How to Write an Introduction Paragraph in a Persuasive Essay
Arguments are made every day on issues as important as international
relations or as seemingly mundane as what to have for dinner. Because of
this, being able to develop and write a well-rounded persuasive essay is an
important skill. A strong persuasive essay starts with an introductory
paragraph that outlines the matter of discussion and takes a stand on the
issue at hand.
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1
Know your audience. Your introductory paragraph in a
persuasive essay is your first attempt to pull the reader onto
your side of a debate. If your reader doesn’t become
interested in your introduction, it is doubtful he will want to
continue reading, let alone be called to act by the end of the
paper.
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2
Keep in mind who will read your essay when determining what
material to include. This will help you to determine how to best
make your argument to the reader. For example, if you are
trying to convince a group of athletes to include more raw
vegetables in their diet, you could mention that the nutrients
in vegetables will help increase strength and endurance. If you
are trying to persuade teachers to give less homework, you
could base your argument on how student morale enhances
academic performance.
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3
Develop a thesis for your essay. This should be one idea that
summarizes the intent of your essay. In a persuasive essay, it
is generally known as a “call to action,” or a statement that
indicates how you want your reader to proceed after reading
your paper. For example, if your paper is about censorship in
media, your thesis statement should clearly indicate whether
you are for or against the practice. So if you are against
censorship, your essay should encourage your reader to
protest. If you are for censorship, your essay should push your
reader to demonstrate her support.
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4
Write an attention-grabbing lead sentence for your persuasive
essay. For example, if your essay is about imploring your
readers to spay and neuter your pet, you could start with a
sentence that informs your readers how many pets are put to
sleep each year due to overpopulation. This will appeal to your
audience’s interest and encourage them to read further.
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5
Expand on the lead sentence within the next two or three
sentences in your paragraph. Offer more factual information
about your essay’s argument. Remember to keep your audience
in mind. Based on who your primary audience is, determine
whether they are most likely to be in agreement, opposed to or
neutral to your argument. Include statements that will best
appeal to their specific interests.
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6
Close your introduction paragraph with your thesis statement.
This should be one to two sentences in length at most. Your
intent should be concise and clear, but this statement must
also serve as a fluid transition to the body of your essay. An
example of a thesis sentence is, “Throughout the course of
this essay, I intend to prove that volunteering at neighborhood
nonprofit organizations not only benefits the community as a
whole, but the volunteer as an individual.”