Also, we recommend the descriptive hook, which is brilliant for a personal narrative. You can write about a successful project you’re planning or have done.

Did our hook examples generator help you in your work? If you want to know more about it, read our FAQ section below!

❓ Hook Examples Generator – FAQ

Updated: Oct 25th, 2023

How to Write a Hook – East Stroudsburg University
Hooks and Grabbers – Las Positas College
How to Write a Hook: Essay Writing~Introduction – The Learning Depot
Hooks and Attention Grabbers - Tutoring and Learning Centre, George Brown College
Different Types of Hooks for Essays with Examples – HighArts.org
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Take the time to familiarize yourself with our hook examples generator. This free online tool will save you plenty of time and energy thinking about how to begin writing your academic paper. Don’t know which hook will be most applicable? Not a problem! Learn all about examples of hooks in writing from this page.

Hook Generator

AI Hook Generator: Write a Perfect Attention-Grabber

What is a hook generator.

In writing, a hook is a sentence or group of sentences that serves as an attention-grabbing opening to a piece of writing. It is a powerful tool to engage readers or listeners and encourage them to continue reading or listening. However, crafting a good hook can be challenging, and that's where a hook generator comes in.

A hook generator, also known as a hook creator or hook sentence generator, is an online tool that provides users with various ideas for hooks that they can use in their writing. These tools help writers save time and effort by providing them with different options for a hook that they can choose from.

Why Should You Use a Hook Statement Generator?

Using a hook generator has several advantages for writers, including:

Time-saving: Writing a hook can be a time-consuming process. A hook generator can save writers time by providing them with various options to choose from.
Increased creativity: A hook generator can stimulate creativity by providing writers with unique and interesting ideas that they might not have thought of on their own.
Improved engagement: A well-crafted hook can improve reader engagement, and a hook generator can help writers create attention-grabbing hooks that keep their readers interested.
Consistency: A hook generator can help writers ensure that the tone and style of their hooks are consistent throughout their writing. This can help create a more cohesive and polished piece of writing, which can improve the reader's overall experience.
Flexibility: A hook generator can provide writers with different types of hooks that can be tailored to their specific writing needs. For example, a writer may need a hook for an essay, a speech, or a marketing campaign. A hook generator can provide a variety of hook types, such as anecdotes, questions, or quotations, that can be customized to suit the specific type of writing.

How to Use Our Hook Generator?

Our hook generator is easy to use and can help writers generate hooks quickly and efficiently. Here's how to use it:

Step 1: Describe the Topic

Enter the topic you want to write about in the text box. This will help the generator provide relevant and specific ideas for hooks.

Step 2: Generate Hook Ideas

Click on the "Generate Hooks" button, and our hook generator will provide you with different ideas for hooks. You can select the ones that you like and save them for later use.

Step 3: Save Hooks with Potential

After generating hook ideas, you can save the ones that you think have the potential to engage your audience. You can copy and paste them into a separate document for future reference.

Step 4: Refine Your Hooks

You can refine the hooks you've saved by making changes to them or combining different ideas to create a more unique hook.

Tips for writing effective hooks

Here are some tips for writing effective hooks:

Know your audience

Before writing a hook, it's essential to know your target audience. Consider what type of reader or listener you are trying to attract and what their interests and values are. This will help you create a hook that is relevant and appealing to your audience.

Hook examples:

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list?
Are you passionate about saving the environment?
Do you love trying new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen?

Start with an interesting fact or statistic

Sharing a surprising or little-known fact can pique readers' curiosity and make them want to learn more. Starting with a fact or statistic can also establish the importance of the topic you're writing about.

Pose a thought-provoking question

Asking a question can make readers or listeners think and engage with the topic on a deeper level. Make sure the question is relevant to your topic and encourages readers to keep reading or listening.

Thought-provoking hook exa

What would you do if you had only 24 hours left to live?
Is it ever acceptable to lie to protect someone's feelings?
Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?

Use a quotation

Using a quotation from a famous person or a book related to your topic can add credibility and interest to your writing. Make sure the quotation is relevant and memorable.

Quotation hook examples:

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs
"The best way to predict your future is to create it." - Abraham Lincoln
"It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change." - Charles Darwin

Tell a story or anecdote

Sharing a personal story or anecdote can help readers connect with your writing on an emotional level. Make sure the story is relevant to your topic and highlights the importance of the issue you're discussing.

Story hook examples:

When I was six years old, I fell off my bike and broke my arm. Little did I know that this event would shape my entire life.
My grandfather used to tell me stories about his experiences during the war. His stories always reminded me of the sacrifices he made for our country.
I remember the first time I tasted sushi. It was love at first bite, and I've been a fan ever since.

Humour can be an effective way to engage readers and make them remember your writing. However, make sure the humor is appropriate and relevant to your topic.

Why did the tomato turn red? Because it saw the salad dressing!
I used to play piano by ear, but now I use my hands instead.
I told my wife she was drawing her eyebrows too high. She looked surprised.

Keep it concise

A hook should be brief and to the point. Avoid using long, complicated sentences that may confuse or bore readers.

Concise hooks examples:

Time is money.
Life is short.
Knowledge is power.

Make it unique

A hook should be unique and stand out from other hooks. Avoid using cliches or overused phrases that readers may have seen before.

Your hook should accurately reflect the content of your writing. Avoid using clickbait or misleading hooks that may disappoint or frustrate readers.

How to Write a Good Hook for an Essay

A good hook for an essay should be attention-grabbing and relevant to the topic. It should also be unique and creative. Here are some types of hooks in writing that you can use for your essay:

Anecdote: Start with a short and interesting story related to your topic.
Question: Pose a question to your audience that makes them think and want to learn more.
Quotation: Use a quotation from a famous person or a book related to your topic.
Surprising fact: Share a surprising or shocking fact that will make your readers curious.
Definition: Start with a clear and concise definition of a term related to your topic.

Choose Your Type of Hook

After selecting the type of hook you want to use, you can start writing your hook sentence. A good hook should be concise and to the point, but it should also grab your readers' attention.

How to Start a Hook for an Essay

To start a hook for an essay, you need to think about what will capture your readers' attention. You can start by asking a question, sharing a story, or providing an interesting fact. The goal is to create a hook that will make your readers want to keep reading.

Essay Hook Examples

Here are some examples of good hooks for essays:

Anecdote: "When I was six years old, I broke my leg in a car accident. Little did I know that this event would shape my entire life."
Question: "Did you know that the human brain can process information faster than the speed of light?"
Quotation: "As Nelson Mandela once said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'"
Surprising fact: "Did you know that the world's largest living organism is a fungus that covers over 2,200 acres in Oregon?"
Definition: "According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, 'procrastination' is defined as the act of delaying or postponing something."

Hook Generators

Aside from our hook generator, there are several other hook generators available online that can help writers create attention-grabbing hooks for their writing. Here are some examples:

Instagram Hooks Generator

Instagram is a popular social media platform that is used by millions of people around the world. If you're looking to create reels on Instagram, you can use an Instagram hooks generator to come up with creative and engaging hook ideas.

An Instagram hooks generator is a tool that generates creative ideas and concepts for reels on the Instagram platform. It is designed to help users create attention-grabbing and visually stunning content to capture the attention of their audience.

Instagram hook tips:

Use a visually stunning image or video that captures the essence of your brand or product
Use an interesting caption that encourages viewers to engage with your post
Use a unique hashtag that makes your post easily discoverable

Check out our AI instagram bio generator

Email Hooks Generator

Email marketing is an effective way to reach potential customers and promote your business. To make sure your emails get noticed, you can use an email hooks generator to come up with attention-grabbing subject lines that entice your subscribers to open your emails.

An email hooks generator is a tool that generates attention-grabbing subject lines for email marketing campaigns. It is designed to help users create subject lines that entice their subscribers to open their emails. Here are some benefits and examples of an email hooks generator:

Email hook tips:

Ask a question in the subject line that piques the subscriber's curiosity
Use numbers to make the subject line more specific and compelling
Use a sense of urgency to create a feeling of FOMO (fear of missing out)

Check out our cover letter generator and how to write letter of recommendation with AI .

Speech Hook Generator

Public speaking can be daunting, but a well-crafted hook can help you capture your audience's attention and keep them engaged throughout your speech. A speech hook generator can provide you with different ideas for hooks that you can use to make your speech more memorable.

