how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

essay introduction

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

  • Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
  • Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

  • Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
  • Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
  • Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

  • Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
  • Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
  • Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

  • Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
  • Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
  • State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
  • Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
  • Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
  • Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

  • Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
  • Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
  • Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

  • Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
  • Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
  • Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
  • Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
  • Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

  • Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
  • State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
  • Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
  • Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

  • Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
  • Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
  • Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
  • Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
  • Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

  • Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
  • Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
  • Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
  • Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
  • Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
  • Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
  • Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

  • Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
  • West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
  • Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

  • What is an Argumentative Essay? How to Write It (With Examples)
  • How to Paraphrase Research Papers Effectively
  • How to Cite Social Media Sources in Academic Writing? 
  • How Long Should a Chapter Be?

Similarity Checks: The Author’s Guide to Plagiarism and Responsible Writing

Types of plagiarism and 6 tips to avoid it in your writing , you may also like, dissertation printing and binding | types & comparison , what is a dissertation preface definition and examples , how to write a research proposal: (with examples..., how to write your research paper in apa..., how to choose a dissertation topic, how to write a phd research proposal, how to write an academic paragraph (step-by-step guide), maintaining academic integrity with paperpal’s generative ai writing..., research funding basics: what should a grant proposal..., how to write an abstract in research papers....

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base
  • How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

  • Catch your reader’s attention.
  • Give background on your topic.
  • Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

upload-your-document-ai-proofreader

Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

  • Braille was an extremely important invention.
  • The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

  • The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
  • The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

  • Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
  • Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

  • Historical, geographical, or social context
  • An outline of the debate you’re addressing
  • A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
  • Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

  • Academic style
  • Vague sentences
  • Style consistency

See an example

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

  • Argumentative
  • Literary analysis

This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. 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. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

  • Ad hominem fallacy
  • Post hoc fallacy
  • Appeal to authority fallacy
  • False cause fallacy
  • Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

  • Choosing Essay Topic
  • Write a College Essay
  • Write a Diversity Essay
  • College Essay Format & Structure
  • Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

  • Grammar Checker
  • Paraphrasing Tool
  • Text Summarizer
  • AI Detector
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • Citation Generator

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

  • An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
  • Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
  • A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

  • It gives your writing direction and focus.
  • It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/introduction/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write a thesis statement | 4 steps & examples, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, how to conclude an essay | interactive example, get unlimited documents corrected.

✔ Free APA citation check included ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts

Opinion Writing: a Guide to Writing a Successful Essay Easily

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

An opinion essay requires students to write their thoughts regarding a subject matter. Relevant examples and explanations back their point of view. Before starting an opinion paper, it is important to study the definition, topics, requirements, and structure. Referring to examples is also highly useful. Perhaps you need help with our admission essay writing service ? Take a look at this guide from our dissertation writing service to learn how to write an opinion essay like an expert.

What Is an Opinion Essay

A common question among students is: ‘What is an Opinion Essay?' It is an assignment that contains questions that allow students to share their point-of-view on a subject matter. Students should express their thoughts precisely while providing opinions on the issue related to the field within reasonable logic. Some opinion essays type require references to back the writer's claims.

Opinion writing involves using a student's personal point-of-view, which is segregated into a point. It is backed by examples and explanations. The paper addresses the audience directly by stating ‘Dear Readers' or the equivalent. The introduction involves a reference to a speech, book, or play. This is normally followed by a rhetorical question like ‘is the pope Catholic?' or something along those lines.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay

Non-native English-speaking students enrolled in the International English Language Testing System by the British Council & Cambridge Assessment English are tasked with learning how to write the opinion essays. This can be high-school or college students. It is designed to enhance the level of English among students. It enables them to express their thoughts and opinions while writing good opinion essay in English.

Get Your Opinion ESSAY READY TODAY!

We will write you a plagiarism-free opinion essay, with a title page, unlimited revisions, and bunch of other cool features included!

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay

Avoid Going Off-Topic: Always write an opinion essay within relevance to answer the assigned question. This is also known as ‘beating around the bush' and should not be included in any opinion paragraph as it may lower your grade.

Indent the First Paragraph: With most academic papers, opinion writing is not different. Therefore, it contains the rule of indenting the first line of the introduction.

A Well-Thought Thesis: The full thesis statement is a brief description of the opinion essay. It determines the rest of the paper. Include all the information that you wish to include in the body paragraphs

The Use of Formal Languages: Although it is okay to write informally, keep a wide range of professional and formal words. This includes: ‘Furthermore,' ‘As Stated By,' ‘However', & ‘Thus'.

Avoid Internet Slang: In the opinion paper, avoid writing using slang words. Don'tDon't include words like ‘LOL', ‘OMG', ‘LMAO', etc.

The Use of First Person Language (Optional): For the reason of providing personal thought, it is acceptable to write your personal opinion essay in the first person.

Avoid Informal Punctuation: Although the requirements allow custom essay for the first-person language, they do not permit informal punctuation. This includes dashes, exclamation marks, and emojis.

Avoid Including Contradictions: Always make sure all spelling and grammar is correct.

We also recommend reading about types of sentences with examples .

Opinion Essay Topics

Before learning about the structure, choosing from a wide range of opinion essay topics is important. Picking an essay theme is something that can be done very simply. Choosing an excellent opinion essay topic that you are interested in or have a passion for is advisable. Otherwise, you may find the writing process boring. This also ensures that your paper will be both effective and well-written.

  • Do sports differ from ordinary board games?
  • Is using animals in circus performances immoral?
  • Why should we be honest with our peers?
  • Should all humans be entitled to a 4-day workweek?
  • Should all humans become vegetarians?
  • Does a CEO earn too much?
  • Should teens be barred from having sleepovers?
  • Should everyone vote for their leader?
  • The Pros & Cons of Day-Light Saving Hours.
  • What are the most energy-efficient and safest cars of X year?

Opinion Essay Structure

When it comes to opinion paragraphs, students may struggle with the opinion essay format. The standard five-paragraph-essay structure usually works well for opinion essays. Figuring out what one is supposed to include in each section may be difficult for beginners. This is why following the opinion essay structure is something all beginners should do, for their own revision before writing the entire essay.

You might also be interested in getting more information about: 5 PARAGRAPH ESSAY

Opinion Essay Structure

Opinion essay introduction

  • Address the audience directly, and state the subject matter.
  • Reference a speech, poem, book, or play.
  • Include the author's name and date of publication in brackets.
  • 1 or 2 sentences to make up a short description.
  • 1 or 2 summarizing sentences of the entire paper.
  • 1 sentence that links to the first body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 1

  • Supporting arguments
  • Explanation
  • A linking sentence to the second body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 2

  • Supporting argument
  • A linking sentence to the third body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 3

  • A linking sentence to the conclusion.

Conclusion paragraph

  • Summary of the entire paper
  • A conclusive sentence (the bigger picture in conclusion)

If you need some help, leave us a message ' write my essay cheap ' and we'll help.

Opinion Essay Examples

Do you need something for reference? Reading opinion essay examples can expand your knowledge of this style of writing, as you get to see exactly how this form of an essay is written. Take a look at our samples to get an insight into this form of academic writing.

Over the past, American popular culture has been strong in creating racial stereotypes. Images displayed through television, music, and the internet have an impact on how individuals behave and what individuals believe. People find their identities and belief systems from popular culture. Evidently, I believe that American pop culture has created racial stereotypes that predominantly affect other ethnic minorities. Analyzing the history of America reveals that African Americans have always had a problem defining themselves as Americans ever since the era of slavery. AfricanAmericans have always had a hard time being integrated into American culture. The result is that African Americans have been subjected to ridicule and shame. American pop culture has compounded the problem by enhancing the negative stereotypes ofAfrican American. In theatre, film, and music, African Americans have been associated with vices such as murder, theft, and violence.
The family systems theory has a significant revelation on family relations. I firmly agree that to understand a particular family or a member, they should be around other family members. The emotional connection among different family members may create functional or dysfunctional coexistence, which is not easy to identify when an individual is further from the other members. Taking an example of the extended family, the relationship between the mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law may be tense, but once they are outside the family, they can pretend to have a good relationship. Therefore, I agree with the theory that the existing emotional attachment and developed culture in the family is distinctively understood when the family is together.

Opinion writing is a form of academic paper that asks students to include their thoughts on a particular topic. This is then backed by a logical explanation and examples. Becoming more knowledgeable is a practical way to successfully learn how to write an opinion paper. Before writing anything, it is essential to refer to important information. That includes the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements. This is what turns amateur writers into master writers.

Feeling like you need some assistance with your essay? No matter what kind of writer you need, opinion or persuasive essay writing service online , our team consists of experts in all fields. Our college essay writing service helps those students who need an extra push when it comes to their assignments.

Need Qualified Essay Help?

Are you struggling with your opinion paper? Hit the button below to get writer's help. All your requests are processed fast.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

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.

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay

Offer of the decade FLAT 20% off + sign up bonus of $20 Order Now

essayhack.io

Files Missing!

Please upload all relevant files for quick & complete assistance.

https://essayhack.io/

Opinion Essays – Step-by-Step Instructions

Home / Blog / Write An Opinion Essay

How to Write an Opinion Essay

Introduction

What makes an opinion essay truly compelling? Why do some essays resonate while others fall flat? The art of opinion writing is not just about sharing your thoughts; it is about persuading, informing, and engaging your readers. Today, we will learn all about crafting an impactful opinion essay.

So, how do you transform your opinions into powerful words that leave a lasting impression? Let us dive in and discover the keys to success in opinion writing.

What Is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay is a written work where an author expresses their viewpoint on a particular topic or issue. Unlike other essays that primarily rely on factual information and objective analysis, an opinion essay is inherently subjective, emphasizing the writer's beliefs, feelings, and perspectives.

Opinion essays are prevalent in various contexts, from academic assignments and journalism to blogs and editorials. They serve as a platform for individuals to express themselves, share their unique perspectives, and contribute to meaningful discussions on various subjects.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay?

Let us explore the characteristics and educational contexts where opinion essays are commonly encountered:

1. High School Students:

High school students are frequently introduced to opinion essays as part of their English or language arts curriculum. These essay help students develop fundamental writing skills and the ability to express their viewpoints coherently. Opinion essays at this level often revolve around personal experiences, literary analysis, or current events, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

2. College and University Students:

College and university students encounter opinion essays across various disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and engineering. In college, opinion essays become more sophisticated, requiring students to delve into scholarly research, cite academic sources, and formulate well-supported arguments. These essays are instrumental in promoting research skills, academic writing proficiency, and the ability to synthesize complex information.

3. Graduates and Postgraduates:

Graduate and postgraduate students frequently engage in opinion essays as part of their coursework and research activities. At this level, opinion essays may take the form of thesis proposals, research position papers, or responses to academic debates. These essays serve as essential paraphrasing tool for contributing to the scholarly discourse within their fields.

4. Law Students:

Law students encounter opinion essays in the form of legal memoranda, case briefs, or persuasive arguments. These essays hone their legal writing and argumentative essay topics skills.

In the legal profession, constructing well-reasoned opinions is vital, as lawyers often need to advocate for their clients' positions.

5. Journalism and Communication Students:

Students pursuing journalism or communication degrees frequently write opinion pieces, such as editorials and op-eds. Opinion essays in this context train students to effectively convey their thoughts to a broader audience while adhering to ethical and journalistic standards.

6. Political Science and Philosophy Students:

Political science or philosophy students delve into opinion essays as they explore complex political ideologies, ethical dilemmas, and philosophical debates. Opinion essays in these disciplines require students to analyze and critically evaluate different perspectives, fostering a deep understanding of complex issues.

7. MBA and Business Students:

MBA and business students encounter opinion essays in business ethics, strategic management, and decision-making courses. These essays sharpen their ability to make informed, ethical business judgments and communicate their rationale effectively.

8. ESL and Non-Native English Speakers:

Students learning English as a second language (ESL) or non-native English speakers may face opinion essays to enhance their language proficiency. Opinion essays help ESL students develop language skills while expressing their thoughts on diverse essay topics .

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

Here are the key elements that should be present in an opinion essay:

1. Clear and Concise Thesis Statement:

Every opinion essay should start with a well-defined thesis statement. This statement is the heart of your essay, succinctly summarizing your main argument or viewpoint. It should be placed in the introduction, typically towards the end of that section.

 2. Introduction:

  • The introduction serves as the opening of your essay, capturing the reader's attention and providing essential context for the topic.
  • Begin with a compelling hook, which can be a thought-provoking question, an interesting fact, a relevant quote, or a brief anecdote.
  • Clearly present your thesis statement, outlining your opinion on the issue.
  • Provide a brief overview of the points you intend to discuss in the essay's body, setting the reader's expectations.

3. Well-Structured Body Paragraphs:

  • The body of your opinion essay should consist of several well-organized paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific aspect or supporting point related to your thesis.
  • Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence directly connecting to your thesis statement.
  • Offer substantial evidence, examples, statistics, or personal experiences to support your viewpoint. Ensure the evidence is relevant and convincing.
  • Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs, using transitional words and phrases to guide the reader seamlessly through your arguments.

4. Acknowledgment of Counterarguments:

  • A robust opinion essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints or counterarguments. This demonstrates your ability to consider alternative perspectives and strengthens your own argument.
  • Counterarguments can be addressed within the body paragraphs or in a dedicated paragraph where you present, discuss, and ultimately refute opposing views.

5. Conclusion:

  • The conclusion should serve as the closing of your essay, summarizing your thesis statement and the main points presented in the body.
  • However, avoid mere repetition of the introduction. Instead, offer a broader perspective, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a suggestion for further exploration.
  • Conclude your essay with a sense of closure, ensuring your final words leave a lasting impression.

6. Evidence and Examples:

Support your opinion with credible evidence, such as research findings, assignment expert opinions, or real-life examples. This lends credibility to your argument and makes it more persuasive.

7. Proper Citation:

If your essay includes external sources or references, ensure proper citation following the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Correct citation is essential to maintain academic integrity and prevent plagiarism.

8. Editing and Proofreading:

  • Before finalizing your opinion essay, perform a thorough edit and proofread. Check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as clarity and coherence.
  • Consider seeking peer, instructor, or professional editor feedback to ensure your essay is polished and error-free.

Opinion Essay Topics

Here are ten broad subject areas for opinion essay topics

1. Technology:

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
  • Is Social Media Beneficial or Harmful for Society?
  • The Ethics of Data Privacy in the Digital Age
  • Should Technology Be Used in Education More Extensively?
  • Is Online Learning as Effective as Traditional Education?
  • The Role of Technology in Solving Environmental Issues
  • Are Smartphones a Necessity or a Distraction in Daily Life?
  • The Pros and Cons of Video Games for Children
  • Is Technology Making Us More or Less Connected to Each Other?
  • The Future of Work in a World Dominated by Automation

2. Education:

  • Standardized Testing: Does It Accurately Measure Student Abilities?
  • The Impact of Homeschooling on Children's Development
  • Should Schools Implement Uniform Dress Codes?
  • The Role of Arts Education in Academic Curriculum
  • Are College Degrees Still Worth the Investment?
  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Education
  • Should Schools Teach Financial Literacy as a Mandatory Subject?
  • The Influence of Teachers on Students' Success
  • Does Homework Enhance or Impede Learning?
  • The Importance of Inclusive Education for Special Needs Students

3. Environment:

  • The Responsibility of Individuals in Combating Climate Change
  • Should Plastic Bags and Bottles Be Banned to Reduce Pollution?
  • The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity
  • Renewable Energy Sources vs. Fossil Fuels: Which is Better?
  • Should Governments Implement Carbon Tax to Reduce Emissions?
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
  • Is Sustainable Living Achievable for Everyone?
  • The Role of Urban Planning in Creating Eco-Friendly Cities
  • Are Electric Vehicles the Future of Transportation?
  • The Effectiveness of Recycling Programs in Reducing Waste

4. Politics and Government:

  • The Importance of Voting in a Democracy
  • Is Political Correctness Beneficial or Restrictive to Free Speech?
  • Should Term Limits Be Imposed on Elected Officials?
  • The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Opinions
  • Universal Healthcare vs. Private Healthcare: Pros and Cons
  • The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society
  • Should Affirmative Action Still Be Implemented?
  • Is Political Polarization a Threat to Democracy?
  • The Influence of Lobbying and Special Interest Groups on Politics
  • Should the Voting Age Be Lowered or Raised?

5. Health and Wellness:

  • The Pros and Cons of a Vegetarian or Vegan Diet
  • The Impact of Fast Food on Public Health
  • Should Vaccination Be Mandatory for All Children?
  • The Benefits and Risks of Legalizing Marijuana
  • The Role of Mental Health Education in Schools
  • Is Healthcare a Basic Human Right?
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies
  • The Impact of Stress on Physical and Mental Health
  • Is Alternative Medicine a Valid Alternative to Conventional Medicine?
  • The Influence of Advertising on Unhealthy Eating Habits

6. Social Issues:

  • The Role of Social Media in Promoting Body Image Issues
  • The Impact of Income Inequality on Society
  • Is Capital Punishment Ethical or Inhumane?
  • The Importance of Gender Equality in the Workplace
  • Should Animal Testing Be Banned for Cosmetic Products?
  • The Ethics of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
  • The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Young People
  • Is Online Bullying a Serious Threat to Mental Health?
  • The Role of Government in Combating Homelessness

7. Economics:

  • The Effects of Inflation on Consumer Purchasing Power
  • Is Globalization Beneficial or Harmful to Developing Countries?
  • The Impact of Minimum Wage Laws on Employment
  • The Role of Cryptocurrency in Modern Finance
  • Should Governments Provide Universal Basic Income?
  • The Ethics of Corporate Social Responsibility
  • The Pros and Cons of Trade Tariffs
  • Is Economic Growth Sustainable in the Long Term?
  • The Influence of Consumerism on Environmental Degradation
  • The Role of Government Regulation in Preventing Financial Crises

8. Science and Technology Ethics:

  • The Ethical Implications of Human Gene Editing
  • Should Artificial Intelligence Have Legal Rights?
  • The Use of Facial Recognition Technology: Privacy vs. Security
  • The Dangers and Benefits of Biotechnology Advancements
  • The Ethics of Cloning Animals for Human Consumption
  • Is Privacy Invasion Justified in the Name of National Security?
  • The Impact of 3D Printing on Intellectual Property Rights
  • Should Autonomous Weapons Be Banned?
  • The Ethical Considerations of Using CRISPR for Genetic Enhancement
  • Is Space Exploration Worth the Cost and Environmental Impact?

9. Culture and Society:

  • The Influence of Pop Culture on Young People's Behavior
  • Should Cultural Appropriation Be Condemned or Celebrated?
  • The Importance of Preserving Indigenous Languages and Cultures
  • The Role of Music in Shaping Social and Political Movements
  • Should Museums Return Stolen Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin?
  • The Impact of Reality TV Shows on Society's Perception of Reality
  • Is Online Dating a Positive or Negative Trend in Modern Relationships?
  • The Ethics of Cultural Tourism and Its Impact on Local Communities
  • Should Schools Teach More Diverse History and Literature?
  • The Role of Literature and Art in Promoting Social Change

10. Ethics and Morality:

  • The Ethics of Physician-Assisted Suicide for Terminal Patients
  • Is Lying Ever Justified in Moral Dilemmas?
  • The Role of Religion in Shaping Personal Morality
  • The Ethics of Animal Rights: Should Animals Have Legal Personhood?
  • Is Forgiveness a Virtue or a Weakness?
  • The Moral Implications of Cloning Humans
  • The Ethics of Nuclear Weapons and Deterrence
  • Should Government Surveillance Be Permitted for National Security?
  • The Role of Free Will in Determining Moral Responsibility
  • Is It Ethical to Experiment on Animals for Scientific Research?

Opinion Essay Structure

Here is a breakdown of the essential elements:

1. Introduction:

  • Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing hook, such as a question, fact, quote, or anecdote, to engage the reader's interest.
  • Thesis Statement:  Present your clear and concise thesis statement. This statement is the foundation of your essay and encapsulates your main argument or opinion on the topic.
  • Preview:  Offer a brief overview of the main points or arguments you will discuss in the body of the essay. This sets the reader's expectations.

2. Body Paragraphs:

  • Topic Sentences: Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates directly to your thesis statement.
  • Supporting Evidence: Provide evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions that support each argument. Ensure that the evidence is relevant and compelling.
  • Transition Sentences: Use transitional words and phrases to guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next. This creates coherence and logical flow.
  • Counterarguments:  Address opposing viewpoints within the body of your essay, demonstrating your ability to evaluate different perspectives critically. This adds depth and persuasiveness to your argument.

3. Conclusion:

  • Restate Thesis: Restate your thesis statement and summarize your main argument.
  • Summarize Main Points: Summarize the key points or arguments you've presented in the essay's body.
  • Broaden Perspective: Move beyond mere repetition of the introduction. Offer a broader perspective on the topic, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as the significance of your opinion or a call to action.
  • Closing Thoughts: End with a thought-provoking closing thought, question, or statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Opinion Essay Examples

Here is an example for you -

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media has become an integral part of our lives in today's digital age. While it offers various benefits, like staying connected with friends and accessing information, its influence on mental health has been a growing concern. This essay explores the impact of social media on mental well-being, arguing that while it has some advantages, it can also have detrimental effects.

Introduction:

The introduction provides a clear thesis statement: "This essay argues that social media has both positive and negative impacts on mental health." It engages the reader's interest with a hook, such as a startling statistic about social media usage or a relevant quote.

Body Paragraphs:

The body of the essay is divided into several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of the argument:

Positive Aspects:  This paragraph discusses the positive impact of social media, such as fostering connections, providing support networks, and raising awareness of mental health issues. It includes examples and statistics to support these points.

Negative Aspects:  Here, the essay delves into the negative effects of social media, including cyberbullying, social comparison, and addiction. Real-life examples and studies are cited to illustrate these harmful consequences.

Counterarguments: To address opposing viewpoints, the essay checker acknowledges that some studies suggest a limited negative impact of social media. However, it refutes these arguments with counter-studies and expert opinions, emphasizing the overall negative trend.

