attention getter for nursing essay

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Attention Grabber for Nursing Speech

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

Published Jul 17, 2018

Hey there! I'm in an online Public Speaking class and I have to give an informative speech on my major (nursing/ADN). I need help figuring out an attention grabber about nursing for the beginning of the speech. I'm having a hard time coming up with something. Any ideas?

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llg, PhD, RN

13,469 Posts

What is the exact focus of your presentation? What are you emphasizing in it? I would use a surprising statistic, question or scenario that relates directly to the message you will be emphasizing in your presentation.

Choose a key message for your presentation first. Then lead with an attention-grabbing stat, question or scenario about that key message.

What is the key message of your presentation going to be?

I'm just giving information about nursing for my speech, such as what the educational requirements are, licensing requirements, and job outlook. Those are my main topics. Nothing too fancy or in-depth.

If I were in your situation, I would pick a "key message" to underlie that presentation -- such as the fact that nursing school may be harder to get into than they think ... or ... that nursing offers good career opportunities ... or that contemporary nursing is much more complex and exciting than they may think it is, etc. No one wants to listen to a recitation of dry, boring facts. People want to hear the facts add up to something, to have the presentation have a "point" to make. You have to have a reason for telling people these facts so that it is worth their effort to listen to you.

The fact that you don't have a point to make, is why you are struggling to find an attention grabber to begin with. Without a "point" to make, your presentation will be "pointless." Pick some reason for your presentation, some message worth listening to -- and that will lead to a natural attention-grabbing fact or story to lead with.

Hook Generator for Essays

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🪝 6 Types of Hooks in This Generator

It’s a common misunderstanding that one hook sentence will suit any text. In fact, each situation requires a specific approach. Here are the 6 types of attention-getters that this hook generator can offer.

Question Hook

A question hook is a good choice for engaging readers who are interested in the topic. It also works well for audiences who have yet to learn about the topic but enjoy being challenged and thinking critically. This type of hook will work well for many types of speeches .

Example: Need help writing a hook for your essay?

Quotation Hook

A quotation hook statement is excellent for grabbing the attention of readers who are interested in other people's opinions and ideas. It also works well in research papers based on experts' or well-known individuals' insights and perspectives.

Example: “We can no longer save the world by playing by the rules.”

Statistical Hook

A startling fact or statistic hook is good for engaging readers interested in precise data and new information. It can surprise and shock them, making them want to learn more.

Example: According to Sleepopolis and OnePoll, 34% of adults still sleep with a plushy.

Anecdotal Hook

An anecdotal hook is an effective way to engage readers who are interested in personal stories and experiences. It's also perfect for younger audiences looking for relatable content or wishing to learn from others.

Example: When I was ten, I fell off my bike and injured my head. As I lay on the ground in pain, I saw my neighbor, a retired nurse, rushing over to help. She quickly assessed my injury, called my parents, and stayed by my side until the ambulance arrived. That experience not only taught me the importance of wearing a helmet but also ignited my passion for nursing.

Autobiography Hook

This type of hook can be particularly effective for audiences interested in biographical content, such as fans of memoirs. It's perfect for college essays and admission papers .

Example: I look after two rescued dogs: an outgoing, vibrant Malamute and a reserved yet regal American Foxhound. They haven't allowed their painful pasts to influence their moods, and I won't either.

Definition Hook

This type of hook can be effective for engaging audiences who are interested in learning something new. It's perfect for research papers and scientific texts.

Example: We lie when we knowingly say something false. Lying is considered a sin, a vice, a transgression, and an immoral offense.

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• Analyze your topic. Why is it important? What intriguing facts or quotes are related to it? Consider personal experiences that relate to your subject. Use these insights to create a "skeleton" for your hook.
• Know your goal. What reaction do you want to elicit from your readers? Choose a hook that aligns with your essay's purpose and will evoke the desired response.
• Do your research . Explore blogs, books, and articles related to your topic for inspiration. Visiting physical locations and interviewing people are also good options.

