The Perfect Hook
The first sentence of your essay must grab the reader's attention like a fish on a hook.
Strategy 1: Stats 📊
Startle the reader with an unexpected number or fact related to your topic. It proves your topic is important immediately.
Strategy 2: Question ❓
Make the reader think by asking a thought-provoking question. Do not answer it immediately; let the essay answer it.
Strategy 3: Bold 💥
Make a strong, somewhat controversial statement that forces the reader to want to see your explanation.
Never start with a definition!
"According to the dictionary, technology is..." ❌
"The smartphone in your pocket has more computing power than..." ✅
Quick Check ⚡
Mission 🎯
Mission 🎯
Mission 🎯
Mission 🎯
Video Lesson
Ask a Question 🙋♂️
Recent Questions
Yes! A famous quote is actually a great 4th strategy. Just make sure the quote is directly related to your topic and you explain HOW it relates in the next sentence. 💬
Is a rhetorical question too informal for IELTS?
It depends! Sometimes it can feel a bit too conversational for a strict academic essay. For IELTS, a Bold Statement or a Surprising Fact is usually safer and sounds more academic. 🎓
How long should a hook be?
Usually just 1 or 2 sentences! You want to get straight to the point, then move quickly into your background information and thesis statement. Keep it short and powerful! ⚡
Can I use a quote as a hook?