Types of Introductory Paragraphs:
There are several ways in which a writer can arouse his readers’ interest and entice them to continue
reading through the introductory paragraph. Some of the common introductions are:
1. Rhetorical Questions
One of the common types of introductory paragraphs starts with a series of provocative and
inspiring questions about a certain topic. It ends with a specific statement which demonstrates
the writer’s perspective or answers to these questions, followed by the thesis statement.
Example:
If no one is making sure a procedure is being followed, how trustworthy is the system? There has
got to be a better way to monitor. Advanced technology should be used to make sure a
procedure is being followed.
2. Interesting Facts or Statistics
Another type of introductory paragraph is the one which begins with introducing interesting
facts or statistics. This requires vast knowledge regarding the subject matter. As such, readers
should expand their familiarity with the topic by referring back to newspapers and news articles.
Example:
Over 2 billion selfies alone were taken in the past year, according to Facebook. This large number
might not be too alarming to the average modern day social media user…..
3. Anecdote
This type of introduction begins with a short anecdote, a brief event which illustrates one’s
topic. This could be based on the author’s personal experience or someone else’s.
Example:
On a cold, rainy day, Sarah Dawson was supposed to meet her parents at the ice-skating arena,
but that didn’t happen….
4. Historical Introduction
The writer should start the introductory paragraph with historical background information.
Example:
The Cold War was a state of geopolitical tension between the United States and its allies and the
Soviet Union….
5. General to Specific
This is one of the most common types of introductory paragraphs. It starts with a general
statement of the larger topic. Then, it narrows down to a specific idea.
Example:
Social media has become a huge part of people’s daily lives. Many people spend over 3 hours a
day using social media. The issue is whether or not social media platforms such as Facebook, are
causing people to become more obsessed with their physical appearance than in previous
years….
6. Quotation
In this type of introduction, the author would start with a quote or proverb related to the topic
being addressed, and then would relate the quote to the topic of the essay.
Example:
“First came the cola wars. Next came the juice and iced-tea wars. Now beverage giants like Coke
and Pepsi are about to fight another beverage battle: the water wars. And the market may never
be the same.” Globalization has resulted in positive and negative effects…..
7. Definition
Another type of introduction would start with a definition of an important issue, mainly the
topic discussed in the essay.
Example:
Globalization is the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international
influence or start operating on an international scale. Arguably, the biggest threat to minority
cultures these days is globalization…..