Similar to an unexpected fact, a hook that dispels a common misconception surprises the reader and educates them about something they likely misunderstood. For example, an argumentative essay in support of new recycling policies might hook readers with a bleak description of what happens to batteries and other hazardous materials when they aren’t recycled. 5Ī description focuses on specific imagery related to the essay’s subject.
An example of an anecdote hook is a persuasive essay about rerouting traffic on campus that starts with a personal story of a vehicular close call. A personal story makes the essay relatable, creating familiarity with the reader that makes them want to read more. 4Īnecdotes are often used as hooks in personal essays.
Quotes are often used as essay hooks because they’re succinct, often recognizable, and when they’re from an expert source, they can support the writer’s position.įor example, an analytical essay comparing two books might hook readers with a quote from one of the books’ authors that sets the tone for the rest of the essay and gives a glimpse into that author’s work. In any case, they set the tone for the rest of the essay by supporting the writer’s position from the outset.
The hook could be a fact or statistic that’s well-known and frames the topic in a relatable way, or it could be a completely unexpected or seemingly unintuitive one that surprises the reader. For example, an essay about elementary student literacy might hook readers with a statistic about the percentage of fourth graders that are proficient readers. When an essay discusses scientific subjects, social issues, current events, or controversial subjects, a fact or statistic related to the essay’s topic can be a compelling hook. As they continue to read, the writer’s arguments challenge the reader’s answer and may change their mind. For example, an essay might start with the question “Is it ethical to eat animals?” Before reading the rest of the essay, the reader answers the question in their mind. Rhetorical questions are popular essay hooks because they make readers think. For example, an unexpected statistic in an essay’s first line can tell the reader that the rest of the essay will dispel myths and shed light on the essay’s topic. If the reader isn’t engaged within the first few lines, they’ll likely stop reading.Īn essay hook also sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Hooks for essays are always in the first section because this is where the essay needs to hook its reader. In most cases, the hook is the first sentence or two, but it may be the entire opening paragraph. Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly What is an essay hook?Īn essay hook is a sentence or two that piques the reader’s interest, compelling them to continue reading.
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