Conclusion:

The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the main points from the body paragraphs. It provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging the positive and negative aspects of social media's impact on mental health. The essay ends with a thought-provoking statement, encouraging the reader to consider their own relationship with social media and its effects on their well-being.

Additional Considerations:

The essay's clear topic sentences, evidence, and transitions between paragraphs maintain coherence. The essay follows a formal tone, uses proper grammar and citations, and avoids jargon. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic while presenting a well-structured argument that engages the reader and encourages critical thinking.

Crafting top-notch and perfect opinion essay writing is not just about expressing your viewpoint; it is about constructing a persuasive and well-structured argument. You can effectively communicate your opinions by adhering to the fundamental elements of a clear thesis statement, an engaging introduction, well-supported body paragraphs, and a thought-provoking conclusion.

Remember to acknowledge opposing viewpoints, use evidence judiciously, and maintain a formal tone. Opinion essays are a powerful platform for sharing your thoughts, contributing to meaningful discussions, and refining your writing and critical thinking skills. You can craft opinion essays that resonate and persuade effectively with the right structure and approach.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. what is the key to a successful opinion essay.

The key to a successful opinion essay is a clear and compelling thesis statement that presents your main argument. Support your viewpoint with relevant evidence, maintain a logical structure, and acknowledge opposing perspectives.

Q2. How can I make my introduction engaging?

Start with a captivating hook, like a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact. Clearly state your thesis statement, and briefly preview the main points you will discuss.

Q3. What role do counterarguments play in an opinion essay?

Counterarguments demonstrate your critical thinking skills and strengthen your argument by addressing opposing viewpoints. You can acknowledge counterarguments within your essay and then refute them.

Q4. How can I ensure my opinion essay is well-structured?

Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs focusing on specific points, and a conclusion summarizing your argument. Use transitional words for coherence.

Q5. Should I include personal experiences in my opinion essay?

Yes, personal experiences can enhance your essay's authenticity. However, ensure they are relevant to your argument and used as supporting evidence, not as the sole basis of your viewpoint.

Q6. How can I find credible evidence for my opinion essay?

Utilize reputable sources like academic journals, books, and expert opinions. Ensure your sources are recent and authoritative to bolster the credibility of your argument.

Q7. What is the difference between an opinion and a persuasive essay?

While both aim to persuade, an opinion essay primarily expresses your viewpoint. A persuasive essay focuses on convincing the reader to adopt your perspective through strong argumentation.

Q8. How can I maintain a formal tone in my opinion essay?

Avoid overly casual language and slang. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and follow the conventions of academic writing, such as citing sources correctly.

Q9. Can I use personal anecdotes in my conclusion?

Yes, personal anecdotes can be effective in the conclusion to leave a lasting impression. Relate your personal experience back to your thesis or the broader implications of your opinion.

Q10. What is the most important aspect of revising my opinion essay?

The most crucial revision aspect is ensuring your essay is clear and well-organized. Check for logical flow between paragraphs, and edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Do you want to share?

You might also like.

Persuasive Essay Topics

Top 100 Persuasive Essay Topics/Ideas for Students

Discursive Essay

Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Essay Introduction

How to Write an Essay Introduction?

Law Essay Writing

How to Write a Law Essay: Writing Guide with Examples

How to Choose Ideal Argumentative Essay Topics to Work On

How to Choose Ideal Argumentative Essay Topics to Work On

Peel Paragraph

PEEL Paragraph a Guide to Write a Perfect Essay

Persuasive Essay Topics

100 Effective Persuasive Essay Topics

How To Write A Descriptive Essay

How to Write a Descriptive Essay?- Guide with Examples

Who Am I Essay : How to Write it?

Who Am I Essay : How to Write it?

Leave a reply, place order.

Want Impressive Essay Help?

Submit your requirements here

The Crucible

  -->Admin -->  Published On Oct 3, 2023 | Updated on Oct 4, 2023

The Metamorphosis

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 30, 2023 | Updated on Sep 30, 2023

The Handmaid's Tale

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 26, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

The Kite Runner

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

rhetorical analysis essay

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 5, 2023 | Updated on Sep 11, 2023

Assignment Help

Dissertation

Research Paper

50+ Interesting Quantitative Research Topics

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 18, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

Persuasive Essay Topics

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2018 | Updated on Sep 12, 2023

Discursive Essay

  -->Admin -->  Published On Feb 13, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

Essay Introduction

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 5, 2023 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

Law Essay Writing

  -->Admin -->  Published On Jun 22, 2020 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

Subscribe Newsletter

You can place your order for free now. Simply submit your order and see what our writers can Subscribe to get regular update!

Thank you for commenting.

Thank you for subscribed newsletter.

Thank You For Commenting.

Get acquainted with the top essay helpers in the country and glide smoothly towards your academic goals with the necessary essay writing help online from US’s top professionals.

Want quick $20? Share your details with us.

Thank you for subscribing our newsletter

Have any Query? Contact with us

mob turntine

  • If you are writing in a new discipline, you should always make sure to ask about conventions and expectations for introductions, just as you would for any other aspect of the essay. For example, while it may be acceptable to write a two-paragraph (or longer) introduction for your papers in some courses, instructors in other disciplines, such as those in some Government courses, may expect a shorter introduction that includes a preview of the argument that will follow.  
  • In some disciplines (Government, Economics, and others), it’s common to offer an overview in the introduction of what points you will make in your essay. In other disciplines, you will not be expected to provide this overview in your introduction.  
  • Avoid writing a very general opening sentence. While it may be true that “Since the dawn of time, people have been telling love stories,” it won’t help you explain what’s interesting about your topic.  
  • Avoid writing a “funnel” introduction in which you begin with a very broad statement about a topic and move to a narrow statement about that topic. Broad generalizations about a topic will not add to your readers’ understanding of your specific essay topic.  
  • Avoid beginning with a dictionary definition of a term or concept you will be writing about. If the concept is complicated or unfamiliar to your readers, you will need to define it in detail later in your essay. If it’s not complicated, you can assume your readers already know the definition.  
  • Avoid offering too much detail in your introduction that a reader could better understand later in the paper.
  • picture_as_pdf Introductions

PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

  • Search Blogs By Category
  • College Admissions
  • AP and IB Exams
  • GPA and Coursework

How to Write an Introduction Paragraph in 3 Steps

author image

General Education

feature-introduction-intro-once-upon-a-time-pen-writing-cc0

It’s the roadmap to your essay, it’s the forecast for your argument, it’s...your introduction paragraph, and writing one can feel pretty intimidating. The introduction paragraph is a part of just about every kind of academic writing , from persuasive essays to research papers. But that doesn’t mean writing one is easy!

If trying to write an intro paragraph makes you feel like a Muggle trying to do magic, trust us: you aren’t alone. But there are some tips and tricks that can make the process easier—and that’s where we come in.

In this article, we’re going to explain how to write a captivating intro paragraph by covering the following info:  

  • A discussion of what an introduction paragraph is and its purpose in an essay
  • An overview of the most effective introduction paragraph format, with explanations of the three main parts of an intro paragraph
  • An analysis of real intro paragraph examples, with a discussion of what works and what doesn’t
  • A list of four top tips on how to write an introduction paragraph

Are you ready? Let’s begin!

body-question-mark-think-wonder-cc0

What Is an Introduction Paragraph? 

An introduction paragraph is the first paragraph of an essay , paper, or other type of academic writing. Argumentative essays , book reports, research papers, and even personal  essays are common types of writing that require an introduction paragraph. Whether you’re writing a research paper for a science course or an argumentative essay for English class , you’re going to have to write an intro paragraph. 

So what’s the purpose of an intro paragraph? As a reader’s first impression of your essay, the intro paragraph should introduce the topic of your paper. 

Your introduction will also state any claims, questions, or issues that your paper will focus on. This is commonly known as your paper’s thesis . This condenses the overall point of your paper into one or two short sentences that your reader can come back and reference later.

But intro paragraphs need to do a bit more than just introduce your topic. An intro paragraph is also supposed to grab your reader’s attention. The intro paragraph is your chance to provide just enough info and intrigue to make your reader say, “Hey, this topic sounds interesting. I think I’ll keep reading this essay!” That can help your essay stand out from the crowd.

In most cases, an intro paragraph will be relatively short. A good intro will be clear, brief, purposeful, and focused. While there are some exceptions to this rule, it’s common for intro paragraphs to consist of three to five sentences . 

Effectively introducing your essay’s topic, purpose, and getting your reader invested in your essay sounds like a lot to ask from one little paragraph, huh? In the next section, we’ll demystify the intro paragraph format by breaking it down into its core parts . When you learn how to approach each part of an intro, writing one won’t seem so scary!

body-piece-of-cake

Once you figure out the three parts of an intro paragraph, writing one will be a piece of cake!

The 3 Main Parts of an Intro Paragraph

In general, an intro paragraph is going to have three main parts: a hook, context, and a thesis statement . Each of these pieces of the intro plays a key role in acquainting the reader with the topic and purpose of your essay. 

Below, we’ll explain how to start an introduction paragraph by writing an effective hook, providing context, and crafting a thesis statement. When you put these elements together, you’ll have an intro paragraph that does a great job of making a great first impression on your audience!

Intro Paragraph Part 1: The Hook

When it comes to how to start an introduction paragraph, o ne of the most common approaches is to start with something called a hook. 

What does hook mean here, though? Think of it this way: it’s like when you start a new Netflix series: you look up a few hours (and a few episodes) later and you say, “Whoa. I guess I must be hooked on this show!” 

That’s how the hook is supposed to work in an intro paragrap h: it should get your reader interested enough that they don’t want to press the proverbial “pause” button while they’re reading it . In other words, a hook is designed to grab your reader’s attention and keep them reading your essay! 

This means that the hook comes first in the intro paragraph format—it’ll be the opening sentence of your intro. 

It’s important to realize  that there are many different ways to write a good hook. But generally speaking, hooks must include these two things: what your topic is, and the angle you’re taking on that topic in your essay. 

One approach to writing a hook that works is starting with a general, but interesting, statement on your topic. In this type of hook, you’re trying to provide a broad introduction to your topic and your angle on the topic in an engaging way . 

For example, if you’re writing an essay about the role of the government in the American healthcare system, your hook might look something like this: 

There's a growing movement to require that the federal government provide affordable, effective healthcare for all Americans. 

This hook introduces the essay topic in a broad way (government and healthcare) by presenting a general statement on the topic. But the assumption presented in the hook can also be seen as controversial, which gets readers interested in learning more about what the writer—and the essay—has to say.

In other words, the statement above fulfills the goals of a good hook: it’s intriguing and provides a general introduction to the essay topic.

Intro Paragraph Part 2: Context

Once you’ve provided an attention-grabbing hook, you’ll want to give more context about your essay topic. Context refers to additional details that reveal the specific focus of your paper. So, whereas the hook provides a general introduction to your topic, context starts helping readers understand what exactly you’re going to be writing about

You can include anywhere from one to several sentences of context in your intro, depending on your teacher’s expectations, the length of your paper, and complexity of your topic. In these context-providing sentences, you want to begin narrowing the focus of your intro. You can do this by describing a specific issue or question about your topic that you’ll address in your essay. It also helps readers start to understand why the topic you’re writing about matters and why they should read about it. 

So, what counts as context for an intro paragraph? Context can be any important details or descriptions that provide background on existing perspectives, common cultural attitudes, or a specific situation or controversy relating to your essay topic. The context you include should acquaint your reader with the issues, questions, or events that motivated you to write an essay on your topic...and that your reader should know in order to understand your thesis. 

For instance, if you’re writing an essay analyzing the consequences of sexism in Hollywood, the context you include after your hook might make reference to the #metoo and #timesup movements that have generated public support for victims of sexual harassment. 

The key takeaway here is that context establishes why you’re addressing your topic and what makes it important. It also sets you up for success on the final piece of an intro paragraph: the thesis statement.

Elle Woods' statement offers a specific point of view on the topic of murder...which means it could serve as a pretty decent thesis statement!

Intro Paragraph Part 3: The Thesis

The final key part of how to write an intro paragraph is the thesis statement. The thesis statement is the backbone of your introduction: it conveys your argument or point of view on your topic in a clear, concise, and compelling way . The thesis is usually the last sentence of your intro paragraph. 

Whether it’s making a claim, outlining key points, or stating a hypothesis, your thesis statement will tell your reader exactly what idea(s) are going to be addressed in your essay. A good thesis statement will be clear, straightforward, and highlight the overall point you’re trying to make.

Some instructors also ask students to include an essay map as part of their thesis. An essay map is a section that outlines the major topics a paper will address. So for instance, say you’re writing a paper that argues for the importance of public transport in rural communities. Your thesis and essay map might look like this: 

Having public transport in rural communities helps people improve their economic situation by giving them reliable transportation to their job, reducing the amount of money they spend on gas, and providing new and unionized work .

The underlined section is the essay map because it touches on the three big things the writer will talk about later. It literally maps out the rest of the essay!

So let’s review: Your thesis takes the idea you’ve introduced in your hook and context and wraps it up. Think of it like a television episode: the hook sets the scene by presenting a general statement and/or interesting idea that sucks you in. The context advances the plot by describing the topic in more detail and helping readers understand why the topic is important. And finally, the thesis statement provides the climax by telling the reader what you have to say about the topic. 

The thesis statement is the most important part of the intro. Without it, your reader won’t know what the purpose of your essay is! And for a piece of writing to be effective, it needs to have a clear purpose. Your thesis statement conveys that purpose , so it’s important to put careful thought into writing a clear and compelling thesis statement. 

body_essayfeaturelist

How To Write an Introduction Paragraph: Example and Analysis

Now that we’ve provided an intro paragraph outline and have explained the three key parts of an intro paragraph, let’s take a look at an intro paragraph in action.

To show you how an intro paragraph works, we’ve included a sample introduction paragraph below, followed by an analysis of its strengths and weaknesses.

Example of Introduction Paragraph

While college students in the U.S. are struggling with how to pay for college, there is another surprising demographic that’s affected by the pressure to pay for college: families and parents. In the face of tuition price tags that total more than $100,000 (as a low estimate), families must make difficult decisions about how to save for their children’s college education. Charting a feasible path to saving for college is further complicated by the FAFSA’s estimates for an “Expected Family Contribution”—an amount of money that is rarely feasible for most American families. Due to these challenging financial circumstances and cultural pressure to give one’s children the best possible chance of success in adulthood, many families are going into serious debt to pay for their children’s college education. The U.S. government should move toward bearing more of the financial burden of college education. 

Example of Introduction Paragraph: Analysis

Before we dive into analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of this example intro paragraph, let’s establish the essay topic. The sample intro indicates that t he essay topic will focus on one specific issue: who should cover the cost of college education in the U.S., and why. Both the hook and the context help us identify the topic, while the thesis in the last sentence tells us why this topic matters to the writer—they think the U.S. Government needs to help finance college education. This is also the writer’s argument, which they’ll cover in the body of their essay. 

Now that we’ve identified the essay topic presented in the sample intro, let’s dig into some analysis. To pin down its strengths and weaknesses, we’re going to use the following three questions to guide our example of introduction paragraph analysis: 

  • Does this intro provide an attention-grabbing opening sentence that conveys the essay topic? 
  • Does this intro provide relevant, engaging context about the essay topic? 
  • Does this intro provide a thesis statement that establishes the writer’s point of view on the topic and what specific aspects of the issue the essay will address? 

Now, let’s use the questions above to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of this sample intro paragraph. 

Does the Intro Have a Good Hook? 

First, the intro starts out with an attention-grabbing hook . The writer starts by presenting  an assumption (that the U.S. federal government bears most of the financial burden of college education), which makes the topic relatable to a wide audience of readers. Also note that the hook relates to the general topic of the essay, which is the high cost of college education. 

The hook then takes a surprising turn by presenting a counterclaim : that American families, rather than students, feel the true burden of paying for college. Some readers will have a strong emotional reaction to this provocative counterclaim, which will make them want to keep reading! As such, this intro provides an effective opening sentence that conveys the essay topic. 

Does the Intro Give Context?

T he second, third, and fourth sentences of the intro provide contextual details that reveal the specific focus of the writer’s paper . Remember: the context helps readers start to zoom in on what the paper will focus on, and what aspect of the general topic (college costs) will be discussed later on. 

The context in this intro reveals the intent and direction of the paper by explaining why the issue of families financing college is important. In other words, the context helps readers understand why this issue matters , and what aspects of this issue will be addressed in the paper.  

To provide effective context, the writer refers to issues (the exorbitant cost of college and high levels of family debt) that have received a lot of recent scholarly and media attention. These sentences of context also elaborate on the interesting perspective included in the hook: that American families are most affected by college costs.

Does the Intro Have a Thesis? 

Finally, this intro provides a thesis statement that conveys the writer’s point of view on the issue of financing college education. This writer believes that the U.S. government should do more to pay for students’ college educations. 

However, the thesis statement doesn’t give us any details about why the writer has made this claim or why this will help American families . There isn’t an essay map that helps readers understand what points the writer will make in the essay.

To revise this thesis statement so that it establishes the specific aspects of the topic that the essay will address, the writer could add the following to the beginning of the thesis statement:

The U.S. government should take on more of the financial burden of college education because other countries have shown this can improve education rates while reducing levels of familial poverty.

Check out the new section in bold. Not only does it clarify that the writer is talking about the pressure put on families, it touches on the big topics the writer will address in the paper: improving education rates and reduction of poverty. So not only do we have a clearer argumentative statement in this thesis, we also have an essay map!  

So, let’s recap our analysis. This sample intro paragraph does an effective job of providing an engaging hook and relatable, interesting context, but the thesis statement needs some work ! As you write your own intro paragraphs, you might consider using the questions above to evaluate and revise your work. Doing this will help ensure you’ve covered all of your bases and written an intro that your readers will find interesting!

body_tip

4 Tips for How To Write an Introduction Paragraph

Now that we’ve gone over an example of introduction paragraph analysis, let’s talk about how to write an introduction paragraph of your own. Keep reading for four tips for writing a successful intro paragraph for any essay. 

Tip 1: Analyze Your Essay Prompt

If you’re having trouble with how to start an introduction paragraph, analyze your essay prompt! Most teachers give you some kind of assignment sheet, formal instructions, or prompt to set the expectations for an essay they’ve assigned, right? Those instructions can help guide you as you write your intro paragraph!

Because they’ll be reading and responding to your essay, you want to make sure you meet your teacher’s expectations for an intro paragraph . For instance, if they’ve provided specific instructions about how long the intro should be or where the thesis statement should be located, be sure to follow them!

The type of paper you’re writing can give you clues as to how to approach your intro as well. If you’re writing a research paper, your professor might expect you to provide a research question or state a hypothesis in your intro. If you’re writing an argumentative essay, you’ll need to make sure your intro overviews the context surrounding your argument and your thesis statement includes a clear, defensible claim. 

Using the parameters set out by your instructor and assignment sheet can put some easy-to-follow boundaries in place for things like your intro’s length, structure, and content. Following these guidelines can free you up to focus on other aspects of your intro... like coming up with an exciting hook and conveying your point of view on your topic!

Tip 2: Narrow Your Topic

You can’t write an intro paragraph without first identifying your topic. To make your intro as effective as possible, you need to define the parameters of your topic clearly—and you need to be specific. 

For example, let’s say you want to write about college football. “NCAA football” is too broad of a topic for a paper. There is a lot to talk about in terms of college football! It would be tough to write an intro paragraph that’s focused, purposeful, and engaging on this topic. In fact, if you did try to address this whole topic, you’d probably end up writing a book!

Instead, you should narrow broad topics to  identify a specific question, claim, or issue pertaining to some aspect of NCAA football for your intro to be effective. So, for instance, you could frame your topic as, “How can college professors better support NCAA football players in academics?” This focused topic pertaining to NCAA football would give you a more manageable angle to discuss in your paper.

So before you think about writing your intro, ask yourself: Is my essay topic specific, focused, and logical? Does it convey an issue or question that I can explore over the course of several pages? Once you’ve established a good topic, you’ll have the foundation you need to write an effective intro paragraph . 

body-stack-of-textbooks-red

Once you've figured out your topic, it's time to hit the books!

Tip 3: Do Your Research

This tip is tightly intertwined with the one above, and it’s crucial to writing a good intro: do your research! And, guess what? This tip applies to all papers—even ones that aren’t technically research papers. 

Here’s why you need to do some research: getting the lay of the land on what others have said about your topic—whether that’s scholars and researchers or the mass media— will help you narrow your topic, write an engaging hook, and provide relatable context. 

You don't want to sit down to write your intro without a solid understanding of the different perspectives on your topic. Whether those are the perspectives of experts or the general public, these points of view will help you write your intro in a way that is intriguing and compelling for your audience of readers. 

Tip 4: Write Multiple Drafts

Some say to write your intro first; others say write it last. The truth is, there isn’t a right or wrong time to write your intro—but you do need to have enough time to write multiple drafts . 

Oftentimes, your professor will ask you to write multiple drafts of your paper, which gives you a built-in way to make sure you revise your intro. Another approach you could take is to write out a rough draft of your intro before you begin writing your essay, then revise it multiple times as you draft out your paper. 

Here’s why this approach can work: as you write your paper, you’ll probably come up with new insights on your topic that you didn’t have right from the start. You can use these “light bulb” moments to reevaluate your intro and make revisions that keep it in line with your developing essay draft. 

Once you’ve written your entire essay, consider going back and revising your intro again . You can ask yourself these questions as you evaluate your intro: 

  • Is my hook still relevant to the way I’ve approached the topic in my essay?
  • Do I provide enough appropriate context to introduce my essay? 
  • Now that my essay is written, does my thesis statement still accurately reflect the point of view that I present in my essay?

Using these questions as a guide and putting your intro through multiple revisions will help ensure that you’ve written the best intro for the final draft of your essay. Also, revising your writing is always a good thing to do—and this applies to your intro, too!

feature-unsure-shrug-what

What's Next?

Your college essays also need great intro paragraphs. Here’s a guide that focuses on how to write the perfect intro for your admissions essays. 

