How to Write a Good Lead In – Tips and Strategies

Introduction

When you’re writing an article or essay, the lead in is one of the most important parts. It’s your chance to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading. A well-crafted lead in can set the tone for the entire piece and ensure that your readers stay engaged. But how do you go about creating a good lead in? In this article, we will explore some tips and strategies for writing an effective lead in.

Identify the Main Point

The first step in writing a good lead in is to identify the main point of your article or essay. You should have a clear understanding of what you’re trying to say before you start writing. Consider the topic and figure out what the main point is that you’re trying to make. Once you have identified the main point, you can use it to guide your lead in.

Start with a Question

One way to craft an interesting lead in is to start with a question. Ask yourself: what would make the reader want to continue reading? Choose an interesting question that relates to the main point of your article or essay. Make sure the question is engaging and thought-provoking; this will encourage the reader to keep reading and find out the answer.

Use an Anecdote

Another way to create an effective lead in is to use an anecdote. An anecdote is a short story or account of an event that illustrates a particular point. Choose an anecdote that relates to the main point of your article or essay and use it to capture the reader’s attention. Be sure to keep it concise and clear; don’t get bogged down in too many details.

Cite a Statistic

Including a statistic in your lead in can be a great way to grab the reader’s attention and make your point more convincing. Find a relevant statistic that relates to your main point and incorporate it into your lead in. According to a recent study by The Learning Network, “nearly 70 percent of high school students think their math classes are too hard.” By citing this statistic, you can show the reader that your main point is backed up by research.

Paint a Picture

Another way to create an effective lead in is to paint a picture. Describe a scene or image that relates to your main point. This will help the reader visualize what you’re talking about and make your point more interesting. For example, if your main point is about the importance of exercise, you could describe a person running through a park on a sunny day.

Introduce a Contradiction

Introducing a paradox or contradiction can be a great way to create an effective lead in. Introduce a paradox or contradiction related to your main point and then explain why it exists. This will make the reader think about the issue and draw them into the article or essay. For example, if your main point is about the importance of eating healthy, you could introduce a contradiction by saying “many people think that eating healthy is expensive, but in reality it can be just as affordable as eating unhealthy.”

Make a Bold Statement

Making a bold statement can be a great way to create an effective lead in. Come up with a memorable statement that relates to your main point and use it to capture the reader’s attention. Make sure the statement is directly tied to the main point and makes the reader think. For example, if your main point is about the importance of education, you could make a bold statement such as “education is the key to unlocking our potential.”

Conclusion

Writing a good lead in can be difficult, but with these tips and strategies, you can craft an effective lead in that will grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Identify the main point of your article or essay, consider starting with a question, using an anecdote, citing a statistic, painting a picture, introducing a contradiction, and making a bold statement. With a bit of practice, you’ll be writing compelling lead ins in no time.