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Attention Getter For Being A Nurse

Show More Introduction: Attention Getter: Why is becoming a nurse such an rewarding job? The reason is, being a nurse if not only a job, but it is a way of life. Credibility Statement: However, not only is nursing rewarding, but it can also get real demanding at times. So therefore, it takes a strong, caring, passionate,trustworthy, and lovable person to be a nurse . I, myself have all of these qualities as well and that is why i am pursing an career in nursing . However, having the ability to make a difference and save another person's life as got to be the best feeling in the world. Preview of Main Points: So therefore, that is why being a nurse is not only a job, but a compassion to help others. Conclusion: Signal Ending: In conclusion: Review

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Effective Attention Getters for Your Essay with Examples

Whether you’re trying to enroll in college or submitting a scholarship application, your essay has to be super appealing. Pressed for time, most admissions committees will only glance at the first paragraph to decide whether the piece is worth a read. Since nobody can guarantee your submission gets considered, it’s up to you to ensure it will amuse the reader.

So how do you write the perfect attention-grabber and impress the college admissions counselors? How can you make your work stands out from the crowd? Below you can find good attention-getters for essays to help you write a compelling introductory paragraph that makes the audience want to read on.

What Are Attention Grabbers in Essays?

The so-called attention-grabbing technique has a simple purpose. It must catch the reader’s interest from the very beginning. Hence, you need sentences that make a good essay introduction and attempt to stir the audience and show your ability to weave words.

For instance, an amusing fact, personal experience, or a joke can do the job. Whatever strategy you use, don’t forget that using random quotes or anecdotes won’t work. Your intro must lead to the main thesis or introduce an opposing argument you’re about to refute.

The Importance of Good Attention Grabbers for Essays

Also known as “grabbers” and “hooks,” these elements always go in the first paragraph. Often, they make the first two or three sentences of the intro. At this point, ensure you include compare and contrast transition words to make sentences run smoothly in a coherent whole.

But why do you need an attention-getter? What impact does it leave on the reader? Here are a few reasons.

• To convince the reader to go until the end of your work and not give up after the first few lines.
• To tell the audience that you’re a skillful writer who knows how to use an intriguing opening.
• To encourage people not keen on the subject to get on the bandwagon.
• To invoke the curiosity of whoever’s considering the paper.
• To inform that you’re exposing something rare, not just another chore.

Different Types of Attention Grabbers for College Essays

Several attention-grabbing openings can achieve the same effect. The most compelling introductory lines include posing a question, storytelling, sharing fascinating statistics, and rhetorical generalizations. Below, we list examples of attention-getters for essays to help you get on the right foot.

Whatever method you choose, you can’t go wrong. Hooks go interchangeably in almost any written piece. However, if you have writer’s block, refer to a  reflective essay writing service to get the ball rolling. These experts can assist you in drafting a relatable and highly appealing attention-getter.

Use a Quotation

Using a quote when writing an essay will make it credible and intriguing. This strategy engages the emotional side of readers and connects them to your wording. To start strongly, find a quotation by a famous author or expert related to your topic. Use it wisely to support the thesis and demonstrate that your research is thorough. Besides conveying your thoughts eloquently , quotes move and speak to people with timeless words.

Examples of a Quotation

If you want to present yourself as a creative and artful soul, begin your paper with: “Einstein once said: Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere.”

Similarly, if you wish to come across as a hard-working and trustworthy student, say: “Samuel Johnson claimed that what we ever hope to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence.”

Use Shocking Statistic

Another way to capture the audience is to introduce a striking figure or data relevant to the topic. Avoid facts that everyone is aware of and pick something surprising. Moreover, when writing conclusion paragraph for your essay , you may end with some projected statistics from trusted sources. This hack is excellent for informative or technical papers.

Examples of Attention Grabbers with Shocking Statistics

“According to tech schools, girls get outnumbered 6 to 1 by boys when it comes to enrolling in computer science classes.”

“The latest research shows that the human body contains ten times more bacteria than cells.”

Ask a Question

Posing a question at the beginning is an effective method to compel your reader. However, you must know the audience well to create an intriguing formulation that stimulates critical thinking. In addition, the intro query should direct the reader to read the paper and find the answer. Hence, avoid posing questions that are too general and don’t impress the target recipient.

Introductory Question Hooks

“Have you ever been so keen on a course that you spent the entire summer working to afford it?”

“Do you feel that each photograph, regardless of its high-quality, reduces the reality it represents?”

