| Introduces general topic or issue | |
| Introduces specific opinion about issue (thesis statement) | |
| Captures reader’s attention |
| Indicate parts of essay | ||
| Prepares reader for structure and main points | ||
| Strong statement of opinion | ||
| Opens with thesis statement | ||
| State opposing arguments | ||
| Addresses possible loopholes in your thesis | ||
| Create a contrast | ||
| Effective for persuasive essays or comparison/contrast essays | ||
| Ask a question (or series of questions) | ||
| Makes reader curious for answers | ||
| Present startling facts or data | ||
| Shocks reader with concrete evidence | ||
| Open with list of striking images | ||
| Grabs attention and creates curiosity | ||
| Present a related story or anecdote | ||
| Provides an illustration | ||
| Place reader in a scenario related to issue | ||
| Makes issue directly relevant to your reader | ||
| Quote an authority or literary work | ||
| Provides an authoritative illustration | ||
| Refer to a famous person | ||
| Demonstrates historical/cultural significance | ||
| Define key terms or phrases | ||
| Clarifies terminology | ||
| Introduce a broader issue and narrow focus to your issue | ||
| “Funnel method” | ||
| Relates your issue to broader context of issues | ||