A hook is named for its ability to catch the reader’s attention and make the reader want to read on. It is essential that stories, news articles, and especially essays begin with good hooks because a writer is often judged within the first few sentences. Keep in mind, if the hook does not COMPLETELY tie in with the point or theme of the essay, it is pointless!
If you are having difficulty determining what type of hook to use, try to think like an advertiser. What are you attempting to appeal to in your reader? Their emotions (fear, anger, compassion)? Their rationale?
All human beings are capable of the most gruesome crimes imaginable. It is only because of the customs and controls of civilization that we do not become brute savages.
Before my friend Jake was sent to fight in Iraq, he was the most die-hard republican I knew in the world. He extolled George Bush, and had very patriotic views on what the US was accomplishing over there. A year later, when he returned with IED shrapnel in his face and the flag-draped coffins containing two of his best friends, his views had changed drastically.
President John F. Kennedy once implored Americans to seek beyond themselves and make an effort to serve. "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country... Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try."
On a recent anonymous survey, over ninety percent of high school students admitted to bullying a fellow student via social media.
The models that grace the pages of fashion magazines seem to be better than anyone we have ever met; they seem elegant, untouchable, and perfect. But just as magazine covers are manipulated to hide imperfections, we too sometimes fool ourselves into ignoring the flaws of individuals whom we have built up to be perfect beings.
Bravery is a funny thing. For some people it shows up on a battle field or in a moment of extreme violence. For others, it shows up in a high school cafeteria, when they prevent a bully from dumping out a kid’s milk.
Why is it that, when I go to school with my underwear on my head, the world looks at me as if I am unusual? High school kids are so caught up with their little cliques that I feel like I’ve got to become one of those “underwear under the pants” types too. (NOTE: humor not appropriate for all classes and teachers. Use good judgment)
Merriam Webster defines courage as “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.”
Amanda Beecher's heart felt like it was punching through her chest, and her palms began to sweat. She hit the refresh button over and over, eyes bulging with every updated screen. Today was the day she was going to find out if she was accepted into her dream college.
Intermittent outbreaks of infectious diseases have impacted humans throughout history. These outbreaks have shaped all aspects of human existence for centuries. Pandemic outbreaks, or plagues, have shaped economies, politics and social tenants since the dawn of time.
If your essay topic is on video blogging you could write the metaphor hook:
The select few people who successfully vlog their daily existence are trapped in one of those glass ant farms. But it's a trap of their own making.
Or the simile hook:
The select few people who successfully vlog their daily existence are like ants trapped in one of those glass ant farms, but it's a trap of their own making.
What is the world without art?