Of course, the intro is just one part of your college essay . This article will teach you how to write a college essay that makes admissions counselors sit up and take notice.

Are you trying to write an analytical essay? Our step-by-step guide can help you knock it out of the park.

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

PrepScholar

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Follow us on Facebook (icon)

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

  • Essay Topic Generator
  • Essay Grader
  • Reference Finder
  • AI Outline Generator
  • Paragraph Expander
  • Essay Expander
  • Literature Review Generator
  • Thesis Generator
  • Text Editing Tools
  • AI Rewording Tool
  • AI Sentence Rewriter
  • AI Article Spinner
  • AI Grammar Checker
  • Spell Checker
  • PDF Spell Check
  • Paragraph Checker
  • Free AI Essay Writer
  • Paraphraser
  • Grammar Checker
  • Citation Generator
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • AI Detector
  • AI Essay Checker
  • Proofreading Service
  • Editing Service
  • AI Writing Guides
  • AI Detection Guides
  • Citation Guides
  • Grammar Guides
  • Paraphrasing Guides
  • Plagiarism Guides
  • Summary Writing Guides
  • STEM Guides
  • Humanities Guides
  • Language Learning Guides
  • Coding Guides
  • Top Lists and Recommendations
  • AI Detectors
  • AI Writing Services
  • Coding Homework Help
  • Citation Generators
  • Editing Websites
  • Essay Writing Websites
  • Language Learning Websites
  • Math Solvers
  • Paraphrasers
  • Plagiarism Checkers
  • Reference Finders
  • Spell Checkers
  • Summarizers
  • Tutoring Websites
  • Essay Checkers
  • Essay Topic Finders

Most Popular

How to write a song title in an essay, how to write an opinion essay.

Lesley J. Vos

Sometimes you can be asked questions like “Is technology needed for human development?”, “Do you feel students need to wear uniforms?”, or maybe something along the lines of “Do you agree that the music industry has become largely toxic?” All these questions can be answered on paper through an opinion essay. Students and writers widely use this type of writing to express their own views on the specifically stated topic. If you are looking for ways to do the same, well then, you’ve come to the right place! Below we will give all the necessary details to help you structure and craft your opinion essay both with quality and ease.

What Is an Opinion Essay: Key Characteristics and Structure

An opinion essay is a type of writing where you share your viewpoint on a particular topic. Unlike other essays that require multiple perspectives or even facts, opinion writing focuses on what you think and why. Your goal is to convince the reader to agree with your outlook (or at least to consider it closely) by presenting strong arguments and supporting them with examples.

In an opinion essay, you express a clearly formed opinion backed by research, logic, and sometimes anecdotal evidence. It’s your chance to articulate a position and demonstrate both what you think and why you think it. Being able to express an opinion effectively is an important skill, especially in today’s world where opinions are everywhere, like on social media. It also allows you to identify opinions that are well-supported versus those that aren’t. You’ll often find opinion essays in the Op-Ed sections of newspapers, where writers share their views on various topics. These essays can influence public beliefs and spark important discussions. 

How To Write An Opinion Essay

The structure of an opinion essay typically follows the five-paragraph format. Start with an introduction that includes a hook to grab the reader’s attention and a thesis statement that clearly presents your opinion. In the body, each paragraph should cover a separate reason supporting your thesis, backed up with evidence or examples. Finally, the conclusion summarizes your main points and restates your thesis in a fresh way to reinforce your argument. This structure helps keep your essay organized and your arguments clear, making it easier for your readers to follow and be persuaded by your point of view.

What All Opinion Essays Need to Include

All opinion essays, regardless of the topic, share some key characteristics that make them effective and persuasive. First and foremost, your essay must have a clear opinion or thesis. This is the main point you want to make and it should be evident right from the start. Whether you formed your opinion quickly or have been considering it for a while, it has to have a clear start to guide the reader through your argument.

Novelty is another important aspect. A strong opinion essay brings something new to the table. This could mean presenting a viewpoint that challenges mainstream ideas or supporting a widely held belief with fresh, interesting research. Adding a unique perspective or new information keeps your essay engaging and relevant.

You should choose a semiformal tone for your writing. While it’s easy to slip into a conversational style, especially when discussing personal opinions, keeping a balanced, semiformal tone lends your writing more credibility. Using such a writing style you can be sure that your essay is taken seriously yet doesn’t sound too stiff or too casual. You can be sure that your text sounds perfect by using our essay editing services .

Aside from that, avoid ambiguity. Your opinion should be clear and well-defined (from the beginning to the very end). If you aren’t sure about your stance, your reader won’t be either. Make it clear to yourself what you think and why you think it before you start writing. This clarity will help you stay focused and avoid rambling.

Finally, support your opinion with strong evidence and clear reasoning. Simply stating “I think” isn’t enough. You need to back up your viewpoint with facts, examples, and logical arguments. This strengthens your case and shows that your perspective is well-considered and credible.

How To Write An Opinion Essay

How to Write Opinion Essay

We have finally moved to the main part of our guide – writing an opinion essay. Before sitting down and typing out your thoughts, you need to do some preparation. 

Start with brainstorming . If you don’t have a specific question you need to answer or a prompt, think about all the topics you are passionate about and your possible response. Suppose you are given a prompt about the benefits of video games in education, consider both the positive and negative aspects before forming your opinion. Now, as we move that out of the way, we can begin structuring our document.

Next, move on to research. This is where you form your opinion by gathering data and asking yourself why you believe what you do. Look for supporting evidence from reliable sources, such as academic articles, books, and credible websites. For example, if you believe video games enhance learning, find studies or expert opinions that back this claim. Don’t forget to explore counterarguments to present a balanced view and strengthen your essay.

Now, to the writing part.

  • Create an outline. Follow the five-paragraph essay structure, but adjust the number of paragraphs as needed. An outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures each paragraph logically follows the next.
  • Begin drafting. Write a rough draft without worrying about perfection. Include all your research and quotes, citing sources as you go. For instance, if you’re arguing that homework should be banned, include quotes from studies showing its negative impact on student health.
  • Review and revise . Read your essay out loud to check for logical flow. All evidence must support your thesis and your opinion should stay clear throughout. You can reorganize paragraphs to improve clarity if your essay feels a bit disjointed.
  • Proofread your essay.   Look for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues. Use tools like AcademicHelp Grammar Checker or ask someone else to review your work. A well-proofread essay is polished and professional, making a stronger impact on your readers.

How to Start Off an Opinion Essay: Examples of Great Introductions

As was mentioned above, an introduction is an important and inseparable part of an opinion piece. It needs to be attention-grabbing yet clearly state the topic and key thesis. As such, the structure of an introduction is a hook, a clear presentation of the topic, and a thesis statement that outlines your opinion. Here are some effective strategies and examples of how you can start your opinion essay.

Use a Surprising Statistic . A startling fact can immediately draw your reader in and set the stage for your argument.

How to Write Opinion Essay

Give an Unpopular Opinion . Stating a controversial or unconventional viewpoint can pique curiosity and invite readers to consider a different perspective.

How to Write Opinion Essay

Ask a Rhetorical Question. Engaging your audience with a thought-provoking question can stimulate interest and reflection

How to Start Off an Opinion Essay: Examples of Great Introductions

Share a Life Experience/Anecdote. A brief, personal story can make your essay relatable and memorable

How to Start Off an Opinion Essay: Examples of Great Introductions

Incorporating these elements, you can craft a strong introduction that sets the tone for the rest of your essay and makes your readers eager to read more.

You may think that opinion essays are easy. After all, all you have to do there is state your point of view. Yet, it is important to do it properly. You need to present compelling evidence and present relevant and logical arguments as to why you think that way. That’s why structure is so important for the writing process. It will allow you to build a rational narrative, that will be clear and easy to follow for your readers. After all the main point of writing such an essay is to make others consider your perspective and maybe even make them change their mind. 

How do you start an opinion essay?

When starting an opinion essay you need to focus on grabbing your reader’s attention and setting the stage for your argument. Begin with a hook, like a surprising fact, a question, or a quote that relates to your topic. Then, introduce your topic and clearly state your thesis, which is your main point or opinion on the subject. This will set the tone and direction for the rest of your essay.

What are the 3 parts of opinion writing?

Opinion writing typically has three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. In the introduction, you present your topic and thesis statement. The body is where you provide reasons and examples to support your opinion, with each reason in its own paragraph. The conclusion wraps up your essay by summarizing your main points and freshly restating your thesis.

What is the correct structure to write an opinion essay?

The correct structure for an opinion essay includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Start with an engaging introduction stating the overall topic and main thesis. Then, write body paragraphs, each focusing on one reason supporting your opinion and including evidence or examples. Finish with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis.

Can I use I in an opinion essay?

Yes, you can use “I” in an opinion essay. In fact, it’s often encouraged because an opinion essay is about expressing your personal views. Using “I” makes your writing more personal and direct, helping to state your perspective clearly.

What not to write in an opinion essay?

In an opinion essay, avoid being overly biased or emotional. Stick to presenting clear, logical arguments backed by evidence. Don’t ignore opposing viewpoints entirely. On the contrary, acknowledging them can strengthen your essay even further. Also, avoid using slang or overly casual language, and don’t make unsupported claims or generalizations.

What is the most important part of an opinion essay?

The most important part of an opinion essay is your thesis statement. This is where you put down your main opinion on the topic. A strong thesis gives your essay direction and helps readers understand your viewpoint. Each part of your essay should support and reinforce this central idea.

Follow us on Reddit for more insights and updates.

Comments (0)

Welcome to A*Help comments!

We’re all about debate and discussion at A*Help.

We value the diverse opinions of users, so you may find points of view that you don’t agree with. And that’s cool. However, there are certain things we’re not OK with: attempts to manipulate our data in any way, for example, or the posting of discriminative, offensive, hateful, or disparaging material.

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

More from How to Write an Academic Assignment

a dreamy students listening to taylor swift song and thinking about formatting academic papers

How to Make a Cover Page for an Essay

How to Shorten an Essay

How to Shorten an Essay

Remember Me

What is your profession ? Student Teacher Writer Other

Forgotten Password?

Username or Email

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write an Opinion Essay + Examples

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write an Opinion Essay + Examples

A personal opinion essay is an essential part of an educational process. Wherever you study, you will surely come across this kind of work. And if you’re stuck with finding ideas, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will learn all the intricacies of writing and get some good opinion essay topics.

Let’s start!

🤔 What Is an Opinion Essay?

🖊️ how to write an opinion essay.

  • 🔗 Linkers and Transition Words

💡 Opinion Essay Ideas

👨‍🎓 opinion essay examples.

An opinion essay is a type of work that involves the expression of one’s own opinion, which has become the product of processing facts and arguments. However, this does not mean there should be no argumentation in the essay. It will be a big plus if you have a couple of examples from your own life or the lives of historical figures, illustrating some facts in your stock. Writing an opinion essay requires the author to clearly state his thoughts on any occasion, without excessive water and long reasoning.

Among other things, it should be remembered that, technically, an opinion essay is a formal type of work that many graduates write at the end of their studies. And this means it has its structure and specific writing rules that must be adhered to. To fully understand the meaning of this type of work, try reading a couple of our free essay samples .

🎯 The Purpose of an Opinion Essay

An opinion essay is an excellent tool for teaching students how to express their position correctly. And also to test the depth of their knowledge and thinking. An opinion essay can help you to boost your skills:

  • Ability to convey your thoughts . Regardless of the topic of the essay, the teacher wants to see that his wards, leaving the educational institution, will be independent individuals. Therefore, the student needs to show the ability to convey their thoughts on any occasion.
  • Competent writing skills . Even in the modern world, writing skills do not lose their relevance. This type of work allows you to form it as efficiently as possible. So if you want to impress your boss, remember to pay attention to grammar and punctuation.
  • Topic knowledge . Unfortunately, there is no error-free way to test a student’s ability. However, opinion essays allow the teacher to examine everyone and ensure that the topic has been mastered. This is especially true for subjects such as history and literature.

And, of course, you should understand that the purpose of any text is to be read. So just be creative, and you will have a fantastic essay!

Features of opinion essay.

🗝️ Key Features of an Opinion Essay

Like any other type of writing, an opinion essay has characteristics that make it unique. And, of course, to compose a competent text, you need to know about them.

  • Focus on the author’s clear and well-reasoned subjective opinion . All proofs, as well as the conclusion, are based on it.
  • Logical-based structure . Moreover, it entirely depends on the intentions of the writer.
  • Examples and arguments come primarily from personal experience . However, an author may use history and social life quotes and examples of literary heroes to prove their position.
  • Speech instruments used . As an author, you will benefit significantly from using a variety of speech constructs . They can help you influence other people. Connecting constructs and clear speech will keep the reader interested and get the most out of the reader.

You just need to get used to all the features to get a little practice. You will succeed!

⚖️ Argumentative, Opinion or Persuasive Essay: the Difference

Before proceeding directly to writing the text, it is worth learning one more important thing. Even towards the end of high school, many people confuse opinion and persuasive essays. These papers look similar.

To help you distinguish the argumentative, opinion, and persuasive essays, we prepare a table of comparisons where you can easily indicate the difference between these papers:

Criteria Opinion Essay Persuasive Essay Argumentative Essay
Purpose To provide the author’s opinion To convince audience To prove a point
General technique To explain an opinion and provide arguments supporting this point of view Opinions and supporting arguments aimed to convince the audience why this point of view is right Credible evidence must support and prove the author’s arguments validity
Point of view First-person First-person and second-person Third-person
Support Author’s opinion and feelings Author’s opinion and feelings Facts, data, evidence, expert quotes

Now let’s move on to which sections the essay consists of and how it should be written. You can safely use this information as a synopsis when completing the assignment.

So, the first one!

📃 Opinion Essay Format

As mentioned earlier, a specific opinion essay structure must be followed. Therefore, before you prepare writing, make up a small outline, which will contain all the components of the text and your ideas for their content. So, how to start an opinion essay?

Opinion essay introduction.

Opinion Essay Introduction

Of course, any text starts with a short opening. This section should summarize the essence of the problem you are writing about. The main task of the introduction is to entice the audience and familiarize them with the paper’s main topic. Therefore, by the first paragraph, a person will build an impression of your talents.

Moreover, remember that the introduction should be catchy. How to write a hook for an opinion essay? In simple words, this is a proposal that should interest the reader and draw his attention. It should be subject-related and relatively accurate. All you have to do is show the reader that the topic of the essay will be critical and even touch it.

Let’s take a look at some opinion essay introduction examples from our authors, in which you can see all the listed components:

  • As Ronald Reagan said in one of his speeches, everyone who advocates abortion has been born. The topic of abortion is very controversial, and people still cannot come to a standard solution. That is why, in this abortion opinion essay, I will try to sort out my thoughts and answer whether abortion is a panacea or a hidden evil.
  • Global warming is a global problem. As Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez aptly put it, we cannot sit back while our planet is on fire. But can one person influence the fate of all humanity? I think so, and in this essay, I will try to explain my position

Of course, these examples are conditional, and you can change them as you need to achieve a quality result.

Opinion Essay: Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the final sentence of an introduction . It is an integral part of the entire text. And if your essay will be evaluated, then the absence of the thesis will significantly underestimate the point. So how do you write the last sentence competently so that the reader will like it?

At its core, in the thesis, you should summarize everything that you indicated in the introduction and, in a nutshell, make it clear what will be discussed. You are expected to state your position on the issue clearly. And then, the entire text should be directed precisely to reinforce your words.

For example, take this essay topic: “ Is globalization a positive phenomenon? ” In this case, a good thesis would be “ In my opinion, globalization has many more advantages than disadvantages. ”

See how one small phrase can dramatically improve your overall performance score. Therefore, pay due attention to it!

Opinion essay body paragraphs.

Opinion Essay: Body Paragraphs

Finally, you come to the main body of your essay, namely the argumentation. The body paragraphs of an opinion essay are aimed at correctly explaining the author’s position to the audience. Here you are expected to have good arguments and examples that will become your assistants in proving your case.

Body paragraphs have two parts: an argument and an example supporting what you said. For example, you might say that the lack of responsibility for actions leads to the corruption of the mind and soul. And as an explanation to these words, briefly support your statement with the story of the protagonist of the novel by Jack London, “The Picture of Dorian Gray.”

Moreover, no one limits the number of these same arguments, and often it depends on the maximum volume of the text itself. The standard case is two good arguments, supported by examples from life or literature. Then you can be sure that the reader will correctly understand your idea.

Opinion essay conclusion.

🔗 Linkers and Transitional Words for Opinion Essay

Connecting structures are an invisible companion for the reader throughout the entire essay. They are also called linkers or transitional words . At their core, these two concepts mean the exact phrases. Their task is to make the text more readable and smoothly translate the reader from one idea to another. Moreover, all these constructions are divided into subgroups depending on their purpose. Let’s take a look at a couple of examples of good transition words for an opinion essay:

  • In my opinion…
  • It is clear that…, etc.
  • It is widely known that…
  • It is a well-known fact that…
  • Research has shown that…
  • There are definitely…
  • It is a fact that…, etc.

There are also brilliant linkers for opinion essays on these themes:

  • In spite of…
  • However, etc.
  • To conclude…
  • In conclusion…, etc.

Using these constructions, you will significantly increase the consistency of your text and help the reader to perceive it better.

How to write an opinion essay.

Now that you have a basic understanding of writing an essay, let’s look at some good opinion essay topics. Feel free to use them for your creative work and get good points.

💡 30 Opinion Essay Prompts

So, our team has selected 30 excellent opinion essay topics for you. Look for what resonates in your soul and get to work!

  • Opinion essay: success in life depends on being successful at school. Many of us were assured that it is impossible to reach heights without a good performance at school. What do you think about it?
  • Mobile phone addiction is the scourge of the 21st century. Give arguments from your life and tell about personal experiences.
  • Opinion essay about GMO : pros and cons. For many, this topic remains a secret. It’s time to dispel all inaccuracies and find out the whole truth.
  • Should university study be free? What is your position?
  • Opinion essay about technologies in our life . What impact do they have?
  • Compulsory vaccination : pros and cons. If you have any personal experience with this topic, feel free to share it.
  • Opinion on abortion essay: do people have the right to choose?
  • US neutrality in World War II : what would have gone differently?
  • Opinion essay about video games. Is it an addiction or just leisure ? What do you think?
  • Does the motivation from famous people have an effect, or is it a dummy? Do you have an opinion on this matter?
  • Essay opinion on junk food : how dangerous it is. Everyone was warned that junk food and junk food kill the body, but maybe it’s all about the quantity?
  • Parenting is the foundation of a child’s success. Do you think that the parents are responsible for the future education and work of their child?
  • Opinion essay: buy nothing day or Black Friday sales. What do you choose and why?
  • The advantages of living in a metropolis and a small town . Which would you choose?
  • Essay: opinion about global warming . Do you think this is a real threat, or is it just a panic among people?
  • Homemade food or dining out in restaurants? What do you and your family prefer?
  • Social media impact opinion essay. Billions of people spend their time on social media. What consequences can this have for humanity?
  • Consequences of increasing the budget for road construction. How will this affect our cities?
  • Opinion essay: television promotes violence through broadcasting abusive behavior. Do you agree with this thesis?
  • Humanity is destroying the ecosystem and making the earth uninhabitable. What arguments can be for and against?
  • Opinion essay about homework : is this system outdated? How do you feel about this from a student’s point of view?
  • Artists and internet bloggers make vast amounts of money. Do you support this?
  • Opinion essay about racism in modern life. What are the dangers of this behavior? Tell us about your personal experience or give an example from the community’s life.
  • Some people dream of changing their place of residence. Do you think that moving to another country will help you in self-realization?
  • The best profession to choose opinion essay. What are your thoughts? Where would you like to be after finishing your studies?
  • People prefer online communication over live communication. How do you feel about this trend?
  • Opinion essay about same-sex marriages. For some people, this is unacceptable. What do you think about it?
  • How can movies and television affect human behavior ? Do you think certain viewing films should be limited for people with a weak mentality?
  • Opinion essay about immigration . Should the state provide maximum assistance to everyone who wants to get into it?
  • Should people be allowed to carry weapons with them? What restrictions can be used, in your opinion?

These themes are ideal for getting good results.

Now let’s look at some small sample essays from our authors. You can see all the listed components and highlight some interesting ideas for yourself!

Climate change opinion essay, truth or fiction? (250 words)

Climate change has been heading the news for decades. Almost everyone is puzzled by this problem in the modern world, but is there any reason to believe that this is just exaggerated media panic? I think not, and in this essay, I will try to explain my position. The first thing worth paying attention to is the changes that we can see every day. But nature is changing, and this is noticeable with the naked eye. For example, you can look at how the temperature regime has changed over the past decades. In my region, real winter began in the last days of November. Then the temperature dropped to zero, and there was already snow outside the window. However, I would be thrilled to see snowfall this year, at least at Christmas. This raises questions about the veracity of statements from the media and various organizations. You should also look at the publicly available facts. International organizations conduct ongoing research, which clearly shows that the climate is changing, and it is difficult to fix it. One of the most respected teams, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), regularly issues climate change reports. And in them, you can see what reasons for this and what it can lead to. This is excellent and detailed work that deserves everyone’s attention. In summary, we can say that climate change can be seen with the naked eye. This problem affects all people on the planet, and to ignore it is to expose yourself to great danger. Humanity is destroying our world, and can we deny it?

