Tips For Writing An Engaging Argumentative Essay Introduction

Want to write an excellent starting for your argumentative essay? 

Well! Introduction for an argumentative essay must be engaging. Because in this part, you’ll grab your reader's attention by your argument. 

Ok! Let’s revise definition of argumentative essay:

“In an argumentative essay, you express an opinion on a particular issue and provide evidence to support it. The purpose is to convince the reader by using logic, facts, and counterarguments. It shows why your viewpoint is right.”

Therefore, how you start can decide if your reader keeps reading or moves on.

But how do you start an argumentative essay to keep them interested? 

In this article, I’ll share effective tips to help you create an introduction that captivates your audience from the first line.

Why should you make your argumentative essay introduction impressive?

Alright! It’s crucial to start your argumentative essay with an impressive introduction. 

It’s the first thing your reader sees and it can make all the difference.

An introduction does more than just introduce your topic. 

It hooks your reader and makes them want to keep reading. It also gives some background information so the reader understands the context of your argument. 

What do you think? Is this enough to write an argumentative essay introduction?

No! 

The most important part is your thesis statement. 

This is where you clearly show your position on the topic. 

A strong introduction guides readers for the rest of your essay to read further or not!

It will show them to your arguments step by step. 

When done right, it not only holds appeal but also helps make your points clearer and more convincing.

Basic parts of an argumentative essay

First, let’s explore the argumentative essay format for better understanding. It will help you to make a map in your mind of what to write from start to end.

Hence, to write an argumentative essay, follow this writing structure:

1. Introduction

Here you set up your argument. 

First, give some background information on the topic and explain why it’s important. This helps your reader understand why they should care. 

Then, present your thesis statement. 

This is the main point of your essay. It shows what you’ll argue. 

Make sure your thesis is clear and focused. You can even start with a question your thesis answers to make it more interesting.

2. Body paragraph

Each of your body paragraphs should focus on one idea that supports your thesis. 

Keep each paragraph clear and to the point. 

But one question here is: How many body paragraphs should an argumentative essay have? 

Well! It depends on how complex your argument is. But usually, it’s more than three paragraphs. 

How will you make it more impactful?

Use evidence like facts, examples, or reasons to back up your argument. 

Don’t just present the evidence! Explain why it supports your main point. 

You should also mention other opinions on the topic. Also explain why your viewpoint is stronger or more up-to-date.

3. Evidential support

Your essay needs strong evidence to support your argument. 

This could be facts, statistics, or personal examples. 

But make sure the evidence you use is accurate and relevant. 

Moreover, it’s also important to consider other viewpoints. You don’t have to agree, but explain why their points might be weak or less relevant. 

A comprehensive argument shows you’ve thought about all sides of the issue.

4. Conclusion

Do you conclude your argumentative essay with new information?

If you do, you should stop doing this!

Instead, summarize your main points and restate your thesis. 

Here you should also take help from our AI summarizer. This tool will conclude your argumentative essay more effectively. 

In your conclusion, remind the reader why your point matters. You can also suggest areas for further research. 

A strong conclusion ties everything together and leaves a lasting impact.

Different types of argumentative essay 

Alright! There are three types of argumentative essays. On the basis of your arguments, you have to select one. 

Means how complicated it would be. So, let’s see them so it should be easy for you to pick the suitable argumentative essay format for you.

1. Aristotelian (Classic) argument

It’s a simple and popular way! 

First you start with introducing the problem, then you share your perspective. 

After that, you explain the opposing view and show why it's not as strong. 

You support your own viewpoint with clear evidence and end with a strong conclusion. 

This argumentative essay structure mixes logic, emotions, and credibility to convince the reader. So, you can show that your side is the right one. 

It works well when you want to argue for something clearly and directly.

2. Toulmin argument

This method is great for complex issues that don’t have clear answers!

It focuses on logic and evidence to support your claim. 

So first of all, you should state your main argument, then give reasons and facts to back it up. 

To make it more impactful, you can also explain how these reasons connect to your claim. 

Moreover, you add more evidence and acknowledge the other side’s arguments. 

Using this method, it would be helpful for you to break down complicated arguments against a different point of view.

3. Rogerian argument

Here you have to find mutual agreement!

It’s good when you’re talking to an audience with different views. 

Start your explanation with the other side’s perspective. Then show that you understand it. 