Tell an Anecdote

Share an experience that makes your life journey unique and relates to the essay’s purpose. By doing so, you will engage your reader emotionally. Often, considering a  descriptive essay writing service can help you transform your chronicle into an attention-grabbing hook. Alternatively, a well-crafted fictional account can evoke the same emotional response.

Example of a Real Event

“The day I met my Science teacher in middle school changed my life for the better. And not because she encouraged me to pursue a career as a geneticist. The encounter was something you’d never expect. As my dad approached the building, he hit another car on the side, and guess who was inside? My new Science teacher.”

Use Storytelling

Why not start the essay with a story or a good joke and steer away from complicated concepts? Everybody loves well-written stories because they raise interest and leave a trace. Yet, connecting the narrative with what follows next is critical to the main theme of the assignment. Finally, this approach is ideal for admission applications but not for more formal academic papers.

Example of a Great Story

“Lightings stroke hard, and the rain was attacking the roof, drowning any words we tried to pronounce. I’d expected to play the guitar and show the company my latest song, but the universe prevented whatever I attempted to do that night.”

Use Rhetorical Generalizations

Consider issuing a statement to serve as a pathway into the main argument. Conversely, if you doubt your writing skills, hire a  website to write an essay to get you admitted into college. These professionals know how to use a generalization that introduces your thesis statement in a way that challenges people to contemplate the topic.

Ideas for Rhetorical Generalizations

“Who wouldn’t agree that higher education is the most reliable ticket to self-fulfillment?”

“Recycling is undoubtedly the most efficient method to attain sustainability.”

Using any of these attention getter examples will pave your path to success. However, it’s not just the opening that needs to get polished to perfection. You may quickly spoil the first impression if the rest of the essay abounds with irrelevant information or contains grammatical errors and typos. This can be avoided if you get a professional essay writing service . So, getting help is a good option.

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How to Write an Attention Getter

Last Updated: June 18, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 355,735 times.

Attention-grabbing introductions can draw your reader in and encourage them to keep reading. They help to set the tone and establish the narrative voice early on in an essay, a paper, or a speech. Grab the reader’s attention by opening with a quote or fact. Asking a question or presenting a strong statement can help keep your reader engaged. You can also use storytelling to get their attention and draw them in.

Opening with a Quote, Definition, or Fact

• For example, you may pick a bold quote from a play by Shakespeare you are discussing to open the essay so your reader is drawn in. You may write, “Early in the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, the troubled prince notes: ‘This above all: to thine own self be true.’ Themes of identity and self-hood appear many times throughout the play.”
• Always cite any quotes you use in your introduction using the proper citation style, according to your instructor’s requirements for your paper or essay.

• For example, you may write, “In Shakespeare’s Othello , love is not blind, it is all seeing. As Othello notes, ‘For she had eyes and she chose me.’”

• For example, you may write, “Every year, 25,000 people die due to drunk driving in the United States” or “One in five women will be raped in the United States.”

• For example, you may write, “When the city gentrifies an area, it renovates and improves a neighborhood so it conforms to middle-class tastes.” Or you may write, “When an area is gentrified, it becomes more refined and polite for some, but not all.”

Beginning with a Question or Statement

• For example, you may use a question like, “What if we lived in a world where women were not constantly under threat of violence?” or “Why shouldn’t everyone have access to free healthcare in America?”

• For example, rather than start with a question like, “Have you ever thought about the consequences of your actions?” you may rephrase it as, “Why is it important to consider the consequences of our actions?”

• For example, you may write, “Shakespeare’s Othello is a play about the doomed nature of love and the power of desire.” Or you may write, “Drunk driving is an epidemic in America that seems to only get worse every year.”

• For example, you may write, “I believe our country needs to acknowledge fundamental issues in its democracy” or “From my perspective, there is no need to have multiple political parties in a democracy.”

• For example, you may write, “Right-wing conservatives believe immigrants are to blame for many of the issues facing America today. I am going to explore how and why this position is flawed.”

• For example, you may write, “I am been fascinated with death since I was 16” or “There is no greater joy to me than an empty bed where I can be alone, away from the world.”

Using Storytelling

• For example, you may write, “The other day in the supermarket, I heard a child talking to his mother. ‘Why aren’t we getting the ones with marshmallows in them?’ he demanded, pointing at the boxes of cereal. He threw a tantrum in the aisle until his mother relented, throwing the sugary cereal into their cart. Standing in the aisle, watching the child, I couldn’t help but think about how children’s diets are becoming more and more unhealthy.”

