what goes in the first paragraph of an essay

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Master the art of crafting attention-grabbing intros for your essays with these expert tips.

When it comes to writing an essay, one of the most crucial elements that can make or break your piece is the introduction paragraph. This initial portion serves as the launchpad for your entire composition – it sets the tone, captures the attention, and delivers a promise. Crafting a strong intro requires skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of your audience. It’s all about making a memorable first impression, leaving your readers wanting more, and ensuring they stay engaged throughout the rest of your essay.

Setting the stage with compelling language ,

one of the essential techniques for writing a captivating introduction is the use of compelling language. By elegantly blending simplicity with sophistication, you can instantly grab your readers’ attention and entice them to continue reading. Incorporating interesting anecdotes, thought-provoking questions, or powerful quotes into the opening paragraph can offer a glimpse into the core ideas of your essay while leaving a lasting impact. Moreover, carefully choosing descriptive words and employing rhetorical devices can help create an immersive experience, painting a vivid picture in the minds of your audience.

Creating a sense of curiosity and intrigue ,

another effective method for crafting a strong introduction is by piquing the curiosity of your readers. Humans are naturally drawn to mysteries, and by presenting a tantalizing glimpse of the topic or problem you will explore in your essay, you can instantly ignite their interest. Tease your readers with a hint of what’s to come, a juicy secret awaiting to be unraveled, or a surprising fact that challenges conventional wisdom. This sense of intrigue will create a desire within your readers to delve deeper into your essay, to uncover the truths that lie ahead, and to satisfy their intellectual curiosity.

Understanding the Purpose of the Intro Paragraph

The intro paragraph serves as the opening statement of your essay, conveying the main idea and setting the tone for the entire piece. It introduces the topic to the reader and provides a brief overview of what will be discussed. The purpose of the intro paragraph is to grab the reader’s attention, spark their interest, and prepare them for the information that will follow.

In order to achieve its purpose, the intro paragraph should be concise and compelling. It should capture the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading. It should also provide a clear thesis statement that highlights the main argument or point that will be made in the essay.

One key aspect of the intro paragraph is to establish the context of the topic. This can be done by providing background information, historical context, or relevant facts and statistics. The reader should have a clear understanding of why the topic is important and why they should continue reading.

Another important function of the intro paragraph is to provide a roadmap for the essay. It should outline the main points or arguments that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. This helps the reader understand the structure of the essay and what to expect as they continue reading.

Overall, the intro paragraph serves as a crucial component of any essay. It sets the stage for the rest of the piece and determines whether the reader will be engaged or not. By understanding the purpose of the intro paragraph and crafting it effectively, you can captivate your audience and ensure they are motivated to read your essay in its entirety.

Grabbing the Reader’s Attention with a Hook

Engaging your readers from the very beginning is essential to make your essay stand out and leave a lasting impression. By using a captivating hook in your introduction paragraph, you can effectively grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading.

So, what exactly is a hook? A hook is a compelling and intriguing statement or question that is used at the beginning of your essay to immediately capture the reader’s interest. It serves as a way to draw them in and make them curious about what you have to say.

A strong hook can take different forms. It can be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking quote, a personal anecdote, or a vivid description. The key is to choose a hook that is relevant to your topic and aligns with the tone and style of your essay.

When crafting your hook, it is important to remember that its purpose is to generate curiosity and make the reader want to know more. It should create a sense of anticipation and set the stage for the rest of your essay. By using language that is concise and impactful, you can create a hook that grabs the reader’s attention from the very first sentence.

Additionally, it is important to keep your hook concise and to the point. While you want to capture the reader’s interest, you also want to avoid overwhelming them with too much information right off the bat. A well-crafted hook should be brief yet compelling, leaving the reader wanting to know more about what you have to say.

In conclusion, grabbing the reader’s attention with a hook is an effective way to make your essay more engaging and compelling. By using a statement or question that is intriguing and relevant to your topic, you can draw the reader in and make them eager to continue reading. So, take the time to craft a strong and captivating hook for your essay, and you will be one step closer to creating a memorable piece of writing.

Clearly Stating the Thesis in the Intro Paragraph

One crucial aspect of writing a compelling introduction for an essay is to clearly state the thesis. The thesis, which serves as the main argument or point of the essay, should be clearly and concisely presented in the introduction paragraph to capture the reader’s attention.

Emphasizing the importance of explicitly stating the thesis

Effectively conveying the thesis in the introductory paragraph is essential for establishing the focus and direction of the essay. By clearly stating the thesis upfront, the writer can set the tone for the rest of the paper and guide the reader’s understanding of the main argument.

Illustrating the role of the thesis in guiding the essay

The thesis acts as a roadmap for the essay, providing a clear path for the writer to explore the topic and present their supporting arguments. When the thesis is clearly stated in the introduction, it helps the reader anticipate the content and structure of the essay, making it easier to follow along and engage with the ideas being presented.

Strengthening the impact of the introductory paragraph

A well-crafted introduction with a clearly stated thesis not only grabs the reader’s attention but also establishes the writer’s credibility and expertise in the subject matter. It sets the tone for the entire essay, increasing the chances of the reader continuing to read and engage with the rest of the paper.

Highlighting the need for precision and clarity

When stating the thesis in the introduction paragraph, it is crucial to be precise and concise. The statement should be clear, avoiding vague language or generalizations. By being explicit and specific about the main argument, the writer immediately captures the reader’s interest and makes a strong impression.

In conclusion, clearly stating the thesis in the introduction paragraph is vital to the success of an essay. By emphasizing the importance of the thesis, illustrating its role in guiding the essay, and strengthening the impact of the introductory paragraph, a writer can effectively engage the reader and set the stage for a strong and persuasive essay.

Providing Background Information

One of the key elements for creating a compelling introduction is providing background information. This involves offering context or setting the stage for your essay topic. By providing background information, you can help your readers understand the subject matter more effectively and engage them from the beginning.

In this section, we will explore different techniques and strategies to provide background information in your introduction. These approaches will ensure that your readers have a clear understanding of the topic being discussed and why it is important. By offering relevant background information, you can create a strong foundation for the rest of your essay.

There are several ways to incorporate background information. You can start by offering relevant historical or social context to provide a broad overview of the topic. This approach allows your readers to understand the significance of the subject within a wider context and grasp its relevance.

Another effective way to provide background information is by offering statistical or factual data. By presenting relevant statistics or facts, you can demonstrate the importance and scope of the issue at hand. This can help create a sense of urgency and relevance, capturing the attention of your readers.

Additionally, you can share personal anecdotes or stories that relate to the topic. This approach humanizes the subject matter and allows readers to connect on a more emotional level. By sharing personal experiences or stories, you can engage your readers and make them feel invested in the topic you are discussing.

Overall, providing background information is crucial for creating a strong introduction. It helps set the stage for your essay, establish relevance, and engage your readers from the start. By incorporating historical context, statistical data, or personal anecdotes, you can create a compelling and informative introduction that captivates your audience.

Structuring the Intro Paragraph Effectively

Effective structuring of the introductory paragraph is essential for capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the essay. The way you organize the information in this paragraph can greatly impact the overall impact and clarity of your writing.

To structure your intro paragraph effectively, it is important to first establish a clear and concise thesis statement. This statement should succinctly summarize the main argument or point of your essay. By presenting a strong thesis, you provide the reader with a roadmap of what to expect in the following paragraphs.

In addition to a strong thesis, it is crucial to include a hook or attention-grabbing statement at the beginning of the intro paragraph. This can be a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact or statistic, or even a relevant anecdote. The purpose of the hook is to engage the reader and compel them to continue reading.

Another important element to consider when structuring your intro paragraph is the use of relevant background information. This can help provide context for your thesis statement and give the reader a better understanding of the topic at hand. Be sure to only include necessary information and avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive details.

Additionally, it is beneficial to outline the main points or arguments that will be discussed in the essay. This preview can help orient the reader and provide them with a sense of direction. By clearly outlining the main points, the reader can easily follow your argument and stay engaged with the content.

Lastly, to effectively structure your intro paragraph, be mindful of the overall flow and coherence of your writing. Transition words and phrases can help connect ideas and guide the reader through your argument seamlessly. These words and phrases include “moreover,” “however,” “in addition,” “furthermore,” and “on the other hand,” among others.

In conclusion, structuring your intro paragraph effectively is crucial for capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of your essay. By incorporating a strong thesis statement, an attention-grabbing hook, relevant background information, and a preview of the main points, you can create a powerful and engaging introduction. Additionally, paying attention to the flow and coherence of your writing can enhance the overall impact of your intro paragraph.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in the Intro Paragraph

When crafting the introductory paragraph of your essay, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes that can weaken the impact and effectiveness of your writing. By understanding and avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure that your introduction grabs the reader’s attention and sets a strong foundation for the rest of your essay.

• Being overly general: One common mistake is starting your introduction with broad statements or generic information that fails to engage the reader. Instead of providing a vague overview of your topic, strive to present a hook or compelling opening that immediately captures the reader’s interest.
• Including too much background information: While providing some context for your topic is important, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive background information. Focus on including only the most relevant and essential details that support the main point of your essay.
• Using cliches or generic statements: Another mistake to avoid is relying on cliches or commonly used phrases in your introduction. These types of statements can make your writing appear unoriginal and uninteresting. Instead, strive to create unique and thought-provoking openings that stand out from the crowd.
• Not clearly stating your thesis: Your introductory paragraph should clearly and concisely state your thesis or main argument. Failing to do so can confuse the reader and make it difficult for them to understand the purpose of your essay. Make sure your thesis is prominently featured in the introduction to provide a clear roadmap for your essay.
• Neglecting to establish relevance: It is essential to establish the relevance and significance of your topic in the introductory paragraph. By clearly conveying why your topic is important and how it relates to the reader’s interests or experiences, you can create a stronger connection and engagement from the outset.

By avoiding these common mistakes in the introductory paragraph of your essay, you can create a strong and captivating opening that sets the stage for the rest of your writing. Remember to be specific, original, and clear in your introduction, and to always consider the needs and interests of your reader.

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How to Write an Introduction Paragraph in 3 Steps

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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!

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!

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. 

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!

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 . 

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!

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.

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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.

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Traditional Academic Essays In Three Parts

Part i: the introduction.

An introduction is usually the first paragraph of your academic essay. If you’re writing a long essay, you might need 2 or 3 paragraphs to introduce your topic to your reader. A good introduction does 2 things:

• Gets the reader’s attention. You can get a reader’s attention by telling a story, providing a statistic, pointing out something strange or interesting, providing and discussing an interesting quote, etc. Be interesting and find some original angle via which to engage others in your topic.
• Provides a specific and debatable thesis statement. The thesis statement is usually just one sentence long, but it might be longer—even a whole paragraph—if the essay you’re writing is long. A good thesis statement makes a debatable point, meaning a point someone might disagree with and argue against. It also serves as a roadmap for what you argue in your paper.

Part II: The Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs help you prove your thesis and move you along a compelling trajectory from your introduction to your conclusion. If your thesis is a simple one, you might not need a lot of body paragraphs to prove it. If it’s more complicated, you’ll need more body paragraphs. An easy way to remember the parts of a body paragraph is to think of them as the MEAT of your essay:

Main Idea. The part of a topic sentence that states the main idea of the body paragraph. All of the sentences in the paragraph connect to it. Keep in mind that main ideas are…

• like labels. They appear in the first sentence of the paragraph and tell your reader what’s inside the paragraph.
• arguable. They’re not statements of fact; they’re debatable points that you prove with evidence.
• focused. Make a specific point in each paragraph and then prove that point.

