Writing
Hook
A hook is the opening of your essay designed to grab readers' attention and make them want to continue reading. It's the front door to your argument.
Types of Hooks
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Startling statistic | Data-driven arguments |
| Provocative question | Engaging reader directly |
| Vivid anecdote | Humanizing abstract issues |
| Striking quote | Borrowing authority |
| Contradiction | Challenging assumptions |
Examples
Statistic: "Every 11 minutes, a teenager attempts suicide in the United States—a rate that has increased 56% since 2007."
Question: "What if the very technology designed to connect us is actually driving us apart?"
Anecdote: "Maya had always been a straight-A student until her junior year, when her grades began slipping as she spent more time crafting the perfect Instagram posts."
Common Mistakes
- Too broad — "Throughout history, people have always..."
- Dictionary definition — "According to Merriam-Webster..."
- Clichéd — "In today's society..." or "Since the beginning of time..."
- Irrelevant — Not connecting to your actual argument
You have about 30 seconds to capture your reader's attention. Make it count.
Quick Tips
- Match your hook to your essay's tone
- Ensure it connects to your thesis
- Be specific rather than general
- Test it: Would you want to keep reading?
Go Deeper
Ready to master the art of the hook? Our interactive guide breaks down hook-writing with examples, frameworks, and step-by-step techniques.