Opinion on death penalty essay, is it moral? (300 words)

Many international treaties have long banned the death penalty, but this does not prevent several countries from regularly using it against criminals. I think this is a terrible practice that has no place in our civilized world. The argument for this may be the simple idea that every creature has a right to life. And this right cannot be taken away under any condition because you can take a dangerous path by creating an incident. One Russian scientist Andrei Sakharov spoke very accurately about this: “The existence of the institution of the death penalty dehumanizes society. I spoke out and am opposed to the death penalty also because this punishment provides for the presence of a constantly terrible apparatus of executors, the whole institution of the death penalty ”. I fully support his words because there is no reason not to kill the second after killing once. It should also be understood that people sentenced to death are not always, in fact, guilty. There is a miscarriage of justice, and no one can be insured against it. The most resonant was the story from 1949. Timothy Evans was hanged on charges of murdering his pregnant wife and two-year-old daughter. Four years later, it wasn’t until serial killer John Christie, who had testified in court against Evans, confessed to the murder. He was hanged, and Timothy Evans was posthumously rehabilitated. The Timothy Evans case is one of the most remarkable stories in the death penalty dispute. To summarize, I can say that there are many reasons for the absolute ban on the death penalty in the world. This is not only inhuman but can lead to unnecessary deaths. Fighting crime in this way, the people who defend the law themselves break it.

Opinion essay on smoking: should the state intervene? (300 words)

Smoking is a global problem. Experts predict that in the coming decades, the number of smokers will reach one billion people worldwide. In my opinion, governments should take strict measures to limit nicotine use among the population. Firstly, smoking poses enormous hardships for addicts. All this can increase the number of cancer patients and people suffering from heart and lung diseases. At the same time, it can be tough to give up cigarettes on your own. We all understand that nicotine in quantities that a person receives from cigarettes is not characteristic of the body. Therefore, our body can react in an extraordinary way to its appearance. An example may well be my family, suffering from heart problems for several generations. All men, from my great-grandfather to my father, visit doctors all the time. And they all have one reason – excessive smoking. At the same time, they cannot quit smoking on their own due to a banal addiction. Secondly, smokers can damage the health of other people nearby. It is a well-known fact that secondhand smoke is no less harmful than the regular use of nicotine. And unfortunately, non-smokers, in most cases, have no choice. You can see it yourself in everyday life. People who are forced to breathe smoke while sitting at bus stops or in public places simply cannot do anything about it. The only way to help them is to introduce more and more restrictions from the state. So, in conclusion, we can say that smoking is not only a problem for the person addicted to cigarettes. Everyone suffers from this, from his family to strangers around him. Unfortunately, these difficulties cannot be resolved on their own. But is the state and society doing enough to help people with addiction?

❓ What Are the Characteristics of an Opinion?

The opinion is an entirely subjective position formed due to the influence of certain factors on the mind. It can be characterized as a personal judgment, point of view, and not an exact fact. However, an opinion can be valid only if it is supported by actual knowledge. Otherwise, it can be called more of a guess.

❓ How Many Paragraphs is an Opinion Essay?

The standard structure consists of four main parts: an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Nevertheless, if it is not specified in the assignment, it can deviate slightly from such a system. It is pretty standard practice to write three or more body paragraphs. Conversely, if one section fully covers the topic, then the need for other explanations may disappear.

❓ What Is the Structure of an Opinion Essay?

An essay structure is a precise sequence of your thoughts, which will help the reader to understand the topic better. The standard system consists of an introduction, two arguments, and a conclusion. In addition, there are less visible components like a hook, thesis statement, and linkers words. You can expand the structure by adding more argument parts. However, the sequence must remain the same.

❓ What Is a Supported Opinion Essay?

An essay based on a person’s personal opinion implies a clear statement of the author’s thoughts on a specific topic. However, to show understanding of the problem, one should rely on facts, research, or examples from life. A supported opinion essay is precisely when the author’s opinion is based on objective factors.

📎 References

  • Basic Essay Structure. Port. Ac
  • An opinion essay. British Council
  • How to Write an Opinion Based Essay. UCT Language Centre
  • Recognizing Transitions. MPC.Edu
  • Writing Your Paper: Transitions. EWU.Edu
  • Transition Sentences. The College of Saint Rose
  • Writing Effective Conclusions. Richmond University
  • Conclusion – How to write an essay. University of Newcastle
  • Writing a thesis statement. IELTS Buddy
  • CCSS Argument versus Opinion Writing
  • Essay Structure. Harvard College Writing Centre
  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to LinkedIn

You might also like

List of 350 brilliant nursing research topics to investigate in 2024, ultimate list of 265 research topics for college students, memorable human trafficking essay: topics & outline [2024].

How to Write an Opinion Essay: Examples, Structure, & Tips

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing which presents the author’s point of view on a particular subject supported by reasoning and examples . The opposing viewpoint is also suggested, but it is followed by arguments that show its inconsistency. Take a look at the guide prepared by Custom-writing experts to learn how to write a perfect opinion essay!

  • 🔤 Opinion Essay Basics
  • 📑 Essay Structure

🖊️ Opinion Essay Format

  • 💬 How to Start an Opinion Essay
  • ✅ Dos and Don’ts

👌 Opinion Essay Examples

  • 💡 Essay Tips

🏁 Concluding Remarks

🔗 references, 🔤 writing an opinion essay: basics.

You may be wondering: How do I write an opinion essay? How is it different from a persuasive, an argumentative, or a pros and cons essay ?

It’s simple: When you write an argumentative or persuasive essay , you should provide counterpoints and describe the essay topic from different perspectives. In an opinion paper, you don’t have to focus on the advantages and disadvantages in comparison. Instead, focus only on your opinion about the issue .

What Is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay, sometimes called “argumentative” or “persuasive,” presents the author’s perception of a subject and supporting arguments. It is written in a standard essay format. In such essays, authors usually try to persuade readers that their opinion is correct.

You may say: “I’m afraid to take a stand,” or “I don’t know what to say.” Relax. There’s nothing to worry about if your arguments are based on well-researched data. Speaking about opinion essay topics, some students find it difficult enough to choose the perfect one. But it’s not so hard: Think about something that engages you and that you feel strongly about.

Do you still have no clues about what to write? Check our 100 free ideas for an argumentative or persuasive essay and choose the topic that you have a strong opinion on. Then pick up a few reasons supporting your point of view and gather the facts that you’ll use as evidence.

📑 Opinion Essay Structure

The next step is to write an opinion essay outline . First of all, it will help you to overcome the fear of the blank page. Second, you’ll have a broken-down list of ideas and an organized place for your random thoughts. This will help you write an assignment faster.

Here’s an example of an opinion paper outline:

  • An introduction . Write a thesis statement and the reasons that support your opinion. Give your readers a hook to engage them with the topic
  • The main body . Break it into several paragraphs where you provide arguments and supporting examples, statements, and facts.
  • A conclusion . When ending a paper, restate the main thesis and summarize the central points of the essay.

Develop an outline while you’re researching the topic and place the pieces of evidence where they make the most sense. You don’t have to write the whole assignment at a time. Just put stand-alone examples and facts in the places where they should go.

A well-prepared outline for an opinion essay is almost 70 percent of the work. All you’ll need to do is simply join your arguments by bridging the language.

Now that you’re familiar with the basic opinion essay structure, let’s see how exactly you should format each part of your paper.

Opinion Essay Introduction

Start your writing with a hook sentence that grabs the reader’s interest. You can use a surprising fact, a provocative question, or a relevant quote as a hook.

Have you ever stopped to consider the impact that social media has on our lives and society as a whole?

Then, provide background information and a thesis statement. It should present your opinion on the topic and the main arguments that support your point of view.

The rise of social media platforms has had detrimental effects on teenagers’ mental health due to increased feelings of loneliness, heightened levels of anxiety, and the negative impact on self-esteem.

Opinion Essay Body

In the body paragraphs, you need to explain your arguments and provide evidence to support them. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the point you are discussing.

The constant exposure to idealized and unrealistic images on social media platforms can contribute to insecurities and anxiety among teenagers, affecting their mental well-being.

Then, provide specific examples, facts, or statistics to support your reason. You may also include personal experiences or anecdotes to make your points more convincing.

According to The Mental Health Foundation’s survey in 2019, four in ten teenagers (40%) admitted that posts on social media had caused them to worry about body image. This statistic highlights the concerning impact of social media on teenagers’ mental well-being.

Opinion Essay Conclusion

The last paragraph of your opinion essay is the conclusion. Here, you restate your thesis and summarize the main points from the body paragraphs.

Social media platforms have negatively impacted teenagers’ mental well-being through the feelings of isolation, increased depression levels, and detrimental effects on the body image.

  • Finally, you should end with a strong and memorable closing statement or a call to action. This will help you leave a lasting impression on the reader.

If all people work together raising awareness and advocating for change, we will eventually build a healthier online environment.

Opinion Essay Format

Correct formattion is another essential aspect of essay writing. Here are helpful guidelines you can use:

  • Stick to a readable 12-point font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.
  • Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.
  • Double-space the entire essay, including the title and headings.
  • Properly cite any sources used in your essay according to your required citation style (APA, MLA, Harvard, etc.)

If you are unsure about any specific formatting requirements for your opinion essay, we recommend consulting your school’s writing guidelines or asking your professor for clarification.

💬 How to Start an Opinion Essay – 30 Ideas

When it comes to opinion writing, a lot of students can’t explain their point of view. This shows a lack of critical thinking skills and leads to low grades. Even the perfect opinion essay format won’t save the situation in this case.

If you need a quick fix for your assignment, check our list of transition words and phrases to help you start putting your opinions:

  • As far as I am concerned, …
  • I am (not) convinced that …
  • In my opinion/view …
  • My opinion is that …
  • I (firmly)believe that …
  • I (definitely) feel/think that …
  • I am inclined to believe that …
  • Personally, I believe that…
  • It is clear that…
  • It seems to me that…
  • In my mind…
  • As I see it…
  • My principal reason is…
  • Another reason is…
  • It is widely known that…
  • It could be argued that…
  • The well-known fact is…
  • Research has shown that…
  • For instance/for example…
  • This suggests that…
  • It would seem that…
  • This proves that…
  • This supports the …
  • Even though / Although…
  • In contrast…
  • Despite the fact that…
  • In spite of…
  • In order to…
  • In conclusion…

And don’t forget to use nouns, adjectives, and adverbs, or make your own phrases.

✅ Opinion Essay Rules

Writing an opinion essay may seem challenging, but if you keep the following dos and don’ts in mind, you will easily craft a compelling and well-structured essay. Check out the opinion essay rules we’ve collected for you below.

This image shows opinion essay rules.

Opinion Essay Dos

  • Use formal style. When writing an opinion essay, you should use a formal style, avoiding slang and colloquial language. It means using proper grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary suitable for an academic setting.
  • Choose a side on the issue. You should take a clear stance on a particular topic in your essay. For instance, if the prompt is “Should school uniforms be mandatory?” you would need to choose whether you are for or against the idea and prove your position.
  • Arrange your supporting points in emphatic order. Start with the weakest argument and end with the strongest. It will help to persuade the reader and leave a lasting impression.
  • Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence . This way, your readers will understand the point you are trying to make from the very beginning.
  • Provide support for your arguments. It is essential to back up your opinions with evidence, examples, and reasoning. You can include statistics, research findings, or expert opinions.
  • Stay on topic. It is crucial to remain focused on the main issue or question throughout your paper. Be careful not to go off on a tangent or discuss irrelevant topics that do not directly support your argument.
  • Use a diplomatic and professional tone. It means avoiding personal attacks, derogatory language, or overly emotional statements. Instead, present your ideas and respond to opposing viewpoints calmly and respectfully.

Opinion Essay Don’ts

  • Don’t use informal language. Avoid using colloquial expressions, slang, jargon, or contractions. Instead, use formal language and non-abbreviated word forms.
  • Don’t use emotive vocabulary. Emotive vocabulary includes words that provoke strong emotions or bias, such as “amazing,” “horrible,” or “disgusting.” In an opinion essay, it’s essential to use neutral language.
  • Don’t overgeneralize. Avoid making broad statements that assume something is true for everyone or everything. Instead, be specific.
  • Don’t use sources without proper referencing. When including information from other sources in your opinion essay, it’s crucial to provide appropriate citations and references. This way, you’ll show that you have done a thorough research and give credit to the original author.
  • Don’t rely on personal examples. While personal anecdotes can sometimes strengthen an argument, it’s important not to rely solely on them. Instead, try to use different types of evidence, including statistics, expert opinions, and studies.
  • Don’t address your readers. Directly addressing the reader by using “you” is considered informal and should be avoided in an opinion essay. Instead, it’s better to present the arguments and evidence without involving the reader directly.

Do you want to better understand what an opinion essay is? You are welcome to use our opinion essay examples! Reading them will help you gain an insight into this form of academic writing.

Opinion Essay Example #1

The USA is a multinational and multicultural country that is advanced in many areas, including healthcare, medicine, and science in general. However, some of the experiments, such as the syphilis studies discussed in this paper, show that the country is still in the process of overcoming intolerance, racial segregation, and social inequality. Talking about these studies aloud brings the question of research ethics to the forefront. In particular, people who participated in those scientific experiments were misled and misinformed about their health. The research group observed how the participants suffered from the disease’s symptoms until death (Brandt, 24). There are a number of diseases and conditions that have not been researched enough. The experience gained during the studies in Tuskegee and Guatemala should be used to eliminate the possibility of unethical conduct and ensure transparency in all the activities.

Opinion Essay Example #2

To confront cyberbullying effectively, it is vital to know how to identify what it is and spread this awareness among the children who may unwarily become participants. The tendency to raise this issue in the scientific and public spheres has positive dynamics. As there is legal protection for cyberbullying victims in the USA, it is vital to detect harassment cases. For this purpose, parents and teachers should cooperate to create trustworthy relationships so the child can ask for help from adults. That is why a high level of emotional support from parents and peers is necessary to combat bullying before it has occurred.

Opinion Essay Topics

  • Your personal view on money and expenditures.
  • Analyze your attitude towards obesity as a public health problem.
  • Give your opinion on the importance of container deposit legislation.
  • What do you think of different belief systems? 
  • Discuss your point of view on The Scream by Edvard Munch.
  • Describe your opinion on the climate change issue.
  • What do you think of the media’s influence on people’s views ?
  • Your opinion on the film Argo directed by Affleck .
  • Express your opinion on diets and weight loss programs.
  • Analyze the impact of war on society and present your opinion.
  • Present your opinion on the question of gay marriage.  
  • Describe your attitude towards gender stereotypes.
  • Do you support the Biblical point of view on divorce?  
  • Explain what you think about racism in employment.
  • Discuss your attitude to photography. 
  • Describe what love is, in your opinion.  
  • Give your opinion on genetic engineering.
  • Analyze the necessity of vaccination for public school students and present your opinion.
  • Express your views on the death penalty.
  • Discuss your views on aging changes .
  • Do you like the music of a Classical Era?
  • Is it ethical to use animals in research, in your opinion?
  • Do you think the government should increase the minimum wage?
  • Explain whether you agree that soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world.
  • Do you think the Internet plays an important role in your life?
  • Describe your point of view on the controversial topic of human cloning .
  • Present your opinion on tattoos as a form of art.  
  • What does the ideal social meeting place look like?
  • How do you think bullies should be punished?
  • Do you support the opinion that celebrities should be positive role models ?
  • Is remote work more convenient than working in an office?  
  • Describe your attitude towards social networks .
  • What is justice, in your opinion?  
  • Give your opinion on American football.  
  • What do you think about classical music? 
  • Is the government monitoring its citizens justified by safety concerns?  
  • Explain what you think about steroid use in competitive sports.
  • Discuss the necessity to ban violent computer games .
  • Your personal opinion on using cell phones while driving.  
  • Do you think the government should interfere with the contents of TV shows ?
  • Express your opinion on net neutrality.  
  • Describe your views on online dating.  
  • Is protectionism necessary for saving a country’s economy? 
  • What do you think of a vegan lifestyle?
  • Present your attitude towards physician-assisted suicide.
  • Do you support the opinion that college athletes should be paid ?
  • Your point of view on cigarette smoking and suggestion to ban it.
  • Explain whether you think that public colleges and universities should be tuition-free.
  • How do you understand responsibility?
  • Express your opinion on canceling grades at schools .

💡 Opinion Essay Tips for an A+ Paper

Want to make your essay truly outstanding? Follow the pro tips below:

  • Read the question carefully. Take time to fully understand what you are asked to write about. It will help you stay on topic and ensure your essay addresses it effectively.
  • Plan your ideas before you start writing. Before beginning the writing process, take time to brainstorm and outline your ideas. Then, evaluate and select the strongest arguments or points to include in your essay.
  • Show an understanding of both sides of the argument. Acknowledging different perspectives demonstrates a well-rounded view and can strengthen your position by addressing counterarguments.
  • Make use of linking words and phrases. Transitions such as “however,” “in addition,” and “on the other hand” help create a smooth flow between paragraphs and make your essay easier to read. Our transition words generator can assist you with it.
  • Don’t introduce any new ideas in the conclusion. In the last paragraph, summarize your main points and restate your thesis without bringing up new information that wasn’t discussed in the body of your essay.

Thank you for reading! Our free tips will help you get through any kind of essay. Still, if you’re stuck with your essay, you can always count on professional writers’ tips and recommendations!

With the help of the tips above, you’ll be able to create the most unbelievable papers in a blink of an eye. Now that you know the secrets of professional writers, try writing your opinion essay!

The final piece of advice : Don’t forget to proofread your paper. Revise your content, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, etc. Make sure that your essay answers the main question. Check if the evidence you provided is accurate and up-to-date.

  • Essay Structure | – Harvard College Writing Center
  • An opinion essay | Writing – Advanced C1 | British Council
  • 5 Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay – ThoughtCo
  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to LinkedIn
  • Share to email

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples

So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay? A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be...

How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made...

College Essay Writing 101—the Comprehensive Guide [2024]

So, you can’t wait to get into college and join a fraternity, sorority, or student union. Well, we have some incredibly useful tips and helpful information for college admission essay writing! Remember: getting into college takes more than money. And outstanding essays get you great college scholarships!

Americanism Essay: Examples, Tips & Topics [2024 Update]

It’s not hard to see why Americanism is one of the most popular essay topics. The concept of Americanism is in the center of the US identity. Writing an essay about it is an excellent way to find out more about this great country.

How to Write an Art Critique: Examples & Strategies

An art critique paper involves a comprehensive analysis and assessment of an artwork. Though this looks a bit complicated, the task doesn’t require a lot of time if you have sufficient critique writing skills. It’s an interesting assignment for students of art colleges as well as high schoolers. All you...

How to Write an Article Review: Template & Examples

An article review is an academic assignment that invites you to study a piece of academic research closely. Then, you should present its summary and critically evaluate it using the knowledge you’ve gained in class and during your independent study. If you get such a task at college or university,...

Spiritual Leadership Topics, Summary Essay, & Guide

When you hear the phrase “spiritual leadership,” you probably think it’s only associated with religion. But did you know that this form of leadership can also be found in business? The book Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God’s Agenda by Henry and Richard Blackaby is a good starting point...

Compare and Contrast Essay Outline: Template and Example

High school and college students often face challenges when crafting a compare-and-contrast essay. A well-written paper of this kind needs to be structured appropriately to earn you good grades. Knowing how to organize your ideas allows you to present your ideas in a coherent and logical manner This article by...

If a Tree Falls in the Forest: Answer, Essay Sample & Guide

“If a tree falls in the forest, does it make a sound?” is one of the most debatable philosophical questions regarding observation and perception. Many tried to answer it, including the English philosopher John Locke. Do you need to explore Locke’s perspective on this question in your essay? You are on the right...

Abortion Research Paper: Example, Outline, & Topics

The long-standing debate surrounding abortion has many opponents and advocates. Groups known as Pro-Choice and Pro-Life argue which approach is better, with no easy solution in sight. This ethical complexity is what makes abortion a popular topic for argumentative writing. As a student, you need to tackle it appropriately. If...

How to Restate a Thesis Statement: Examples & Tips

What is the most important part of any essay or research paper? Of course, it’s the thesis statement—a sentence that expresses the paper’s main idea and guides the readers through your arguments. But where do you place the thesis? You’ve probably answered, “in the introduction.” However, that’s not all of...

How to Write a Formal Essay: Format, Rules, & Example

If you’re a student, you’ve heard about a formal essay: a factual, research-based paper written in 3rd person. Most students have to produce dozens of them during their educational career.  Writing a formal essay may not be the easiest task. But fear not: our custom-writing team is here to guide...

Thanks a lot. This was helpful

thank you alot this really helped me

I hope this is gonna help me with my opinion essay

Thanks for the help. Really needed it for my opinion essay due tomorrow. -_-

Thanks for the help keep the good work gentlemen

This was great it really helped out.Thanks.

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • Happiness Hub
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Education and Communications
  • English Grammar
  • Writing Paragraphs

How to Start an Introductory Paragraph

Last Updated: April 10, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams and by wikiHow staff writer, Christopher M. Osborne, PhD . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 71,024 times.

The introduction of your essay or article has to capture the reader’s attention right away—so it’s extremely important that you nail the start of your intro! No matter what you’re writing, it’s essential to avoid clichés and be clear and engaging. This article lists many helpful tips for starting an intro, including several “do’s” and “don’t’s” that are suited to a wide range of essay types. For example, here’s one great tip: save writing your intro for last so you can make it perfect!

Identify your topic, context, and focus.

Treat the whole of your intro as the gateway into your essay.

  • Start your intro with an attention-grabber. The rest of this article provides several good options, like scene-setters, anecdotes, and quotations .
  • Follow up with a few sentences that offer some context for the essay topic and the thesis or main focus you’re about to identify.
  • Finish with a single sentence that clearly lays out your primary argument or point of focus for the entire essay or article.

Set the scene for the reader.

Transport the reader into the world of your writing.

  • After describing the aftermath of the battle, zoom out to describe the duration of the conflict, the reasons behind it, the long-term impact, and so on.
  • Setting the scene is a great intro option for news articles , historical essays, and fiction writing, to name but a few examples.

Offer an anecdote.

Anecdotes help readers...

  • Alternately, you could provide a more literal anecdote. For instance, if your topic is the ecological crisis, you might provide a brief story about how quickly a certain species is going extinct.

Make a bold statement.

Surprise the reader to draw them into your interpretive or opinion essay.

Rely on a famous person or quote.

Lend weight to...

  • If you start your opening paragraph with a quote, you may find it helpful to make a callback to the quote in your closing statement. Consider an ending hook that addresses the meaning of your quote to bring the argument full-circle.