A speech hook generator is a tool that generates creative and engaging ideas for speeches. It is designed to help users create attention-grabbing hooks that capture the audience's attention and keep them engaged throughout the speech.

Speech hook tips:

Use a personal story or anecdote that relates to the topic of the speech
Use a shocking statistic or fact that highlights the importance of the issue being discussed
Use humor to make the audience laugh and create a relaxed atmosphere

Essay Hook Generator

An essay hook generator can help you come up with creative ideas for hooks that you can use to make your essay stand out. By using a hook generator, you can save time and effort while creating a hook that will make your essay more engaging.

An essay hook generator is a tool that generates creative ideas for hooks for essays. It is designed to help users create attention-grabbing hooks that make their essays stand out.

Essay hook tips:

Use a quote from a famous person or a book related to the topic of the essay
Use a surprising or little-known fact that highlights the importance of the issue being discussed
Use a personal story or anecdote that relates to the topic of the essay

Song Hook Generator

Writing a catchy hook is essential for creating a successful song. A song hook generator can provide you with different ideas for hooks that you can use in your songwriting.

A song hook generator is a tool that generates creative and memorable ideas for hooks for songs. It is designed to help users create catchy and memorable hooks that stick in the listener's mind.

Song hook tips:

Use a catchy melody or rhythm that makes the hook memorable
Use a simple and repetitive phrase that is easy for listeners to remember
Use a metaphor or analogy that makes the hook more interesting and memorable

Check out also our country song generator and song title generator .

Marketing Hook Generator

Marketing hooks are used to grab the attention of potential customers and persuade them to buy your products or services. A marketing hook generator can provide you with different ideas for hooks that you can use in your marketing campaigns to make them more effective.

In conclusion, using a hook generator can be a valuable tool for writers who want to create attention-grabbing hooks quickly and efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this article and using a hook generator, you can create hooks that engage your audience and make your writing more memorable.

Short Narrative Essay

Short narrative essay generator.

Everyone finds it interesting to tell stories about their lives or about someone else’s. Through those stories, we can get lessons which we can apply in our daily lives. This is what a narrative essay is all about. Let’s go back to your experiences when you were still in grade school. Your teacher would often ask you to write about your favorite experiences especially during Christmas season and summer vacation.

Some people would mistakenly identify a narrative essay as equally the same as a descriptive essay . They are totally different from each other, yet both of them are forms of academic writing . Look into this article to learn more about narrative essays.

What is Short Narrative Essay?

A short narrative essay is a brief piece of writing that tells a story, usually focusing on a particular experience, event, or moment. It follows a narrative structure, involving characters, a setting, a plot, and a conclusion, aiming to engage the reader through vivid descriptions and storytelling techniques within a concise format.

Best Short Narrative Essay Examples?

Title: The Summer Adventure

The scorching sun bore down on the dusty road as we embarked on our summer adventure. Packed into the old, battered car, my family and I set off for the great outdoors. The air hummed with anticipation, echoing our excitement for the unknown.

As we traversed winding roads, the landscape unfolded like a painting. Rolling hills adorned with emerald-green trees greeted us, promising the allure of exploration. The scent of pine wafted through the open windows, mingling with laughter and the crackling excitement of adventure.

Our destination? A secluded lakeside campsite embraced by nature’s serenity. The promise of tranquil waters and starlit nights ignited our spirits. Upon arrival, we pitched our weathered tent, a ritual signaling the beginning of our escape from routine.

Days melted into each other, filled with hikes through dense forests, dips in cool, crystal-clear waters, and evenings spent around crackling campfires. We discovered hidden trails, stumbled upon secret meadows, and marveled at nature’s splendid orchestra of sounds and colors.

But amidst the beauty lay unexpected challenges. Unforgiving storms threatened our haven, testing our resilience. Yet, huddled together, we found solace in each other’s company, discovering strength in unity.

As the final sun dipped behind the horizon, casting its golden glow upon the rippling waters, a bittersweet sensation enveloped us. The adventure had drawn to a close, leaving behind cherished memories etched in our hearts.

Reluctantly, we packed our belongings, bidding farewell to the tranquil haven that had nurtured us. With weary but contented hearts, we embarked on the journey back, carrying not just souvenirs but a treasure trove of shared experiences and the promise of future escapades.

The car rolled away from the lakeside, but the echoes of laughter, the scent of pine, and the warmth of togetherness lingered, reminding us of the magical summer adventure that had woven us closer together.

11+ Short Narrative Essay Examples

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12. Personal Short Narrative Essay Examples

Personal Narrative Short Narrative Essay Examples

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What is a Narrative Essay?

A narrative essay is a type of academic writing that allows you to narrate about your experiences. This follows a certain outline just like what we have observed in argumentative essays , informative essays and more. The outline consists of the introduction, body paragraph and conclusion.

This is a type of essay that tells a story either from the point of view of the author or from the personal experience of the author. It should also be able to incorporate characteristics such as the ability to make and support a claim, develop specific viewpoint, put conflicts and dialogue in the story, and to use correct information. You may also see personal narrative essay examples & samples

The purpose of a narrative essay is to be able to tell stories may it be real or fictional. To enable us to write a perfect narrative essay, the author should include the necessary components used for telling good stories, a good climax, setting, plot and ending.

How To Write a Narrative Essay?

Compared to all types of academic essay , the narrative essay is the simplest one. It is simply written like the author is just writing a very simple short story. A typical essay has only a minimum of four to five paragraphs contain in the three basic parts: introduction, body paragraph and conclusion. A narrative essay has five elements namely the characters, plot, conflict, setting and theme.

Plot – this tells what happened in the story or simply the sequence of events. There are five types of plot: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution. The exposition is the an information that tells about background of the story. It can be about the character, the setting, events, etc. Rising action is where the suspense of a story begins. It helps build toward the climax of a story. Climax is the most intense part of the story. Falling action happens after the climax when it is already almost the end of the story. Resolution is the part where the problem has already been resolved.

Characters – it is the person or other being that is a part of the narrative performs an action or speak a dialogue .

Conflict – this is the struggle or the problem that is faced by the characters of the story. This can be an external conflict and an internal conflict. An external conflict is a type of problem that is experienced in the external world. An internal conflict is the type of conflict that refers to the characters’ emotions and argument within itself.

Setting – this is knowing where and when the story takes place. This can be a powerful element because it makes the readers feel like they are the characters in the story.

Theme – this is what the author is trying to convey. Examples of a theme are romance, death, revenge, friendship, etc. It is the universal concept that allows you to understand the whole idea of the story.

How to write a short narrative essay?

Select a Theme or Experience: Choose a specific event, moment, or experience that you want to narrate.
Outline the Story: Plan the narrative by outlining the key elements – characters, setting, plot, and a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Engaging Introduction: Start with a hook to captivate readers’ attention, introducing the setting or characters involved.
Develop the Plot: Write body paragraphs that progress the story logically, describing events, actions, and emotions, using vivid details and sensory language to immerse readers.
Character Development: Focus on character traits, emotions, and reactions to make the story relatable and engaging.
Climax and Resolution: Build tension towards a climax, followed by a resolution or lesson learned from the experience.
Concise Conclusion: Conclude the essay by summarizing the experience or reflecting on its significance, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
Revise and Edit: Review the essay for coherence, clarity, grammar, and punctuation, ensuring it flows smoothly.

What are the 3 parts of a narrative essay?

Introduction: Sets the stage by introducing the story’s characters, setting, and providing a glimpse of the main event or experience. It often includes a hook to capture the reader’s attention.
Body: Unfolds the narrative, presenting the sequence of events, actions, emotions, and details that drive the story forward. It develops the plot, characters, and setting.
Conclusion: Summarizes the narrative, reflecting on the significance of the experience or event, and often delivers a lesson learned or leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

How do you start a narrative essay with examples?

” ‘Are we there yet?’ echoed in my ears as our family car trudged along the endless highway, marking the beginning of our unforgettable summer road trip.”
“The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue over the serene lake. It was there, amidst the tranquil waters, that my adventure began.”
“The deafening roar of applause faded as I stepped onto the stage, my heart racing with anticipation. Little did I know, that moment would change everything.”
“Looking back, it all started with a single decision. That decision, made in a moment of uncertainty, led to a series of events that transformed my life.”
“The scent of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air, mingling with the joyous laughter of children. It was a typical afternoon, until an unexpected visitor knocked on our door.”

