The introduction to a piece of persuasive writing has two main jobs:

To “hook” the reader’s attention. To introduce the topic of the piece of writing.

Persuasive writing is a little tricky because no one really wants to be persuaded. As a writer, you have to be subtle. You need to address your audience and show that you understand the reader’s point of view, while also stating your position clearly.

Let’s look at some bad examples of introductions. What do you notice?

Position: People should use reusable water bottlesAudience: Students

Example Why is this a poor introduction?

You probably don’t know how bad it is to use disposable water bottles. Plastic water bottles are terrible! Well, you are in luck because I am going to show you all of the reasons why you should use reusable water bottles. Hey you! Yes, I’m talking to you! Step away from the water bottle. Yeah, it looks nice and good, but it’s really terrible.

E. Kissner 2013

Writing an Introductionto a persuasive essay

In fact, a well-written introduction to a persuasive piece of writing should include these elements:

An interesting “hook” to get the reader’s attention

A statement that shows that you understand the reader’s point

of view (a concession statement)

A clearly stated position

Read the introduction below. Find all three parts of a good introduction and label the boxes.

Now, you will write the introduction to your persuasive essay. Use the boxes

E. Kissner 2013

Imagine 29 billion water bottles, stretched

end to end. Would they fill up a forest? A

meadow? All of the places that you love?

Cheap, convenient water bottles are an easy

way to quench your thirst. It might seem

simple to just buy a quick water bottle to

take on a hike or to a sports event. After all,

Americans use 29 billion plastic water

bottles each year. But these water bottles

are not the bargain that they seem. Cheap

plastic water bottles waste resources,

create pollution, and cause more problems

than they solve.

Crafting Your Introduction

and the lines below to include the important elements.

E. Kissner 2013

HookBegin by putting an idea in your reader’s mind. Start with a concrete image, a quote, or a startling fact.

ConcessionWrite a sentence or two to show that you understand your reader’s point of view.

Position StatementWrite your position and your reasons in a sentence.