Evidence. The parts of a paragraph that prove the main idea. You might include different types of evidence in different sentences. Keep in mind that different disciplines have different ideas about what counts as evidence and they adhere to different citation styles. Examples of evidence include…

• quotations and/or paraphrases from sources.
• facts , e.g. statistics or findings from studies you’ve conducted.
• narratives and/or descriptions , e.g. of your own experiences.

Analysis. The parts of a paragraph that explain the evidence. Make sure you tie the evidence you provide back to the paragraph’s main idea. In other words, discuss the evidence.

Transition. The part of a paragraph that helps you move fluidly from the last paragraph. Transitions appear in topic sentences along with main ideas, and they look both backward and forward in order to help you connect your ideas for your reader. Don’t end paragraphs with transitions; start with them.

Keep in mind that MEAT does not occur in that order. The “ T ransition” and the “ M ain Idea” often combine to form the first sentence—the topic sentence—and then paragraphs contain multiple sentences of evidence and analysis. For example, a paragraph might look like this: TM. E. E. A. E. E. A. A.

Part III: The Conclusion

A conclusion is the last paragraph of your essay, or, if you’re writing a really long essay, you might need 2 or 3 paragraphs to conclude. A conclusion typically does one of two things—or, of course, it can do both:

• Summarizes the argument. Some instructors expect you not to say anything new in your conclusion. They just want you to restate your main points. Especially if you’ve made a long and complicated argument, it’s useful to restate your main points for your reader by the time you’ve gotten to your conclusion. If you opt to do so, keep in mind that you should use different language than you used in your introduction and your body paragraphs. The introduction and conclusion shouldn’t be the same.
• For example, your argument might be significant to studies of a certain time period .
• Alternately, it might be significant to a certain geographical region .
• Alternately still, it might influence how your readers think about the future . You might even opt to speculate about the future and/or call your readers to action in your conclusion.

Handout by Dr. Liliana Naydan. Do not reproduce without permission.

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Writing Engaging Introduction Paragraphs: The Key to Excellent Essays

The introduction, also known as the opening paragraph, holds paramount significance in the process of writing an academic essay . It serves as the reader's first encounter with your essay, providing them with valuable insights into the topic and your intended message. A well-structured introduction plays a vital role in captivating the reader's attention and establishing the foundation for the entire essay. If you're searching for how to begin an essay introduction or how to write the first paragraph, this guide has your answers. Let's cover everything about writing a good introduction paragraph for your essay.

A good introduction paragraph acts as an entrypoint, captivating readers and enticing them to explore your essay further. It establishes the desired tone, introduces key ideas, presents a clear argument, and provides readers with a navigational roadmap throughout the essay. By learning the each step invloved in the process of writing a perfect introduction, you can engage your audience, establish credibility, and lay a solid foundation for a persuasive and well-written essay.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the four essential steps involved in formatting and writing an impressive essay introduction paragraph. We will look into the significance of various attention-grabbing hooks, the value of providing relevant context, the importance of articulating a clear thesis, and the process of outlining the key points. Moreover, we will provide you with practical tips, techniques, and examples to enhance your academic writing skills , empowering you to write powerful and engaging openings for your essays.

It is recommended that the introduction should not surpass 10-15% of the total essay length, ensuring a balanced start to your writing. It is also important to note that the process of writing an introductory paragraph is not static; it requires refinement, polishing, and adaptation to the specific format of an essay being written. Whether you're writing a narrative essay , descriptive essay , persuasive essay , expository essay or any other type of essay, the approach to writing the opening paragraphs may vary. Each essay type comes with its own set of expectations and requirements, which should be taken into consideration when writing the intro for your essay. By understanding the unique characteristics and goals of the particular type, you can tailor the introduction paragraph of your essay to effectively engage the reader and set the stage for the rest of your essay.

Table of Content

• Introducing the topic
• Question hook
• Statistic hook
• Quotation hook
• Anecdotal hook
• Statement hook
• Providing background
• Stating the thesis
• Outlining the key-points
• Example of an essay introduction
• Checklist for writing the introduction paragraph

Introducing the Topic with a Catchy Hook

One of the fundamental elements of a good introduction paragraph is capturing the reader's attention from the very beginning known as the opening sentence of your essay. This can be achieved through the use of different types of hooks. A hook is an attention-grabbing opening sentence or statement that piques the reader's curiosity and entices them to continue reading. Most often, essay hooks are constructed to generate curiosity or raise a question. However, it is important to keep in mind that the hook should be relevant and connected to the topic of your essay.

Exploring the 5 Types of Hooks for Engaging Essay Openings

Writing an engaging essay introduction is an indispensable aspect of various essay types. It holds the power to captivate your audience and ignite their curiosity. To unravel the mystery behind the art of hooking readers from the very first sentence, let's explore the five types of attention-grabbing hooks. By understanding these hooks, you will learn the art of capturing your audience's attention and setting the stage for a remarkable essay. Now, Let's explore the five types of hooks which can be used as a good starter for your essay:

1 Question Hook:

A question hook involves posing a thought-provoking question to the readers in the opening sentence of your essay. It stimulates their curiosity and encourages them to contemplate the answer, making them eager to read further into your essay.

When writing a question hook, it's crucial to choose a question that is relevant to your topic and aligns with the purpose of your essay. Consider the following tips:

• Make it thought-provoking: Formulate a question that challenges common assumptions or prompts reflection.
• Keep it concise: Ensure the question is concise and clear to avoid confusion.
• Create a connection: Relate the question to your topic in a way that captivates the reader's interest.

Now, let's create a question hook using the example topic "The Impact of Social Media on Society." A good example of a question hook to begin your opening sentence would be:

Example of question hook:

Have you ever wondered how social media has transformed society and shaped the way we communicate and interact with one another?

In this example, the question hook prompts readers to consider the influence of social media on how people perceive the world around them and how it affects their everyday experiences. This thought-provoking question sets the stage for an engaging and informative essay on the topic of the impact of social media on society.

Remember, a question hook can be a powerful way to engage your readers and set the stage for an insightful essay. However, it's important to ensure that the rest of your essay answers the question posed in the hook, providing a satisfying response for your readers.

2 Statistic Hook:

Statistic hooks involve presenting a compelling statistical fact or data to capture the reader's attention. By providing a concrete and relevant statistic, you can immediately pique the reader's interest and emphasize the significance of your essay topic.

When using statistics for opening hook sentence, consider the following tips:

• Ensure accuracy: Verify the reliability and credibility of the statistic from reputable sources. Relate it to your topic: Connect the statistic to your essay's subject matter, highlighting its relevance and relevance.
• Choose a compelling statistic: Find a statistic that is surprising, impactful, or thought-provoking to make a strong impression.

An effective statistic hook to start your essay introduction would be:

Example of statistic hook:

With over 4.2 billion active users worldwide, social media has undeniably revolutionized the way we communicate, interact, and consume information.

This statistic hook immediately captures the reader's attention by highlighting the vast scale of social media usage and its pervasive presence in our lives. It sets the stage for an essay exploring the profound impact of social media on society.

Remember, a statistic hook can be a powerful way to engage your readers and establish the importance of your essay's subject matter. Ensure that you follow up with a well-developed and insightful essay that elaborates on the implications of the statistic and provides valuable analysis.

3 Quotation Hook:

A quotation hook involves using a relevant and impactful quote to grab the reader's attention and set the tone for your essay. By selecting a compelling quote from a notable individual or a significant source, you can immediately intrigue readers and make them eager to explore your essay further.

When starting your essay opening sentence with a quotation hook, consider the following tips:

• Connect it to your topic: Explain how the quote relates to your essay's subject matter, providing context and setting up the subsequent discussion.

A good example of eye-catching quotation hook for your essay would be:

Example of quotation hook:

“Ideally we want a juror who has a high social status, because those people tend to influence other jurors when it comes to deliberations.” (Jodi Picoult, 2016, p.287)

This quotation hook captures the essence of the profound influence of social media on modern society. The quote by Jodi Picoult highlights the all-encompassing nature of social media and its pervasive impact on various aspects of our lives. It sets the stage for an engaging essay that explores the implications and consequences of this phenomenon.

A quotation hook can be a compelling way to captivate your readers and create an engaging introduction. Ensure that you follow up with a well-developed essay that elaborates on the quote's significance and offers insightful analysis or discussion.

4 Anecdotal Hook:

An anecdotal hook involves starting your essay with a short and engaging personal story or anecdote. By sharing a relatable and intriguing narrative, you can immediately draw the reader into your essay and create an emotional connection. Anecdotes are particularly effective for making your essay more relatable and humanizing the topic at hand.

When using an anecdotal hook for writing the opening sentence of your essay, keep the following tips in mind:

• Choose a relevant and captivating story: Select an anecdote that directly relates to your essay's topic and grabs the reader's attention. It should be interesting and provide context for the subsequent discussion.
• Keep it concise: Ensure that your anecdote is brief and doesn't overshadow the main points of your essay. The goal is to engage the reader, not to tell a lengthy story.
• Highlight its connection to the topic: Clearly explain how the anecdote connects to the subject matter of your essay. This will help the reader understand the relevance and significance of the story in relation to the broader theme.

By considering these tips, you can effectively use anecdotal hook to engage your readers and create a strong connection between your personal story and the larger context of your essay. A powerful anecdotal hook to begin your essay would look like this:

Example of anecdotal hook:

Imagine walking into a bustling cafe, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.

By writing this anecdotal hook, we transport the reader into a specific moment, evoking imagery and emotions that prompt contemplation. It lays the foundation for an essay exploring the profound influence of social media on society, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and consider the broader impact of digital connectivity.

An anecdotal hook adds a personal touch to your essay and helps create an immediate connection with your audience. Ensure that the subsequent essay expands upon the themes introduced in the anecdote and provides meaningful analysis or insights.

5 Statement Hook:

A statement hook involves starting your essay introduction with a bold and attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. By presenting a compelling assertion or provocative statement, you can intrigue readers and compel them to continue reading to find out more.

When presenting a statement hook in your essay's opening sentence, consider the following tips:

• Choose a captivating statement: Select a statement that challenges common beliefs, presents a surprising fact, or poses a thought-provoking idea. It should be bold and impactful to engage your readers from the beginning.
• Make it concise and clear: Ensure that your statement is concise and easily understood. A clear and succinct statement will effectively convey your message without confusion.
• Connect it to your essay topic: Explain how the statement relates to your essay's subject matter and why it is significant. This will provide context and set the stage for the subsequent discussion.

By following these tips, you can write an impactful statement hook to introduce your essay. A good example of statement hook woulde be:

Example of statement hook:

Social media has transformed the very fabric of human interaction, reshaping the way we communicate, connect, and perceive the world around us.

This statement hook immediately grabs the reader's attention by asserting the profound impact of social media on society. It sets the stage for an essay that delves into the various ways social media has revolutionized communication and its implications for our lives.