How do you start a narrative introduction?

You may start by making the characters have their conversation or by describing the setting of the story. You may also give background information to the readers if you want.

What makes a good narrative?

A good narrative makes the readers entertained and engage in a way that they will feel like they are becoming a part of the narrative itself. They should also be organized and should possess a good sequence of events.

How many paragraphs are there in personal narratives?

Usually, there are about five paragraphs.

How many paragraphs are in a short narrative essay?

A short narrative essay typically comprises an introductory paragraph introducing the story, three to four body paragraphs unfolding the narrative, and a concluding paragraph summarizing the experience.

How long is a short narrative essay?

A short narrative essay typically ranges from 500 to 1500 words, aiming to convey a concise and focused story or experience within a limited word count.

Narrative essays are designed to express and tell experiences making it an interesting story to share. It has the three basic parts and contains at least five elements. If you plan to create a good narrative essay, be sure to follow and assess if your narrative has all the characteristics needed to make it sound nice and pleasing.

Text prompt

Instructive
Professional

Write a Short Narrative Essay on a memorable moment with your family.

Create a Short Narrative Essay about a lesson learned from a mistake.

What are Tone Words? List of 300+ Useful Words

Table of contents

1 What is a Tone?
2.1 Positive Tone Words
2.2 Negative Tone Words
2.3 Neutral Tone Words
3 How to Find the Right Tone for Your Work
4 Tone Words Examples in Various Texts

In writing, tone plays a significant role in conveying emotions, setting the atmosphere, and establishing a connection with readers. The tone of every piece of writing – whether an argumentative essay, a page-turning novel, or a moving poem – can be set by the author’s choice of words.

It would be best to balance the subtleties of language and freedom of thought to get the desired effect. Today, we share a definitive collection of tone words to help you and every writer achieve their goals in this area.

What is a Tone?

Tone, in writing, is the author’s emotional response with deep respect to either the subject matter or the readers. It helps to create a particular atmosphere and direct the reader’s feelings by revealing the author’s point of view.

The tone is the author’s voice (in this case, their attitude, not their personality), and how the words on the page are emotion-tinted to make the reader feel a specific way.

Word choice, tone list sentence structure, imagery, and figurative language are all examples of literary methods that can be used to communicate tone. It comprises more than just the words themselves.

Also, it includes the author’s general tone and approach. To provoke various feelings and responses from the reader, a talented writer might switch tones within the same piece of writing.

Recognizing and employing tone is fundamental to effective communication because it influences the writer’s attitude and how the recipient interprets the message. It can potentially affect a message’s readability, retention, and recall. When writers use the right tone, they may impress readers, hold their attention, and get their point over.

As they delve further into the nuances of tone and tone words in literature, authors gain access to many expressive vocabularies.

The Ultimate List of Tone Words

Now for our ultimate list of tone words in literature. This comprehensive compilation encompasses a range of words that can help authors like you effectively communicate their intended emotions and engage readers on a profound level. And we are talking about a deep level indeed!

Positive Tone Words

Positive tone words inspire happy thoughts and feelings in the reader. They spark positive emotions and are incredibly powerful. Powerful? How so? Positive tone words can make you think well of someone and have a favorable impression of them even without meeting. Here are some other good tone words, word examples, and their meanings:

Joyful: Filled with happiness, delight, and great pleasure.
Optimistic: Expecting positive outcomes, hopeful, and confident about the future.
Enthusiastic: Displaying intense excitement, passion, and eagerness.
Serene: Calm, peaceful, and tranquil.
Endearing: Inspiring warmth or affection
Grateful: Feeling or expressing appreciation and thankfulness.
Empowered: Feeling confident, capable, and in control of one’s life or circumstances.
Radiant: Emitting brightness, happiness, and positivity.
Inspirational: Providing motivation, encouragement, and a sense of upliftment.
Energetic: Full of vigor, liveliness, and vitality.
Confident: Having self-assurance, belief in one’s abilities, and a positive outlook.
Empathetic: showing empathy; feeling the emotions of others.

Negative Tone Words

The use of negative tone words can considerably influence the perceptions produced by readers, regardless of whether they describe a location, a literary work, or a collective of individuals. Simply put, just as positive tone words spark positive emotions, negative ones spark negative ones.

Hence, when applying negative tone phrases, you must exercise caution and ensure your criticisms remain fair, constructive, and objective, and that is very important.

By attentively picking your words, you can provide a well-rounded perspective while keeping your message’s moral sense and integrity. Striking the correct balance between negative and positive judgments provides for a full understanding and encourages effective interactions.

Miserable: Extremely unhappy, sorrowful, or distressed.
Disgusting: Causing intense revulsion, repugnance, or strong aversion.
Aggressive: Hostile, confrontational, or prone to initiating conflict.
Chaotic: Marked by disorder, confusion, and lack of organization or control.
Repulsive: Evoking strong feelings of dislike, aversion, or disgust.
Arrogant: Displaying an exaggerated sense of superiority, self-importance, or entitlement.
Hateful: Full of intense dislike, animosity, or prejudice towards someone or something.
Depressing: Causing feelings of sadness, dejection, or hopelessness.
Inferior: Of lower quality, value, or importance compared to others.

Neutral Tone Words

Neutral tone words help maintain a fair and unbiased approach, allowing readers to form their opinions without undue influence. Here are examples of neutral tone words along with their meanings:

Ordinary: Usual, commonplace, or unremarkable.
Standard: Conforming to established norms, expectations, or criteria.
Common: Frequently occurring, widely experienced, or generally known.
Typical: Representing a characteristic example or pattern.
Balanced: Exhibiting equality, equilibrium, or impartiality.
Objective: Unbiased, based on facts, and devoid of personal opinions or feelings.
Rationale: Logical, reasoned, and based on sound judgment or reasoning.
Neutral: Impartial, unbiased, or not taking sides.
Moderate: Neither excessive nor extreme, characterized by a reasonable and measured approach.
Unbiased: Fair, impartial, and free from prejudice or favoritism.
Indifferent: Having no particular preference or bias, lacking interest or concern.
Matter-of-fact: Devoid of emotional embellishment, straightforward, and focused on facts.

How to Find the Right Tone for Your Work

So far, we have established that finding the right, powerful tone words is the key to successfully delivering your message through writing. To figure out which examples of tone words used work best for your goal, ask these reflective questions:

Why am I writing this?

It helps to know why you’re writing in the first place to set the right words of tone in your writing. What effect do you hope to have on the reader? Each goal requires specific words and unique words for the tone of the literature to be adequate.

Who exactly am I writing for?

When deciding on a tone for your writing, it is essential to keep your readers in mind. Is it an official report, a casual blog post, or a rigorous research paper? The interest and understanding of your readers will increase if you modify your author’s tone to match their expectations and preferences.

What do I hope the reader will take away from this experience?

The tone of your communication can be improved by first determining the key idea or message you wish to express. Whatever you’re trying to do through your writing – persuade, inform, or evoke an emotion – matching your tone to your intended result is crucial!

The tone of any formal writing must be clear, concise, confident, and courteous. Attempt refinement without straying into pretentiousness; balance formality and readability.

However, creative writing allows for greater latitude in tone. Still, focus on effectively using tone words, regardless of the genre. The tone you go for will be influenced by the genre you’re writing in, but ultimately, you want to get your point across, make the reader feel something, and pull them into the story.

Suppose writers take the time to evaluate these factors carefully. In that case, they can master using an appropriate tone to describe words that will connect with their target audience, improve readability, and have the desired effect. We hope you become one such writer.

Tone Words Examples in Various Texts

Again, tone words play a vital role in shaping the atmosphere and evoking emotions in different types of writing. The choice of tone words varies based on the formality of the writing and is further influenced by the genre, whether creative or formal.

Let’s explore some examples of tone words in various types of writing:

Melancholic: Conveys a tone of sadness, longing, or introspection, often found in poems exploring themes of loss or nostalgia.
Whimsical: Creates a playful and lighthearted tone, commonly used in poems that embrace imagination and fantasy.
Serene: Establishes a calm and peaceful tone, often seen in verses that celebrate nature or meditate on inner peace.
Euphoric: Creates a tone of extreme joy, vitality, or ecstasy, frequently found in poems expressing moments of joy or bliss.