• For example, you may take a fact about drunk driving and write a short story like, “The young driver cranks up the stereo and grins as he thinks about the fun he had at the house party, plenty of cold beer and shots of whiskey. Suddenly, a tree appears ahead. He’s swerved off the road and it’s too late. The police later find him dead in the car due to driving while under the influence.”

• For example, if you are writing about eating disorders in fashion, you may describe your own experiences with body image. You may write, “Flipping through my mother’s fashion magazines, I learned at a young age that being skinny was glamorous and desirable. This “fact” would haunt me into my teenage years, as I struggled with my weight and body image.”

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• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-a-hook/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/cliches/
• ↑ https://www.csuchico.edu/slc/_assets/documents/writing-center-handouts/how-to-write-an-introduction.pdf
• ↑ https://www.georgebrown.ca/sites/default/files/uploadedfiles/tlc/_documents/hooks_and_attention_grabbers.pdf
• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-publicspeaking/chapter/types-of-introductions/
• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-communications/chapter/introduction/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/narrative_essays.html
• ↑ https://www.esu.edu/writing-studio/guides/hook.cfm
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/attention-getters-for-speeches

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Captivate Your Audience: The Power of Attention Getters

Are you looking for ways to grab your reader’s attention?

Whether you’re writing a blog post, article, or essay, having a powerful introduction is key to drawing your audience in.

An effective attention getter can be the difference between an average piece of writing and one that really stands out. Here are some tips and tricks for using attention-grabbing techniques in your introduction.

Introduction to Attention Getters

An attention getter, also known as an “attention grabber”, “hook”, or “hook sentence”, refers to the first 1-4 sentences of an essay and is always found in the introductory paragraph.

It consists of an intriguing opening that is designed to grab your reader’s attention. Its purpose is to give your readers a brief overview of what your essay will be discussing and to pique their interest so they continue reading.

Importance of Attention Getters

Attention getters are an essential part of writing, especially when it comes to academic essays.

A strong attention getter can engage readers and motivate them to continue reading your work. It can also provide the reader with a quick overview of what is being discussed in the essay, helping them understand the main points before delving further into the content.

Types of Attention Getters

There are numerous types of attention getters that you can use to grab your reader’s attention. Here are some popular techniques for creating strong, effective introductions:

1. Quotes – Using quotes from famous people or literature can be a great way to start your essay and engage readers. Selecting a quote that relates to the topic of your essay can be a great way to draw readers in.

2. Facts or Statistics – If you have interesting data or facts related to your topic, you can use them in your introduction to provide context and help readers understand the main points of your essay.

3. Questions – Asking questions is an effective method for getting people’s attention and making them think about the topic at hand. It also helps to set up the discussion for the rest of your essay.

4. Anecdotes – Using anecdotes is a great way to add a personal touch to your introduction and make it more engaging for readers. Find a story that relates to your topic or take one from your own experience and use it as an attention-grabber.

Storytelling

Personal experiences.

Personal experiences can be a great way to grab your reader’s attention and make them more interested in what you have to say.

You can use stories from your own life, as well as those of people you know, to provide vivid detail and create an engaging introduction.

Not only do personal experiences help to draw readers in, but they also demonstrate the relevance of the topic being discussed. Be sure to keep your story concise yet powerful, and use it to help set the stage for the rest of your essay.

An anecdote is a short story or humorous account of an incident that is used in order to engage readers and emphasize a point.

It can be used to grab someone’s attention, provide context for your essay, and make it more relatable to the audience. Anecdotes can also be used to add a personal touch to your essay and make it more memorable.

Historical accounts

Using historical accounts in your introduction can be an effective way to engage readers and capture their attention. Historical accounts provide readers with a vivid glimpse into the past and draw them into the subject matter of your essay.

They also help to illustrate the relevance of the topic and give readers a better understanding of it. When using historical accounts, make sure to provide enough detail but keep it concise and relevant to your essay.

Shocking Statistic

Financial statistics.

Using financial statistics as an attention getter can be a powerful tool for capturing your reader’s attention.

Startling financial facts and figures can be used to emphasize the importance of the topic at hand and engage readers in the discussion.

