Writing the introductory paragraph can feel like a frustrating and slow process -- but it doesn't have to be. If you planned your paper out, then most of the introductory paragraph is already written. Now you just need a beginning and an end.

Here's your chance to introduce your topic and grab your reader's attention.  NEVER start your paper saying, "In this paper, I will" or "This paper is about." Start strong.  In your research, have you come across an odd factoid or interesting quote? Try starting your paper with that. How about starting with an anecdotal story or humor?

 Anecdote  Quotations  Facts or Statistics  Current Events  Contrast to the Thesis

 Personal Example ◦ My life was transformed on my 12 th birthday when I pulled back the wrapping on my gift and saw the word “Droid” on the box beneath.  Quotations ◦ “Bad human communication leaves us less room to grow.”

 Facts or Statistics ◦ The world is a dangerous place, but it might be worse without cell phones. In fact, 40 percent of mobile phones owners said they found themselves in an emergency situation and having their cell phone helped.  Current Events ◦ Recently there has been a movement to add cell phone technology to the number of tools used in the classroom.

 Contrast to the thesis statement ◦ Cell phones are, perhaps, the most annoying invention of our generation. However, as annoying as they are, no one who has one wants to give it up.

 Usually, the middle sentences cover the points in your paper. Since you've already planned which order to write the points, you already know which order to place them in your introductory paragraph. You don't have to include every single point, but make sure the important ones get in there.  You should have about 3 bridge sentences

 All the previous sentences have been building up to this: your thesis. Your thesis statement expresses the overall idea of your paper and show where you stand on the topic.  Use your research question to guide your thesis statement

1. Avoid telling the reader that you are beginning your essay: In this essay, I will discuss... I will talk about... I am going to prove Do not use second person you as if your reader were sitting next to you.