Romantic Novel

Passionate: Sets an intense and vibrant tone, typically associated with love, desire, and emotional depth.
Sentimental: Evokes tender and nostalgic emotions, often found in romantic novels emphasizing deep emotional connections.
Yearning: Conveys a tone of longing or desire, frequently employed in books that explore unrequited love or longing for a lost connection.
Tender: Establishes a gentle and affectionate tone, often used to depict tender moments of intimacy or vulnerability.

Horror Fiction

Eerie: Creates a tone of unease, suspense, and impending dread, frequently found in horror fiction to heighten tension.
Sinister: Evokes a dark, malicious, or hateful tone, often depicting evil or foreboding circumstances.
Terrifying: Establishes a tone of extreme fear, horror, or terror intended to invoke a visceral response from the reader.
Macabre: Conveys a tone of fascination with the gruesome death or the supernatural, often seen in horror fiction that explores the darker aspects of human existence.

Informative News Article

Objective: Establish a neutral and unbiased tone, presenting facts and information without personal opinions or emotions.
Authoritative: Conveys a tone of expertise, credibility, and confidence, frequently employed in news articles to establish trustworthiness.
Informative: Sets a tone of clarity, providing straightforward and concise information to educate the readers.
Balanced: Establishes a fair and even-handed tone, presenting multiple perspectives and avoiding bias or favoritism.

What Is the Difference Between Tone and Voice?

Tone and voice are sometimes misunderstood or used interchangeably by writers. However, they couldn’t be more dissimilar. We’ve established that tone conveys the author’s or a character’s feelings about the subject.

Tone words in nonfiction writing reveal the author’s point of view. Tone words are helpful in fiction because they indicate a scene’s or conversation’s emotional state, whether the reader might expect tension, happiness, sadness, etc.

While the term “voice” describes the overall character of a piece of writing. One author’s scathing tone may be another’s instructive or friendliness.

What Is the Difference Between Tone and Mood?

The word for tone in literature is the mood or atmosphere that the author intends for the reader to experience while reading the text, while mood is the experience that the reader has while reading the story.

How the author feels about the setting or the character and how he wants the reader to feel determines the tone. On the contrary, the reader’s emotional response establishes the mood. Setting the mood at the opening of a story prepares the audience for what is to come.

How do you identify tone words?

Identifying tone words in a piece of writing is essential for understanding the intended emotions and attitudes conveyed by the author. Here are some key approaches to identifying tone words:

Contextual Clues: Pay attention to the overall context and the writer’s purpose. Examine the subject matter, the writer’s attitude, and the intended audience. These factors can provide valuable hints about the tone.
Word Choice: Look for words that evoke emotions or convey a particular attitude. Tone words often carry emotional weight or reveal the author’s perspective. Words with strong connotations, such as “brutal,” “uplifting,” or “serene,” can indicate the tone.
Go with your Gut: Sometimes, the best way to explain a tone is to say that you just “get it.” The text makes you feel a specific way, whether it’s urgent or melancholy. After reading it, you feel angry and get the impression that the author is also angry. Or sometimes, there is nothing specifically humorous about the writing, yet you find yourself laughing anyhow. As a result, go with your instinct when deciding how to interpret the author’s tone in passages like these.

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What Is a Capstone Project vs. Thesis

As students near the end of their academic journey, they encounter a crucial project called the capstone – a culmination of all they've learned. But what exactly is a capstone project?

This article aims to demystify capstone projects, explaining what they are, why they matter, and what you can expect when you embark on this final academic endeavor.

Capstone Project Meaning

A capstone project is a comprehensive, culminating academic endeavor undertaken by students typically in their final year of study.

It synthesizes their learning experiences, requiring students to apply the knowledge, skills, and competencies gained throughout their academic journey. A capstone project aims to address a real-world problem or explore a topic of interest in depth.

As interdisciplinary papers, capstone projects encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. They allow students to showcase their mastery of their field of study and demonstrate their readiness for future academic or professional pursuits.

Now that we’ve defined what is a capstone project, let’s discuss its importance in the academic landscape. In case you have short-form compositions to handle, simply say, ‘ do my essay for me ,’ and our writers will take care of your workload.

Why Is a Capstone Project Important

A capstone project is crucial because it allows students to combine everything they've learned in school and apply it to real-life situations or big problems.

It's like the ultimate test of what they know and can do. By working on these projects, students get hands-on experience, learn to think critically and figure out how to solve tough problems.

Plus, it's a chance to show off their skills and prove they're ready for whatever comes next, whether that's starting a career or going on to more schooling.

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What Is the Purpose of a Capstone Project

Here are three key purposes of a capstone project:

Integration of Knowledge and Skills

Capstones often require students to draw upon the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their academic program. The importance of capstone project lies in helping students synthesize what they have learned and apply it to a real-world problem or project.

This integration helps students demonstrate their proficiency and readiness for graduation or entry into their chosen profession.

Culmination of Learning

Capstone projects culminate a student's academic journey, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

tackling a significant project or problem, students demonstrate their understanding of concepts and their ability to translate them into practical solutions, reinforcing their learning journey.

Professional Development

Capstone projects allow students to develop skills relevant to their future careers. These projects can also be tangible examples of their capabilities to potential employers or graduate programs.

Whether it's conducting research, presenting findings, or collaborating with peers, students gain valuable experience that enhances their professional readiness.

Types of Capstone Projects

Capstones vary widely depending on the academic discipline, institution, and specific program requirements. Here are some common types:

What Is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Capstone Project

Here's a breakdown of the key differences between a thesis and a capstone project:

How to Write a Capstone Project

Let's dive into the specifics with actionable and meaningful steps for writing a capstone project:

1. Select a Pertinent Topic

Identify a topic that aligns with your academic interests, program requirements, and real-world relevance. Consider issues or challenges within your field that merit further exploration or solution.

Conduct thorough research to ensure the topic is both feasible and significant. Here are some brilliant capstone ideas for your inspiration.

2. Define Clear Objectives

Clearly articulate the objectives of your capstone project. What specific outcomes do you aim to achieve?

Whether it's solving a problem, answering a research question, or developing a product, ensure your objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

3. Conduct Comprehensive Research

Dive deep into existing literature, theories, and empirical evidence related to your chosen topic. Identify gaps, controversies, or areas for further investigation.

Synthesize relevant findings and insights to inform the development of your project and provide a solid foundation for your analysis or implementation.

4. Develop a Structured Plan

What is a capstone project in college without a rigid structure? Outline a comprehensive plan for your capstone project, including key milestones, tasks, and deadlines.

Break down the project into manageable phases, such as literature review, data collection, analysis, and presentation. Establish clear criteria for success and regularly monitor progress to stay on track.

5. Implement Methodological Rigor

If your project involves research, ensure methodological rigor by selecting appropriate research methods, tools, and techniques.

Develop a detailed research design or project plan that addresses key methodological considerations, such as sampling, data collection, analysis, and validity. Adhere to ethical guidelines and best practices throughout the research process.

6. Analyze and Interpret Findings

Analyze your data or findings using appropriate analytical techniques and tools. Interpret the results in relation to your research questions or objectives, highlighting key patterns, trends, or insights.

Critically evaluate the significance and implications of your findings within the broader context of your field or industry.

7. Communicate Effectively

Present your capstone project clearly, concisely, and compellingly. Whether it's a written report, presentation, or multimedia deliverable, tailor your communication style to your target audience. Clearly articulate your research questions, methodology, findings, and conclusions.

Use visuals, examples, and real-world applications to enhance understanding and engagement. Be prepared to defend your project and answer questions from peers, faculty, or stakeholders.

In wrapping up, what is a capstone project? It’s like the grand finale of your academic journey, where all the knowledge and skills you've acquired come together in one big project.

It's not just about passing a test or getting a grade – it's about proving you've got what it takes to make a real difference in the world. So, if you ever need capstone project help , our writers will gladly lend you a hand in no time.

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What Is a Capstone Project in College?

How to do a capstone project, how long does a capstone project take to complete.

Annie Lambert

specializes in creating authoritative content on marketing, business, and finance, with a versatile ability to handle any essay type and dissertations. With a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a passion for social issues, her writing not only educates but also inspires action. On EssayPro blog, Annie delivers detailed guides and thought-provoking discussions on pressing economic and social topics. When not writing, she’s a guest speaker at various business seminars.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

T. (2023, June 16). What Is a Capstone Project? National University. https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-a-capstone-project/
Lukins, S. (2024, May 12). What is a capstone project? And why is it important? Top Universities. https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/careers-advice-articles/what-capstone-project-why-it-important
Capstone Project vs. Thesis: What’s the Difference? (2021, December 9). UAGC. https://www.uagc.edu/blog/capstone-project-vs-thesis-whats-difference

My father’s tools

I tried to play it cool when my 87-year-old father offered me the scythe. yet in offering me this one tool, he was bestowing upon me the mantle of family caretaking..