A statement hook possesses the power to captivate your readers and establish the tone of your essay. However, it is crucial to follow it up with a well-developed essay that offers supporting evidence, insightful analysis, and relevant insights to substantiate the assertive statement introduced in the hook. This ensures a cohesive and persuasive essay that reinforces the initial impact and engages readers throughout.

Enhancing Background Information and Context Setting:

After captivating the reader's attention with an intriguing opening statement, it is crucial to provide the necessary background information to establish the context for your essay topic. When providing the context, emphasize the significance and relevance of the subject matter. Offer a concise overview of why the topic is important, highlighting its connections to broader issues, ongoing debates, or current events. Consider discussing its historical development, societal implications, or other relevant factors. Additionally, define key terms associated with your topic. By setting the context in this manner, you provide the reader with a glimpse into the larger framework of your essay, facilitating their understanding of the topic and anticipation of the arguments and insights to be presented throughout your essay.

To provide a solid foundation for the ensuing discussion, it is important to establish the necessary context and background surrounding the topic at hand. Here is an example of providing a context for your essay on the topic of "The Impact of Social Media on Society":

Example of context:

With platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at our fingertips, social media has enabled people from diverse backgrounds to connect and engage on a global scale. The rapid advancement of technology and the widespread availability of smartphones have made social media accessible to a vast population, influencing various aspects of society.

Stating the Thesis or Main Argument

The thesis statement is a crucial component of your essay introduction as it encapsulates the main idea or argument you want to present. It serves as a concise and clear statement that sets the direction for your entire essay. Crafting an effective thesis statement requires careful consideration and refinement.

To create an effective thesis statement, it is important to narrow down the argument you want to make. Begin by brainstorming and listing out different versions of your argument. Explore various angles and perspectives until you find the most compelling and persuasive way to present your main idea.

One useful tip for creating your thesis statement is to ensure that you directly answer the question or prompt. This helps to keep your argument focused and relevant. By directly addressing the question, you provide a clear sense of purpose and direction for your essay.

Additionally, various prewriting strategies such as brainstorming, outlining, and researching can greatly assist in establishing your thesis statement during the planning process of your essay. These activities help you gather and organize your thoughts, allowing you to identify key points and supporting evidence that will shape your thesis statement.

A well-developed thesis statement not only conveys your main argument but also provides a roadmap for the rest of your essay. It helps you structure your essay and guides your readers in understanding the purpose and scope of your work. By investing time and effort in developing a strong thesis statement, you lay a solid foundation for a compelling and cohesive essay.

Example of thesis statement:

Social media has profoundly transformed society, impacting communication, culture, politics, personal well-being, and our fundamental identities.

Mapping the Path: Providing an Outline of the Key Points in Your Essay

In addition to stating the thesis, providing background information, and grabbing reader's attention with an engaging opening hook statement, it is now beneficial to outline the key points of your essay that will be discussed in the rest of the parts of your essay's main body. This serves as a roadmap for the reader, offering a clear overview of the essay's structure and helping them follow along with the argument.

Providing a clear roadmap offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows the reader to anticipate the key ideas that will be covered in the essay. This creates a sense of coherence and helps them understand the logical progression of your argument. By presenting a concise overview of the key points, you help the reader grasp the overall organization of your essay and the central themes you will explore.

When providing an outline, it is important to be concise and clear. Briefly mention the key ideas or arguments that will be discussed in the essay, ensuring that they are directly related to the thesis statement.

Here's one possible example of outlining the key-points in your essay introduction:

Example of essay outline:

In this paper, we will explore the multifaceted impact of social media on society. Firstly, we will examine its influence on interpersonal relationships and community building. Secondly, we will analyze its impact on information dissemination and consumption. Finally, we will discuss the role of social media in shaping cultural norms and trends.

By providing this outline, you not only give the reader a clear structure to follow but also demonstrate your essay's organization and coherence. This approach enhances the overall readability and comprehension of your essay, making it easier for the reader to engage with your arguments.

Example: Essay Introduction Paragraph

Here's an example of the introduction paragraph. Discover the different sections highlighted in distinct colors and hover over or click on each one to unveil a comprehensive description of the essay's introduction writing process.

Example of essay introduction

With over 4.2 billion active users worldwide, social media has undeniably revolutionized the way we communicate, interact, and consume information. In today's interconnected world, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, transforming the way we communicate, share information, and interact with others. It has revolutionized the digital landscape, captivating millions of users worldwide. Social media has profoundly transformed society, impacting communication, culture, politics, personal well-being, and our fundamental identities. In this paper, we will explore the multifaceted impact of social media on society. Firstly, we will examine its influence on interpersonal relationships and community building. Secondly, we will analyze its impact on information dissemination and consumption. Finally, we will discuss the role of social media in shaping cultural norms and trends.

Checklist for Writing an Effective Essay Introduction

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Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs

How to Grab Your Reader's Attention With a Few Words

• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

An introductory paragraph, as the opening of a conventional essay,  composition , or  report , is designed to grab people's attention. It informs readers about the topic and why they should care about it but also adds enough intrigue to get them to continue to read. In short, the opening paragraph is your chance to make a great first impression.

Below, we'll dive into a couple of key elements that make a good introductory paragraph, like clearly outlining the topic and purpose, and examine some dynamic strategies for engaging your audience, such as posing a question or using a brief anecdote.

Writing a Good Introductory Paragraph

The primary purpose of an introductory paragraph is to pique the interest of your reader and identify the topic and purpose of the essay . It often ends with a thesis statement .

You can  engage your readers right from the start through several tried-and-true ways. Posing a question, defining the key term, giving a brief anecdote , using a playful joke or emotional appeal, or pulling out an interesting fact are just a few approaches you can take. Use imagery, details, and sensory information to connect with the reader if you can. The key is to add intrigue along with just enough information so your readers want to find out more. 

One way to do this is to come up with a brilliant opening line . Even the most mundane topics have aspects interesting enough to write about; otherwise, you wouldn't be writing about them, right?

When you begin writing a new piece, think about what your readers want or need to know. Use your knowledge of the topic to craft an opening line that will satisfy that need. You don't want to fall into the trap of what writers call " chasers ," or boring and cliche introductions (such as "The dictionary defines...."). The introduction should make sense and hook the reader right from the start.

Make your introductory paragraph brief. Typically, just three or four sentences are enough to set the stage for both long and short essays. You can go into supporting information in the body of your essay, so don't tell the audience everything all at once.

Should You Write the Intro First?

You can always adjust your introductory paragraph later. Sometimes you just have to start writing. You can start at the beginning or dive right into the heart of your essay.

Your first draft may not have the best opening, but as you continue to write, new ideas will come to you, and your thoughts will develop a clearer focus. Take note of these and, as you work through revisions , refine and edit your opening. 

If you're struggling with the opening, follow the lead of other writers and skip it for the moment. Many writers begin with the body and conclusion and come back to the introduction later. It's a useful, time-efficient approach if you find yourself stuck in those first few words, especially if you have an outline completed or a general framework informally mapped out. If you don't have an outline, even just starting to sketch one can help organize your thoughts and "prime the pump," as it were.

Examples of Successful Introductory Paragraphs

You can read all the advice you want about writing a compelling opening, but it's often easier to learn by example. Take a look at how some writers approached their essays and analyze why they work so well.

Tell a Joke and Spark Curiosity

Mary Zeigler, " How to Catch River Crabs "

"As a lifelong crabber (that is, one who catches crabs, not a chronic complainer), I can tell you that anyone who has patience and a great love for the river is qualified to join the ranks of crabbers. However, if you want your first crabbing experience to be a successful one, you must come prepared."

What did Zeigler do in her introduction? First, she wrote a little joke, but it serves a dual purpose. Not only does it set the stage for her slightly more humorous approach to crabbing, but it also clarifies what type of "crabber" she's writing about. This is important if your subject has more than one meaning.

The other thing that makes this a successful introduction is the fact that Zeigler leaves us wondering. What do we have to be prepared for? Will the crabs jump up and latch onto you? Is it a messy job? What tools and gear do I need? She leaves us with questions, and that draws us in because now we want answers.

Use Vivid Imagery

"Shopping at the Pig"

"Working part-time as a cashier at the Piggly Wiggly has given me a great opportunity to observe human behavior. Sometimes I think of the shoppers as white rats in a lab experiment, and the aisles as a maze designed by a psychologist. Most of the rats—customers, I mean—follow a routine pattern, strolling up and down the aisles, checking through my chute, and then escaping through the exit hatch. But not everyone is so dependable. My research has revealed three distinct types of abnormal customer: the amnesiac, the super shopper, and the dawdler."

This revised classification essay begins by painting a picture of an ordinary scenario: the grocery store. But when used as an opportunity to observe human nature, as this writer does, it turns from ordinary to fascinating.

Who is the amnesiac? Would I be classified as the dawdler by this cashier? The descriptive language and the analogy to rats in a maze add to the intrigue, and readers are left wanting more. For this reason, even though it's lengthy, this is an effective opening.

Invoke Emotion and the Element of Surprise

Roz Savage, " My Transoceanic Midlife Crisis "

"In March 2006, I found myself, at 38, divorced, no kids, no home, and alone in a tiny rowing boat in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. I hadn’t eaten a hot meal in two months. I’d had no human contact for weeks because my satellite phone had stopped working. All four of my oars were broken, patched up with duct tape and splints. I had tendinitis in my shoulders and saltwater sores on my backside. I couldn’t have been happier...."

Here is an example of reversing expectations. The introductory paragraph is filled with doom and gloom. We feel sorry for the writer but are left wondering whether the article will be a classic sob story. It is in the second paragraph that we find out that it's quite the opposite.

Those first few words of the second paragraph, which we cannot help but skim, surprise us and thus draw us in. How can the narrator be happy after all that sorrow? This reversal compels us to find out what happened.

Most people have had streaks where nothing seems to go right. Yet, it is the possibility of a turn of fortunes that compels us to keep going. This writer appealed to our emotions and a sense of shared experience to craft an effective read.

Key Takeaways

• An effective introductory paragraph grabs readers' attention and outlines the topic while adding intrigue to encourage further reading.
• Dynamic strategies like posing questions or using anecdotes can engage readers from the start and set the stage for the essay's content.
• Starting with the body and conclusion first and then revisiting the introduction can be a time-efficient approach if you're struggling with the opening lines.
• Complete List of Transition Words
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• 10 Steps to Writing a Successful Book Report
• Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay
• How to Write a Good Thesis Statement
• Structure of a Descriptive Essay
• Practice in Supporting a Topic Sentence with Specific Details
• Understanding What an Expository Essay Is
• How to Start an Essay: 13 Engaging Strategies
• Make Your Paragraphs Flow to Improve Writing
• How to Write a Great Process Essay
• Personal Essay Topics
• How to Outline and Organize an Essay
• What Is Expository Writing?

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The paragraph that begins an essay causes students the most trouble, yet carries the most importance. Although its precise construction varies from genre to genre (and from essay to essay), good introductory paragraphs generally accomplish the same tasks and follow a few basic patterns. Some of them are listed below, but keep in mind that what follows are guidelines, not immutable templates.

