6 Ways to Conquer the Essay Opener
Coming up with the 1st line of any essay is no easy task! Often students just face a blank.
Here's some help:
1. The poignant quote
Start with a quote to instantly show your insight on the topic. But, ensure the quote is relevant to the topic and that the author is respected:
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
2. The astonishing stat
Find a stand-out stat that will make a reader go whaaat?
In a recent poll, more than 60% of college students admitted to cheating.
*Make sure to provide a source for the stat at the end or in the footnotes.
3. The intriguing question
Begin with a question that provokes thought & introduces the wider essay topic. Depending on the question, you can either answer it or not:
What would you do if you could go back in time and change history?Should skateboarding become a permanent Olympic sport? Absolutely.
>
4. The fascinating fact
Choose a compelling fact that you think your reader wouldn't already know and that would inspire them to read on.
There are places today where people - mostly women - can still go to jail for practicing witchcraft.
>
5. The notable timeline
Start with a date or a timeline. It can be either historical, futuristic or rooted in present times. The trick is making sure it will pique a reader's curiosity.
Scientists predict that in just 30 years, koala bears will be extinct.
>
6. The personal anecdote
Connect with readers by telling them a personal story in a first-person essay. It can be funny, inspiring, even sad - just make sure it reflects your personal experience.
When I was eight years old, my best friend was a Martian.
>
And here's our number 1 tip:
Don't be afraid to take a risk! It's how we figure out what works and what doesn't.
>
>
PSST! This list originally appeared on our Instagram page, which you can follow here!