Simple Techniques for Writing an Introduction to Your Story

Writers struggle with how to write a story’s introduction. If the introduction is boring and unexciting, the reader can leave it, without even reading the second paragraph. If the introduction is engaging and engaging, the reader will want to keep reading to see what happens next in the story.

There is no easy way to learn how to write a story introduction. The best way to learn is to read how other writers create eye-catching, engaging introductions to their stories and use some of the same techniques they do without copying their style or words word for word.

If finding easy ways to write an introduction to your story keeps you from putting that fiery story inside you on paper, try these simple techniques.

Start by telling a short story

Many writers begin their introductions with an anecdote or short story that grabs the reader’s attention. Make sure the anecdote or short story clearly introduces the story that follows.

Describe a scene in an interesting way

Describing a scene is a good way to arouse the reader’s curiosity. The reader will be intrigued by the setting and wonder what happened in the scene and why the scene was important to the whole story. However, the scene must be interesting and relate to the story that follows.

Start with a quote

When using a quote, be sure to use a quote that is provocative and says something meaningful. The story that follows should explain the meaning of the quote or the purpose of using it in your story. Your story should be based on the quote so readers will want to read on to find out what you have to say.

Start with a definitive statement

Most introductions begin with a general opening and follow up with specific, concrete details about the topic. Write a definitive statement that simply states your position on an issue. Then follow up the statement with interesting and/or factual information that elicits the reader’s agreement or disagreement.

Ask a question

A good way to introduce a topic is to use a question. Sometimes questions can be answered immediately after the question and then continue with the story, or the question can be left at the beginning to be weighed until later in the story. The writer can answer the question at any point in the story, but the question must be answered at some point before the story ends.

use contrast

Another way to introduce the topic is to lay out a common belief or statement of fact and quickly follow up with a contrasting view. Present a situation that your readers can agree with, and after a paragraph or two, state that you will take an opposite or different point of view. This type of introduction forces the reader to take a position on the topic.

A very important point to remember about introductions is to include a clearly defined thesis statement that tells the reader the overall point you are going to make in your story. The thesis statement should be clearly stated in the introductory paragraph (it is most effective as the last sentence). Make sure that whatever techniques you use to present your story, you conclude your introductory paragraph with a strong, well-developed, and thoughtful thesis statement.

Now you’ve had a good start. The introduction is no longer an obstacle to writing that fiery story inside you.