Tasks:  The introductory paragraph to a short essay usually attempts to do three things:

• Introduce the topic  with some indication of its inherent interest or importance, and a clear definition of the boundaries of the subject area
• Indicate the structure and/or methodology of the essay , often with the major sections of the essay or its structural principle clearly stated
• State the thesis of the essay , preferably in a single, arguable statement with a clear main clause

Not every essay does all three in the first paragraph, and the degree to which an essay declares its structure or methodology may vary widely, depending on how necessary that information will be to the readers. Sometimes, the entire first paragraph will serve no other purpose than to generate interest in the subject or raise a question, leaving the other tasks for the second paragraph. However, this kind of opening requires a lot of skill, and you can lose your readers in the second and third paragraphs if do not make your purpose clear.

Patterns:  The standard pattern for an introductory paragraph follows the order of the tasks outlined above. Below is an outline of that pattern, written as if it were the first section of a formal outline of the entire essay:

Introduction

• Its boundaries
• Why it is interesting
• The essay’s main sections (structure)
• Why they come in that order (structural principle)
• How the author plans to draw the necessary conclusions from the information available (methodology)
• Its premise (the general claim about the information available)
• Its conclusion (the consequences of the first claim)

Not every essay contains every element in precisely this order, but most good essays cover all of them, either explicitly or implicitly. In longer and more scholarly essays, the structure/methodology section should be longer, or can even be its own paragraph. It should also include some mention of the essay’s position within the field as a whole.

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• Introduce the topic with some indication of its inherent interest or importance, and a clear definition of the boundaries of the subject area
• Indicate the structure and/or methodology of the essay , often with the major sections of the essay or its structural principle clearly stated
• State the thesis of the essay , preferably in a single, arguable statement with a clear main clause
• Its boundaries
• Why it is interesting
• Structure and/or Methodology
• The essay’s main sections (structure)
• Why they come in that order (structural principle)
• How the author plans to draw the necessary conclusions from the information available (methodology)
• The Thesis Statement (usually a single sentence)
• Its premise (the general claim about the information available)
• Its conclusion (the consequences of the first claim)

What this handout is about

This handout will help you understand how paragraphs are formed, how to develop stronger paragraphs, and how to completely and clearly express your ideas.

What is a paragraph?

Paragraphs are the building blocks of papers. Many students define paragraphs in terms of length: a paragraph is a group of at least five sentences, a paragraph is half a page long, etc. In reality, though, the unity and coherence of ideas among sentences is what constitutes a paragraph. A paragraph is defined as “a group of sentences or a single sentence that forms a unit” (Lunsford and Connors 116). Length and appearance do not determine whether a section in a paper is a paragraph. For instance, in some styles of writing, particularly journalistic styles, a paragraph can be just one sentence long. Ultimately, a paragraph is a sentence or group of sentences that support one main idea. In this handout, we will refer to this as the “controlling idea,” because it controls what happens in the rest of the paragraph.

How do I decide what to put in a paragraph?

Before you can begin to determine what the composition of a particular paragraph will be, you must first decide on an argument and a working thesis statement for your paper. What is the most important idea that you are trying to convey to your reader? The information in each paragraph must be related to that idea. In other words, your paragraphs should remind your reader that there is a recurrent relationship between your thesis and the information in each paragraph. A working thesis functions like a seed from which your paper, and your ideas, will grow. The whole process is an organic one—a natural progression from a seed to a full-blown paper where there are direct, familial relationships between all of the ideas in the paper.

The decision about what to put into your paragraphs begins with the germination of a seed of ideas; this “germination process” is better known as brainstorming . There are many techniques for brainstorming; whichever one you choose, this stage of paragraph development cannot be skipped. Building paragraphs can be like building a skyscraper: there must be a well-planned foundation that supports what you are building. Any cracks, inconsistencies, or other corruptions of the foundation can cause your whole paper to crumble.

So, let’s suppose that you have done some brainstorming to develop your thesis. What else should you keep in mind as you begin to create paragraphs? Every paragraph in a paper should be :

• Unified : All of the sentences in a single paragraph should be related to a single controlling idea (often expressed in the topic sentence of the paragraph).
• Clearly related to the thesis : The sentences should all refer to the central idea, or thesis, of the paper (Rosen and Behrens 119).
• Coherent : The sentences should be arranged in a logical manner and should follow a definite plan for development (Rosen and Behrens 119).
• Well-developed : Every idea discussed in the paragraph should be adequately explained and supported through evidence and details that work together to explain the paragraph’s controlling idea (Rosen and Behrens 119).

How do I organize a paragraph?

There are many different ways to organize a paragraph. The organization you choose will depend on the controlling idea of the paragraph. Below are a few possibilities for organization, with links to brief examples:

• Narration : Tell a story. Go chronologically, from start to finish. ( See an example. )
• Description : Provide specific details about what something looks, smells, tastes, sounds, or feels like. Organize spatially, in order of appearance, or by topic. ( See an example. )
• Process : Explain how something works, step by step. Perhaps follow a sequence—first, second, third. ( See an example. )
• Classification : Separate into groups or explain the various parts of a topic. ( See an example. )
• Illustration : Give examples and explain how those examples support your point. (See an example in the 5-step process below.)

Illustration paragraph: a 5-step example

From the list above, let’s choose “illustration” as our rhetorical purpose. We’ll walk through a 5-step process for building a paragraph that illustrates a point in an argument. For each step there is an explanation and example. Our example paragraph will be about human misconceptions of piranhas.

Step 1. Decide on a controlling idea and create a topic sentence

Paragraph development begins with the formulation of the controlling idea. This idea directs the paragraph’s development. Often, the controlling idea of a paragraph will appear in the form of a topic sentence. In some cases, you may need more than one sentence to express a paragraph’s controlling idea.

Controlling idea and topic sentence — Despite the fact that piranhas are relatively harmless, many people continue to believe the pervasive myth that piranhas are dangerous to humans.

Step 2. Elaborate on the controlling idea

Paragraph development continues with an elaboration on the controlling idea, perhaps with an explanation, implication, or statement about significance. Our example offers a possible explanation for the pervasiveness of the myth.

Elaboration — This impression of piranhas is exacerbated by their mischaracterization in popular media.

Step 3. Give an example (or multiple examples)

Paragraph development progresses with an example (or more) that illustrates the claims made in the previous sentences.

Example — For example, the promotional poster for the 1978 horror film Piranha features an oversized piranha poised to bite the leg of an unsuspecting woman.

Step 4. Explain the example(s)

The next movement in paragraph development is an explanation of each example and its relevance to the topic sentence. The explanation should demonstrate the value of the example as evidence to support the major claim, or focus, in your paragraph.

Continue the pattern of giving examples and explaining them until all points/examples that the writer deems necessary have been made and explained. NONE of your examples should be left unexplained. You might be able to explain the relationship between the example and the topic sentence in the same sentence which introduced the example. More often, however, you will need to explain that relationship in a separate sentence.

Explanation for example — Such a terrifying representation easily captures the imagination and promotes unnecessary fear.

Notice that the example and explanation steps of this 5-step process (steps 3 and 4) can be repeated as needed. The idea is that you continue to use this pattern until you have completely developed the main idea of the paragraph.

Step 5. Complete the paragraph’s idea or transition into the next paragraph

The final movement in paragraph development involves tying up the loose ends of the paragraph. At this point, you can remind your reader about the relevance of the information to the larger paper, or you can make a concluding point for this example. You might, however, simply transition to the next paragraph.

Sentences for completing a paragraph — While the trope of the man-eating piranhas lends excitement to the adventure stories, it bears little resemblance to the real-life piranha. By paying more attention to fact than fiction, humans may finally be able to let go of this inaccurate belief.

Finished paragraph

Despite the fact that piranhas are relatively harmless, many people continue to believe the pervasive myth that piranhas are dangerous to humans. This impression of piranhas is exacerbated by their mischaracterization in popular media. For example, the promotional poster for the 1978 horror film Piranha features an oversized piranha poised to bite the leg of an unsuspecting woman. Such a terrifying representation easily captures the imagination and promotes unnecessary fear. While the trope of the man-eating piranhas lends excitement to the adventure stories, it bears little resemblance to the real-life piranha. By paying more attention to fact than fiction, humans may finally be able to let go of this inaccurate belief.

Troubleshooting paragraphs

Problem: the paragraph has no topic sentence.

Imagine each paragraph as a sandwich. The real content of the sandwich—the meat or other filling—is in the middle. It includes all the evidence you need to make the point. But it gets kind of messy to eat a sandwich without any bread. Your readers don’t know what to do with all the evidence you’ve given them. So, the top slice of bread (the first sentence of the paragraph) explains the topic (or controlling idea) of the paragraph. And, the bottom slice (the last sentence of the paragraph) tells the reader how the paragraph relates to the broader argument. In the original and revised paragraphs below, notice how a topic sentence expressing the controlling idea tells the reader the point of all the evidence.

Original paragraph

Piranhas rarely feed on large animals; they eat smaller fish and aquatic plants. When confronted with humans, piranhas’ first instinct is to flee, not attack. Their fear of humans makes sense. Far more piranhas are eaten by people than people are eaten by piranhas. If the fish are well-fed, they won’t bite humans.

Revised paragraph

Although most people consider piranhas to be quite dangerous, they are, for the most part, entirely harmless. Piranhas rarely feed on large animals; they eat smaller fish and aquatic plants. When confronted with humans, piranhas’ first instinct is to flee, not attack. Their fear of humans makes sense. Far more piranhas are eaten by people than people are eaten by piranhas. If the fish are well-fed, they won’t bite humans.

Once you have mastered the use of topic sentences, you may decide that the topic sentence for a particular paragraph really shouldn’t be the first sentence of the paragraph. This is fine—the topic sentence can actually go at the beginning, middle, or end of a paragraph; what’s important is that it is in there somewhere so that readers know what the main idea of the paragraph is and how it relates back to the thesis of your paper. Suppose that we wanted to start the piranha paragraph with a transition sentence—something that reminds the reader of what happened in the previous paragraph—rather than with the topic sentence. Let’s suppose that the previous paragraph was about all kinds of animals that people are afraid of, like sharks, snakes, and spiders. Our paragraph might look like this (the topic sentence is bold):

Like sharks, snakes, and spiders, piranhas are widely feared. Although most people consider piranhas to be quite dangerous, they are, for the most part, entirely harmless . Piranhas rarely feed on large animals; they eat smaller fish and aquatic plants. When confronted with humans, piranhas’ first instinct is to flee, not attack. Their fear of humans makes sense. Far more piranhas are eaten by people than people are eaten by piranhas. If the fish are well-fed, they won’t bite humans.

Problem: the paragraph has more than one controlling idea

If a paragraph has more than one main idea, consider eliminating sentences that relate to the second idea, or split the paragraph into two or more paragraphs, each with only one main idea. Watch our short video on reverse outlining to learn a quick way to test whether your paragraphs are unified. In the following paragraph, the final two sentences branch off into a different topic; so, the revised paragraph eliminates them and concludes with a sentence that reminds the reader of the paragraph’s main idea.

Although most people consider piranhas to be quite dangerous, they are, for the most part, entirely harmless. Piranhas rarely feed on large animals; they eat smaller fish and aquatic plants. When confronted with humans, piranhas’ first instinct is to flee, not attack. Their fear of humans makes sense. Far more piranhas are eaten by people than people are eaten by piranhas. A number of South American groups eat piranhas. They fry or grill the fish and then serve them with coconut milk or tucupi, a sauce made from fermented manioc juices.