The scythe, plumb bob, awl, and very long flathead screwdriver.

He said something shocking: “I have a tool you might want.”

My 87-year-old father had placed the antique scythe on a table in the middle of his Arizona garage. It had an 18-inch curved blade attached to a long wooden rounded handle; the label on the blade read North Wayne Tool Company, Oakland, Maine. I remember it from my childhood, when it was stored blade-up in a metal garbage can in a garage in a town that neither of us has been to in decades. I had always found it menacing, which was still true with the buffer of time and the perspective of age. My father, however, smiled.

A tool collection is sacred, a deeply personal set of objects that doubles as a memory box. In mine is the simple flathead screwdriver with the paint-stained handle that works at the most awkward under-the-stairs angles (and doubles as a paint can opener). The wooden mallet that has a hundred unexpected uses and was bought for 25 cents at a garage sale (we use it to hammer stakes attached to the much-repaired inflatable Christmas dragon into the ground). Even the drill bits tell a story: Swirls of pine are still entwined in one, leftover from installing a plant hook over the bedroom window — necessary to keep the cats from devouring a beloved variegated spider plant that propagated from a tiny offshoot that was a gift from my mother. At the bottom of the toolbox lies an old orange twist-on electrical wire cap from the time I was replacing a wall socket and, due to a mislabeled circuit breaker, received a jolt that numbed my right arm for two days. The cap is there as a reminder that most electric and plumbing jobs should be left to professionals.

A well-loved tool is more than just that: It is a symbol of the capability of keeping a family safe, of how fortunate we are to have a roof over our heads, of the joy of sharing a space together. Of building something together. I live in Massachusetts, much too far away from my father, but I carry his lessons close.

He taught me about being safe around the arsenal of guns in my childhood home, how to shoot compound bows and wield hunting knives. We were cautioned against touching the bullet-packing equipment. These objects required respect.

But using his tools without permission? Absolutely forbidden. That was a boundary no one dared to cross. And with permission? Only under strict supervision and many lectures about properly replacing them.

Now in my 50s, I tried to play it cool when he offered me the scythe. Yet in offering me this one tool, he was bestowing upon me the mantle of family caretaking. He had deemed I was mature enough to steward the most precious of heirlooms. After a lifetime of doing repairs in apartments and homes, I was ready to own one of his tools.

My sister-in-law bought a house in Natick a couple of years ago that had been owned by an older man who had passed away in the living room and gone unnoticed for some time. In the basement, one wall was an oasis from the decay and disorder that permeated the rest of the home; a tidy and organized pegboard above a workbench. It’s a clever and common practice to trace tools on a pegboard so it’s easy to remember where things go. But the shapes on this pegboard were not just traced: Someone had skillfully painted tools in each spot, beautifully rendered paintings lingered like ghosts in the spots where tools had been removed and not replaced. I wondered if he, or someone who loved him, was the artist. I wondered if he had given those missing tools away, if they had been borrowed, if they were forever lost in the strata upstairs.

Just after the Arizona trip, my father-in-law, who lives nearby, offered me tools as well. His offer came in the form of an old box filled with items that may have been stored in his workshop for decades. I selected a short awl — you can’t have enough awls — and a metal plumb bob chalk-line reel, both of which now live in the wooden tool caddy he made me for Christmas some years ago.

I declined my father’s scythe. I wasn’t sure how to transport it on the plane home. A check-in ski bag, maybe? That’s a problem I’ll solve another time.

Yet once I returned home, I realized I had no memory of the scythe in use.

This didn’t add up. My parents are frugal minimalists, owning only what they need and use. Why haul an unused tool across so many states in their retirement? Did it have emotional significance? How many generations had it been handed down?

But no. I called my father and asked about the scythe’s significance. Apparently the scythe, and a meat saw, was given to him by a landlord in Colorado in the 1970s.

“Why did you keep it if you didn’t use it?” I asked.

“Did I need a reason?” he replied. “I thought it would make a great wall display someday.”

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Amazon's India growth story: How the e-commerce giant is trying to overcome stiff competition with new expansion strategies

Byline: Krishna Gopalan
Producer: Arnav Das Sharma

Photos: Selvaprakash Lakshmanan

The e-commerce giant has seen steady growth since its entry into India in 2013, but the offline piece remains a challenge. After losing out on the Future retail acquisition, how does it plan to keep the growth engines revving?

In mid-November last year, Manish Tiwary, Amazon India’s Country Manager, made a presentation to the parent company’s external board at its Seattle headquarters. Tiwary spoke not just about the opportunities in India but also about innovations on the customer and seller fronts and the vast talent pool. The board, which includes eminent names such as India-born Indra Nooyi, a former Chair and CEO of PepsiCo, looked pleased.

“There was palpable excitement,” Tiwary tells BT at Amazon India’s headquarters in Bengaluru. Turned out in a pair of jeans topped with a collared T-shirt and a blazer, he recalls how the discussion veered around, among other things, the work on Generative AI taking place out of India. “After Seattle, the largest talent pool for Amazon is in India,” he says.

Amazon has grown rapidly since launching its e-commerce business in India in 2013, although it was not the first player to enter the market. Six or seven players occupied the space, including Flipkart, its main rival today, which had a six-year head start.

MANISH TIWARY Country Manager Amazon India

From revenues of Rs 112 crore in FY13, Amazon closed FY23 with Rs 22,198 crore but with a loss of Rs 4,854 crore, which is not unusual given how it invests in its operations. A recent report by financial services and research firm JM Financial estimates Amazon India’s gross merchandise value (GMV)was around $18 billion in FY23, compared with Flipkart’s $20 billion (excluding Myntra, its fashion e-commerce business). Last June, Amazon committed to investing $15 billion in India over the next seven years, bringing its total investment across its businesses to $26 billion.

Tiwary is clear that the e-commerce tale in India is still being written, and companies like Amazon “have barely scratched the surface”. Penetration levels for e-commerce are at 1-2%, he reckons. ONDC or One Network for Digital Commerce, a not-for-profit company created by the government, pegs e-retail penetration to be only 4.3%, well below China’s 25% or the UK’s 23%.

“ Amazon had set processes and globalscale experience... It became easier for them to scale up quickly with the right local talent and a level of localisation ” NEIL SHAH Research Vice President and Partner Counterpoint Research

Competition does exist, most notably from Flipkart (launched in 2007 but acquired by Walmart in 2018) and others, including Reliance’s JioMart. But the headroom for growth is unlimited. Amazon would have been even more pleased had it bagged Kishore Biyani’s Future Retail, a big player in offline retail, but it was outsmarted by Reliance. Its acquisition has been locked in courtroom battles for years, and the prospects of a speedy resolution appear to be bleak ( see box ).

Bespoke everything

Amazon attributes its growth here to its India-specific approach, among other things. Tiwary, who joined Amazon in mid-2016 after over two decades at Hindustan Unilever Ltd, points out that organised trade was small. “If you asked a seller for a catalogue, all you got was a stunned look!”

He keeps talking about the opportunities here and why Amazon is well-positioned for a specific reason. “Our DNA is around digital, and that applies to everything we do,” says Tiwari.

The Covid-19 pandemic fast-tracked digital adoption across businesses, and Amazon was no exception. A presence across categories helped as people turned to online purchases. Take the pharmacy business, where a brick-and-mortar store typically keeps 4,000-5,000 medicines. Around half of this relates to chronic ailments. “When we launched, we were clear about having 20,000 [kinds of] medicines,” he says. The focus was on the consumer, ease of availability, and the thrust on chronic diseases.

“Amazon India’s entire portfolio has 12-13 crore [120-130 million] products, which creates the stickiness,” Tiwary says. Amazon sells almost everything, from plumbing fittings to patent leather shoes, from books (Amazon Inc. began as an online retailer of books) to Bombay Duck (dried fish).

