Types of Attention Getters

A hook is an opening statement (which is usually the first sentence) in an essay that attempts to grab the reader’s attention so that they want to read on.

Try these creative hook ideas for essays:

1. Start with a question. Asking your readers to think about the topic is a great way to get them ready to hear more.
2. Use descriptive words. Creating a picture in the reader’s mind can make him or her feel connected to your writing.
3. Leave it a mystery.

The topic for this paragraph should be in the first or second sentence. This topic should relate to the thesis statement in the introductory paragraph. The last sentence in this paragraph should include a transitional concluding hook that signals the reader that this is the final major point being made in this paper.

List of Hook Sentence Examples for Ideas

• Some of the best role models for teens are…
• Getting inspired to do good come from…
• The best way to get homework papers done is to…
• Why is it so hard to…?
• The photo of…
• One of the most shocking facts to date is about…
• A top business secret to know is…

• Personal Reference. Personal Reference.
• Rhetorical Questions, Q&A, Questions. Questions.
• Humor. Humor, handled well, can be a wonderful attention getter.
• Quotations/Using Explaining Famous Words on the Topic.
• Startling Statistic/Series of Facts.
• Illustration.
• Curiosity.
• Guided Imagery.

A good hook—whether it uses action, emotion, a strong statement, or another technique—will have your reader guessing about your characters’ motivations, backstories, and more. Instead, set up a scene that leads your reader to come up with the question on their own. Stay away from description.

• 15 Things You Should Be Able to Say About Yourself.
• I followed my heart.
• I believe in myself.
• I live by high standards.
• I treat others the way I want to be treated.
• I understand how precious time is.
• I look for positivity in all things.
• I trust my intuition.