For example, citing the fact that 30 percent of Americans have no retirement savings or that 50 percent of college graduates are burdened with student debt can help to demonstrate why the subject of your essay is so important.

Health statistics

Health statistics can be an effective way to grab the reader’s attention and emphasize the importance of a topic.

For example, citing the fact that in 2019 over 4.5 million people died from cancer or that 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older suffer from some form of mental illness can help to demonstrate why the subject of your essay is so important.

Health statistics bring awareness to global health issues while helping to engage your readers in the discussion.

Social statistics

Social statistics can be an effective way to grab the reader’s attention and emphasize the importance of a topic.

For example, citing the fact that in 2019 1 in 5 adults struggled with mental health issues or that nearly half of all Americans reported feeling lonely can help to demonstrate why the subject of your essay is so important. Social statistics bring awareness to social issues while helping to engage your readers in the discussion.

Provocative Question

Open-ended questions.

Open-ended questions can be a great way to grab readers’ attention and engage them in the discussion. These types of questions are designed to get readers thinking and leave them wanting more.

Writing an essay with provocative open-ended questions as an attention-grabber will encourage readers to keep reading as they try to answer the question posed.

It’s important to make sure that your open-ended question is relevant to the topic of your essay and that it encourages critical thinking.

Rhetorical questions

Rhetorical questions can be a great way to grab your reader’s attention and make them think about the topic at hand.

Rhetorical questions are designed to be open-ended and provoke thought, without expecting an answer. They can help to draw readers in by making them consider the implications of the question and creating an engaging introduction.

When using rhetorical questions, make sure to keep them relevant to the topic of your essay and avoid questions that are too obvious or simplistic.

Thought-provoking questions

Thought-provoking questions can be an effective way to grab your reader’s attention and make them think about the topic at hand.

Thought-provoking questions are designed to challenge readers to consider the implications of a question, rather than simply provide an answer. These types of questions can help engage readers in the discussion by making them pause and reflect on a broader concept or idea.

When using thought-provoking questions, make sure to keep them relevant to the topic of your essay and avoid questions that are too complex or hard to answer.

Famous quotes

Famous quotes can be a great way to grab your reader’s attention and engage them in the discussion.

Quotes from famous thinkers, authors, or public figures can help to set the tone for your essay while emphasizing the importance of the topic at hand. For example, citing a quote from Winston Churchill such as “Never give up” can help to demonstrate why perseverance is so important.

Literary quotes

Quotes from literary works can be an effective way to grab your reader’s attention and emphasize the importance of a topic.

For example, citing a quote from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet such as “All things can tempt me from this craft of sorrow” can help to demonstrate why emotions play such an important role in our lives. Quotes from literature offer an insightful perspective into a topic and can help to engage your readers in the discussion.

Pop culture quotes

Pop culture quotes can be an effective way to grab your reader’s attention and emphasize the importance of a topic. For example, citing a quote from a movie such as “Life is like a box of chocolates” from Forrest Gump can help to demonstrate why taking chances can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Quotes from pop culture offer light-hearted perspectives into serious topics while helping to engage your readers in the discussion.

Examples of Attention Getters in Different Formats

Essays and research papers, thesis statements.

Thesis statements are an effective way to grab reader’s attention and focus the essay topic.

A well-crafted thesis statement can be used to introduce a topic, provide insight into the main points of an essay, and act as a road map for readers so they know where the essay is heading. It should be concise and clear while also conveying the main idea of the essay in one or two sentences.

Introduction paragraphs

Introduction paragraphs are an essential part of any essay and serve to grab readers’ attention and introduce them to the discussion.

Introduction paragraphs should be concise, engaging, and provide a brief overview of the main points in the essay.

Open-ended questions, rhetorical questions, thought-provoking questions, famous quotes, literary quotes, and pop culture quotes can all be used as effective attention grabbers.

Speeches and Presentations

Opening statements.

Opening statements are an effective way to grab your audience’s attention and set the tone for a speech or presentation.

Openings should be concise, engaging, and provide a brief overview of the main points in the presentation.

Opening statements can include rhetorical questions, thought-provoking questions, famous quotes, literary quotes, pop culture quotes, or personal anecdotes. These types of attention-grabbing techniques will help to engage your audience and set the tone for the rest of the presentation.

Attention-getting imagery

Attention-getting imagery is a great way to grab the reader’s attention and engage them in the discussion.