Provide a historical review.

This helps orient readers about the topic of a scholarly essay.

Condense the 5 W’s to their essence.

Provide clear, concise details right away in a news article or informative essay.

  • For instance, instead of writing, “President Jones declared in a joint session of Congress today that he will work with his counterparts abroad to reorganize international fiscal policy and lending practices, making it easier to distribute international aid,” you could write, “A new law aims to fast-track international aid to developing nations.”
  • Here’s an example that gives lots of details without going overboard: “On Saturday, a local librarian unexpectedly became a foster mother to 5 kittens when an unknown person left them on the library doorstep. Lucille Jenkins, 35, says she took the kittens in because ‘it was the right thing to do.’”

Offer news analysis instead of details.

This change-of-pace move for news articles can help set your story apart.

  • For instance, instead of describing or reporting on the actual details of a public policy and how it moved through the legislative process, use the start of your introductory paragraph to explain how the policy will change society or the lives of those affected.
  • An analytical lede might also include information regarding who benefits and why, but the primary focus should be on explaining how a news item or event works, rather than merely describing it.

Avoid “cosmic statement” clichés.

Focus on your topic instead of making overly broad or hackneyed statements.

  • For example, instead of “People have been making cloth since the dawn of time,” you might say, “The prehistoric Egyptians were producing high-quality linen cloth as early as 5000 BC.”

Skip dictionary definitions.

This type of intro is usually considered uninspired and trite.

  • If you feel obligated to delineate more clearly what you’re writing about, that’s fine, but do it without directly referring to dictionary definitions.
  • Once in a blue moon, it may actually be helpful to start with a dictionary definition. For example, you might do so if you are discussing an extremely difficult-to-define term or concept, or writing about the meaning or origin of a word. But consider alternatives first!

Eliminate qualifying language.

Writing with confidence draws in readers, so believe in yourself!

  • “In my opinion, ‘Ozymandias,’ Shelley’s famous poem, reveals the impermanence of human achievement.”
  • “‘Ozymandias,’ Shelly’s famous poem, reveals the impermanence of human achievement.”

Write the start of your intro last.

Wait so you can craft a killer intro that perfectly suits your essay.

  • The opening line of your intro is the first impression that will color how everything you write after that is perceived by the reader. So take your time and make it count!
  • Write the conclusion next-to-last and the intro last, or vice versa. Aim for them to connect and relate perfectly.

Expert Q&A

Jake Adams

  • After crafting your intro paragraph, read the whole thing out loud. This will help you sense whether the start of the introductory paragraph meshes well with its middle and end. As you read, listen for logical inconsistencies, unclear passages, missing details, and spelling or grammar errors. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Edit the intro paragraph for filler. Only keep passages that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the topic. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Get others’ opinions. They may catch errors or inconsistencies that you missed. Let them read the intro, then ask questions like “Did the wording make sense to you?” and “Does this make you want to keep reading?” Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

You Might Also Like

Write a Paragraph

  • ↑ https://advice.writing.utoronto.ca/planning/intros-and-conclusions/
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/introductions/
  • ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
  • ↑ https://cas.umw.edu/historyamericanstudies/history-department-resources/general-history-writing-guidelines/introduction-and-conclusion/
  • ↑ http://spcollege.libguides.com/c.php?g=254319&p=1695313
  • ↑ https://writingcommons.org/article/how-to-write-an-engaging-introduction/
  • ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/introductions/

About This Article

Jake Adams

To start an introductory paragraph, give some background information about the subject you’ll be discussing. For example, if your essay is about the importance of tattoos in Maori culture, begin with an interesting fact about Maori society or a quote about tattoos. Alternatively, start with a brief story to capture the readers’ attention. You can also lead off with a bold or surprising statement, or a fact related to your topic, which will pique the reader’s curiosity and make them want to keep reading. For advice from our Education co-author on how to incorporate a famous quote into your introductory paragraph, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Carlise Villa

Carlise Villa

Jan 30, 2020

Did this article help you?

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Dec 7, 2020

Do I Have a Dirty Mind Quiz

Featured Articles

Protect Yourself from Predators (for Kids)

Trending Articles

Best Excuses to Use to Explain Away a Hickey

Watch Articles

Clean the Bottom of an Oven

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

IELTS Preparation with Liz: Free IELTS Tips and Lessons, 2024

' src=

  • Test Information FAQ
  • Band Scores
  • IELTS Candidate Success Tips
  • Computer IELTS: Pros & Cons
  • How to Prepare
  • Useful Links & Resources
  • Recommended Books
  • Speaking Part 1 Topics
  • Speaking Part 2 Topics
  • Speaking Part 3 Topics
  • 100 Essay Questions
  • On The Day Tips
  • Top Results
  • Advanced IELTS

IELTS Essay Introduction for an Opinion Essay

This lesson looks at how to write an IELTS essay introduction for an opinion essay. The introduction is the easiest part of any IELTS essay as it follows a similar content for all IELTS task 2 types.

This lesson is a follow-on lesson from last week. Learn how to find main points before continuing with this introduction lesson:  Finding Main Points for an Opinion Essay :

Every one of us should become a vegetarian because eating meat can cause serious health problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

How to write an IELTS essay introduction

  • Write one statement paraphrasing the information given. This will be your background statement. Make sure you paraphrase the information exactly and don’t include any irrelevant or extra information in it.
  • When you paraphrase, make sure you are using words that you are confident with. It is good to paraphrase but you will reduce your band score if you have too many errors.
  • Introduce your answer in the thesis statement. The thesis statement follows the background statement. It should contain your answer, your main points.
  • Don’t write more than 50 words for your introduction.
  • cause serious health problems = damage our health
  • become a vegetarian = adopt a vegetarian diet

Next lesson, we will look at how to write the body paragraphs for this essay.

Recommended Lessons

Finding Main Points for an Opinion Essay (Previous Lesson for this topic) IELTS Video Lesson for Writing Task 2: How to write an introduction IELTS Video Lesson for Writing Task 2: Connecting Sentences IELTS Liz YouTube Channel

' src=

Some believe that we all ought to stop eating meat because its consumption could lead to severe health issue. While being a herbivore has its own health benefits, I am of the opinion that, a strictly plant-based diet does not guarantee a good health, in fact it could result in diseases due to deficiency in nutrients only supplied by meat.

' src=

Its commonly believed that being vegetarian is the key to staying healthy as being a carnivore has detrimental effects on human health. In my opinion, having animal protein within daily food consumption have positive effects on health, as well as preventing us from getting certain diseases, However, maintaining adequate vegetable intake is also important.

' src=

Looking good!

Thank you so much for the feedback

' src=

Some are of the opinion that consumption of meat is detrimental to health and as such, the need to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle. In my opinion, the importance of meat as an essential source of protein for humans cannot be overlooked; maintaining a balanced intake of both meat and vegetables is very key.

The right technique. But a few grammar issues. Remember that all mistakes will lower your score. Aim to produce flawless sentences.

' src=

It is believed that all of us should shift into a vegetable-only diet, as consuming meat can often lead to critical health issues. In my opinion, although the benefits of vegetables are widely known and highly appreciated, right proportion of meat products should still be included in one’s diet.

' src=

Is it correct to say: It is often considered by some that all of us should switch to a vegetarian diet, as foods composed of meat could be harmful to our health. I believe that eating vegetables is healthy; however, consuming healthy meat in the right proportion is equally important.

' src=

Though meat is a good source of nutrients, it is believed that having non-vegetarian food can lead to serious illness and it is advised to shift to plant-based food habits. I completely agree with this notion as meat can be a communicable means for the transfer of diseases to the human race and even human organs are not developed to be omnivorous or carnivorous.

Animals are affected by different diseases that do not develop in human beings. But these diseases or their sources can be transferred during the consumption of animal flesh. The major severity linked with these diseases is that our body does not generate antibodies to such microorganisms or viruses that cause such harmful diseases. It has been seen in the past that diseases like Rabies and Ebola are spread to the human race from animal life.

Human body parts are naturally made to be vegetarian. The length of our teeth, nails, and intestines clearly differs from that of carnivores. Since we are not supposed to eat non-vegetarian food, it takes longer to digest the animal flesh which could lead to indigestion problems. However, people believe that consuming meat provides more nutrients, but the same amount of nutrition and balanced diets can be taken from plant-based food options.

In conclusion, having looked at the topic in detail, I agree with the fact that a vegetarian diet is a healthier and balanced diet for us whereas non-vegetarian food can cause health concerns and various diseases in the human body.

' src=

I am just wondering, I have been watching your videos from 10days and l want to book a date,but I’m bit confuse in reading task,so what shall I do for that.?hope you will suggest me.🙏and another thing, I love your teaching and appreciate your help for all students.

Don’t book a date until you are confident you can get the score you need. Get the IELTS Cambridge test books and start working through them – they contain past papers and are officially published by IELTS.

' src=

Adopting a vegetarian diet is recommended to prevent chronic health issues resulting from eating meat. In my opinion, I agree that consuming too much meat could lead to serious health challenges. However, a balanced diet is essential for developing and improving health.

' src=

Many health problems occurs because of having lack of non veg food. Recent study shows that an individual having meat daily is hospitalized every week. To overcome such problems, everyone should follow vegetarian diet instead of non veg food. I believe that each and every person should become vegetarian not only it will help to rermain healthy but it also helps in maintaining cholestrol level.

' src=

It is advised that everyone should develop into a vegetarian and avoid the consumption of meat to prevent health challenges. In my opinion, I agree meat can cause some serious damage to the body, but it and some other dairy products provide the protein that the body needs.

' src=

Meat consumption can be detrimental to our health, despite its health benefits, some people think every one should become a vegetarian. In my opinion, animal fat metabolism takes a longer period to undergo assimilation. Nonetheless, eating a diet with nutrients in their proportion in highly encourage.

' src=

It is suggested that people should intake vegetables only because meat consumption is detrimental to our health. From my perspective, although a vegetarian diet is beneficial to our health, a balanced diet that contains considerable meat and vegetables is more important to improve health conditions.

' src=

Becoming vegetarian seems to be a new lifestyle as it tends to decrease many health problems. In my opinion, turning vegetarian not only makes someone healthy as it requires a balanced vegetarian diet.

' src=

All people should stop eating meat as it’s consumption may lead to complicated health related problems. In my opinion, I agree that being a vegetarian is healthy. However, a good number of meat and diary products have a lot of healthy benefits.

' src=

Eating meat is considered to cause serious health problems which is why some recommend becoming a vegetarian. In my opinion, vegetables are the key to being healthy because they contain the richest minerals and proteins, though, meats can be part of a balanced diet.

' src=

Every individual should adapt the vegetarian food and avoid the meat habit as it can deteriorate the health. In my opinion, yes I agree with this statement and government should take some necessary steps to put ban on selling meat.

' src=

Some people believe that everyone should adopt a vegetarian diet because the consumption of meat can lead to serious health complications. In my opinion, having a vegetarian diet is healthy but having meat such as fish and chicken can also contribute to a healthy diet once there is a balance.

' src=

Adopting the vegetarian lifestyle should be the goal for all people because it is believed that meat consumption causes serious health implications. It is no doubt that following a vegetarian diet can lead to improved health choices and keep certain diseases away, I however I do not believe that eating meat is simply a ticket to poor health.

' src=

Eating meat may have critical health issues.so, all are trying to shift their diet similar to vegans diet. However, in my opinion eating meat do have some advantages. Only having veggies in our food would not help in building or getting essential nutrients to our body. even few vegetables like potato have many disadvantages

' src=

some scientific reserchers counter that all individual can intake / adopt vegetrian dieat instead of eating fish,meat whereas they can lead /harm to our health .In my iopinion intaking a vegetrian dieat was a good balanced diet,good for health but taking a meat with a proper amount was not harm to our health system .i disagree with the statment i shall discuss all pros nd cons in further paragraph

' src=

All people must adapt vegetarian food habits as consuming meat may impact their health and can lead to various diseases. I partially agree with the proposed idea because our body needs a balanced diet for healthy functioning, which cannot be availed “only” from the vegetarian food sources.

' src=

Nowadays increasing number of health issues, people are changing to vegetarian, being than meat-eaters. But in my opinion, it is impossible that everyone relies only on vegetables for our body nutritional needs.

' src=

Being a vegetarian have risen in popularity among the people, as it is believed that meat provokes numerous health diseases. From my point of view , I agree that a drastic change in our daily eaten habits must be considered not just to stay healthy in the long term but also to preserve our valuable natural resources.

' src=

It is thought that having meat based diet can lead to critical health issues, that is why every individual must go for being a vegetarian. In my opinion, having fish, poultry, and red meat is as important as eating vegetables as long as your consumption of meat is well balanced.

Can someone please comment and let me know where the improvements are needed? Thanks 🙂

' src=

Hlo liz Please check my intro The consumption of meat has had a detrimental effect on health hence all of us should be take vegetarian diet. However, while i believe that adopting a vegetarian diet can help us make ourselves healthy, i agree that meat is a main source of protein that completes our diet so both are needed in a balanced diet. Thanks for lesson.

' src=

A diet rich in meat can have a detrimental effect on health. While it can be beneficial to reduce the amount of meat eaten, i don’t think becoming a vegetarian is necessary.

' src=

Vegetarianism has been increasingly becoming a well-known trend globally. Its proponents are claiming that abstaining from the consumption of meat is the best way to be free from any forms of illnesses, while the opposition believes that eating meat is crucial to maintaining one’s well-being. In my opinion, a balanced portion of both food groups mentioned is the key to being healthy.

' src=

I have watched your advanced lesson on Agree/Disagree essay, but one question is there for which I could not find an appropriate answer

Let us take an example, the one used here,

“Every one of us should become a vegetarian because eating meat can cause serious health problems.” Agree/Disagree?

1) If I completely “Agree” then do I need to mention both parts in the “Thesis Statement”? Is that the correct approach? Thesis statement should include: a) I agree that everyone should become a vegetarian. b) I agree that meat can cause health issues.

2) Then I need two body paragraphs, a) State reason + supporting point exclusively on why everyone should become a vegetarian. b) State reason + supporting point exclusively on why meat could cause health issue.

Do you think above approaches are correct?

3) What if I need to write three paragraphs then what should I mention in third paragraph? Because I covered two parts of the question in the two paragraphs already.

Thanks again for amazing advanced lessons.

Looking for your expert advice

Thanks, Yash

I don’t understand question 3 – “what if I have to write three paragraphs..” – you choose if you write two or three. It’s your choice. If you have two main ideas, you have two body paragraph. The number of paragraphs matches your ideas. Your structure otherwise is fine. I teach the optional third paragraph to offer people flexibility and choice. Glad my Advanced lessons are good.

' src=

All of us must only consumer vegetarian food as non-vegetarian diet can potentially lead to critical health issues. In my opinion, a vegatarian diet is not the key to a healthy life. Having a balanced diet and regular exercise is important for developing a healthy body.

' src=

Some people concede that meat consumption contributes to negative health impacts. Preventing those impacts, therefore, those people decide to become vegetarian. Personally, I believe that adopting a vegetarian diet can help us to have a healthy life. However, I think it is more essential to have a balanced diet with an adequate amount of meat as well as fruit and vegetable.

' src=

According to some, due to the fact that eating meat might result in various illnesses, becoming a vegetarian is a must. in my opinion, this can improve the human health.

' src=

Each one of us should adopt vegetarian diet because eating meat damage our health . I totally admit it, from last few year scientists research on it and find that meat eaters have more health problems like cancer , heartattack issue etc in comparison with vegetarian .

' src=

I understand you do not offer writing correction services. Just want to know if the structuring below is appropriate.

Consuming meat can cause critical health issues, hence all of us should adopt a vegetarian diet. In my opinion, while fruits and vegetables bring vital nutrients & vitamins to the table, meat is a major source of proteins that completes out diet. Moreover, quality sourced meats are free from the risk of contamination and disease.

Is it ok to use idiomatic expressions or phrases in writing, esp in introduction?

Thank you. Shailesh

It’s a good introduction. But make sure you differentiate between other people’s views and your views. You can do this by using “It is thought” in your first sentence – that indicates it is an opinion held by others. Don’t use “&” – use words. Be careful describing a vegetarian diet as fruit and vegetables – vegetarians also eat beans and pulses which contain high quantities of protein. Otherwise – all good 🙂

' src=

Hi Liz… I have a question regarding Opinion Essay. Firstly, the topic is: “Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make a legal requirement. To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste? ” Here, I have a confusion that either this asking for agreeing or agree/disagree both?

It is asking you to present your opinion – Do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more? Present your view.

' src=

Some people say every individual should follow a vegetarian diet because consuming meat is considered as injurious to health. In my opinion, I completely agree with that vegetarian people have less health issues while meat eaters likely to have diseases like cancer, heart stroke etc.

' src=

Hi Liz Is that right or no? We should be vegetarian which is eating meat can give us problems in our health. In my opinion, I disagree that eating meat is the key to have problems with heath. However, I also believe that have vegetarian life can destroy our health.

You have a problem with grammar and vocabulary – this means your English language contains too many errors. Your technique is fine.

' src=

Hi liz, i have a simple question. Is the command “give your own opinion” the same with “agree/disagree” question type? I’m a little bit lost here. Thanks liz.

Yes, it is 100% the same. Any instructions that ask directly for your opinion is an opinion essay. The instructions are often paraphrased, but you approach it all in the same way.

' src=

Exactly this is what I thought as well. I thought the thesis would be for u to state whether you agree or disagree with the statement. And the introduction should give what will later be discussed in the passage. Pls address this thanks

' src=

Hi Liz, This is Sharmila ….Thank u so much for addressing all our needs…..Hereby I have written an introduction part for the above statement .So please give me some suggestions……

Some people claim that consuming meat will give adverse effects on health,so they stick to follow a vegan diet.But actually,that is not the key for that problem. In my opinion,I do not completely agree that everyome have to become a vegetarian.Howeover ,sometimes eating vegetables too affect our health.According to me it has it own pros and cons either being a vegetarian or a Non-vegrtarian.

' src=

Being a vegetarian should be the goal for everyone, as eating meat can lead to dangerous health issues. I believe that everyone should balance their diet between meat and vegetables to be able to get all body requirements.

' src=

Majority believe that everybody ought to be vegans since consuming meat products is considered to have harm to human’s health. However, to say that some people can not imagine their menu without meat is a conservative statement.

' src=

Would you please review my answer and provide feedback.

All individual must only consume vegetables, as non-veg edibles may have fatal health concerns. In my opinion, it is crucial to include vegetable as a part of our daily diet but I also believe that our food should be equally balanced by making meat a part of it.

I do not offer marking.

' src=

People all around the world need to be a vegetarian since consuming meat can lead us to serious health diseases. In my opinion that people should consume vegetarian food instead of meat. However, our diet should be supported by supplements such as vitamins and pills.

' src=

Majority of people give thoughts on diseases “they say the non-vegetarian meal may be effect on body problems such as heart attack”.This essay will discuss about how it worst our body and what thing will protect to us

' src=

We all must become veggie because eating meat can lead us to fatal diseases. In my opinion, I believe that eating vegetables can make us more healthy rather eating meat.

' src=

hi, Can i use ‘as far as iam concerned ‘instead of ‘ in my opinion’. Thank you

Do not use informal language in a formal essay.

' src=

Due to serious health issues caused by eating meat,some people think that everyone ought to be a vegetarian.In my opinion,l agree that a small portion of meat and vegetables is healthier.

' src=

Hi Liz. I am new on you blog but i have enjoyed most of the things you have posted here.

Can you please help me with this introduction. I have 14 days more for my IELTS exams

Some people believe that several health risks could be prevented if we avoid consuming meat products and take in vegetables. I agree that eating meat have the potential to cause detriments to health , however I disagree that all person should become vegetarians by avoiding meat to leave healthy.

https://ieltsliz.com/comments-on-ielts-liz-2018/

' src=

Thanks a lot liz, this my introduction . Hope you could revise it Some people believe consuming animal products damage the health and being a vegetarian away from harmful food will keep body away from illness as heart attack. In my opinion, I think consuming both kinds of diet in a balanced level with a healthy cooking style will provide us a required amount of supplements as our body needs to be healthier.

' src=

It is considered by some people that, people need to change their meat diet instead of becoming vegetarian as consuming meat can occur severe disorders in human health.In my opinion, i admit being vegetarian will definitely reduce several health problems. In addition, i also think eating meat is also necessary to keep our health fit.

' src=

You said that it’s okay to keep some word as it is since it already a scientific word or either if you unsure about the perfect substitution of the word. My question is, do you have any maximum of the word that you keep for paraphrasing?

For example like this: Artist need a certain amount of freedom to develop their creativity. Some people think that artist should have total freedom to express any thoughts and ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree.

I think I can keep the word “artist” and “creativity”. But I doubt about “freedom”, I might use its explanation but somehow freedom seems to be a perfect word to be keep as well. Also, how far I need to find synonym for “people”? Or just let it be..?

Tomorrow I will put up and exercise on this website about your question and the day after I will show you a model and explain.

' src=

All the people in the world should be an omnivores as in taking non vegetarian fodd damages our health. I agree that, eating a vegetarian diet is healthy.However, having a balanced diet including vegetables, fruits and some healthy meat is the best.

' src=

Regarding to the debate on dietary topic, there are more and more people opting for vegetarian diet because of health issues, spiritual belief or environmental awareness. While it is true that a meat-free diet can contribute to the betterment of a certain number of people, I do not think that everyone should follow this trend.

' src=

According to the perception of some people meat is harmful for human health thus vegetables should be the diet solely. However in my opinion I disagree that to have some meat in lunch can be considered dangerous. I also believe vegetables are essential for balanced diet.

' src=

hi liz could you please check my introduction and please tell me is it a good one or not

Imposing a vegetarian diet on people cannot be tolerated, even though it can cause serious health problems.However, one could not say vegans are free from any life style diseases as most illnesses have historic routes. Moreover, there are shreds of examples that vegetarians are more prone to nutritional deficiency diseases, due to the lack of nutrients that they get from non-vegetarian foods. Therefore, I completely disagree to this view and opine that a combined diet is vital for the health of an individual.

