Writing Strong Introductions and Conclusions

First and Last Impressions

Introduction Strategies

Your introduction should grab attention, provide context, and present your thesis. Effective hooks include:

• Surprising statistic: "90% of students admit to procrastinating on essays."


• Provocative question: "What if everything you learned about grammar was wrong?"


• Brief anecdote: A relevant story that illustrates your topic


• Bold statement: A claim that challenges conventional thinking

Avoid: dictionary definitions, extremely broad opening statements ("Since the dawn of time..."), and announcing your intentions ("In this essay I will...")

Conclusion Strategies

Your conclusion should synthesize, not summarize. Restate your thesis in new language, discuss broader implications, and end memorably.

• Circle back to your opening hook


• Pose a thought-provoking question


• Call to action


• Look toward the future