Visuals such as pictures, diagrams, symbols, and illustrations can help to draw readers in and give them an immediate understanding of the topic at hand.

These visuals should be relevant to the topic being discussed and keep in line with the overall tone of your essay or presentation. Additionally, the visuals should be used in a way that is consistent with the main points of your essay or presentation.

Marketing and Advertising

Headlines and taglines.

Headlines and taglines are an effective way to grab readers’ attention and engage them in a conversation.

Headlines should be concise, creative, and relevant to the product or service being advertised. Additionally, they should be eye-catching and memorable so that readers will remember them after they have seen the advertisement.

Taglines can also be used to reinforce the message of the advertisement while helping to engage readers in the conversation.

Visual advertisements

Visual advertisements are an effective way to grab readers’ attention and engage them in a conversation.

Visuals such as pictures, videos, symbols, and illustrations can help to draw readers in and give them an immediate understanding of the product or service being advertised.

These visuals should be relevant to the product or service being discussed and keep in line with the overall tone of the advertisement. Additionally, the visuals should be used in a way that is consistent with the message of the advertisement.

Techniques for Effective Attention Getters

Know your audience.

Knowing your audience is one of the most important techniques for creating effective attention getters. It is essential to understand who you are trying to target and tailor your message accordingly.

Different types of audiences may respond differently to certain types of attention-grabbing techniques. For example, a younger audience may be more likely to respond to pop culture references while an older audience may be more receptive to classic literature quotes.

Set the Tone

Setting the tone is an important technique for creating effective attention getters. Establishing the right tone in your introduction can help to make your essay or presentation more engaging and memorable.

The tone should be consistent with the overall topic being discussed and should reflect the purpose of the essay or presentation. For example, if you are writing a persuasive essay, then you may want to use an authoritative yet encouraging tone in your introduction.

Keep It Simple

When crafting attention getters, it is important to keep it simple. Using too many complicated words or ideas can make your audience lose interest and make them more likely to forget what you said.

You want to use language that your audience will be able to understand and relate to. Additionally, you should avoid bombarding your audience with too much information in the introduction; instead, focus on one main point that you want to get across.

Practice and Rehearsal

Creating effective attention getters requires practice and rehearsal. Developing the right tone, content, and delivery can take time.

It is important to remember that practice makes perfect; the more you practice, the better your attention getter will be. Taking the time to rehearse your introduction can help ensure that it will flow naturally and make a lasting impression on your audience.

Creating effective attention getters is an important skill to have for any essay or presentation. It is essential to understand the techniques required to grab your audience’s attention and engage them in a conversation.

Knowing your audience, setting the tone, keeping it simple, and practicing and rehearsing are all key elements for crafting a successful attention getter. By utilizing these tips and techniques, you can make your essay or presentation more engaging and memorable.

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9.2 The Attention-Getter: The First Step of an Introduction

Learning objectives.

• Understand the different tools speakers can use to gain their audience’s attention.
• Name some common mistakes speakers make in trying to gain attention.

Stephen Velasco – IMG_1422 – CC BY-NC 2.0.

As you know by now, a good introduction will capture an audience’s attention, while a bad introduction can turn an audience against a speaker. An attention-getter is the device a speaker uses at the beginning of a speech to capture an audience’s interest and make them interested in the speech’s topic. Typically, there are four things to consider in choosing a specific attention-getting device:

• Appropriateness or relevance to audience
• Purpose of speech

First, when selecting an attention-getting device, you want to make sure that the option you choose is actually appropriate and relevant to your specific audience. Different audiences will have different backgrounds and knowledge, so you should use your audience analysis to determine whether specific information you plan on using would be appropriate for a specific audience. For example, if you’re giving a speech on family units to a group of individuals over the age of sixty-five, starting your speech with a reference to the television show Gossip Girl may not be the best idea because the television show may not be relevant to that audience.

Second, you need to consider the basic purpose of your speech. As discussed earlier in this text, there are three basic purposes you can have for giving a speech: to inform, to persuade, and to entertain. When selecting an attention-getter, you want to make sure that you select one that corresponds with your basic purpose. If your goal is to entertain an audience, then starting a speech with a quotation about how many people are dying in Africa each day from malnutrition may not be the best way to get your audience’s attention. Remember, one of the basic goals of an introduction is to prepare your audience for your speech. If your attention-getter differs drastically in tone from the rest of your speech (e.g., dying in Africa when you want your audience to laugh), the disjointedness may cause your audience to become confused or tune you out completely.