' src=

Hi Liz, Could you please review my introduction.

Some people believe that eating meat could affect badly our health. Therefore, people should focus on eating vegetable solely. In my opinion, I disagree that having a reasonable amount of meat in daily food could harm the body. However, I also believe that eating vegetables is key to have a healthy life.

' src=

People must have balance diet,which include vegetable ,fruits ,meat ,dry fruits etc.it helps in maintaining health

' src=

Hello,, can you please evaluate my introduction . a detailed comment could help me alot.

Eating meat might be the main reason of a major health issues and disease, therefore, some people think that everyone have to become a vegetarian. In my opinion, i disagree that eating meat could be a reason for health damage.

Thanks in advance

You didn’t give your opinion on whether you think everyone should become vegetarian. You must address the task – this means answer the whole question.

' src=

Diet is essential part of our daily routines. Some people suggest that we all should avoid eating meat and perfer to become vegetarian because veg diet always keep us healthy and keep away from health diseases. I believe that vegetarian food have more nutrients, vitamins and diseases free such as heart attcaks, diabetes instead of non vegetarian.

Check my intro. And give suggestions

Definitely review your vocabulary and spelling.

Thanks, liz

' src=

Hi Liz, kindly help check my introduction. Thanks.

Vegetarians are people which do not eat animal flesh and, or products. Some people believe that meat is related to serious health problems, thus, instigating their decision to become vegetarians. I strongly disagree that everybody should become vegetarians. Although red meat can be detrimental to health, it can be consumed moderately or substituted with white meat like chicken and mutton.

Did you watch my video on this page which explains that you don’t need a hook. Your first sentence is not needed. The examiner knows the meaning of the word “vegetarian”. Cut your first sentence and you have a good intro.

' src=

I only came across your site a couple of days ago, and I wish it was sooner. My exam will be this coming 4th March and I am extremely nervous. In spite of all the preparation I have done, I still do not feel confident enough to ace the test. I tried every way that I can think of to pass this exam, perhaps the effort was not good enough, perhaps my method is insufficient. I just want to make it, I seek online/personal tutor, never ending IELTS reference books was read, and practice test done. I am keeping myself on the positive side, but this exam truly challenge my sanity. So true is sad that it will come to that extent, that I doubt myself on failure to this. There has to be a way, formula to make it easy. Thereby coming across your site was a blessing, and you make every lessons comprehensible and interactive. With that, every credit should all be yours. Learning English has been tough journey for me, indeed and to be honest, together with other examinees who have tried this exam many times, it can be frustrating. Anyway, enough of the ranting and let us get back into real business. I wrote a sample introduction here, and please let me know what you think.

It is believed that most people should adopt a vegetarian diet because meat consumption causes a detrimental effect on our health. In my opinion, not only eating vegetables is beneficial to our body, it also promotes less damage to other living organisms.

* I am not sure if I used the correct conversion for this thesis statement.

Kind regards, Avy

Your background statement is fine. Your opinion presents a clear position but you don’t actually state if you agree that eating meat is damaging to our health. What is your opinion of that? Make sure your opinion covers all aspects of the question and issue. See my main page for writing task 2: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ . All main pages can be accessed through the red bar at the top of my website. If you need more help with writing task 2, think of purchasing one of my advanced lessons: http://subscriptions.viddler.com/IELTSLizStore . You’ve got almost a week before your test – you can learn a lot in that time.

' src=

Hi, Liz. I’ve been following your site mainly because it is the best teaching site for IELTS I’ve came across, so far. I think you know that by now. 🙂

Anyway, just want to ask you this: I understand that it is important for us to give our opinion in the introduction, but we would repeat the same message in the conclusion part. Wouldn’t that be redundant?

If you have to write an opinion essay, you introduce your opinion, explain it in the body paragraphs and conclude / restate it again in the conclusion. This is the structure of an agree / disagree essay. See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

' src=

Hey Liz I’ve been following your website for quite a long it’s very helpful. My question is that can we write our opinion on the new line after paraphrasing the question…?

The background statement and thesis statement are in the same paragraph. Watch the video on this page to learn: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

' src=

Hey Liz, i’ve been following your website for quite sometime now. Can you check the introduction I made about this topic? thanks

All of us are required to be vegetarians due to the reason that consuming meat products might result to life-threatening health conflicts. in my opinion, I agree that vegetables should have more proportions in our meals but I believe that we also need meat for a balanced diet.

Your background statement should not express a fact in this case, it should express “other people’s views”.

so i missed putting the word “some people believe”?

That’s right. You are not presenting a fact in this case.

' src=

How can I know that this essay is a Balanced Opinion or One-sided Opinion … do i decide something like that or he will tell me to do it with a certain way? please clarify this point as on your 1 hour OPINION essay writing task 2 video I purchased you didn’t mention how can we figure out that? thank you!

This is a balanced view. If it was one sides, we would agree that being vegetarian is the ONLY way. A one sided essays agrees 100% and does not add any other information or specific view point.

' src=

Hi liz, Thanks for your great help, What if i agree to the statement, and consider vegetarian diet the healthiest. Furthermore, If i wont to add another opinion like talking about another unhealthy food that should be avoided

As long as you present a clear opinion and support it, then it’s fine.

' src=

topic :- Prevention is better then cure…..

first of all , Prevantion is that for example, the Prevention means ” Stop The Process or Work the Cure means ” Solving The Problem”.

Prevention when occur then, we create the problem and hoe to stop that problem is called Prevention. i think prevention is necessary at this time, Because we think about prevention that means because the time for process and decrease the money cost behind expenses behind work. Preventioon before the problem occur that means we always aggresive in work, in future any type of work we always have solution behind the process. Cure Means according to my thought “Medicine”. If we have a medicine then we can easily frfee from problem. it happens in future then also. Prevention & Cure both are little bit same but if we think Prevention before any kind of work that means we were always in safe side, but when we dnt think about prevention but not only dependent on cure that means we have no option because of we applied about cure only.

Cure is also good but lots of type of cure like ‘medicine’,’physical’,’financial’,’friendly’. in that condition we always cover for us with cure. One more important used cure at this time is “Life Insurance” Policy. it’s always cure about your futurre as well as your family. if we take an insurance that means we protect the own & family. Insurance is fully protect the family from any human being problems like accident, death causes, etc.

Prevention is i think always beteter then cure.

In my point of view , i conclude that Prevention is always save the time & money in future.

' src=

Liz, would you mind taking a look at this conclusion:

All people must practise being a vegan because detrimental health conditions related to health result to eating meat products. In my opinion, I agree that eating vegetables may significantly improve health. However, I also believe that intake of meat is also essential to our overall nutritional condition.

You don’t need a long conclusion – it won’t help your score at all. Just one sentence is enough (two at most).

Hi Liz – my bad. The paragraph I wrote above is for my introduction and not conclusion. Thoughts please? 🙂 Thank you.

' src=

Liz, How about the following introduction paragraph for above task.

“We should start eating only vegetables due to the fact that taking meat in our food may result into major diseases. In my opinion, I do not agree with the concept of avoiding meat. However, there should be a balanced food consists of meat as well as vegetables.”

Avoid using “we” in IELTS essays.

Noted with thanks

' src=

ht is considered by many that it would be beneficial for all of us if we opted completely for vegetables as meat intake can result in major health issues. In my view, even though eating vegetables is considered healthy, a well balanced diet is more crucial for the well being of anyone. thank u so much for your extremely thorough explanations. I have given a go at the introduction for above mentioned topic. I would be grateful if u could comment on my effort. Looking forward to your reply..!! Take care

' src=

Hlo Liz , will you plz tell me we can mention words like in my opinion or I am agree or disagree in task 2 essays???

https://ieltsliz.com/liz-notice-2015-2016/

' src=

Goodevening Mrs Liz,

Thanks for your wonderful website. I really appreciate what you have done for us.

While studying writing Task2 introduction with the model introduction you wrote page-up I found missing commas -but I am not sure in the first setence of it ” Eating meat is considered by some to damage out health (,)and for that reason(,) they believe …”

Honestly, I am still not sure where commas are used in sentences. However, can you answer my question I asked earlier?

' src=

hmmm…..I find it very difficult in writing essays ……plz Auntie Liz …help me ..how do I write …I have a paper on january

' src=

Hi liz… If I didn’t use this layout in my exam introduction will it affect my score?and if yes for which criterion?

' src=

dear Liz any positive criticism please, apart from typos ? some people believe that every person in the commumity ought to eat vegetables to avoid devastating health issues,which could be caused by eating meat.In my opinion, i don’t agree to this idea, for meat has vital role to play in developing people’s body and helps make a balanced diet.

' src=

can you give your idea for this introduction

Food is fundamental need for every living being.If the people can feed on only vegetables, they may obtain healthy life.It is generally accepted that consuming meat is one of the fact that cause dangerous diseases. In my opinion, I agree that vegetarian diet is the key to health. However, meat is required to develop the body cells in growth of human.

Sorry I don’t comment on writing. All the best Liz

' src=

Hi Liz! I recently found out about your blog and It’s a great help for many students who are preparing for their IELTS exams. I watched your video about writing introduction for task 2 and tried myself writing an Introduction. So, here it is.

Nowadays, many people believe that we should adopt a vegetarian diet and give up theconsumption of meat – as eating too much of meat can lead to some severe health issues. In my opinion, I think, following a vegetarian diet is good for health. However, I also believe that one should focus on having a balanced diet which include moderate amount of meat.

Sorry I don’t comment on writing but I’m glad to see you are practicing. All the best Liz

' src=

Plz help me to improve ielts writing task 2

' src=

Hi Liz, I have written this Intro is it okay. “Some people believe that meat as diet can cause major health issues, so best way to health would be to become vegitarian. In my openion, vegitarian food is definetely a healthy option. However, having balanced diet which includes both vegitables and some healthy meat, is the key. “

Sorry, I don’t comment on writing. Thanks Liz

' src=

I have booked and exam appointment for September 26, 2015 and would like to know what to do from now till the exam date.

Please watch the “How to Prepare for IELTS” video on my home page. Then start working through information and tips pages. The review model answers. After that do practice lessons. All the best Liz

' src=

I’ve purchased all your three video lessons for writing task 2. They are quite useful. Thank you! And I’m just wondering when the video clips for another two types of writing will be online? Thanks.

Unfortunately, not until next Spring. If I have time, I will try and finish speaking part 2 video lesson for next month. All the best Liz

' src=

Hey my also 26 of september.wherevare you from

' src=

How can i get the body paragraph of this essay??

Sorry, I don’t provide full model essays for all lessons. Liz

' src=

Hi Liz! I am posting this comment just to thank you , you’re a very good teacher! I am gonna be examinated tomorrow, I admit I haven’t studied that much during the last days, so your website has been very helpful . I hope you’ll keep on doing this for the students’ sake 🙂 All the best from Italy, Francesco

Good luck tomorrow!!! Keep your mind focused on the questions and remember this is about technique and English language. Let me know how your exam goes 🙂 All the best Liz

' src=

Hi liz, I have 2 questions to ask. the first one is `can I use I deem or it is demeed to be in order to paraphrase I think or it is considered?` The second one is in part 0 of speaking task, when I’ll be asked `how are you?` Can I use a slang to respond, for instance by saying I got a hitch in my giddy up. Looking forward to your answer.

Thanks for all the lessons.

I wouldn’t use the paraphrase “I deem”, it rarely used these days. For your question about speaking, it is unlikely the examiner will ask this question because it is not part of any topic and it is not part of the ID check. But if the examiner does ask it, you must answer naturally “I’m fine” or “I’m feeling ok today, thanks”. Avoid putting unnatural idioms into your answers – it won’t increase your score and the example you gave above is not only inappropriate but also incorrect. All the best Liz

' src=

It’s considered that consuming meat might cause adverse health outcomes and thus everyone should be adopted to a vegetarian diet. Likewise, being a vegetarian outweighs it’s benefits than it’s risks.

One of the key advantages of being a vegetarian is lowering the cancer risk as especially red meats are known to have carcinogenic compounds. Besides, it prevents having non communicable diseases like hypertension, because the meats contain the bad types of cholesterol.

On the other hand, there is a vast majority of nutrients available in meat like high quality proteins and vitamins. Therefore lacking those nutrients might lead to neurological as well as musculoskeletal issues.

To conclude, there are numbers of health benefits of being a vegetarian compared to the counterpart. Nevertheless, it is essential to replace the aforementioned major nutrients by consuming the alternatives like eggs.

Speak Your Mind Cancel reply

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

ADVANCED IELTS LESSONS

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Recent New Lessons

Test yourself with linking words, ielts speaking part 2 cue card topics – 2024, new reading exercise for you (july 2024), ielts gt writing task 1 letter: using the prompts for a high score, ielts writing task 1: multiple charts, graphs and tables.

' src=

Click Below to Learn:

  • IELTS Test Information
  • Writing Task 1
  • Writing Task 2

Copyright Notice

Copyright © Elizabeth Ferguson, 2014 – 2024

All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy & Disclaimer

  • Click here:  Privacy Policy 
  • Click here: Disclaimer

Return to top of page

Copyright © 2024 · Prose on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

whatsapp

Connect on Whatsapp : +1 206 673 2541 , Get Homework Help 24x7, 100% Confidential. Connect Now

How To write an Opinion Essay: Free Examples and Guide

How To write an Opinion Essay: Free Examples and Guide

Opinion essays can be challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, they can also be rewarding since they are also a great way to share your thoughts with the world. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to write an opinion essay in easy steps.

Opinion Essay Definition

What is an Opinion Essay? An opinion essay is a form of writing that allows you to state your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about an issue. It requires one to take a position on the issue and support it with logical reasoning. Depending on the type of essay you are writing, there are different formats for how to properly format it. The way you write an opinion essay will also depend on what kind of audience it is intended for as well as the tone in which it should be written.

In this persuasive writing , students are asked to present their own thoughts or beliefs about an issue. This type of academic writing requires an author to present their perspective on a topic. Opinion essays are usually written in the third person and should be about 800-1000 words long, excluding any citations.

They can be used to argue for or against topics like gun control, legalizing marijuana, abortion rights, etc. Opinion Essays typically offer information from both sides of the topic so that readers can make up their own minds about whether they agree with the opinion expressed in the essay.

Writing an Opinion Essay

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and we all know this. But when you’re writing an essay, it’s important that your opinion influences not only what you write but how you write as well. When writing a persuasive essay, it is important to have a strong thesis statement in the introduction paragraph of your paper.

In order for the thesis statement to be effective, there are three things that need to be present: an attention-grabbing opening sentence; supporting evidence (facts); and logical reasoning (logic).

The goal of the introductory paragraph is to get readers interested in reading more about what you have written about so they can make up their own mind on whether or not your argument has any merit.

Opinion Essay Structure, Template and Outline

Structure, Template and Outline of an Opinion Essay

Opinion essays are often structured in one of two ways: either as pro-con essays or cause-effect essays.

Template/Outline

Opinion Essay Introduction:

Introduce your point of view, or thesis statement. This should be a single sentence that states what you are going to argue for. It could also say why you’re arguing for it (i.e., because there’s been an increase in homeless people and this is bad). Make the introduction as good as possible so readers know exactly what they are about to read!

Opinion essay Body paragraphs:

For each paragraph, state one argument against your opinion followed by another argument FOR your opinion. After these two points make sure to include supporting evidence and reasoning from both sides before concluding with how strong your arguments have been overall! Keep in mind that the final body paragraph will need to summarize all the points, so be sure to include a strong and clear conclusion.

Opinion essay Conclusion:

Summarizing your Opinion Essay is one of the most important steps in writing it! If you don’t have an opinion on something, then simply stating “I am not sure” or “this can both go either way”. Again make this paragraph as good as possible by including why you are uncertain and how each side has arguments that could potentially change your mind. This will also let readers know whether they should bother reading more about what’s going on with these topics if they want to hear your point of view!

How do you start an Opinion Essay?

The introduction marks the start of an opinion Essay. The introduction part on an opinion essay will contain the following:

  • The Opinion Essay Topic; what is being argued for or against?
  • Why this topic should matter to the reader and what they’ll get out of it
  • A thesis statement, which will be a general overview of your position on that specific Opinion Essay. You can also think about some other different introductory sentences you could use like “In my Opinion…” or “One way to think about X” as well if those sound better with each individual Opinion Text.

They’re all acceptable introductions but make sure not to overuse them since there’s only one opinion essay in an assignment. With that said, don’t be afraid of writing more than one introduction paragraph either! In fact, we recommend two paragraphs or more to really flesh out your Opinion Argument.

Body and Conclusion Parts

When creating the other sections of your essay:

  • Develop the Opinion Essay with a few different examples of supporting evidence and reasoning, which may be counter-examples as well depending on what you’re trying to argue for!
  • End the Opinion Text by summarizing why it matters so much that we should do this thing (ideally ending back at your thesis statement). This can also make good concluding words if there’s not enough room in an introductory paragraph. It might sound complicated but just take some time to plan out everything before writing anything down! Once you have all of these parts planned out then our next step is going to be formatting them properly together.

Tips for Writing Opinion Essay

A few other things to keep in mind when writing an Opinion Text are:

  • The goal with Opinion Essays is to get readers thinking about your point of view, so here are just a few ways you might make this happen. One way would be by using real life examples backed up by reliable sources like experts or studies. Another way would be to use a question and then provide the answer which is your Opinion.
  • Use only one side of the Argument throughout the whole piece so readers don’t get confused about what you’re talking about
  • Be sure to refer back to previous points made as well as providing evidence for them
  • Make sure every point is backed up by some kind of Evidence or Fact from reliable sources like experts or studies

25+ Good Opinion Essay Topics

  • Should people who have been convicted of a crime after serving their sentence be allowed to vote?
  • What are your thoughts on the idea that girls should not wear makeup in public places?
  • Should marriage be between a man and woman?
  • Is climate change real, caused by humans or not happening at all?
  • What is your opinion on the current state of American politics and how does it make you feel about our future as citizens?
  • Is it our responsibility as citizens and consumers to boycott companies with unethical practices or products if we disagree with them?
  • How do you feel about abortion being legal under certain circumstances, such as rape or incest?
  • If you had an unlimited supply of money would you give some away through philanthropic means or spend all of it selfishly for yourself and those close to you. Why? Explain why this question is important to answer.
  • Should we give teens the right to vote?
  • Why I love my country more than yours.
  • What makes a good president? (considering different qualities)
  • Is it okay for parents to raise their children with religion?
  • Do you think that women should be able to get abortions, even if they are illegal in your state or country? Â If so why and if not then what do you feel needs to change about abortion laws before this is possible again. Â Be specific! (This question comes from Marie Claire Magazine).
  • The Opinion Essays on the similarities and differences between cats and dogs
  • Your Opinion that you think is worth sharing about what should be done to help those who are homeless
  • What would your Opinion be if we were going back in time?
  • Should high schools provide free tampons?
  • Is the US Immigration system fair to everyone?
  • What are your thoughts on Valentine’s Day tradition?
  • Opinion Essay topics on whether or not we should stop posting pictures of our children online
  • Opinion essay topics on gun control in America
  • Does your opinion depend on which side you’re on? Or is it what makes more sense to you, regardless of who supports it?
  • Do you think that the death penalty is a good punishment?
  • Should we have stricter gun control laws to prevent mass shootings and accidental deaths?
  • What do you think about abortion in general, should it be legalized or not?
  • Is cell phone use while driving an effective way of preventing accidents on the roadways for people who text but still want to drive safely?

Opinion Essay Examples

“ The U.S’s educational system has many flaws, some of these being its lack of attention towards arts education and the overemphasis on standardized testing (Tests are used as a measurement tool). The American public school system also neglects physical activity during school hours because students spend their days confined to desks – this makes it hard for learners to retain what they’ve been taught. In my opinion, schools should allow children more time at recess so they can explore and be active- learning doesn’t happen when you’re sitting still all day.”

Opinion Essay Writing Learning doesn’t happen when you’re sitting still all day.”  “The U.S’s educational system has many flaws, some of these being the overemphasis on standardized testing (Tests are used as a measurement tool). The American public school system also neglects physical activity during school hours because students spend their days confined to desks- this makes it hard for learners to retain what they’ve been taught. In my opinion, schools should allow children more time at recess so they can explore and be active – learning doesn’t happen when you’re sitting still all day .”

“ I believe that kids should be allowed to choose their own working hours (within reason). If a child is not in school or participating in other mandatory activities, then they are free to make decisions about when they work. In the past decade there has been an increase of children who want jobs and need money for things that were once thought of as luxuries. There are also kids within this age range who have responsibilities at home such as taking care of younger siblings while parents are out working.

Nowadays, more than ever before, it seems like many people rely on someone else’s income for their survival. Kids these days don’t even know how easy they’ve got it because sometimes we’re not aware what life would be like without our cell phones, internet access, or cable TV.

In the past decade, there has been an increase of children who want jobs and need money for things that were once thought of as luxuries. We’re also seeing more parents spending their day on Facebook rather than getting anything done. Kids these days don’t even know how easy they’ve got it because sometimes we’re not aware what life would be like without our cell phones, internet access, or cable TV.

Nowadays kids feel entitled to a job when in reality many people rely on someone else’s income for their survival – especially with recent economic state. This is problematic given the decrease in family structure among both middle-class families and those living below poverty line (Garcia). ‘More children are raised by single mothers, while the number of two-parent households with both parents in fulltime employment has been on a steady decline since 1970’ (Garcia) .”

Get Opinion Essay Writing Help from Essay-writing.com

This article has given you an overview of what it takes to write a great opinion essay. But if this is all too much for you, don’t worry! We can help. Our team at Essay writing are experienced writers and editors with the knowledge necessary to ensure that your paper meets every criterion for success from style and grammar, right down to the citations on your bibliography page. Let us handle everything so you have more time to focus on other areas of study or work!

For any “ Help me with my essay ” request, all we require from our clients are instructions for how long their final draft should be, which topic they want covered in depth, and any special formatting requests (e.g., MLA, APA). Simply place an order with us since Essay-writing can provide expert Opinion essay writing Help at affordable prices!