Problem: transitions are needed within the paragraph

You are probably familiar with the idea that transitions may be needed between paragraphs or sections in a paper (see our handout on transitions ). Sometimes they are also helpful within the body of a single paragraph. Within a paragraph, transitions are often single words or short phrases that help to establish relationships between ideas and to create a logical progression of those ideas in a paragraph. This is especially likely to be true within paragraphs that discuss multiple examples. Let’s take a look at a version of our piranha paragraph that uses transitions to orient the reader:

Although most people consider piranhas to be quite dangerous, they are, except in two main situations, entirely harmless. Piranhas rarely feed on large animals; they eat smaller fish and aquatic plants. When confronted with humans, piranhas’ instinct is to flee, not attack. But there are two situations in which a piranha bite is likely. The first is when a frightened piranha is lifted out of the water—for example, if it has been caught in a fishing net. The second is when the water level in pools where piranhas are living falls too low. A large number of fish may be trapped in a single pool, and if they are hungry, they may attack anything that enters the water.

In this example, you can see how the phrases “the first” and “the second” help the reader follow the organization of the ideas in the paragraph.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Lunsford, Andrea. 2008. The St. Martin’s Handbook: Annotated Instructor’s Edition , 6th ed. New York: St. Martin’s.

Rosen, Leonard J., and Laurence Behrens. 2003. The Allyn & Bacon Handbook , 5th ed. New York: Longman.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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How to Start An Essay- Steps with Examples

Once you have a single idea to anchor your essay, build the entire piece around it. Starting an essay can be challenging; it's like revving up the engine and keeping your ideas flowing throughout. But I've got a foolproof plan for you. In this article I will show you how to start an essay and write a powerful, impactful piece for your class.

What is the Process of Writing an Essay?

Just like any task that requires organization, writing an essay follows a structured process. If you want to ensure that your essay is well-organized and not just a free flow of ideas, consider the following process:

Read and Understand the Prompt: Begin by carefully reading the essay prompt to fully grasp what is being asked of you. Break it down into manageable parts to ensure you cover every aspect in your essay.

Plan Your Essay: Take time to brainstorm and organize your ideas. Creating an outline or a web of your ideas and supporting details will make the writing process much smoother. This will help you structure your essay logically and ensure all your points are well thought out.

Use and Cite Sources: Conduct thorough research to gather information and evidence to support your arguments. Use quotes and paraphrases from credible sources, but always avoid plagiarism by properly citing your sources.

Write a Draft: Start by writing a rough draft. As Ernest Hemingway said, “The first draft of anything is always crap.” This stage allows you to get all your ideas down without worrying about perfection. Drafts are essential for organizing your thoughts and refining your arguments.

Develop a Strong Thesis: Your thesis statement is the main argument of your essay and the most important sentence you'll write. Make it clear and compelling, setting the stage for your entire essay.

Respond to the Prompt: Once you've refined your draft, ensure that you are directly addressing every part of the prompt. Your final draft should be a polished version of your ideas, with a clear and logical flow.

Proofread: Review your essay carefully to catch any grammatical errors, typos, or awkward sentences. Proofreading is crucial because even small mistakes can undermine the professionalism and clarity of your essay.

What is the Structure of an Essay?

Although more advanced academic papers have their own unique structures, the basic high school or college essay typically follows a standardized five-paragraph format:

1.Introduction

Writing a well-structured essay is crucial for clearly conveying your ideas and arguments. While advanced academic papers may have complex structures, the basic high school or college essay typically follows a standardized five-paragraph format. This format includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each serving a specific purpose to guide the reader through your argument.

The introduction paragraph is where you start by grabbing the reader’s attention with an engaging "hook," such as a relevant quote or a surprising fact. Following this, you introduce your thesis statement, which is the central argument or point of your essay. To set the stage for the rest of the essay, you provide a brief preview of the three main points that will be covered in the body paragraphs.

The first body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that introduces the first subtopic related to your thesis. This paragraph includes supporting details or examples that illustrate your point, followed by an explanation of how these details or examples support your thesis. This structured approach ensures clarity and coherence, making your argument more persuasive.

The second body paragraph follows a similar format. It starts with a topic sentence that introduces the second subtopic. Again, you provide supporting details or examples and explain their relevance to your thesis. This repetition of structure helps reinforce your argument and makes it easier for the reader to follow your reasoning.

The third body paragraph introduces the third subtopic with a topic sentence. Just like the previous paragraphs, it includes supporting details or examples and explains how they support your thesis. This consistent format throughout the body paragraphs ensures that each point is clearly presented and thoroughly examined.

3.Conclusion

The conclusion paragraph begins with a concluding transition, such as "in conclusion," signaling that you are wrapping up your essay. You restate your thesis in a new way to reinforce your main argument. Then, you summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs, tying them back to your thesis.

Finally, you end with a "global statement" or call to action, leaving the reader with a final thought or suggestion related to your topic. This structured approach to essay writing helps ensure that your arguments are clear, cohesive, and compelling from start to finish.

How to Start an Essay [3 Steps with examples]

Starting an essay can bring a mix of thoughts: how to begin, how to end, what supporting points to use. This confusion often leads students to produce subpar essays. Writing an essay is a process that requires structure, which is why learning how to start an essay is crucial.

From my experience, the first tip is to analyze the question and begin brainstorming. This is followed by a series of steps I'll discuss to help you craft an essay that communicates your message effectively. Let's explore how to start an essay, including examples, samples, and techniques like opening with a thought-provoking question. Whether you're looking for "how to start an essay with examples" or a "how to start an essay sample," these tips will guide you towards a strong introduction that sets the tone for your entire piece.

1.Writing the Introduction

Your introduction sets the tone for your entire essay. It's your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and provide a roadmap for what's to come. Let's break down the key components following up with how to start an essay examples:

The hook is your opening statement that captivates your audience. It should be intriguing, thought-provoking, and relevant to your topic. A strong hook can take various forms, such as a startling statistic, a provocative question, or a vivid anecdote. The key is to pique your reader's curiosity and make them eager to read more.

a) "Imagine a world where your morning coffee could power your entire house for a day. While this might sound like science fiction, recent advancements in bioenergy are bringing us closer to this reality."

b) "In the time it takes you to read this sentence, over 200 species will have gone extinct. The alarming rate of biodiversity loss is not just a statistic—it's a call to action that we can no longer ignore."

Context / Background

After hooking your reader, provide context that helps them understand the significance of your topic. This background information should bridge the gap between your hook and your thesis statement. Explain why your topic matters, touch on recent developments or historical context, and set the stage for your main argument.

"The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from the realm of science fiction to a cornerstone of modern technology. Over the past decade, AI has permeated various aspects of our lives, from voice assistants in our homes to complex algorithms driving social media platforms. As AI continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it raises profound questions about the future of work, privacy, and even what it means to be human. Understanding the implications of this technological revolution is crucial as we navigate an increasingly AI-driven world."

Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement is the cornerstone of your essay. It clearly articulates your main argument or purpose, providing a preview of what you'll discuss in the body of your essay. A strong thesis should be specific, arguable, and concise. It sets expectations for your readers and guides the structure of your essay.

"This essay will examine the ethical implications of AI development, arguing that while artificial intelligence offers tremendous benefits in fields such as healthcare and environmental protection, it also poses significant risks to privacy, job security, and social equality. By analyzing these challenges and proposing a framework for responsible AI development, I aim to demonstrate that proactive ethical considerations are essential to harnessing AI's potential while mitigating its dangers."

Overview Ending (Optional)

To round off your introduction, you might choose to provide a brief overview of your essay's structure. This can help orient your readers and give them a clear idea of what to expect. However, be careful not to give away too much—you want to maintain some element of anticipation.

"In exploring the ethical landscape of AI, we will first delve into its transformative potential across various sectors. Then, we'll critically examine the challenges and risks associated with widespread AI adoption. Finally, we'll propose a set of ethical guidelines and policy recommendations aimed at fostering responsible AI development. Through this analysis, we'll uncover how balancing innovation with ethical considerations is crucial for creating an AI-enhanced future that benefits all of humanity."

Once we have written our overview ending, our introduction paragraph is complete. Here is an example of an introduction paragraph:

This might initially appear daunting due to its size, but leveraging WPS AI can streamline and condense the content effectively. Here's how you can simplify and refine it:

Step 1: Select your entire introduction paragraph, and then click on the "WPS AI" icon in the hover menu.

Step 2: From the list of WPS AI options, click on "Make shorter" to help reduce the length of your content.

Step 3: WPS AI will display a shorter version of your introduction in a small window; click on "Replace".

Step 4: The introduction paragraph will now be replaced with a shorter version for your essay.

2.Writing the Body

The body of your essay is where you develop your arguments and provide evidence to support your thesis. It's the meat of your essay, where you dive deep into your topic and showcase your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Present and develop the main arguments that support your thesis statement. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea or argument that contributes to your overall thesis. This structure helps your reader follow your logic and understand your points clearly.

Let's say your thesis is about the impact of renewable energy on climate change mitigation. One argument could be:

"The widespread adoption of solar power technology has significantly reduced carbon emissions in countries that have invested heavily in this renewable energy source."

Support each argument with solid evidence that reinforces your point. Evidence can include facts, statistics, research findings, expert opinions, or examples from real-life situations. The stronger and more varied your evidence, the more convincing your argument will be.

"According to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency, countries with high solar power adoption have seen an average reduction in carbon emissions of 15% over the past five years. For instance, Germany, a leader in solar energy, has cut its carbon emissions by 28% since 2010, with solar power contributing to more than half of this reduction."

Ideas (Paragraphs)

Organize your ideas into coherent paragraphs. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Follow this with your evidence and analysis, explaining how this information supports your argument and relates to your thesis.

Topic sentence: "Beyond reducing carbon emissions, solar power adoption also stimulates economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector."

Evidence and analysis: "A study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that solar panel installer will be the fastest-growing job in the United States over the next decade, with an expected growth rate of 52%. This surge in employment opportunities not only helps to offset job losses in traditional energy sectors but also contributes to overall economic resilience. For example, in California, the solar industry has created over 86,000 jobs, boosting the state's economy while simultaneously reducing its carbon footprint."

This structure is followed for each body paragraph added. So, if you think you have 3 sub-topics, you will have 3 body paragraphs, stating the sub-topic followed by evidence to back your argument.

Transitions

Use transitions to link your paragraphs and ideas together smoothly. These can be words or phrases that show how one idea leads to another or how different viewpoints contrast. Good transitions help your essay flow logically and coherently.

"While solar power demonstrates significant benefits for both the environment and economy, it's essential to consider other renewable energy sources that complement its strengths and address its limitations."

Here is how a body paragraph would look like:

3.Writing the Conclusion

Your conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. It should tie together all the threads of your essay and reinforce your main points.

Summary / Synthesis

Summarize the main points you have discussed throughout the essay. This reminder helps solidify your arguments in the reader's mind.

"Throughout this essay, we've explored the multifaceted impact of renewable energy, particularly solar power, on our fight against climate change. We've seen how solar technology significantly reduces carbon emissions, stimulates economic growth through job creation, and complements other renewable energy sources. Moreover, we've examined the challenges of energy storage and distribution that come with increased reliance on solar power."

Importance of Your Topic

Explain why your topic is important or relevant. Connect the discussion back to the broader context or implications of your thesis statement.

