Great Introductory Paragraphs

The introductory paragraph of any paper, long or short, should start with a sentence that piques the interest of your readers. In a typical essay, that first sentence leads into two or three sentences that provide details about your subject or your process. All of these sentences build up to your thesis statement.

While the thesis sentence gets a lot of attention, it's actually the very first sentence of your paper that provides your best opportunity to capture your reader. It's your one moment to show how clever, humorous, or inspiring you can be.

Learn to engage your reader (and your teacher) by creating a great first sentence with a quote, and anecdote, or a little-known or fascinating fact.