WhatsApp us

Project Types We Cover

  • Admissions Essay
  • PowerPoint Presentation
  • Research Paper
  • Book Reviews
  • Personal Statement
  • Ph.D Dissertation
  • Proofreading

Academic Fields & Subjects

  • Programming
  • Computer Science
  • Other projects we help with
  • Our Experts
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • Writing Tips

How to Write an Opinion Essay

By: Max Malak

How to Write an Opinion Essay

“What is an opinion essay” followed by “How to write an opinion paper”, are the two most common questions among college students.

What is an Opinion Essay

  •  🤔 Pre-writing 
  •  🤯 Brainstorming 
  •  👉 Topic Selection 
  • Opinion Paper Outline
  •  Introduction 
  •  Thesis statement 
  •  Body Paragraph 1 
  •  Body Paragraph 2 
  •  Body Paragraph 3 
  •  Conclusion 
  • How to Start an Opinion Essay: Tips for writing an opinion paper

Requirements

  • Examples of Opinion Writing 

What is an opinion paper?

How to start off an opinion essay, what is the structure of an opinion essay, what are the 3 parts of opinion writing, how do you write an opinion essay for kids, what is opinion writing for students, what must be included in opinion writing, how do you write an opinion essay without using i, what is a statement of opinion, can you say “i” in an opinion essay.

How to write a good opinion essay is all about creating a point of view. Relevant explanations and examples support this point of view. Before you begin a paper, you need to first study the topics, structure and requirements.

With that in mind, read this guide to learn how to write an opinion essay step by step.

An opinion essay is an academic writing assignment that contains questions students can use to share their opinions concerning a subject matter. This form of assignment tends to require various references to back up your claims. To simplify the definition, it consists of your view segregated into a point. The paper tends to address the readers directly. Such an introduction begins by referencing a book, play, or speech. It is then followed by a rhetorical question such as "is the American president American?" or something along those lines.

Opinion Essays Structure

Most students tend to struggle with an opinion essay structure. An opinion paper format comes in your standard 5 paragraph structure . It can be difficult for beginners to figure out what to write in each section. Nevertheless, this is why every beginner must follow an essay outline when writing.

To help you with an essay format, here is a template:

Opinion writing structure

Before you begin the text structure highlighted above, there are a few steps between starting and finishing a paper.

🤔 Pre-writing

This step requires you to consider the following:

  • The questions you intend to tackle in your assignment
  • The main points that your readers must be aware of
  • The central argument or idea that makes your paper an academic writing success.
  • The research it took to create this opinion, coupled with evidence. It should also include any contradictions if any.

🤯 Brainstorming

As its name states, this process requires you to develop your organic ideas, developing them into meaningful topics. When you write your ideas, you should not be afraid of writing ideas that don’t seem to make sense.

If you already have a topic for your essay, you can start jotting down content supporting your argument with evidence.

👉 Topic Selection

If you haven’t been given a topic, you will need to take several brainstormed ideas and transform them into a powerful topic . Discover if you agree or disagree with the topic in question.

Deciding if you agree or disagree with the topic right at the beginning ensures that you do not diverge from your initial statement.

Paper Outline

The last thing you want to do is to skip this section, as it can make or break your academic writing. When creating your outline, it can be a rough opinion essay template with particular headings that enable you to create the bones of your assignment.

Now let’s discuss the parts of an essay and how to write an introduction.

How to Format?

  • Introduction

The opinion essay introduction section requires you to directly address the audience by stating the subject matter. You will need to reference a play, book, poem, or speech to do this. You should also reference the name of the author and, of course, the date of the publication you are referencing in brackets.

Thesis statement

The thesis statement is the full form of your point of view. It follows the introduction for opinion essay. It is in this section that you are allowed to be opinionative. This section contains the following:

  • 1 to 2 sentences that make up a small description
  • 2 sentences that summarise the entire paper.
  • 1 sentence that links to the first body paragraph of your essays
  • Body Paragraph 1

This is the main section where you state your argument or reason for or against the topic. The great thing about this section is that you can have as many arguments as possible. In this section, you will discover how to write a body paragraph for an opinion essay.

The body paragraph will contain the following:

  • Your supporting argument
  • An example of your supporting argument
  • An explanation of your argument using your own words
  • It should also contain a sentence that links to your second body paragraph
  • Body Paragraph 2

This body paragraph will contain the following:

  • It should also contain a sentence that links to your third body paragraph
  • Body Paragraph 3
  • An explanation of your argument in your own vocabulary
  • It should also contain a sentence that links to the conclusion of the subject

The conclusion of your academic writing provides an entire summary of your paper. It should also include a conclusive sentence that answers the question in a broad or general view. Ensure that you reinforce your major points by briefly repeating them in this section.

In other words, you need to rewrite the thesis statement in your own words whilst including your stance. The conclusion is an underrated section of a paper, as it can be used to further underline your ideas to the reader. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t make this paragraph longer than it needs to be.

The best bet is to have a conclusion paragraph that is brief and straight to the point. This format ensures that your readers have something useful to take from the end of the article.

How to Start an Essay: Tips for writing an opinion paper

Now that you understand how to structure an essay outline, it is time to discuss how to state your opinion in an essay.

Your essay should begin with the most compelling and convincing explanation of why you are right, and then work down to less important issues.

  • Why do I believe what I believe?
  • Why do I think the way I think?
  • Why do I feel the way I feel?

If you can answer these questions for yourself, then you have already begun writing an essay.

The first sentence of your essay should state the topic. However, this sentence should not be too general. Instead of being vague, your goal should be to be specific about what you're talking about when you say "topic." This will help convince the reader that you're not just spouting off, but that you're offering a specific perspective on the subject.

This type of essay seeks to explain something from the writer's subjective point of view, to prove an idea, or to persuade someone of anything. From the author's point of view, it reveals and describes the causes and interconnections of any phenomenon.

There are integral dos and don’ts for what to write about.

When writing, you should always use a formal style .

You should also clearly introduce your topic by avoiding any unnecessary facts and phrases that don’t correlate to the topic.

Also it is imperative that you correctly cite your sources .

Credible sources for your essay can include the following:

  • Academic databases
  • Google Scholar articles
  • Governmental and educational institutions
  • Texts authored by respected individuals
  • Information created within the last 10 years

Furthermore, there are also a few things you shouldn’t do when writing an essay . For one, you should refrain from using over-generalizations, ensuring your sentences are very precise. You should also only use statistics with proper referencing. As an academic writing format, you should steer clear of personal examples. Doing so takes away from the formal mood and writing style.

  • Always stay formal. Treat your essay as if it is one of your final papers;
  • Keep the introduction of your topic free from unnecessary facts;
  • Use each paragraph for a separate opinion piece;
  • Always use the last line of the paragraph as a bridge or link to the next one to ensure coherence;
  • Use generalizations;
  • Try to use present tense;
  • Always cite the material that you have used;
  • Try to stay brief. Do not wander or get carried away with your opinions;
  • Stay logical. Make sure that your essay is in the logical sequence. Arguments that go back and forth will confuse the reader;
  • Never skip proofreading;
  • Always check plagiarism before you submit your work.
  • Do not use slang or jargons;
  • Avoid using short forms;
  • Stay away from over-generalizations;
  • Do not use a material that you haven't cited;
  • Avoid using personal examples in the essay. Your view must be based on the topic;
  • Do not repeat arguments as it will eat up the word count and add no value;
  • Do not overuse sentences that are straightforward or short;
  • Steer clear of using an imperative voice;
  • Do not use dashes, parentheses, or exclamation marks;
  • Refrain yourself from using "you" in the content;
  • Stay away from the expressive vocabulary.

When citing sources, you should refrain from using the following:

  • Citation articles
  • Commercial websites
  • Outdated information

If you look back on the outline section, you will discover that you can have as many arguments as necessary for that subject. This, however, doesn’t mean that you should continually repeat arguments. This type of essay requires you to create various subheadings under your main argument.

One last thing to remember is that you should refer to your reader as "you” under no circumstance ! Speaking directly to the reader can be seen as disrespectful, especially if you fall into using an informal tone.

Examples of Opinion Writing

Below are one of the examples of an opinion essay:

Can video games be a great way to remain fit?

In today’s world, numerous teenagers spend most of their time at home on video game consoles, and they often play active video games. These games are great for several reasons,

First of all , I believe that active video games can be a great way to remain fit. Various forms of exercises are available in these games, such as dance, water-skiing, and basketball. What's even more important is that these games can be played directly in a home, without the need to venture outside.

In my opinion , these games can be extremely interactive and fun since they can be played with friends, even if the participants are located in different areas, thanks to the internet.

Additionally, you can play these games whenever; some people believe that it is better to engage in exercise outside. And while this is true, it can be much more difficult to play outside in various weather conditions. This reason makes video games a great alternative.

To sum it up , I believe that video games can be a social and fun way to remain fit. They make a great alternative, in my opinion, for days when the weather outside is not conducive to playing outside. Video games can even encourage more people to exercise.

There you go, above are some opinion essay introduction examples.

Opinion writing can be termed as expository writing . The reason for this is because this type of paper format utilizes a style of writing that is defined by the capacity to justify your point of view using resources, facts, and reasons.

The statements or topic sentences are typically supported by elaboration found in the center of the essay. You also provide reasons for your stance on the particular subject. The subject could be social issues, politics, or current events.

The purpose of this form of writing isn't only to inform; it is also to underscore that information using specific examples that convince the reader to support a particular point of view.

Writing this English assignment will require using language such as "as far as I am concerned" and "I think”. Using the phrases mentioned above in the essay sample shows that you, as the author, want to provide an opinionated viewpoint.

Opinion writing can be a wonderful way to create and push out your viewpoint to those who will read it. Additionally, it is an opportunity for you to let others understand how you feel about certain issues and the reason for those feelings. The opinion essay writing model is something that is practiced and developed.

An opinion paper enables writers to put down their thoughts and opinions on a subject matter with carefully crafted sources and examples supporting their viewpoint.

Writing an opinion essay begins with the introduction of the topic in its entirety. In this instance, you also introduce your viewpoint and your argument for or against the topic in question.

The structure of an opinion essay goes as follows:

  • Pre-writing
  • Brainstorming
  • Topic Selection

Once you have done the former, you can then begin creating your essay using the structure below:

There are three parts to every opinion essay. These include 1) introduction, 2) body and 3) conclusion.

The essay begins with an introduction. It introduces the essay's topic. The body of your essay should explain, describe, argue, or summarize your introduction's points. The conclusion should restate your thesis and answer the questions generated by your essay.

Having formed a point of view indicates that you have made up your mind about what you believe. In order to write an paper about your favorite book, for example, you must first decide on your favorite book and then ensure that you have a variety of reasons why it is your favorite.

Opinion writing is intended to express a personal point of view. The writer sets out to elaborate on an idea and to convince the reader that they agree with that idea.

The opinion piece should begin with a strong, clear statement of opinion, and that opinion should be held unwaveringly and constantly reinforced throughout the text. Using a hook to capture the reader's interest, as with many other writing genres, is also an important practice.

Simply remove the first-person element of your statement to do this. In formal writings, "one," "the reader," "readers," "the viewer," or something similar can sometimes be used effectively in place of first-person pronouns but be careful not to overuse these expressions.

A statement of opinion is a written statement about a topic. The statement may be a personal opinion, an evaluation, an interpretation, or a policy proposal. The purpose of the statement of essays is to convince the reader that the writer understands a topic well enough to write about it.

Yes, you can say “I” in this type of essay. This is because, unlike other forms of writing, writing an opinion paper can be termed a personal opinion essay. It requires you to write your point of view on a particular topic.

User ratings:

User ratings is 4.5 stars.

4.5 /5 ( 10 Votes)

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Product Manager

Here at Studybay, I work as a Head of Affiliates in the marketing department. I studied Liberal Arts and took related classes at Tokyo Sophia University. I believe that challenges are what make my job fun and exciting. That's why I like completing complex, complicated, and even weird tasks and then sharing my experience with colleagues.

Add Your Comment

We are very interested to know your opinion

Thanks for the info had to edit my first draft after reading it🥴

It was my first time writing it a few days back and your article was really useful for me, thanks!

My major problem is learning how to make a perfect case for my opinions. I love reading, but writing is so not my forte. Getting to know about this writing service was the highlight of my week. I am grateful for the swift and straightforward work that was done.

The opinion essay examples were really helpful, and they made me learn and be aware of what to look out for in a good essay. I ordered only two pages of work from the platform, and it was well written.

We were supposed to make an argumentative opinion based essay about an anecdote. It required a lot of knowledge about the base subject and a whole lot of research. I needed to focus on other courses, and that is why I outsourced it. The writer I was assigned was very helpful, and the final product was very engaging.

The writers did a great job with correct attention to detail and grammar. I think the reasoning was spot on, and I was really impressed with the opinion essay conclusion. I was basically the reader that my essay was written for. Thank you so much.

The basic don'ts were things I didn't know about before. I also had no idea of how much research needed to be done to support your opinion. Then, when I tried to write in active voice, I kind of gave up and decided to get help. That has to be the best decision I made😂.

According to the teacher who gave it, the main aim of our opinion essay outline was to capture the reader's attention. I think my writer understood the assignment. The use of formal language was also flawless. I'm really glad I came here to get my work done.

I loved my essay, from the professional writers to the use of smooth transition words for the body paragraphs. The paper carried a strong opinion, and it was expressed very well.

I was almost ecstatic that the writer who handled my opinion essay understood the main idea of the title. I had a well-executed work without draining my bank account in the process. Thank you!

This kind of paper is all about your own thoughts. I have done it at school and it is my favorite. Essay outline really helped me to organize my ideas. There is also a final copy of paper, so if you talk during class, you have to write 4 paragraphs and parents have to sign it.

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

Upgrade your writing skills!

Try our AI essay writer from Studybay today!

  • Essay Editor

10 Practical Ways to Improve Your Essay Writing Skills

10 Practical Ways to Improve Your Essay Writing Skills

What makes a great essay stand out from an average one? It's all about finding the right mix between what you say and how you say it. Even the best ideas can fall flat if they're not written well. At the same time, good writing can't make up for weak content.

A really good essay needs to do many things at once. It should teach the reader something new and keep them interested. It should also be fun to read. On top of that, it needs to have perfect grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation. If you're having trouble getting the grades you want and don't know why, this article will show you ten ways to improve your essay writing skills. We'll also touch on a tool that can make writing essays easier and more enjoyable.

1. Read Often

To get better at writing essays, it's important to read lots of different types of writing. Try reading different kinds of books and articles to learn new words and ideas. Pay special attention to published essays and academic journals. These can show you how good writers make their points and keep their ideas flowing smoothly.

For example, if you're writing about climate change, don't just read science papers. Read opinion pieces, stories about environmental movements from the past, and even stories that talk about nature and how people affect it. This will help you improve your essays by giving you a bigger picture of the topic.

2. Understand Your Essay Topic

Before you start writing, take time to really understand what your essay is supposed to be about. Read the instructions carefully and gather information. Don't rush this part. Instead, take your time to build a strong base for your arguments. Look at different viewpoints to make sure your main idea is correct and well-thought-out. This step is very important if you want to improve your essay and do high-quality work.

3. Create a Solid Essay Structure

Even the best writers start with an outline. Making a plan is really important for organizing your thoughts and making sure your essay makes sense from start to finish. As you research more, your topic might change in ways you didn't expect. A flexible outline can help you manage these new ideas and fit them into your essay in a way that makes sense.

You could try using the basic five-paragraph essay structure to start:

  • Introduction (with your main idea)
  • First main point
  • Second main point
  • Third main point

But don't feel like you have to stick to this exactly. As you improve your essay writing skills, you can try different structures that fit your topic and argument better.

4. Polish Your Writing Fundamentals

Knowing how to correctly use grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation is important for writing a good essay. A few small mistakes might not hurt your grade too much, but lots of mistakes can make your reader think less of your work.

Tools like the Aithor essay writer can improve your essays, but learning these rules yourself will help you use these tools better and improve your essay writing skills in the long run.

5. Write a Compelling Introduction

The introduction sets the mood for your whole essay and is your chance to get the reader interested. A good intro should start with something that grabs attention, like an interesting fact or question that leads into your main idea.

For example, instead of starting with a boring sentence like "This essay will talk about what caused the French Revolution", you could start with something more interesting: "What if a loaf of bread costs as much as you make in a week? For many French people in 1789, this was real life, and it helped start a revolution." This way of starting can really improve your essay's impact from the beginning.

6. Use Active Voice in Your Writing

Most of the time, using active voice makes your writing easier to read and more interesting. It keeps readers engaged and makes your points clearer. Look at these two sentences:

Passive: "The experiment was conducted by the scientist." 

Active: "The scientist conducted the experiment."

The active voice clearly shows who is doing the action, making your writing stronger and easier to understand. But sometimes, passive voice is okay, like in science writing or when we don't know or don't need to say who did the action. As you improve your essays, you'll learn when to use each type of voice to make your writing better.

7. Don't Repeat Things

It's important not to use the same words or ideas over and over in your essay. Try to use different words and sentence types to keep your reader interested and make your writing sound nice.

Instead of always saying "In conclusion" or "Furthermore", try using words like "Moreover", "Additionally", or "Given these facts". Using different words not only makes your essay flow better but also shows you know how to use language well, helping you improve your essay writing skills.

8. Seek Constructive Criticism

One of the best ways to improve your essay is by asking others what they think. Your teacher's comments are very important, but getting feedback before you turn in your final essay is also good. Classmates, tutors, or people at the writing center can give you new ideas about your work.

When you get feedback, try not to feel bad about criticism. Instead, think of it as a chance to make your writing better. Ask specific questions about things you're not sure about, like whether your argument is strong or if your explanations are clear.

9. Use Your Sources Correctly

When you mention information from other places, make sure you're using the right format that your teacher asked for (like APA, MLA, or Chicago). Using sources correctly not only avoids copying others' work without permission but also makes your arguments stronger by showing you've read reliable information. Paying attention to these details is a key part of how to improve your essays.

10. Edit and Refine Your Work

The best way to improve essays is by carefully checking and fixing them. Try to finish your first draft well before it's due so you can let it sit for a while. When you come back to it with fresh eyes, you'll often see ways to make it better that you didn't notice before.

Try reading your essay out loud during this process. This can help you find awkward phrases or parts that repeat too much that you might not notice when reading silently. Tools like the Aithor essay writer can also help you make your essay better.

Key Takeaways to Improve Essays

Improving your essay writing skills takes time and practice. By using these tips, you'll be on your way to writing better, more convincing, and more interesting essays. Remember, the goal isn't to be perfect, but to keep getting better.

If you want more help on how to improve your essay, think about using tools like the Aithor essay writer . It can give you guidance and suggestions as you work on your essays, helping you improve your essay writing skills over time.

Related articles

Top 10 use cases for ai writers.

Writing is changing a lot because of AI. But don't worry — AI won't take human writers' jobs. It's a tool that can make our work easier and help us write better. When we use AI along with our own skills, we can create good content faster and better. AI can help with many parts of writing, from coming up with ideas to fixing the final version. Let's look at the top 10 ways how to use AI for content creation and how it can make your writing better. What Is AI Content Writing? AI content writin ...

Can Plagiarism Be Detected on PDF?

Plagiarism has been a challenge for a long time in writing. It's easy to find information online, which might make some people use it without saying where it came from. But plagiarism isn't just taking someone else's words. Sometimes, we might do it by accident or even use our own old work without mentioning it. When people plagiarize, they can get into serious trouble. They might lose others' trust or even face legal problems. Luckily, we now have tools to detect plagiarism. But what about PDF ...

How to Write a Dialogue in an Essay: Useful Tips

A correct usage of dialogues in essays may seem quite difficult at first sight. Still there are special issues, for instance, narrative or descriptive papers, where this literary technique will be a good helper in depicting anyone's character. How to add dialogues to the work? How to format them correctly? Let's discuss all relevant matters to master putting conversation episodes into academic essays. Essay Dialogue: Definition & Purpose A dialogue is a literary technique for presenting a con ...

Paraphrasing vs Plagiarism: Do They Really Differ?

Academic assignments require much knowledge and skill. One of the most important points is rendering and interpreting material one has ever studied. A person should avoid presenting word-for-word plagiarism but express his or her thoughts and ideas as much as possible. However, every fine research is certain to be based on the previous issues, data given, or concepts suggested. And here it's high time to differentiate plagiarism and paraphrasing, to realize its peculiarities and cases of usage. ...

How To Write Essays Faster Using AI?

Creating various topical texts is an obligatory assignment during studies. For a majority of students, it seems like a real headache. It is quite difficult to write a smooth and complex work, meeting all the professors' requirements. However, thanks to modern technologies there appeared a good way of getting a decent project – using AI to write essays. We'd like to acquaint you with Aithor, an effective tool of this kind, able to perform fine and elaborated texts, and, of course, inspiration, i ...

What is Citation and Why Should You Cite the Sources When Writing Content

When we write something for school, work, or just for fun, we often use ideas and facts from other places. This makes us ask: what is a citation in writing? Let's find out what this means and why it's really important when we write. What is Citation? Citation in research refers to the practice of telling your readers where you got your information, ideas, or exact words from. It's like showing them the path to the original information you used in your writing. When you cite something, you us ...

Plagiarism: 7 Types in Detail

Your professor says that it is necessary to avoid plagiarism when writing a research paper, essay, or any project based on the works of other people, so to say, any reference source. But what does plagiarism mean? What types of it exist? And how to formulate the material to get rid of potential bad consequences while rendering original texts? Today we try to answer these very questions. Plagiarism: Aspect in Brief Plagiarism is considered to be a serious breach, able to spoil your successful ...

What Is Self-Plagiarism & How To Avoid It

Have you ever thought about whether using your own work again could be seen as copying? It might seem strange, but self-plagiarism is a real issue in school and work writing. Let's look at what this means and learn how to avoid self-plagiarism so your work stays original and ethical. What is self-plagiarism? Self-plagiarism, also called auto-plagiarism or duplicate plagiarism, happens when a writer uses parts of their old work without saying where it came from. This isn't just about copying w ...