"The transition to renewable energy sources like solar power is not just an environmental imperative; it's a pivotal moment in human history. As we face the growing threats of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss, our energy choices today will shape the world for generations to come. The widespread adoption of solar and other renewable energy sources offers a path to a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future."

Strong Closing Statement

End your conclusion with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question.

"As we stand at this critical juncture, the choice is clear: embrace the power of the sun and other renewable sources, or continue down a path of environmental degradation. By investing in solar technology, supporting policies that encourage renewable energy adoption, and making conscious energy choices in our daily lives, we can harness the immense potential of renewable energy. The future of our planet is bright - if we choose to make it so. Will you be part of this solar revolution?"

The final conclusion, including all the main functions, would look something like this:

Bonus Tips: How to Polish your Essay with WPS AI

The great thing about WPS Office isn't just that it comes equipped with everything a student in any field needs and has all the tools for you to write the perfect essay, but also that WPS AI helps you improve the quality of what you have at hand.

Grammar and Spelling Check:

WPS Office includes advanced grammar and spelling check tools that automatically identify and correct errors. This feature ensures that your writing is free of typos and grammatical mistakes, enhancing the overall readability and professionalism of your essays.

Let's say you have your completed essay open in WPS Office. With the help of WPS AI spell check, proofreading and spell-checking would become much easier. Simply click on "Accept All" to make all the necessary changes.

Style and Clarity Enhancement:

Beyond just fixing errors, WPS AI offers suggestions to improve your writing style and clarity. It helps you refine your sentence structure, choose more precise words, and eliminate unnecessary jargon. This ensures that your arguments are presented clearly and effectively, making your essays more compelling and easier to understand.

Writing Assistance:

WPS AI acts as a writing assistant, providing guidance on how to continue developing your ideas. Whether you’re stuck on how to transition between paragraphs or need help expanding on a particular point, the AI offers suggestions and tips to keep your writing process smooth and efficient. This can be especially helpful in maintaining a logical flow and ensuring that all your points are well-supported and clearly articulated.

FAQs About Starting an Essay

1. what is the purpose of the introduction in an essay.

The purpose of the introduction in an essay is to familiarize the reader with the topic, highlighting its significance and relevance. It captures the reader's interest while providing essential background information. Additionally, the introduction outlines the main points of the essay and presents the thesis statement, which acts as the core argument that forms the foundation of the entire essay. By laying out these components, the introduction clarifies the importance of the topic and prepares the reader for what lies ahead in the essay.

2. What is a topic sentence?

A topic sentence is a statement that conveys the primary idea of a paragraph. It conveys the main point and establishes the paragraph's focus, ensuring that all subsequent sentences are connected to this key idea. Every paragraph in your paper should include a topic sentence to clarify its purpose.

3. Why do I need a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is crucial because it defines the main argument of an essay, guiding the writer's direction and helping the reader understand the central focus. It serves as a roadmap for the content that follows, ensuring that all points are relevant to the main idea.

4. How can I make my essay introduction stand out?

To create a memorable essay introduction, begin with an engaging hook, such as an intriguing fact, a thought-provoking quote, or a vivid illustration. Additionally, ensure that your introduction is concise, focused, and directly related to the main topic of the essay. This approach will draw the reader in and establish a solid foundation for your argument.

Create Compelling Essays With WPS Office

Learning how to start an essay will ultimately help you transform your ideas into a compelling narrative. All you need is a prompt and a topic to craft the best essay possible. Remember to infuse your work with a bit of heart to give it a personalized touch, making your writing truly unique and engaging. WPS Office is an excellent tool to help you achieve a well-crafted essay. It assists in forming proper sentences and generating new ideas, ensuring your essay is both coherent and creative.

With features like grammar and spelling checks, style and clarity enhancement, and writing assistance, WPS Office supports you every step of the way in your writing process. Download WPS Office now and experience its capabilities for yourself. It’s designed to make essay writing easier and more efficient, allowing you to focus on expressing your ideas and arguments effectively.

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How To Summarize A Paragraph

How to Summarize a Paragraph: Steps, Techniques, & Examples

Published on: Aug 19, 2024

Last updated on: Aug 18, 2024

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Summarizing a paragraph involves creating a short version of a longer passage, focusing on its main ideas and key points.

This skill is crucial for improving your reading and writing abilities. While summarizing might seem straightforward, doing it with clarity and brevity can be challenging.

It's also important to distinguish between summarizing and paraphrasing. A paraphrase involves rewriting a passage in your own words, while a summary condenses only the main points and important details into a much shorter form.

Summarizing is essential whether you’re working on reports, essays, or just trying to grasp the core of a text. 

In this guide, we'll explore steps and techniques on how to summarize a paragraph without plagiarizing, ensuring your summaries are both clear and concise.

What is the Summary of a Paragraph? 

A summary of a paragraph is a brief restatement of the main idea and essential supporting details contained within the original text. 

It captures the core message in a concise form, typically in a few sentences or a short paragraph. 

Importance of Summarizing a Paragraph 

Summarizing a paragraph holds significant importance for various reasons:

• Helps you understand and retain the main points of a text. 
• Allows you to convey complex information clearly and efficiently.
• Allows you to grasp essential concepts quickly, which is useful for exams, assignments, and research.
• Helps in presenting information in a structured and coherent manner.
• You save time when reviewing or communicating essential points.

How to Write a Summary of a Paragraph 

Writing a summary involves refining a paragraph into its core elements while maintaining the original meaning. 

Here are the essential steps to create an effective summary:

Step #1: Read the Paragraph Thoroughly 

Start by reading the entire paragraph carefully to understand its overall meaning. 

Pay attention to the main idea and supporting details. If needed, read the paragraph several times to ensure you grasp the key points.

Step #2: Identify the Main Idea

Determine the main idea or the primary message of the paragraph. This is usually a general statement that encapsulates the central point. 

Look for topic sentences or statements that summarize the core message.

Step #3: Note the Supporting Details 

Identify the supporting details that back up the main idea. These could be examples, explanations, or evidence provided in the paragraph. 

Make brief notes on these points as they help reinforce the main idea.

Step #4: Draft the Summary 

Using your notes, write a concise version of the paragraph. Focus on including the main idea and the most important supporting details. Avoid adding new information or personal opinions. 

Your summary should be brief but informative, typically no longer than a few sentences or a short paragraph.

Step #5: Review and Revise

After drafting your summary, review it to ensure it accurately reflects the original paragraph’s content. Check for clarity, brevity, and coherence. 

Revise if necessary to improve the flow and make sure the summary is clear and to the point.

Dos and Don’ts of Summarizing a Paragraph

Summarizing a paragraph can be a straightforward task when approached correctly. To ensure your summaries are effective, follow these dos and don’ts:

How To Summarize A Paragraph - Example

To illustrate the process of summarizing a paragraph, let’s walk through an example:

Original Paragraph:

Here is how you can summarize this paragraph in your own words:

All in all, summarizing a paragraph is a valuable skill that enhances both your reading comprehension and writing efficiency. Remember the key dos and don’ts. 

By following these guidelines and practicing the R.A.T. method—Read, Annotate, Think—you’ll improve your ability to summarize effectively.

If you're wondering how to summarize a paragraph online, give our summarizer tool a try! 

For generating content online without any hassle, check out MyEssayWriter.ai - an AI essay writer | free essay writing tool !

Frequently Asked Questions

How to summarize a paragraph without plagiarizing.

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• Academic Paragraph Structure | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

Academic Paragraph Structure | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

Published on October 25, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on March 27, 2023.

Every piece of academic writing is structured by paragraphs and headings . The number, length and order of your paragraphs will depend on what you’re writing—but each paragraph must be:

• Unified : all the sentences relate to one central point or idea.
• Coherent : the sentences are logically organized and clearly connected.
• Relevant : the paragraph supports the overall theme and purpose of the paper.

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Table of contents

Step 1: identify the paragraph’s purpose, step 2: show why the paragraph is relevant, step 3: give evidence, step 4: explain or interpret the evidence, step 5: conclude the paragraph, step 6: read through the whole paragraph, when to start a new paragraph.

First, you need to know the central idea that will organize this paragraph. If you have already made a plan or outline of your paper’s overall structure , you should already have a good idea of what each paragraph will aim to do.

You can start by drafting a sentence that sums up your main point and introduces the paragraph’s focus. This is often called a topic sentence . It should be specific enough to cover in a single paragraph, but general enough that you can develop it over several more sentences.

Although the Braille system gained immediate popularity with the blind students at the Institute in Paris, it had to gain acceptance among the sighted before its adoption throughout France.

This topic sentence:

• Transitions from the previous paragraph (which discussed the invention of Braille).
• Clearly identifies this paragraph’s focus (the acceptance of Braille by sighted people).
• Relates to the paper’s overall thesis.
• Leaves space for evidence and analysis.

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The topic sentence tells the reader what the paragraph is about—but why does this point matter for your overall argument? If this isn’t already clear from your first sentence, you can explain and expand on its meaning.

This support was necessary because sighted teachers and leaders had ultimate control over the propagation of Braille resources.

• This sentence expands on the topic and shows how it fits into the broader argument about the social acceptance of Braille.

Now you can support your point with evidence and examples. “Evidence” here doesn’t just mean empirical facts—the form it takes will depend on your discipline, topic and approach. Common types of evidence used in academic writing include:

• Quotations from literary texts , interviews , and other primary sources .
• Summaries , paraphrases , or quotations of secondary sources that provide information or interpretation in support of your point.
• Qualitative or quantitative data that you have gathered or found in existing research.
• Descriptive examples of artistic or musical works, events, or first-hand experiences.

Make sure to properly cite your sources .

Many of the teachers at the Royal Institute for Blind Youth resisted Braille’s system because they found the tactile method of reading difficult to learn (Bullock & Galst, 2009).

• This sentence cites specific evidence from a secondary source , demonstrating sighted people’s reluctance to accept Braille.

Now you have to show the reader how this evidence adds to your point. How you do so will depend on what type of evidence you have used.

• If you quoted a passage, give your interpretation of the quotation.
• If you cited a statistic, tell the reader what it implies for your argument.
• If you referred to information from a secondary source, show how it develops the idea of the paragraph.

This resistance was symptomatic of the prevalent attitude that the blind population had to adapt to the sighted world rather than develop their own tools and methods.

• This sentence adds detail and interpretation to the evidence, arguing that this specific fact reveals something more general about social attitudes at the time.

Steps 3 and 4 can be repeated several times until your point is fully developed. Use transition words and phrases to show the connections between different sentences in the paragraph.

Over time, however, with the increasing impetus to make social contribution possible for all, teachers began to appreciate the usefulness of Braille’s system (Bullock & Galst, 2009). Access to reading could help improve the productivity and integration of people with vision loss.

• The evidence tells us about the changing attitude to Braille among the sighted.
• The interpretation argues for why this change occurred as part of broader social shifts.

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Finally, wrap up the paragraph by returning to your main point and showing the overall consequences of the evidence you have explored.

This particular paragraph takes the form of a historical story—giving evidence and analysis of each step towards Braille’s widespread acceptance.

It took approximately 30 years, but the French government eventually approved the Braille system, and it was established throughout the country (Bullock & Galst, 2009).

•  The final sentence ends the story with the consequences of these events.

