Hooks and Attention Grabbers in Essay, Essays (university) of Creative writing

Download Hooks and Attention Grabbers in Essay and more Essays (university) Creative writing in PDF only on Docsity! Hooks and Attention Grabbers The first sentence of your introduction is the first chance a writer has to capture the attention of the reader. Some people call this a “hook” because it captures a reader’s attention with interesting statements and ideas just like a fisherman will use a shiny lure to get a fish on his or her hook. Just like a fisherman considers the kind of fish he wants to catch before he chooses a hook. It is important to consider who your reader or audience is before you decide which type of attention grabber you will use for your essay. Once you have an interesting opening for your introduction, you should be able to introduce your topic then lead your reader gradually towards your main point – your thesis. Take a look at this example introduction paragraph: There are several different ways to grab the attention of your reader: 1. A definition: While dictionary definitions are ok, most people find them to be quite dry. Try to paraphrase, or write your own unique take on a definition whenever you can. “When we intentionally make false statements, we lie. Lies are regarded as sins, vices, transgressions, and immoral offences.” “Business is more than just an exchange of funds for services or goods.” 2. A quotation or paraphrase: If you use a quote, make sure that it is relevant to your topic, background information or your thesis in some way. Avoid over-used quotes or clichés, or if you must, try to put your own original spin on an old cliché. “The playwright George Bernard Shaw provided us with the memorable definition ‘Those who can, do. Those who can’t, teach.’ The film director Woody Allen took the definition one step further: ‘Those who can’t teach, teach gym’.” “Everyone has heard the old saying “Time flies,” but I never expected the truth to be so literal. Introduction How can a writer expect to get a reader’s attention without a good hook? The first sentence of an essay is often overlooked by writers, but readers depend on it to set the tone for the whole essay. Writing a good hook isn’t always easy, but it is an important skill to learn if you want to write effectively. Attention grabber Thesis Background information