There are many different types of paragraphs. Each has a unique purpose and role to play and when they are combined in the right way, they can form an essay. The type of paragraph that usually comes first within an essay is called the introductory paragraph.

There are two purposes of the introductory paragraph:

• To make readers want to read your paper
• To create a focused controlling idea for the rest of your essay

Both of these purposes are accomplished through something called the hook and the thesis statement.

1. In the hook, draw the reader in and provide adequate context.
2. In the thesis statement, indicate the controlling idea of the essay, and outline the controlling idea of each body paragraph that will follow.