Four Examples of Introductory Paragraph for Your Essay or Paper
  • 3-minute read
  • 30th October 2023

Four Examples of Introductory Paragraph for Your Essay or Paper

Writing an academic paper comes with many challenges, not the least of which is fleshing out an introductory paragraph. Knowing where to start can often be tricky.

But fear not! In today’s post, we provide four examples of introductory paragraphs for different types of essays. We hope these examples will give you some inspiration to start writing.

1. Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay clearly defines the author’s stance on a topic or debate, often providing evidence and looking at both sides of an issue.

Example Introduction

As society becomes increasingly interconnected, the debate over whether individuals should have an absolute right to privacy online intensifies. While some argue that total privacy is essential to prevent the potential misuse of personal data, others believe that a certain level of surveillance can help maintain national security. To examine the balance between personal rights and collective safety, we need to look at the nuances of the online privacy debate.

Why the Paragraph Works

It engages with current issues: By referencing the current interconnected nature of society, the introduction places the essay in a contemporary context and makes the topic relatable to the reader.

It clearly states the debate: The writer presents two opposing views on online privacy in a clear, simple, and succinct way.

It sets expectations: The essay makes the reader aware that it will explore both sides of the debate.

2. Descriptive Essay

In descriptive essays, you describe something, such as a place or an experience, in vivid detail. These essays often employ imagery and descriptive language.

Example Introduction

The sun begins to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore fills the air. The beach at twilight, with its serene ambiance and beauty, offers a momentary escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Soft laughter echoes in the distance as families pack up for the day after spending hours in the sun.

Why the Paragraph Works

It provides vivid imagery: The descriptions of the sunset and the waves instantly create a picture in the reader’s mind.

It evokes emotion: The mention of an escape from daily life elicits a sense of calm, peace, and longing.

It maintains concision: The introduction is short but powerful in setting the mood; it shows rather than telling.

3. Compare and Contrast Essay

In a compare and contrast essay, you discuss two subjects by looking at their similarities and differences.

Example Introduction

Both 1984, by George Orwell, and Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley, present dystopian visions of the future, but they approach societal control in strikingly different ways. While Orwell’s Oceania uses fear and surveillance as its primary tools, Huxley’s World State employs pleasure and conditioning. This essay aims to dissect the distinctive methods each author uses to convey their warnings about the future of humanity.

Why the Paragraph Works

It presents the subjects: The introduction clearly identifies the two works being compared.

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It highlights the main differences: The primary contrasts between the two works are introduced up front.

It sets the course: The reader knows that the essay will delve deeper into how each author conveys their message.

4. Personal Narrative Essay

A personal narrative essay tells a story about a personal experience you’ve had.

Example Introduction

I vividly remember the day I found that old, dusty guitar in my grandmother’s attic. It wasn’t just a relic from the past; it was a gateway to a world of music and self-discovery. This journey, starting from the strum of a single chord, reshaped my life in ways I had never anticipated.

Why the Paragraph Works

It provides a personal touch: The introduction gives a hint of personal significance and the transformative power of the experience.

It sets an intriguing scene: The opening line paints a picture, placing the reader at the scene and sparking curiosity about how it impacted the writer’s life.

It resonates emotionally: By mentioning self-discovery and life-changing moments, the introduction connects with readers on an emotional level.

Conclusion

Feeling inspired? We hope this post helped you to come up with some ideas for the introductory paragraph of your essay or paper. And once you have a first draft, make sure you send it our way for editing and a final proofread.

We’ll check your work for grammar, spelling, word choice, readability, formatting, consistency, referencing, and more! We’ll even proofread your first 500 words for free.

FAQs

What makes an introductory paragraph effective?

An introductory paragraph should introduce the topic clearly, intrigue the reader, and set accurate expectations for what the rest of the essay will cover.

What are the different types of essays?

Some common types of student essays are narrative, descriptive, compare and contrast, persuasive, argumentative, expository, and process.

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