Introductory Paragraph
The introduction to your paper, the first paragraph, is one of the most important elements of writing a good paper. It should include an opening sentence that will make your reader want to keep reading. There should be three or four sentences that briefly state the details that you will discuss in your paper, and you should state your thesis. For more information, read this article.
What is a thesis?
A thesis is the reason for the paper. Why are you writing it? What are you trying to convince your reader to believe? What is the purpose of the paper? A strong thesis should be stated in one sentence, and should make clear your purpose. For some great examples of thesis statements, both good and bad, check out this article.
Hook your reader
A "hook" is the first sentence of your paper. This sentence should be interesting and "hook" your reader into reading the rest of your paper. Pick up five or six books and read the first sentence. What do you notice? Why do you keep reading? There are many different types of hooks that are effective. For some ideas about types of sentences that make good hooks, go here.
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