How do you write an essay introduction that gets noticed?
Many different aspects of writing can impact your essay introduction. Some of these include grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and word choice. However, other less obvious elements can influence your essay introduction.
These seven little-known factors are often overlooked but can significantly impact your essay introduction.
1. Tone.
Tone plays an integral role in writing a good essay introduction. Style refers to the overall attitude of the writer. There are two types of tones – positive and negative. A positive tone means that the writer has a generally optimistic outlook on life. A negative tone means that the writer feels pessimistic about everything.
When you think about your personality, which tone best describes you? Do you feel optimistic about life? Or do you tend to see the glass half empty?
If you answered yes to either question, then you probably have a positive tone and will write an essay introduction with a positive tone. However, if you answer no to both questions, then you most likely have a negative tone.
2. Type of essay you are writing.
The three different types of essays are: descriptive, argumentative, and expository.
Descriptive essays describe something in detail. They usually focus on facts and figures. For example, if your essay topic is “How Much Money Should I Make?” then a descriptive essay introduction would explain all the factors involved in making money, such as taxes, interest rates, inflation, etc.
Argumentative essays try to persuade someone to agree with them. They often start with a premise and attempt to prove their point using logic. For example, if an argumentative essay topic is “Should People Be Allowed to Smoke Marijuana?” then the writer would begin by stating their opinion on the matter. Then they would proceed to provide reasons for why they believe marijuana should be illegal. Finally, they would conclude by trying to convince others to agree with him/them.
Expository essays tell readers about something. They usually include examples or explanations. An expository essay topic could be “Why Is It Important to Study History?” In this case, the writer would explain what history is, how important it is, and why people should study it in the essay introduction.
3. Sentence Structure.
A good essay introduction will give a reader a glimpse into your mind. If you want to show off your creativity, then you should use vivid language. You should also make sure that your ideas flow smoothly from one sentence to another. And finally, you should keep your sentences short and simple.
4. Word Choice
The words you choose can affect the way your reader perceives your essay introduction. Here are some tips on choosing the right words:
1) Avoid clichés. Clichéd words are overused phrases that sound boring and unoriginal. Examples of these words are “nevertheless,” “anyway,” and “all things considered.”
2) Use active verbs instead of passive ones. Active verbs express action, while passive verbs imply inaction.
3) Choose words that match your tone. Tone refers to the overall attitude or mood of the writer. A positive tone means that the writer is happy and upbeat. A negative tone means that the writer thinks negatively about everything.
4) Don’t use too many adjectives. Adjectives modify nouns. For example, if you describe a very tall person, you might say that she was “short but sturdy.” But if you want to emphasize her height, you would say that she was ‘very tall.’
5) Avoid Long Sentences.
5. Grammar and Punctuation–If you want to write a great essay introduction, you must know proper grammar and punctuation. Here are some rules to follow when writing:
1) Spell check. This step is significant because spelling mistakes can cause confusion and even lead to plagiarism.
2) Proofread. Read your work aloud several times before submitting it.
3) Write clearly. Remember that your readers need to understand your thoughts and ideas.
4) Use correct capitalization.
6. Paragraph Length
When writing an essay introduction, you have to think about the length of each paragraph. The best essay introductions are those that contain three main points. However, if you want to impress your teacher, you should aim for five or six points per paragraph.
Here are some guidelines to help you decide how much space to leave between each idea:
• One point per line.
• Three lines per paragraph.
• Five lines per page.
7. Clarity
You don’t always have to be clear to write an effective essay introduction. Sometimes, you need to get your point across. When you do so, you should avoid flowery language and complex vocabulary. Instead, stick to simple terms like “I” and “you.”