Tiwary, who heads the entity known as Amazon Seller Services Pvt. Ltd, says the small seller will be Amazon’s backbone even 50 years down the line. “Our approach has been to build infrastructure in advance,” he says. Last January, Amazon launched Amazon Air in India with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by Quikjet Cargo Airlines, making it the first e-commerce company in India with an air cargo network. Other initiatives include cash on delivery and fine-tuning the Amazon app to make it lighter when India was still on 2G and 3G. The e-commerce giant’s other businesses in India are Amazon Internet, Amazon Wholesale, Amazon Data, Amazon Pay, and Amazon Retail.

“Innovation is a big part of our business. Offering our service in seven languages was an obvious thing to do to make the customer comfortable,” he explains. Two years ago, it bought GlowRoad, an Indian social commerce start-up, in an all-cash deal, as “we don’t have social commerce anywhere else, and it was done in line with the emerging trend”.

“ Amazon has taken a more long-term approach here (in India) with a lot of emphasis on localisation initiatives. They needed a large market like India since China was difficult for political and localisation reasons ” Jaspreet Bindra Founder Tech Whisperer UK

Neil Shah, Research Vice President and Partner at Counterpoint Research, a global tech industry research firm, points out that Amazon came into India late but with a strong brand and reputation. “They also had set processes and global-scale experience running billions of dollars of e-commerce operations. It became easier for them to scale up quickly with the right local talent and a level of localisation that aligned well with the Indian consumers,” he says.

Jaspreet Bindra, Founder of consulting firm Tech Whisperer UK, says that Amazon did not treat the Indian business as an extension of the US. “Amazon has taken a more long-term approach here with a lot of emphasis on localisation initiatives. They needed a large market like India since China was difficult for political and localisation reasons,” he says.

MUKESH AMBANI Chairman & Managing Director Reliance Industries

He cites Amazon’s tech prowess, especially in machine learning and deep learning. “It put them ahead regarding PIN code optimisation, setting up logistics, routing algorithms, and selling fresh groceries,” Bindra says.

Amazon has joined the quick commerce story through Amazon Fresh, using its tech and infrastructure to offer products at specified time slots. With Swiggy’s Instamart, Zomato’s Blinkit and Zepto in the market, it is becoming extremely competitive.

Technology the growth driver

Amazon and Flipkart dominate the e-commerce landscape. While Amazon’s growth has been organic, Flipkart has been much more aggressive. According to Shah, Flipkart has been a local success story that is more mainstream and localised. “It has made diverse bets and gone through some key changes since Amazon’s entry, helping it to keep ahead. Acquisitions such as eBay (its India operations), Myntra, Jabong, PhonePe, and Cleartrip, among others, have helped Flipkart get an edge in the fashion and payments space,” he says. Bindra points out that Flipkart was “massively funded” in its initial days and had a head start over Amazon India. “They built categories like mobiles, fashion and home appliances very well,” he says.

The firm used its tech prowess to customise its India business. Kishore Thota, Director (Shopping Experience), India & Emerging Markets, Amazon, who moved from Seattle in the initial phase, says India became the most visited Amazon location at one point.

Amazon first figured out the ecosystem, with over 25 languages and a heterogeneous customer base. “Everything was built specifically for India from the seller’s or the customer’s side. Some of those learnings are moving to other markets,” Thota says. Take the case of the emerging shopper who is new to e-commerce. “For that person, the trust factor is still being built, and the frequency of shopping is a little low,” Thota says. This emerging shopper can be found worldwide, and Amazon is taking its India lessons places.

For instance, there are customers in advanced markets, such as the US, who prefer paying in cash, and customers in Mexico and Brazil who opt for credit. “India then becomes a base market for the emerging shopper worldwide. The priority is to solve for India and eventually look for similar scenarios elsewhere,” Thota says.

KISHORE BIYANI Founder & Group CEO Future Group

From order to delivery

Amazon’s ‘fulfilment’ centres are the engines of its success. Taking us on a walk through BLR8, one such fulfilment centre, Abhinav Singh, VP (Operations), says that a product shows up on the website the moment it is stocked. Just BLR8 sprawls across 400,000 sq. ft and 2.3 million cubic ft. Why 400,000 sq. ft? “We hit upon this as the ideal number. Larger buildings could reduce supply chain costs, but you will also have a higher degree of automation,” he says. “The priority is to get it right on pricing, selection and convenience.”

Plus, there is a new way Indians are shopping: live commerce. India is witnessing more live commerce on video, where customers can come into contact with an influencer or use AI tools. A buyer can virtually place a television using augmented reality or AR to see what it might look like in a living room. Costs are saved here since a shopper typically orders three curtains, for instance, and then buys one after trying them out. “We are a native technology company, and the question we always ask ourselves relates to how we can automate something,” says Thota.

The Indian market means unpredictability and disruption. JioMart, with its deep pockets, can never be underestimated, and many other B2C businesses make for formidable competition.

Then, there is the not-so-small-matter of the ONDC, billed as the world’s first inclusive large-scale e-commerce system. Tiwary thinks it is still in the early days. “It is largely a hyperlocal model of grocery and food delivery. We are also working closely with them on transport and some technology.”

Shah believes that UPI will eventually have to embrace and integrate ONDC, driving the democratisation of e-commerce for vendors and consumers.

Going forward

While the marketplace is the biggest revenue generator ( see graphic ), an area like advertising can’t be ignored. Tiwary recalls how, a decade ago, launching a national brand was a very expensive affair. “Today, advertising on Amazon has become a very effective medium that helps our sellers establish their brands,” he says. The likes of Bathla Ladders started on Amazon, as did many start-ups. In 2017, he had a couple walking in to say they had an idea and needed help to push it. “That was Mamaearth,” Tiwary says. He cited boAt, which became the fastest-growing wearable electronics brand on the back of e-commerce.

ABHINAV SINGH VP (Operations) Amazon India

The seller base is varied and includes a 90-year-old lady in Chandigarh or just another aspiring unicorn taking its baby steps. “From where India’s per capita income is today placed ($2,400), it can take off [and] along with that, consumption as well. That is the magic about India,” Thota says.

Harish Iyer, EVP (Media & Investments) at Interactive Avenues, India’s largest digital agency, says that the trust that Amazon has built as a reliable e-commerce platform is a significant advantage for D2C brands. “Leveraging Amazon’s reputation plus its customer base and robust algorithms can catapult these brands to new heights of visibility and consumer trust. The ‘fulfilment’ backend helps simplify logistics for these brands, allowing them more time to enhance product quality and marketing strategies,” Iyer says.

MAHENDRA NERURKAR VP (India & Emerging Markets Payments) Amazon Pay

A key feature of Amazon’s strategy is its wide range: customers should be able to shop, make payments, buy flight tickets and gold—get pretty much everything.Then there is Amazon Pay, which Amazon India launched in February 2019 to capitalise on the market opportunity offered by UPI. Amazon Pay users do not have to enter their bank or debit card details.

Mahendra Nerurkar, Vice President for India & Emerging Markets Payments at Amazon Pay, explains why being open to newer payment processing methods in a market like India is important. “Limited credit card penetration showed how large cash was, and with UPI, there is more engagement on Amazon today. It is a universal phenomenon in Singapore, Australia and Mexico and has greatly simplified user experience.”

KISHORE THOTA Director (Shopping Experience) India & Emerging Markets Amazon

A big hitch in credit cards was the redemption of points. Amazon’s co-branded card with ICICI Bank addresses that and makes it easy for the customer.

A pertinent question is when will Amazon start to become profitable. Tiwary speaks of a clear road map. “We are a large company, and this is a commercial enterprise. We are very happy with the progress and the trajectory, with the primary objective continuing to be customer experience,” he explains.

Amazon has been here for over a decade, and Indianisation is visible. With its tech expertise and scale, there is a good chance that growth will continue. But with Amazon losing the Future Retail piece, Tiwary will need all the other growth engines to fire. It helps that Amazon has a long-term approach and vision for India. That patience will make success possible in the vastly complicated Indian terrain. That is what Amazon is banking on.

UI Developer : Pankaj Negi Creative Producer : Raj Verma Videos : Mohsin Shaikh Photos : Selvaprakash Lakshmanan

Why I quit Goldman Sachs

I became a VP in six years. Then the 'boys only' culture drove me out.

Goldman Sachs has a problem.