Your third basic consideration when picking an attention-getting device is your speech topic. Ideally, your attention-getting device should have a relevant connection to your speech. Imagine if a speaker pulled condoms out of his pocket, yelled “Free sex!” and threw the condoms at the audience in the beginning of a speech about the economy. While this may clearly get the audience’s attention, this isn’t really a good way to prepare an audience for a speech about bull and bear markets. Not every attention-getter is appropriate for a given topic. Instead, a speaker could start this speech by explaining that “according to a 2004 episode of 60 Minutes, adults in the United States spend approximately $10 billion annually on adult entertainment, which is roughly the equivalent to the amounts they spend attending professional sporting events, buying music, or going out to the movies” (Leung, 2004). Notice how effective the shocking statistic is in clearly introducing the monetary value of the adult entertainment industry.

The last consideration when picking an attention-getting device involves the speech occasion. Different occasions will necessitate different tones, or particular styles or manners of speaking. For example, a persuasive speech about death and dying shouldn’t be happy and hilarious. An informative speech on the benefits of laughing shouldn’t be dull, dreary, and depressing. When selecting an attention-getter, you want to make sure that the attention-getter sets the tone for the speech.

Now that we’ve explored the four major considerations you must think of when selecting an attention-getter, let’s look at a range of different attention-getters you may employ. Miller (1946) discovered that speakers tend to use one of eleven attention-getting devices when starting a speech. The rest of this section is going to examine these eleven attention-getting devices.

Reference to Subject

The first attention-getting method to consider is to tell your audience the subject of your speech. This device is probably the most direct, but it may also be the least interesting of the possible attention-getters. Here’s an example:

We are surrounded by statistical information in today’s world, so understanding statistics is becoming paramount to citizenship in the twenty-first century.

This sentence explicitly tells an audience that the speech they are about to hear is about the importance of understanding statistics. While this isn’t the most entertaining or interesting attention-getter, it is very clear and direct.

Dave Dugdale – Attentive Audience – CC BY-SA 2.0.

Reference to Audience

The second attention-getting device to consider is a direct reference to the audience. In this case, the speaker has a clear understanding of the audience and points out that there is something unique about the audience that should make them interested in the speech’s content. Here’s an example:

As human resource professionals, you and I know the importance of talent management. In today’s competitive world, we need to invest in getting and keeping the best talent for our organizations to succeed.

In this example, the speaker reminds the audience of their shared status as human resource professionals and uses the common ground to acknowledge the importance of talent management in human resources.

Another way to capture your listeners’ attention is to use the words of another person that relate directly to your topic. Maybe you’ve found a really great quotation in one of the articles or books you read while researching your speech. If not, you can also use a number of sources that compile useful quotations from noted individuals. Probably the most famous quotation book of all time is Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations ( http://www.bartleby.com/100 ), now in its seventeenth edition. Here are some other websites that contain useful databases of quotations for almost any topic:

• http://www.quotationspage.com
• http://www.bartleby.com/quotations
• http://www.moviequotes.com
• http://www.quotesandsayings.com
• http://www.quoteland.com

Quotations are a great way to start a speech, so let’s look at an example that could be used for a speech on deception:

Oliver Goldsmith, a sixteenth-century writer, poet, and physician, once noted that “the true use of speech is not so much to express our wants as to conceal them.”

Reference to Current Events

Referring to a current news event that relates to your topic is often an effective way to capture attention, as it immediately makes the audience aware of how relevant the topic is in today’s world. For example, consider this attention-getter for a persuasive speech on frivolous lawsuits:

On January 10, 2007, Scott Anthony Gomez Jr. and a fellow inmate escaped from a Pueblo, Colorado, jail. During their escape the duo attempted to rappel from the roof of the jail using a makeshift ladder of bed sheets. During Gomez’s attempt to scale the building, he slipped, fell forty feet, and injured his back. After being quickly apprehended, Gomez filed a lawsuit against the jail for making it too easy for him to escape.

In this case, the speaker is highlighting a news event that illustrates what a frivolous lawsuit is, setting up the speech topic of a need for change in how such lawsuits are handled.