Free Al Office Suite with PDF Editor

Edit Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE.

Read, edit, and convert PDFs with the powerful PDF toolkit.

Microsoft-like interface, easy to use.

Windows • MacOS • Linux • iOS • Android

banner

  • Articles of Word

How to Write an Argumentative Essay- Steps with Examples

Being a student and writing essays is not something everybody enjoys, but in my personal opinion as a writer, anyone can find contentment and pleasure in writing, especially when it comes to argumentative essays. While they may seem tricky to navigate, they offer this unique opportunity to express your opinions and make your voice heard. Consider this a growing process—once you overcome the challenges of writing argumentative essays, you will learn the art of agreeing or disagreeing with popular opinions and defending your stance. As far as the essay is concerned, I will show you how to master this process on how to write an argumentative essay.

When is an Argumentative Essay Written?

You will likely be required to write argumentative essays throughout your academic life, from high school to university. These assignments will present opportunities to develop and showcase your critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. Here are some scenarios where you might encounter the need to write argumentative essays:

Academic Assignments

Often assigned in school or college courses to help students develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. These assignments encourage students to research thoroughly, form coherent arguments, and present their viewpoints convincingly.

Debates and Discussions

Serve as the basis for presenting and defending viewpoints in academic or competitive settings. Argumentative essays provide a structured way to organize thoughts and evidence, helping participants articulate their arguments effectively during debates.

Opinion Pieces

Commonly used in newspapers, magazines, and online publications to influence public opinion on current issues. These essays allow writers to present their stance on controversial topics, backed by evidence and reasoning, to sway readers' views.

Policy Proposals

Utilized in government and policy-related fields to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions to societal problems. Argumentative essays in this context present well-researched arguments to persuade policymakers and stakeholders of the necessity and viability of the proposed changes.

Persuasive Speeches

Prepared as a foundation for delivering persuasive speeches. Writing an argumentative essay helps speakers organize their thoughts and evidence logically, providing a solid framework for their oral presentations.

What is the Structure of an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay uses factual evidence and logical support to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Here's a breakdown of the structure and what goes into each part of an argumentative essay:

Basic Argumentative Essay Structure

1.Introduction

Purpose: Introduce the topic, present the thesis, and set up the argument.

Hook: A sentence to grab the reader’s attention.

Background Information: Brief context about the topic.

Thesis Statement: The main argument or claim.

2.Body Paragraphs

Purpose: Present arguments and evidence to support the thesis and refute opposing arguments.

Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

Evidence and Analysis: Present facts, statistics, quotes, or examples to support the argument.

Counterarguments and Rebuttals: Address opposing views and explain why they are invalid or less significant.

3.Conclusion

Purpose: Summarize the arguments, restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented, and offer final thoughts.

Restate Thesis: Reiterate the main argument.

Summarize Key Points: Highlight the main points made in the body paragraphs.

Final Thought: A closing statement that underscores the importance of the topic

How to Write an Argumentative Essay [4 Steps with Examples]

As an experienced writer, I've come to understand the structure of argumentative essays quite well. But what I found truly challenging when I first started was nailing the right approach. Many beginners, myself included at one point, fall into traps like letting personal biases creep in or thinking that being argumentative means being aggressive. Trust me, that's not the case at all!

In this section, I'm going to lay out an effective approach on how to write an argumentative essay step by step for beginners. I'll break it down in a way that I wish someone had done for me when I was starting out. Plus, I'll share some insider tips on tools like WPS Office that I've come to rely on to streamline my writing process. So let's learn how to write an argumentative essay with a few examples.

1.Brainstorming

When I sit down to craft an argumentative essay, my first step is to engage in a comprehensive brainstorming session. This is your opportunity to let your creativity run wild and explore every angle of your topic. Write down every idea that comes to you, whether it supports or opposes your topic. Remember, at this stage, there are no bad ideas.

Now, while there's nothing wrong with the classic pen and paper approach, I've found that using WPS Office takes my brainstorming to a whole new level. It's not just about having a digital notepad; the AI features often toss out ideas that I might never have thought of on my own. It's like having a creative partner who never gets tired! Let me show you how I use it:

Let's say our topic is "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"

Step 1: Open WPS Office and type "@AI" on a blank document to activate WPS AI.

Step 2: Click on the "Brainstorm" option and enter your prompt. Make sure it's detailed and clearly explains what you want. Here's an example of an effective prompt:

"Generate a list of arguments both for and against the idea that electric cars are better for the environment. Consider factors like emissions, manufacturing processes, battery disposal, and energy sources"

Step 3: WPS AI will generate several arguments on both sides. If you want more, simply click "Rewrite”.

Jot down any valuable arguments before hitting "Rewrite", as you might not see the same ones again.

With these arguments in hand, you'll likely find yourself leaning towards one side of the debate. Armed with a variety of points and counterpoints, you'll be well-equipped to write an effective argumentative essay. Remember, a strong argumentative essay is built on a foundation of thorough preparation and diverse ideas.

2.Preparing

Now that we've generated our initial arguments and counterarguments, it's time to dive deeper into research to strengthen our position. Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"

Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?" Our next step is to select the most impactful supporting arguments and conduct in-depth research to substantiate them with solid evidence. Simultaneously, we'll identify the strongest counterarguments and explore ways to address or neutralize them through our research.

All of this might seem a little overwhelming, but with the help of WPS AI, the research phase becomes significantly more manageable. As we gather research papers, we can upload them to WPS Office and quickly gain insights using the AI features.

Here's how to leverage WPS AI for efficient research:

Step 1: Open your research paper PDFs in WPS Office, then click on the WPS AI widget in the top right corner.

Step 2: In the WPS AI panel that appears on the right side of your screen, click "Upload" to add your PDF.

Step 3: Once processed, WPS AI will provide you with key insights from the PDF at a glance.

Step 4: For more specific information, click on the "Inquiry" tab and use the WPS AI chatbot to ask further questions about the PDF contents.

As you conduct your research, begin organizing your findings into an outline. Remember to structure your outline according to the elements we discussed in previous sections. This will ensure your outline contains all the necessary components for an effective argumentative essay.

3.First Drafting

Now that we have our research and outline ready, it's time to start writing our first draft. This is where your essay really starts to take shape. Don't worry about perfection at this stage—the goal is to get your ideas down coherently.

Using the outline we prepared during our research, you'll find it easier to organize your thoughts for your essay. To make things simpler, use WPS Office editing tools. When I write my essay, I always ensure it is properly formatted, giving it a cleaner look and helping me focus better.

Now, simply start your draft on WPS Office with an introduction, followed by a body paragraph, and conclude with a strong summary that reviews your main points and leaves the reader with something to think about.

Once you have your draft ready, make use of WPS Office's AI features, which can help you improve writing, shorten or elongate your paragraphs, and much more. Let's say you've written your first body paragraph, and it's a bit too long. So, let's shorten it with WPS AI:

Step 1: Select the paragraph you want to shorten, then click on the WPS AI icon in the hover menu.

Step 2: From the list of options, simply click on "Make shorter" to shorten your paragraph.

Step 3: WPS AI will display the shorter version on a small screen. Click on "Replace" to replace the original text with the shorter version.

4.Revising & Proofreading

Congratulations on completing your first draft! However, there is one crucial step remaining: revising and proofreading.  Revising and proofreading are where good essays become great essays.

A method I find most effective for revising my essay is reading it aloud. This technique helps in identifying awkward phrasing and run-on sentences that may go unnoticed when reading silently. As you read, ask yourself:

Does my introduction effectively grab the reader's attention and clearly state my thesis?

Do my body paragraphs each focus on a single main idea that supports my thesis?

Have I provided enough evidence to support each of my arguments?

Have I addressed potential counterarguments?

Does my conclusion effectively summarize my main points and leave a lasting impression?

You might find that you need to make some structural changes. For instance, you might realize that your second body paragraph would be more effective if it came first. Don't be afraid to move things around!

Once you have made the necessary changes to your essay, the next step is to ensure it does not have any grammatical errors. For this, I use WPS AI's spell check feature. With just a single click, WPS AI spell check ensures that my essay is complete and ready to be submitted!

Bonus Tips: How to Polish your argumentative Essay with WPS AI

WPS Office is already a premium choice among students, offering all the features needed to write a perfect essay. With WPS Office, students can write better without payment issues, annoying ads, or difficulty navigating the tools. It's a free tool with advanced features, including WPS AI, which supports the entire writing process.

1.Check for Grammar and Spelling:

WPS AI carefully scans your essay for grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, ensuring that your writing is polished and professional. This feature not only helps you avoid common errors but also enhances the readability and credibility of your work.

2.Seek Style and Tone Adjustments:

WPS AI offers suggestions to improve the style and tone of your writing, making it more engaging and suitable for your target audience. Whether your essay requires a formal academic tone or a more conversational approach, WPS AI tailors its recommendations to fit your needs, ensuring your writing is coherent and compelling.

Here's an example of WPS AI's 'Improve Writing' feature in action, enhancing the formality and persuasiveness of my body paragraph for the reader.

3.Writing Assistance:

From the initial brainstorming phase to the final touches, WPS AI provides comprehensive writing assistance. It helps you structure your arguments logically, develop clear and concise thesis statements, and refine your conclusions. WPS AI also offers suggestions for enhancing clarity and coherence, making the writing process smoother and more efficient.

With the assistance of WPS AI's 'Continue Writing' feature, we can extend our essays by seamlessly incorporating additional sections that complement the existing content's flow and tone.

FAQs about Writing an Argumentative Essay

1. what’s the difference between an expository essay and an argumentative essay.

An argumentative essay is typically more extensive and requires independent research to establish a unique claim regarding a specific topic. It includes a thesis statement that presents a debatable assertion, which must be supported by objective evidence. In contrast, an expository essay strives for objectivity but does not propose an original argument. Instead, it aims to clarify and explain a topic straightforwardly, such as a process or concept. Generally, expository essays are shorter and do not rely as heavily on research.

2. When do I need to cite sources?

In a college environment, accurately citing sources is vital for essays, research papers, and other academic assignments, but this requirement does not extend to exams or in-class tasks. Proper citations are needed for direct quotes, paraphrased material, and summaries, and it is necessary to provide complete source information in a bibliography or reference list. Following the specified citation style, such as APA or MLA, is essential for maintaining academic integrity. Whenever you utilize information or ideas from another work in college-level writing, proper citation is required to acknowledge the original source.

3. What is an Argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of writing that asserts a specific stance on a debatable issue, backing it up with reasoning and evidence. The main objective is to convince the reader to accept or seriously consider the author's viewpoint. This essay usually contains a clear thesis statement and develops arguments while addressing opposing views to reinforce its position. Ultimately, it seeks to encourage critical engagement with the topic at hand.

Excel the Art of Persuasion With WPS Office

Argumentative essays are possibly the most thought-provoking when it comes to writing, presenting a higher difficulty level. Despite the challenge on how to write an argumentative essay, they are also the most fun to write, as they allow you to express your opinions in a highly opinionated form. WPS Office strives to enhance your writing experience, and as a writer, I can vouch for this. WPS Office not only offers advanced tools like WPS AI to help refine and improve your writing skills but also provides options to make your work as presentable as you want it to be. Download WPS Office today to experience the difference.

  • 1. How to Start An Essay- Steps with Examples
  • 2. How to write an essay report like a Pro
  • 3. How to Craft the Perfect Academic Essay Steps & Examples
  • 4. How to Write a Proposal [ Steps & Examples]
  • 5. Amazing AI Essay Generator - Make Your Essay Writing Easier
  • 6. How to Write a New Year Resolution Essay - A Comprehensive Guide

how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.

Advertisement

Supported by

The Secret to Tom Wolfe’s Irresistible Snap, Crackle and Pop

How the author of “The Right Stuff,” “Radical Chic and Mau-Mauing the Flak Catchers” and other classics turned sociology into art.

  • Share full article

This black-and-white photo shows a clean-shaven young man in a light-colored suit and tie and white saddle shoes, posing nonchalantly against a streetlight at a busy crossroads in Midtown Manhattan.

By David Brooks

David Brooks is an Opinion columnist for The Times. This essay is adapted from his introduction to a new edition of “Radical Chic and Mau-Mauing the Flak Catchers,” to be published by Picador this month.

There are certain writers you should never read before you yourself sit down to write, like P.G. Wodehouse and Tom Wolfe. For if you do, you will not be able to get their voices and rhythms out of your head, and you will have to confront the absolute certainty that you can’t pull off what they did. In Wolfe’s case you’ll find that you can’t quite replicate the raw energy of his prose: the fun; the snap, crackle, pop; the fuzzy effusions of new sociological categories — masters of the universe, social X-rays.

And then there’s his sheer audacity. His essay “Radical Chic” — about a cocktail party the conductor Leonard Bernstein and his wife, Felicia, threw for the Black Panthers in 1970 — begins with Bernstein waking up in the middle of the night in a state of wild alarm. He had mentioned having a bad dream in an interview somewhere, and Wolfe took that little autobiographical morsel and spun it into a grand tour through the inside of Bernstein’s brain. Any responsible journalist can report, “Bernstein had a nightmare,” but Wolfe has the guts to take a flight of fancy and describe the nightmare from the inside, with its moments of narcissistic grandiosity and its descent into degrading humiliation.

Wolfe was known for his style, but it was his worldview that made him. He read Max Weber at Yale and it all clicked : Life is a contest for status. Some people think humans are driven by money, or love, or to heal the wounds they suffered in childhood, but Wolfe put the relentless scramble up the pecking order at the center of his worldview. It gave him his brilliant eye for surfaces, for the care with which people put on their social displays. He had the ability to name the status rules that envelop us in ways we are hardly aware of. He had a knack for capturing what it feels like to be caught up in a certain sort of social dilemma.

He was drawn to times and places where the status rules were shifting. His book “The Right Stuff,” about the U.S. space program, takes place at such a moment. Before, the combat pilots were the tippy-top alpha males in the world of flight, but then along came the astronauts to knock them off their perch. In “Radical Chic,” you can catch glimpses of the old blue-blood Protestant elite — the Astors, the Whitneys, the Rockefellers. But this is 1970. A new crowd is beginning to displace them: the Bernsteins, Barbara Walters. The members of this rising elite have often made their money in culture and the media, and include the formerly unthinkables — Catholics, Jews, Black people.

The old aristocrats had it so easy, those stately bankers in the J.P. Morgan mold. They may have been frequently bewildered about why the masses didn’t like them, but their own place in the social aristocracy was secure. It was right there in their bloodlines — the generations of grandees stretching back centuries. The status rules were simple. All you had to do was live like an English earl and collect European culture by the boatload, and you could cruise through Manhattan amid the sound of others bowing and scraping.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

IMAGES

  1. How-to-Start-an-Opinion-Essay

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

  2. How to Write an Opinion Essay A2/B1

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

  3. Introduction

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

  4. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write an Opinion Essay + Examples

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

  5. How to Write an Introduction For an Essay: Guide With Examples

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

  6. How to Write an Opinion Essay

    how do you start an introduction for an opinion essay

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write an Opinion Essay in 6 Steps

    Paragraph 1: Introduction. Capture your reader's attention with a good hook. Present the prompt and state your opinion. Some tips for a good opinion essay hook: Use a surprising statistic. Profess an unpopular opinion. Ask a rhetorical question. Share an anecdote.

  2. How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)

    Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3. Hook the Reader: Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader's attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. Provide Background: Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion.

  3. How to Write an Essay Introduction

    Step 1: Hook your reader. Step 2: Give background information. Step 3: Present your thesis statement. Step 4: Map your essay's structure. Step 5: Check and revise. More examples of essay introductions. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

  4. How to Write an Opinion Essay: Structure, Examples

    The Use of Formal Languages: Although it is okay to write informally, keep a wide range of professional and formal words. This includes: 'Furthermore,' 'As Stated By,' 'However', & 'Thus'. Avoid Internet Slang: In the opinion paper, avoid writing using slang words. Don'tDon't include words like 'LOL', 'OMG', 'LMAO', etc.

  5. How to Write an Opinion Essay (With Tips and Examples)

    1. Introduction: Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing hook, such as a question, fact, quote, or anecdote, to engage the reader's interest. Thesis Statement: Present your clear and concise thesis statement. This statement is the foundation of your essay and encapsulates your main argument or opinion on the topic.

  6. How to Start an Essay: 7 Tips for a Knockout Essay Introduction

    Share a shocking or amusing fact. One way to start your essay is with a shocking, unexpected, or amusing fact about the topic you're covering. This grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to read further, expecting explanation, context, and/or elaboration on the fact you presented. Check out these essay introduction examples that ...

  7. Introductions

    In general, your introductions should contain the following elements: Orienting Information. When you're writing an essay, it's helpful to think about what your reader needs to know in order to follow your argument. Your introduction should include enough information so that readers can understand the context for your thesis.

  8. How to Write an Eye-Catching Essay Introduction

    A good essay introduction catches the reader's attention immediately, sets up your argument, and tells the reader what to expect. This video will walk you th...

  9. How to Write an Introduction, With Examples

    Every good introduction needs a thesis statement, a sentence that plainly and concisely explains the main topic. Thesis statements are often just a brief summary of your entire paper, including your argument or point of view for personal essays. For example, if your paper is about whether viewing violent cartoons impacts real-life violence ...

  10. How to Write an Introduction Paragraph in 3 Steps · PrepScholar

    The 3 Main Parts of an Intro Paragraph. In general, an intro paragraph is going to have three main parts: a hook, context, and a thesis statement. Each of these pieces of the intro plays a key role in acquainting the reader with the topic and purpose of your essay. Below, we'll explain how to start an introduction paragraph by writing an ...

  11. How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Pictures)

    Make a brief outline of the essay based on the information presented in the introduction. Then look at that outline as you read the essay to see how the essay follows it to prove the writer's thesis statement. 2. Keep your introduction short and simple.

  12. How To Write An Opinion Essay: What Is It & How To Start

    The correct structure for an opinion essay includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Start with an engaging introduction stating the overall topic and main thesis. Then, write body paragraphs, each focusing on one reason supporting your opinion and including evidence or examples.

  13. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write an Opinion Essay + Examples

    An essay based on a person's personal opinion implies a clear statement of the author's thoughts on a specific topic. However, to show understanding of the problem, one should rely on facts, research, or examples from life. A supported opinion essay is precisely when the author's opinion is based on objective factors.

  14. How to Write an Opinion Essay: Examples, Structure, & Tips

    Example: An introduction. Write a thesis statement and the reasons that support your opinion. Give your readers a hook to engage them with the topic. The main body. Break it into several paragraphs where you provide arguments and supporting examples, statements, and facts. A conclusion.

  15. Writing an opinion essay

    An opinion essay has three parts: Introduction; Arguments or reasons that support your view. Conclusion; Introduction. Paragraph 1. Introduce the topic and give your opinion. Say whether you agree or disagree with the statement or question. It can be a good idea to use a question to grab the reader's attention. Check the two examples below:

  16. 12 Ways to Start an Introductory Paragraph

    Identify your topic, context, and focus. Download Article. Treat the whole of your intro as the gateway into your essay. Your introduction has to do a lot in 5 sentences or so: identify the topic, provide context, and offer your thesis or major focus. And the start of the intro in particular needs to immediately catch the reader's attention ...

  17. IELTS Essay Introduction for an Opinion Essay

    The introduction is the easiest part of any IELTS essay as it follows a similar content for all IELTS task 2 types. This lesson is a follow-on lesson from last week. Learn how to find main points before continuing with this introduction lesson: Finding Main Points for an Opinion Essay: Every one of us should become a vegetarian because eating ...

  18. How To write an Opinion Essay: Free Examples and Guide

    Template/Outline. Opinion Essay Introduction: Introduce your point of view, or thesis statement. This should be a single sentence that states what you are going to argue for. It could also say why you're arguing for it (i.e., because there's been an increase in homeless people and this is bad). Make the introduction as good as possible so ...

  19. How to Write an Opinion Essay

    You will need to reference a play, book, poem, or speech to do this. You should also reference the name of the author and, of course, the date of the publication you are referencing in brackets. Thesis statement. The thesis statement is the full form of your point of view. It follows the introduction for opinion essay.

  20. How To Write a Good Essay Introduction in 4 Simple Steps

    When you write an essay, your introduction provides relevant information about your argument or the purpose of your essay. Here are four simple steps for how to write a good introduction: 1. Write a hook. The first sentence in your introduction is known as the hook. It's called a hook because it's meant to capture your audience's attention.

  21. How to Write an Introduction for an Opinion Essay

    In this Opinion Writing video, it will teach 4th-grade students how to write an introduction for an opinion essay. We will dive into the different parts from...

  22. 7 Ways to Introduce Opinion Writing to Elementary Students

    Use Books to Build Background Knowledge. Use Video Clips to Introduce Opinion Writing. Videos for Opinion Writing. Create Anchor Charts to Help Students Have Class Discussions. Use Current Events to Teach Opinion Writing. Use classroom, school, and community issues, problems, and events. Brainstorm Opinions in the "Real World".

  23. 10 Practical Ways to Improve Your Essay Writing Skills

    Read opinion pieces, stories about environmental movements from the past, and even stories that talk about nature and how people affect it. This will help you improve your essays by giving you a bigger picture of the topic. 2. Understand Your Essay Topic. Before you start writing, take time to really understand what your essay is supposed to be ...

  24. How to Write an Argumentative Essay- Steps with Examples

    Consider this a growing process—once you overcome the challenges of writing argumentative essays, you will learn the art of agreeing or disagreeing with popular opinions and defending your stance. ... and online publications to influence public opinion on current issues. These essays allow writers to present their stance on controversial ...

  25. How Tom Wolfe Turned Sociology Into Art

    David Brooks is an Opinion columnist for The Times. This essay is adapted from his introduction to a new edition of "Radical Chic and Mau-Mauing the Flak Catchers," to be published by Picador ...