Only 29% of the 2022 partner class was women — just slightly more than the previous two classes — and a flood of women leaders have recently taken their talents elsewhere . Dina Powell McCormick, head of sovereign business and sustainability efforts, left last year. Beth Hammack, a longtime partner, exited after she was passed over for the CFO role. Stephanie Cohen , once a likely CEO successor, left in March after 25 years. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that two-thirds of female partners had left or lost the title since 2018. The same was true for only 50% of male partners.

Two years ago, I joined the ranks of the women leaving Goldman. My career propelled me from an intern to a vice president in just six years, but it wasn't a walk in the park. I didn't feel like my innately feminine, sensitive self could cut it at Goldman, so I stashed her aside and stepped into an alternate persona. Under my desk, I would keep a pair of black pumps that I called my "Hollywood heels." When I put them on every morning, I channeled a thick-skinned character who thrived in a man's world.

It worked, but it was draining. Eventually, I decided I'd had enough; I left to write novels and build my own coaching and consulting business. It's been liberating to work in my authentic style, and it's made me realize how much of myself I was keeping small while at Goldman.

The lack of female leadership in the financial industry is nothing new, but many companies have been making strides. Citi has a female CEO and surpassed its 2022 goal to increase the number of women in leadership positions. Morgan Stanley has steadily increased its share of women in senior management. And two women are likely candidates to succeed JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. But at Goldman, the problem has only gotten worse.

In 2023, Goldman paid $215 million to settle a lawsuit filed in 2010 that alleged it had discriminated against thousands of female employees. Earlier this year, CEO David Solomon told the Journal: "Advancing women into our most senior ranks is an area where we have not accomplished our goals." But as I watch senior women continue their exodus from Goldman, I'm not sure the company actually wants to change.

Bringing women in the door isn't Goldman's problem — in its most recent hiring report, 50% of its entry-level analysts were women. The problem is that it can't keep women, especially those in leadership roles, around.

In my first role, I was the only woman on a team of 20 investors. Without role models to reflect different ways to be a leader, I felt like I had to mimic the masculine way to succeed. I wore a pantsuit and muted my personality; I played golf, talked football, and cried in the bathroom stall so I wouldn't be seen shedding tears at my desk. My out-of-the-box ideas were discouraged. I was told to stick to the Excel templates and precisely formatted PowerPoint decks, and to stop using exclamation points in my emails. My schedule was whatever the male leadership pushed: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the week and long hours most weekends.

Many financial firms have a rigid culture, but Goldman's takes it to the next level — and women tend to bear the brunt.

When I took my first week of vacation after being at Goldman for over a year, my manager lectured me for not replying to emails or updating financial models during my personal time off. I told him that I had been hiking off the grid with my mom and hadn't had much cell service. "Next time, choose a vacation spot with better reception," he told me. Jaw clenched, I agreed.

Many financial firms have a rigid culture, but Goldman's takes it to the next level — and women tend to bear the brunt. Take the firm's strict return-to-office policy as an example. While many companies have modernized to embrace hybrid and remote work , Goldman has not. This disproportionately hurts women, as research has found women are more likely to thrive and stay at companies longer when they have hybrid and flexible working environments. In a 2023 survey by International Workplace Group, 72% of women polled said they would look for a new job if their company took away their option for hybrid work. And a recent McKinsey survey found that two of the top priorities for the women in the poll when picking a job were the ability to work remotely and control when they work.

Rather than changing its "be in the office every day and grind it out" culture to better suit women, Goldman puts the onus on us to change ourselves to fit the model.

Jacki Zehner, a former Goldman partner turned CEO of the women's networking platform ShePlace, recently wrote about the company on LinkedIn. The biggest reason women leave, she said, is "not feeling valued."

This resonated with me. Feeling — and being — undervalued means women miss out on promotions. McKinsey calls this the "broken rung": For every 100 men promoted from an entry level role to manager in 2023, only 87 women were promoted, according to their survey of 27,000 workers in the US and Canada. This disparity out of the gate creates a leadership-pipeline problem down the road.

While leadership styles vary from person to person, research suggests that women and men tend to lead differently. In her book, "When Women Lead," the CNBC reporter Julia Boorstin says women are more likely to lead with empathy, vulnerability, gratitude, communal leadership, and a greater sense of purpose. Boorstin's reporting found that women were more likely than men to invest in mentorship and have more diverse teams. The differences translate to financial results: In a recent study, McKinsey found that companies with at least 30% female leaders tended to outperform financially.

Goldman says it understands the importance of female leadership. "When women lead, everything changes," its corporate site says. The company offers a women's network, encourages male allyship, and talks a big game about diversity. But Goldman leadership seems to want the benefits of gender diversity without the hard work of supporting diverse leadership styles. For all the talk, I never noticed it trickle down to how it actually felt to work there. My female coworkers and I talked about it frequently — Goldman was squandering our talents by making us conform to the small box of how finance was supposed to be done. It felt like they were glad to have recruited such bright, multidimensional women but had no interest in empowering our gifts.

When we contemplated what it would take to rise into the senior ranks, we knew we would be compromising too much.

As I moved up at Goldman, I tried to incorporate more of my true self at work, whether that meant letting out my bubbly laugh or writing a "Goldman Sachs joy newsletter" to boost morale. Many colleagues appreciated my style, especially when I worked for a year in the London office. But in New York, I met resistance. When colleagues found my poetry on Instagram, they made negative comments to me about how emotional the poems were. When I brought in cookies for my team, I was told I should have been building financial models instead of baking.

These are small examples, but that's where bias often lives — in the million little ways women are told to tweak themselves to be more like men. The implication is that our way is lesser. I became a VP at 28, but I was burned out — not from the work itself but from the parts of me I had to dim along the way. The internal balancing act pushed me out.

Nearly two dozen of my women friends at the VP and managing-director levels have also left Goldman to join companies — or start companies — where they have more freedom, whether that means hybrid work, greater autonomy, or the ability to be promoted based on the quality of their work, rather than who they knew.

Goldman was a great place for us to start our careers, but when we contemplated what it would take to rise into the senior ranks, we knew we would be compromising too much.

From what I've seen, the C-suite men who reinforce Goldman's culture generally have good intentions. They assume that because their way worked for them, everyone else should follow suit. But when a woman doesn't fit the typical pattern or mold for CEO or partner, she's passed over.

As more women leave Goldman, the business itself suffers. Data shows that companies in the top 10% financially have more women in leadership positions. These companies excel because their women leaders act differently. Sometimes they see things that others miss. Just look at the 2008 financial crash .

If Goldman can manage to grow its ranks of women leaders, more women will follow. Deloitte found that for each woman added to a financial firm's C-suite, there's a positive, quantifiable impact on the number of senior women in levels just below the C-suite. We all need role models to show us what's possible. Women like Asahi Pompey and Yassaman Salas, Goldman partners whose commitment to being themselves radiates like a superpower, and Rebecca Anderton-Davies , a managing director who also shines as an author and yogi, show me there's hope.

Since I left two years ago, Goldman has been good to me. They bought copies of my book and hosted me to speak with interns. But when one intern asked how I "brought my full self to work" — one of Goldman's favorite slogans — I sidestepped the question. The truth was, I didn't bring my full self. Most of the time, I kept my feminine side tucked away, and I was rewarded for it.

Since leaving, I've been able to let my full self shine. I delivered a TEDx talk comparing Wall Street dealmaking to modern dating — something I would not have had the autonomy to do if I were still at Goldman. And rather than matching my schedule to Goldman's rigid model, I'm able to honor the natural ebbs and flows of my productivity. My feminine side is no longer a liability; it's an asset. I lead creativity and breathwork workshops, write women-centered novels, and mentor clients to help them build their dream careers.

I'm grateful to Goldman for launching my career, but it has a lot of room for improvement. And until it turns things around, don't be surprised when talented women keep walking out. We know there are other places we can go.

Lindsay MacMillan is an author, speaker, and coach.