When you think you’ve fully developed your point, read through the final result to make sure each sentence follows smoothly and logically from the last and adds up to a coherent whole.

Although the Braille system gained immediate popularity with the blind students at the Institute in Paris, it had to gain acceptance among the sighted before its adoption throughout France. This support was necessary because sighted teachers and leaders had ultimate control over the propagation of Braille resources. Many of the teachers at the Royal Institute for Blind Youth resisted learning Braille’s system because they found the tactile method of reading difficult to learn (Bullock & Galst, 2009). This resistance was symptomatic of the prevalent attitude that the blind population had to adapt to the sighted world rather than develop their own tools and methods. Over time, however, with the increasing impetus to make social contribution possible for all, teachers began to appreciate the usefulness of Braille’s system (Bullock & Galst, 2009). Access to reading could help improve the productivity and integration of people with vision loss. It took approximately 30 years, but the French government eventually approved the Braille system, and it was established throughout the country (Bullock & Galst, 2009).

Not all paragraphs will look exactly like this. Depending on what your paper aims to do, you might:

• Bring together examples that seem very different from each other, but have one key point in common.
• Include just one key piece of evidence (such as a quotation or statistic) and analyze it in depth over several sentences.
• Break down a concept or category into various parts to help the reader understand it.

The introduction and conclusion paragraphs will also look different. The only universal rule is that your paragraphs must be unified , coherent and relevant . If you struggle with structuring your paragraphs, you could consider using a paper editing service for personal, in-depth feedback.

As soon as you address a new idea, argument or issue, you should start a new paragraph. To determine if your paragraph is complete, ask yourself:

• Do all your sentences relate to the topic sentence?
• Does each sentence make logical sense in relation to the one before it?
• Have you included enough evidence or examples to demonstrate your point?
• Is it clear what each piece of evidence means and why you have included it?
• Does all the evidence fit together and tell a coherent story?

Don’t think of paragraphs as isolated units—they are part of a larger argument that should flow organically from one point to the next. Before you start a new paragraph, consider how you will transition between ideas.

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McCombes, S. (2023, March 27). Academic Paragraph Structure | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 21, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-paper/paragraph-structure/

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US voters say they’re ready for a woman president − but sexist attitudes still go along with opposition to Harris

PhD researcher, Political Science, UMass Amherst

Associate Professor, Political Science, UMass Amherst

Provost Professor of Political Science and Director of the UMass Amherst Poll, UMass Amherst

Disclosure statement

Jesse Rhodes receives funding from the National Science Foundation, the Spencer Foundation, and Demos.

Adam Eichen and Tatishe Nteta do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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Since President Joe Biden exited the presidential race on July 21, 2024, and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, Harris’ campaign has generated widespread enthusiasm and attention. She quickly became the official Democratic presidential nominee and erased Donald Trump’s lead over Biden in national and swing-state polling.

Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, have also drawn tens of thousands of supporters to their recent rallies in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada.

Although things could change dramatically over the next two-plus months, there is a real possibility that the United States may finally elect its first female president.

But in polling that we conducted in August 2024, after Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee, we found that sexism is still a powerful force in American politics.

Hope and change?

Yes, the scars of the 2016 campaign – in which sexism played a key role in Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton’s defeat by Trump – are still fresh for Democrats. But many hope that America has changed and has become more accepting of women in leadership roles.

Harris’ gender, this argument goes, won’t be a significant deterrent for voters.

On the surface, our recent nationally representative survey of 1,000 American adults supports this, with 51% of Americans agreeing with the statement: “America is ready for its first African American female president.” Only 23% of Americans disagreed.

Even so, some Republicans appear to think they can win by making gender an issue in the campaign. This is apparent in the sexist rhetoric that Trump and other Republicans are using when talking about Harris.

Trump, who has a history of making sexist statements, asserted that foreign leaders would regard Harris as a “play toy,” referred to her as unintelligent , and is now commenting on her appearance. Both The Associated Press and The New York Times have reported – based on unnamed sources – that Trump has also called Harris a “bitch” in private, although Trump’s spokesman denied he used that term.

In a similar sexist vein, Trump allies have attempted to turn Harris’ past romantic relationships into campaign issues, with one conservative commentator on Fox Business News crudely labeling Harris the “ original hawk tuah girl ,” an obscene sexual reference.

Will such attempts to exploit sexism as an electoral strategy backfire ? Or, after all these years, might it still be out of reach for a woman to overcome sexist stereotypes and win the highest office in the United States?

Understanding the importance of sexism

We are political scientists who study the role of identity in American politics and who conduct polls that explore Americans’ views on gender and the extent to which sexism still pervades the nation.

We conducted two national polls this year – one in January 2024 when Biden was still in the race, and the other in August 2024, after Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee. For each poll, we surveyed 1,000 American adults 18 and older and asked about their thoughts on the election, their policy views and their attitudes toward various groups in society.

With the change at the top of the Democratic ticket, we can better assess the impact of sexism on vote choice in the presidential election by comparing the results from January, when the race featured two male candidates, with August, when Harris entered the race.

In both surveys, we first asked respondents which candidate they would vote for if the presidential election were held today.

To measure sexism, we then asked respondents whether they agreed or disagreed with a series of three statements that express prejudice, resentment and animus toward women, or what political scientists call “ hostile sexism .” The statements in the “hostile sexism” battery are: “Women seek to gain power by getting control over men”; “Women are too easily offended”; and “Women exaggerate problems they have at work.” Greater agreement with these statements indicated more sexist views.

We also measured respondents’ demographics – including age, gender, race, education and income – their political attitudes and identities, and their racial views.

Sexism mattered, even when Biden was in the race

Due in part to Trump’s sexist rhetoric throughout his campaigns and presidency, sexist attitudes have become closely linked with whom individuals support for president . On average, more sexist individuals have tended to prefer Republican candidates in recent elections.

Thus, even in our January poll when Biden was the Democratic nominee, sexism was strongly correlated with support for Trump. When we examined a head-to-head matchup between Biden and Trump, the more individuals agreed with the statements measuring hostile sexism, the more likely they were to prefer Trump over Biden.

Of those who most strongly disagreed with the statements measuring hostile sexism, 73% supported Biden, while approximately two-thirds of those scoring highest on the sexism scale supported Trump.

Taking into consideration other factors that influence support for Biden – partisanship, ideology, racial attitudes, education, economic views and so forth – we found that those with the least sexist views had an 83% chance of supporting Biden, while those with the most sexist views had a 17% chance of doing so.

With Harris, sexism matters more

If sexism depressed individuals’ support for Biden’s candidacy, does that mean Harris faces no additional penalty in terms of lost support for her candidacy? Hardly.

Hostile sexism, as we measured it, costs Harris votes.

While sexism mattered in January, it mattered more in August once Harris had taken over the Democratic ticket.

In a head-to-head matchup between Harris and Trump, 89% of those in the lowest third on the sexism scale – meaning those who disagreed most with the statements measuring hostile sexism – support Harris compared with 11% for Trump. On the other hand, only 18% of those scoring highest on sexism support Harris, versus 82% for Trump.

When we take into account other considerations that influence whether individuals prefer Harris or Trump, our findings are even more striking. The least sexist respondents have a 92% chance of saying they will vote for Harris. But the most sexist respondents have only a 4% chance of supporting her.

What this means is that, while sexist attitudes influenced individuals’ presidential preferences when Biden was the Democratic presidential nominee, they have a greater effect now that Harris is the Democratic candidate.

Without sexism

Since Harris seems to be narrowly leading Trump in the polls, why should we care about the influence of hostile sexism in the election?

To answer this question, imagine a world in which hostile sexism doesn’t influence attitudes toward presidential candidates who are women. Our findings imply that, in such a world, Harris’ lead over Trump might be larger. Put simply, hostile sexism is helping to make the election closer than it would otherwise be.

Sexism has long played a powerful role in influencing Americans’ voting behavior and attitudes toward political issues . This is especially so today, given the high political importance of gender-related issues such as abortion, contraception and LGBTQ+ rights.

Our analysis shows that people with negative attitudes toward women are much less likely to support Harris for president. Whether the Harris campaign can successfully navigate this reality is still to be determined.

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• 2024 US presidential election

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Caring for infants from their first breath, locally, statewide and globally

Dr. Scott Guthrie, a Lipscomb alumnus and Fulbright Scholar, works to improve newborns’ health in his backyard and across the globe.

Janel Shoun-Smith | 615-966-7078 |  08/13/2023

Dr. Scott Guthrie (BA ’95) teaching neonatal care techniques at the Institute for Child Healthcare Africa in Tanzania where he helps lead what has become the largest neonatal medicine conference on the African continent.

Dr. Scott Guthrie (BA ’95) always knew he liked children and science, so going into pediatric medicine made sense.

While his undergraduate degree at Lipscomb got him the credentials he needed to move on to medical school at East Tennessee State University, it also sparked a passion in him for global health mission work.

Today the Huntsville, Alabama-native is a specialist in neonatology, professor at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the chair of the pediatric department at Ayers Children’s Medical Center at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital where he primarily works. 

He also works, however, to benefit newborns around the globe through international mission work, international research, and as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar Specialist who has worked with the government of Azerbaijan to improve their neonatal mortality rates.

As the attending neonatologist, Guthrie cares for newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of the Jackson, Tennessee, hospital. He also works with families before the birth of a baby expected to have health problems.

In fact, while working on his post-graduate training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, he was tapped to help establish the Jackson NICU, which is an affiliate of Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

As part of the establishment of the Jackson NICU, providers made it a clinical research site that has been conducting National Institutes of Health- and industry-funded research since 2009, said Guthrie. Guthrie’s research avenues have involved developing aerosolized, or breathable, versions of medications to treat respiratory distress syndrome in newborn infants in the NICU as well as a way to administer probiotics in infants to prevent a serious  inflammation of the preterm infant’s intestine.

“I have always been involved in global health in one way or another and Lipscomb was my first introduction to this,” said Guthrie.

One of his projects, carried out with the Tennessee Initiative for Perinatal Quality Care, a state organization that works to improve care for mothers and families and involving more than 61,600 babies over the course of a year, was recently accepted to be published in Pediatrics, he said.

But beyond the city or statewide level, Guthrie also works to spread better ways to care for babies using available resources to countries across the globe with educational efforts focused in the Middle East and Africa.

“I have always been involved in global health in one way or another and Lipscomb was my first introduction to this,” said Guthrie. He enjoys finding creative solutions to the challenges of health care in low-resource environments and training local health care providers to more effectively save lives.

Recently, he began working with the Institute for Child Healthcare Africa in Tanzania where he helps lead what has become the largest neonatal medicine conference on the African continent. He has additionally served as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar Specialist, and has traveled to Azerbaijan at the request of their government to teach neonatology and implement projects that helped improve the country’s neonatal mortality rate.

In 2022, Guthrie traveled to India to prepare doctors in five hospitals for a clinical trial of a new technique to treat respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants. Lipscomb Ward Fellow Kaylee Wu (BS ’23), now at Wake Forest Medical School, was selected to serve as a clinical research assistant and joined him on the trip to train providers on how to perform the technique and explain its proven effectiveness.

Harpeet Singh, Scott Guthrie, Kaylee Wu and Ryan McAdams

Wu helped prepare physicians on how to perform the new technique and explained its data and proven effectiveness. Later Wu analyzed videos of the doctors performing the procedure to assess the patients’ pain level.

