This is a question that many an essay writer wrestles with whenever they pick up their pen. How can I capture the reader’s attention? Below, I have put together a paragraph on some techniques one can employ to have that very captivating essay introduction. I hope that readers can use the note below in their CXC prep/ CSEC prep to create their dream essays. The note is found below.
A compelling introduction sets the tone for your essay and captures the reader’s attention. One effective technique is to begin with a relevant quote that ties into your topic, sparking interest and adding authority. One example is, “According to Thomas Edison, the family is the foundation of a country.”
Another technique is to use a rhetorical question, which engages the reader and encourages them to think about the subject. One example of this is, “Isn’t it high time we banned the internet in schools?”
A startling fact or statistic can also hook the reader by highlighting the importance or urgency of the topic. One example of a startling statistic is, “According to the WHO, 95 percent of children between the ages of one to five in the Amazon are unvaccinated.”
Starting with a brief anecdote or story can make the topic feel relatable and human. One example of a short anecdote is, “At thirteen, Maria walked three miles each day to get to school, balancing books on her head and dreams in her heart. Her village had no electricity, but that didn’t stop her from studying under a kerosene lamp each night. Today, she’s a university graduate who teaches in the same village she once walked through as a child.”
You can also begin with a definition of a key term, especially if it’s central to the essay. One example of a definition of a key term is, “Globalization is the growing interconnectedness of the world via the internet.”
Finally, contextualizing the issue—providing background information or explaining why the topic matters—helps orient the reader. One example of contextualizing the issue is as follows: “Over the past decade, social media has transformed the way people communicate, form relationships, and view themselves. With billions of users worldwide, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) have become daily habits for many, especially teenagers and young adults. While these platforms offer entertainment and connection, rising concerns about their effects on mental health—such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem—have sparked widespread debate among psychologists, educators, and parents.”
Whatever technique you use, end your introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines the main argument or direction of the essay. This gives your writing purpose and structure.
An essay using one of these techniques is found here – https://theonlinescholarinstitute.com/2025/03/29/social-studies-essay-discuss-the-impact-of-crime-on-economic-development-in-the-caribbean/
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