After that, you share your own viewpoint and show where both sides can agree. 

By doing this, you can make it easier for people to accept your perspective. 

This method works best when you want to create a balanced and respectful argument.

What to include in the starting of your argumentative essay?

Now, let’s come to the main topic! Your argumentative essay introduction!

Can you guess what the format will be?

Maybe you can, because I’ve discussed the argumentative essay structure above. 

But here I’ll discuss the outline for the introduction of your argumentative essay.

1. The hook

The hook is the first sentence of your essay. So, try to captivate your readers here. 

You want something that surprises, challenges, or intrigues them. 

A shocking fact, a question, or an interesting statement works well. It should be related to your topic and make the reader want to keep going. 

2. Background information

After your hook, you’ve to give your reader some background on the topic. This helps them understand the issue that you’re addressing. 

You can explain why the topic is important, its history, or the ongoing debates around it. 

This will help you to initiate your argument and also provide the context. 

3. Thesis statement

The most important part of the introduction?

Your thesis statement! 

It’s where you clearly state your main argument on the topic. 

It should be specific and direct. This statement gives the reader a roadmap of what to expect in your essay. 

How should you write an engaging argumentative essay introduction?

Got the concept?

Now, you should start writing your argumentative essay introduction!

Following are the easy steps to take an impressive start of your argumentative essay:

1. Do proper research about your topic

Primarily, make sure you know your topic thoroughly. 

Don’t just cover only the basics, do a complete research!

Understand the issues, statistics, and the different sides of the argument. 

This will help you present a stronger reason. 

Ok! I will take an argumentative essay example and explain all the steps using it. 

Let’s say you’re writing about “The harm of single-use plastics”. 

So, you should research the environmental impact, the statistics on plastic waste, and the global movement toward banning single-use plastics. 

This knowledge will strengthen your viewpoint.

2. Create a hook to engage the reader

The first sentence of your introduction should appeal to your readers. 

You need something compelling! 

Like a surprising fact, an intriguing question, or an impactful statement. 

Well! You might hook readers with a shocking statistic.

Particularly, “Every year, 8 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans. It harms marine life and pollutes our planet.” 

3. Explain the background information

Make your readers understand the context.

It can be done when you provide some basic background.

Don’t go too deep into the details, just focus on the reasons why the topic matters. 

You may explain like this:

Single-use plastics are products designed for one-time use. Such as plastic bags and water bottles. 

Moreover, demonstrate how they are a major source of pollution. 

This will make your reader realize why the topic is crucial and relevant.

4. Present the problem

Now that your reader has some background, it’s time to clearly state the problem. 

What’s interesting? Why should the reader care? 

Let’s continue the argumentative essay example!

Single-use plastics are a big problem for the environment. They pollute our oceans, harm wildlife, and are hard to recycle.

This part of your introduction should show why the issue is important. It prepare the reader for your main argument.

5. Mention your thesis statement clearly

Your thesis is the core of your argument, so make sure it’s clear and specific. 

This is where you take a firm stand. 

For example, 

Here the thesis can be, “To protect the environment and wildlife, single-use plastics must be banned globally.” 

6. Edit and review your introduction

Once you’ve written your introduction, don’t forget to revise it!

Look for any grammar mistakes, complex phrases, or ideas that might be unclear. 

If you find any, use our paragraph rewriter to remove all these errors. This tool will make your introduction more readable and engaging for your readers. 

Make sure your introduction progresses effortlessly from the hook to the thesis statement. 

Moreover, I’ve also written a detailed guide on explanatory essays. You’ll explore writing steps and examples of explanatory essays. 

Wrapping up

A good introduction is very important for your argumentative essay. It appeals to your reader.

Follow the steps that I’ve discussed above. It will help you to engage your readers impressively and make them want to keep reading. 

Keep it clear and to the point. So, you'll have an introduction that makes your argument stronger. 

Ready to start writing? Go ahead and give it a try!

Frequently asked questions

What words can I use to start an argumentative essay?

You can use words like "firstly," "first of all," and "to begin with". They help prepare the reader for what's coming next.

How long should an argumentative essay be?

The length depends on the complexity of the topic. But generally, it should have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What is the best introduction line for an argumentative essay?

A good introduction can start with an interesting fact, a question, or a strong statement to captivate readers.