Guthrie also mentored Wu as she prepared a presentation on the work done in India at the 2023 Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) Meeting, attended by more than  8,000 pediatricians from around the world, in Washington D.C., a very unusual opportunity for an undergraduate, he said.

“It’s fun to be able to influence the next generation and to help see them obtain the skills and tools needed to succeed,” said Guthrie,

“It was a lot of fun to help Kaylee through the research process and to get her to the point where she can present at an international meeting like PAS,” said Guthrie. “That’s part of what I like about mentoring. To get students excited about a career in medicine, and to maybe give them an idea they may not have thought about before. I don’t think global health was on Kaylee’s radar, but now she is enrolled in Wake’s Global Health Certificate Program while she is working on her MD.”

“It is satisfying to see someone grow, develop, mature and expand their horizons,” he said.

Guthrie said he also draws from his time at Lipscomb when working one-on-one with families at a difficult time in their lives. His study at Lipscomb, especially in bioethics within the philosophy program, has helped him to be able to sit down with a family and process the unexpected outcomes and help them make decisions in a compassionate way, he said.

“Because I may have to deal with the death of a newborn, one of the most tragic times in someone’s  life, the opportunity for spiritual discussions frequently arises. Being able to address the entire family and not to be afraid to talk about faith is very valuable,” said Guthrie.

“I’ve been asked to pray with families. I’ve been asked to baptize a child. Those things are central to people’s faith and it’s important to be able to walk with them through those periods and feel confident doing that,” he said. “Lipscomb prepared me to be able to do that and do that well.”

Guthrie mentored Kaylee Wu to prepare a presentation on the India research at the 2023 Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting, attended by more than  8,000 pediatricians from around the world, in Washington D.C.

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Trump Isn’t Finished

By Thomas B. Edsall

Mr. Edsall contributes a weekly column from Washington, D.C., on politics, demographics and inequality.

The damage inflicted on the nation during Donald Trump’s first term in office pales in comparison with what he will do if he is elected to a second term. How can we know this? The best evidence is Trump himself. He has repeatedly demonstrated his willingness to tear the country apart.

“Donald Trump and his MAGA supporters,” Sean Wilentz , a historian at Princeton, writes in a forthcoming article in Liberties,

have made it clear that they will not accept defeat in November any more than they did when Trump lost four years ago. They believe that Trump is the one true legitimate president, that those who refuse to accept this fundamental fact are the true deniers, and that any result other than Trump’s restoration would be a thwarting of history’s purpose and a diabolical act of treason. The authoritarian imperative has moved beyond Trumpian narcissism and the cultish MAGA fringe to become an article of faith from top to bottom inside the utterly transformed Republican Party, which Trump totally commands.

Like Wilentz, Laurence Tribe , a law professor at Harvard, does not mince words, writing by email:

All the dangers foreign and domestic posed by Trump’s cruelly vindictive, self-aggrandizing, morally unconstrained, reality-defying character — as evidenced in his first presidential term and in his unprecedented refusal to accept his 2020 electoral loss — would be magnified many times over in any subsequent term by three factors. First, he has systematically eroded the norms and the institutional guardrails that initially set boundaries on the damage he and his now more carefully chosen loyalist enablers are poised to do in carrying out the dangerous project to which they are jointly committed. Second, their failures to insulate themselves from electoral and legal constraints during the dry run of 2017-21 have led them to formulate far more sophisticated and less vulnerable plans for their second attempt at consolidating permanent control of the apparatus of our fragile republic. And third, their capture of the Supreme Court and indeed much of the federal judiciary has put in place devastating precedents like the immunity ruling of July 1 that will license a virtually limitless autocratic power — if, but only if, they are not stopped during the epic struggle that will reach one climax this Nov. 5 and another next Jan. 6.

The most important reason a second Trump term would be far more dangerous than his first is that if he does win this year, Trump will have triumphed with the electorate’s full knowledge that he has been criminally charged with 88 felonies and convicted of 34 of them (so far); that he has promised to “appoint a real special prosecutor to go after the most corrupt president in the history of the United States of America, Joe Biden, and the entire Biden crime family”; and that he intends to “totally obliterate the deep state” by gutting civil service protections for the 50,000 most important jobs in the federal work force, a central tenet of what he calls his “retribution” agenda.

Julie Wronski , a political scientist at the University of Mississippi, contended in an email:

The question is how much the Supreme Court presidential immunity decision will undermine institutional guardrails against Trump’s anti-democratic behavior. If there are no repercussions for his role in the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, intimidation of election officers, and casual handling of classified materials, then Trump will be emboldened to partake in such activities again. Trump has made clear that norms of governance — e.g., civility, accepting electoral defeat, and treating members of the political opposition as legitimate holders of power — do not apply to him.

While Kamala Harris has pulled even with, if not ahead of, Trump in recent polling, Republican attacks on her have yet to reach full intensity, and the outcome remains very much up for grabs.

Bruce Cain , a Stanford political scientist, voiced concerns similar to Wronski’s by email:

Trump is more erratic, impulsive, and self-interested than your average candidate and is much bolder than most in testing the boundaries of what he can get away with. In political insider lingo, he is a guy who likes to put his toes right up to the chalk line between legal and illegal activity. There is some evidence that his bad traits are getting worse with old age, but the more serious problem is the lowering of institutional and political guardrails that constrained him in the past. The decision in Trump v. the U.S. entitling a former president to “absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority” and “presumptive immunity from prosecution for all his official acts” seems to me particularly problematic. The court left open the question of how to distinguish between official and unofficial acts. Trump’s personality is such that he will without doubt test the limits of this distinction.

Timothy Snyder , a historian at Yale and an expert on the regimes of Stalin and Hitler, wrote by email in reply to my inquiry: “It would be closer to the truth to think about a second Trump administration beginning from the images of Jan. 6, 2021. That is where Trump left us and that is where he would begin.”

Unlike oligarchy and tyranny, Snyder argued,

Democracy depends upon example, and Trump sets the worst possible one. He has openly admired dictators his entire life. He would encourage Xi and Putin. The Russians make completely clear that a Trump presidency is their hope for victory in Ukraine. Allowing Russia to win that war, which I think is Trump’s likely orientation, destabilizes Europe, encourages China toward aggression in the Pacific, and undermines the rule of law everywhere.

Charles Stewart , a political scientist at M.I.T., warned in an email:

A second Trump administration would escalate the threat of authoritarian governance, most notably, by sanctioning politically motivated prosecutions. Even if the courts resisted the baldest of efforts, doing so will be costly to political opponents and also continue to silence dissent among conservatives who wish to have political careers.

In 2016 and for much of his first term, major elements of the Republican Party viewed Trump with deep suspicion, repeatedly blocking or weakening his more delusional initiatives. That’s no longer the case.

“The Republican Party is fully and totally behind Trump — the epicenter of election disruption — even after two impeachments, an insurrection and a criminal conviction,” Julian Zelizer , a historian at Princeton, pointed out in an email, adding:

The support that Trump received after Jan. 6, and the entire effort to overturn the election, demonstrates that much of the G.O.P. is fine with doing this. Now that the party knows what insurrection looks like and has given its stamp of approval by nominating Trump, we know that this is officially part of the Republican playbook.

One thing is clear: Trump would assume control of the White House in 2025 with far more power and far fewer restraints than when he took office in January 2017.

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Trump says he will renew efforts to replace ‘Obamacare’ if he wins a second term

FILE - Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump speaks at the South Texas International Airport, Nov. 19, 2023, in Edinburg, Texas. Trump says he wants to reopen the contentious fight over the Affordable Care Act. He posted on his social media site Saturday that he is “seriously looking at alternatives” to “Obamacare” if he wins a second term. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump threatened over the weekend to reopen the contentious fight over the Affordable Care Act after failing to repeal it while in the White House, saying he is “seriously looking at alternatives” if he wins a second term.

Trump’s comments drew rebuke from Democratic President Joe Biden ‘s campaign, which cast them as another “extremist” proposal from the GOP front-runner. And they rapidly moved to mobilize a response, including new advertising in battleground states contrasting Biden’s efforts to lower drug costs with Trump’s comments.

“Donald Trump is campaigning on a threat to rip away health care from millions of Americans, so we’re going to use every tool in our arsenal to make sure the American people know that lives are literally on the line next November,” said Biden campaign communications director Michael Tyler.

The back-and-forth points to what could be a key issue in a general election rematch between Trump and Biden if both win their parties’ nominations, as is widely expected.

Biden’s team has long operated under the assumption that Trump would be the GOP nominee, given his commanding lead in the polls, and has stepped up efforts in recent weeks to cast his proposals as extreme and to paint him as a danger to democracy. Biden, in particular, has begun painting a vision of a catastrophic future if Trump wins — a strategy that could motivate lukewarm Democratic voters who may be driven more by a desire to stop Trump than to deliver a second term to Biden amid lingering concerns over high inflation , the direction of the country and his age .

Health care has generally been a better issue for Democrats than Republicans, who have largely abandoned efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act in recent years.

And Biden’s campaign quickly seized the opportunity. Beyond the new ads, the campaign will host a press call Tuesday with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper to highlight the potential impact of repealing the law, while state Democratic parties in swing states will host their own events.

“Donald Trump’s America is one where millions of people lose their health insurance and seniors and families across the country face exorbitant costs just to stay healthy. Those are the stakes next November,” Biden-Harris 2024 spokesperson Ammar Moussa said in a statement.

Trump has not spent much time discussing health care as he has laid out an aggressive agenda for a potential second term that has focused on immigration crackdowns and mass deportations, as well as efforts to target political rivals.

But Trump weighed in on the issue Saturday morning on his Truth Social site.

“The cost of Obamacare is out of control, plus, it’s not good Healthcare. I’m seriously looking at alternatives,” he wrote. “We had a couple of Republican Senators who campaigned for 6 years against it, and then raised their hands not to terminate it. It was a low point for the Republican Party, but we should never give up!”

He was referring to July 2017, when the late Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., blocked Trump’s long effort to repeal the health care law, which has proven increasingly popular.

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About 6 in 10 Americans say they have a favorable opinion of the health reform bill signed into law in 2010, known commonly as the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare, according to a KFF poll conducted in May 2023 .

A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll found 37% of Americans trust Democrats to do a better job than Republicans on handling health care, versus about 1 in 5 — 18% — who trust Republicans over Democrats on this issue. About one-third (34%) trust neither party.

Still, a June 2023 AP-NORC poll showed a minority of U.S. adults — 44% — approving of how Biden was handling health care, with 53% disapproving. That included 69% of Democrats and 17% of Republicans — measurements in line with Biden’s overall job approval.

Trump’s comments came in response to a Wall Street Journal op-ed he shared highlighting concerns raised by Sens. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Mike Braun, R-Ind., that large insurance companies are using their pharmacies “to evade federal requirements that limit the percentage of premium dollars spent on profits and administration, known as the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR), resulting in sky-high prescription drug costs and excessive corporate profits.”

Biden’s Health and Human Services Department says more than 40 million are insured through coverage related to provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

Moussa said Trump “would try to rip it away if he returns to power. He was one vote away from getting it done when he was president — and we should take him at his word that he’ll try to do it again.”

___ Colvin reported from New York. Linley Sanders contributed to this report.