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How to Write Great Essay Hooks (Tips + Examples)
2. Bold claim hook. When working on an argumentative essay, I always write with the mindset that nobody has the time to read my thoughts from start to finish.So, I have to get to the point quickly and make a solid argument worth people's time.. That's when opening with a bold claim works best. Condense all your views on the topic into a few thought-provoking lines that would make readers go ...
Good Hooks for Essays: 14 Hook Ideas with Examples
Story Hook Example for an Essay on Business. Dell started fast and strong. The original company was founded in 1984 when the founder was only a 19-year-old student at the University of Texas. Four years after the inception of the company, Michael Dell became the Entrepreneur of the Year. Eight years after he started the company from his dorm ...
How to Write a Hook: 10 Ways to Capture Your Readers' Attention
Writing a compelling hook takes skill. But you can use any of the following ways of writing a hook to get you started: 1. The Surprising Statistic Hook. Presenting a surprising fact or statistic is a great way to grab the attention of your audience. For example, an essay on the orphan crisis may begin with:
How to Write a Great Essay Hook?
A "quote hook" is a type of hook used in writing that involves opening an essay with a quotation from a notable person, a famous author, or a respected source. The purpose of a quote hook is to instantly capture the reader's attention and establish the relevance of the topic by providing an authoritative statement.
How to Write the Ultimate Essay Hook
Here are seven ideas to choose from: 1. Story. Everyone likes a good story. If an interesting story or anecdote relates to your essay topic, the hook is a great place to include it. For example: In January 2023, two children were playing outside in a Los Angeles neighborhood.
How To Write A Great Essay Hook (With Examples)
And, by fostering this connection, you can make them more receptive to the message you're trying to convey. 2. Understand the purpose of your essay. Before you can write your hook, you'll need to know what the purpose of your essay is. Generally, your essay will try to inform, persuade, or narrate your subject.
How to Write a Business Essay: A Comprehensive Guide
Provide Context. After the hook, provide some background or context related to the topic of your essay. Help the reader understand the significance and relevance of the subject matter in the business world. Thesis Statement. Clearly state your thesis or the main argument of your essay.
Hook Writing: 20 Great Hook Examples and Strategies to Write an ...
20 Proven Strategies to Write a Hook in Essays. #1: State Your Thesis Directly and Concisely. #2: Use a Startling Fact or Statistic. #3: Ask a Related Question. #4: Share an Anecdote or Personal Story. #5: Use Descriptive Language to Set the Scene. #6: Display Your Idea as a Recent Revelation. #7: Use a Famous Quotation or Person.
How to Write a Hook for an Essay: Guide, Tips, and Examples
Determine the effect you wish to accomplish before selecting a hook. Choose a hook at the end of the writing process. Even though it should be the first sentence of your paper, it doesn't mean you should write your hook first. Writing an essay is a long and creative process. So, if you can't think of an effective hook at the beginning, just ...
Essay Hooks: How to Grab Your Reader With Your Writing
These hooks position the speaker as quirky, likable, and ready to offer some insight about what their unique life experiences have taught them. Simply put, this is a great way to grab your reader's attention. However, these types of hooks can also be more difficult to write. Unless you have a clear (or funny) story to tell from the beginning ...
20 Compelling Hook Examples for Essays
Looking for hook examples that can help with your own opening sentence? Allow inspiration to strike you with this list of different hook sentence examples. ... The hook you use to start your essay has to be specific to the subject matter and audience. Now that you have reviewed examples of hooks, spend some time learning how to write a great hook.
80+ Interesting Hook Examples
Here are the quotes you can use to start your essay: "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.". If your topic is related to hard work and making your own destiny, you can start by quoting Michael Jordan. "Some people want it to happen; some wish it would happen; others make it happen.".
How to Write a Hook
A hook is an opening statement (which is usually the first sentence) in an essay that attempts to grab the reader's attention so that they want to read on. It can be done by using a few different types of hooks, which are a question, quote, statistic, or anecdote. Be mindful that the hook has to be related to the overall topic of the paper.
Detailed Guide: Types and Examples of Hooks For Essays
Anecdotal hook. 4. Open-ended question Hook. 5. Statement hook. 6. The Shocking Hook. The types of hooks for an essay vary greatly depending on the focus of the essay. In the field of writing, the art of the hook is a crucial component.
Essay Hook
The essay hook serves as the gateway to the rest of your writing, enticing the reader to continue exploring your thoughts and arguments. In this article, we will explore 21+ essay hook examples, providing you with valuable insights and inspiration to craft hooks that will captivate your audience from the very beginning. 1. Essay Hooks Ideas Example
What are Good Hooks for an Essay. Examples Included
The first sentence of your essay has the power to make or break it, so ensure you choose the 'hook' well. As per our professional essay writers, essay hooks should be limited to 1-2 sentences. 7 Hook Examples to Make Your College Essay Catchy. From using humor to posing a rhetorical question, there are several ways to begin your essay on an ...
73 Essay Hook Examples (2024)
These examples might help stimulate your thinking. However, keep in mind that your essay hook needs to be unique to your essay, so use these as inspiration but write your own essay hook that's perfect for your own essay. 1. For an Essay About Yourself. An essay about yourself can be personal, use "I" statements, and include memories or ...
7 Sensational Essay Hooks That Grab Readers' Attention
A simile hook for the essay about business blogging could be: A business blog is like a magnet that pulls clients to a company. 5. The Story Hook . This is a hook where you begin with a short story or episode that relates to your topic. Readers love stories, especially a well-written story that is memorable. The key to a great story hook is ...
Hook Examples Generator for Essays and Presentations
Hook Examples Generator. Formulate your topic clearly and concisely. 1 hour! A hook is an excellent tool for writing a college assignment. However, it's challenging, so our generator will be a great assistant. It'll be helpful for those who write essays, research papers or even prepare a speech. We'll explain how that instrument works ...
How To Write a Hook That Captures Every Reader's Attention
7 Ways To Write A Better Hook. Whether you're writing a book, essay, article, or marketing content, a great hook is a must. With so much content out there, you need to stand out. A killer hook is a powerful tool to get your intended audience to care for what you have to say. Here are a few surefire ways to pen a perfect hook. 1. Understand ...
AI Hook Generator: Write a Perfect Attention-Grabber
An essay hook generator is a tool that generates creative ideas for hooks for essays. It is designed to help users create attention-grabbing hooks that make their essays stand out. Essay hook tips: Use a quote from a famous person or a book related to the topic of the essay.
Free AI Hook Generator
Ahrefs' Hook Generator can be a valuable tool for writers, journalists, or content creators who want to craft captivating and attention-grabbing introductions for their articles, blog posts, or other written content. By inputting the topic or key ideas, the tool can generate compelling hooks that immediately capture the reader's interest. ...
Short Narrative Essay
A short narrative essay typically ranges from 500 to 1500 words, aiming to convey a concise and focused story or experience within a limited word count. Narrative essays are designed to express and tell experiences making it an interesting story to share. It has the three basic parts and contains at least five elements.
What are Tone Words? List of 300+ Useful Words
The word for tone in literature is the mood or atmosphere that the author intends for the reader to experience while reading the text, while mood is the experience that the reader has while reading the story.. How the author feels about the setting or the character and how he wants the reader to feel determines the tone. On the contrary, the reader's emotional response establishes the mood.
What Is a Capstone Project: Definition, Types, Writing Steps
A capstone project is a comprehensive, culminating academic endeavor undertaken by students typically in their final year of study. It synthesizes their learning experiences, requiring students to apply the knowledge, skills, and competencies gained throughout their academic journey. A capstone project aims to address a real-world problem or ...
My father gave me his tool
Heather Hopp-Bruce/Globe Staff. He said something shocking: "I have a tool you might want.". My 87-year-old father had placed the antique scythe on a table in the middle of his Arizona garage ...
Celibacy might suck, but it's better than the apps
May 23, 2024, 12:13 AM PDT. Nicola Prentis has chosen to take things slow, and often celibate, in order to avoid the world of dating apps. honeyhousephotography.com. As a single mother who works ...
Amazon's India growth story: How the e-commerce giant is trying to
Take the pharmacy business, where a brick-and-mortar store typically keeps 4,000-5,000 medicines. Around half of this relates to chronic ailments. "When we launched, we were clear about having ...
Copy-of-39-assignment-essay-a-just-society-1716379622
CHC2D Essay or Podcast: A "Just" Society? Assessing Continuity and Change in 1960s-1980s Canada Pierre Trudeau was the Liberal Prime Minister of Canada from 1968 to 1979, a time of momentous social, cultural, political, and economic changes in Canada. Trudeau's promise to Canadians was a "Just Society" - a Canadian society that would ensure "personal and political freedom will be more securely ...
Why I Quit Goldman Sachs' Rigid, Male-Dominated Culture
Lindsay MacMillan. May 21, 2024, 2:35 AM PDT. Goldman Sachs has a problem. Only 29% of the 2022 partner class was women — just slightly more than the previous two classes — and a flood of ...