Historical Reference

You may also capture your listeners’ attention by referring to a historical event related to your topic. Obviously, this strategy is closely related to the previous one, except that instead of a recent news event you are reaching further back in history to find a relevant reference. For example, if you are giving a speech on the Iraq War that began in 2003, you could refer back to the Vietnam War as way of making a comparison:

During the 1960s and ’70s, the United States intervened in the civil strife between North and South Vietnam. The result was a long-running war of attrition in which many American lives were lost and the country of Vietnam suffered tremendous damage and destruction. Today, we see a similar war being waged in Iraq. American lives are being lost, and stability has not yet returned to the region.

In this example, the speaker is evoking the audience’s memories of the Vietnam War to raise awareness of similarities to the war in Iraq.

Another device you can use to start a speech is to tell an anecdote related to the speech’s topic. An anecdote is a brief account or story of an interesting or humorous event. Notice the emphasis here is on the word “brief.” A common mistake speakers make when telling an anecdote is to make the anecdote too long. Remember, your entire introduction should only be 10 to 15 percent of your speech, so your attention-getter must be very short.

One type of anecdote is a real story that emphasizes a speech’s basic message. For example, here is an anecdote a speaker could use to begin a speech on how disconnected people are from the real world because of technology:

In July 2009, a high school girl named Alexa Longueira was walking along a main boulevard near her home on Staten Island, New York, typing in a message on her cell phone. Not paying attention to the world around her, she took a step and fell right into an open manhole (Whitney, 2009).

A second type of anecdote is a parable or fable. A parable or fable is an allegorical anecdote designed to teach general life lessons. The most widely known parables for most Americans are those given in the Bible and the best-known fables are Aesop’s Fables ( http://www.aesopfables.com ). For the same speech on how disconnected people are with the real world because of technology, the speaker could have used the Fable of The Boy and the Filberts:

The ancient Greek writer Aesop told a fable about a boy who put his hand into a pitcher of filberts. The boy grabbed as many of the delicious nuts as he possibly could. But when he tried to pull them out, his hand wouldn’t fit through the neck of the pitcher because he was grasping so many filberts. Instead of dropping some of them so that his hand would fit, he burst into tears and cried about his predicament. The moral of the story? “Don’t try to do too much at once” (Aesop, 1881).

After recounting this anecdote, the speaker could easily relate the fable to the notion that the technology in our society leads us to try to do too many things at once.

While parables and fables are short and entertaining, their application to your speech topic should be clear. We’ll talk about this idea in more detail later in this chapter when we discuss how to link your attention-getter explicitly to your topic.

Startling Statement

The eighth device you can use to start a speech is to surprise your audience with startling information about your topic. Often, startling statements come in the form of statistics and strange facts. The goal of a good startling statistic is that it surprises the audience and gets them engaged in your topic. For example, if you’re giving a speech about oil conservation, you could start by saying, “A Boeing 747 airliner holds 57,285 gallons of fuel.” You could start a speech on the psychology of dreams by noting, “The average person has over 1,460 dreams a year.” A strange fact, on the other hand, is a statement that does not involve numbers but is equally surprising to most audiences. For example, you could start a speech on the gambling industry by saying, “There are no clocks in any casinos in Las Vegas.” You could start a speech on the Harlem Globetrotters by saying, “In 2000, Pope John Paul II became the most famous honorary member of the Harlem Globetrotters.” All four of these examples came from a great website for strange facts ( http://www.strangefacts.com ).

Although startling statements are fun, it is important to use them ethically. First, make sure that your startling statement is factual. The Internet is full of startling statements and claims that are simply not factual, so when you find a statement you’d like to use, you have an ethical duty to ascertain its truth before you use it. Second, make sure that your startling statement is relevant to your speech and not just thrown in for shock value. We’ve all heard startling claims made in the media that are clearly made for purposes of shock or fear mongering. As speakers, we have an ethical obligation to avoid playing on people’s emotions in this way.

Another strategy for getting your audience’s attention is to ask them a question. There are two types of questions commonly used as attention-getters: response questions and rhetorical questions. A response question is a question that the audience is expected to answer in some manner. For example, you could ask your audience, “Please raise your hand if you have ever thought about backpacking in Europe” or “Have you ever voted for the Electoral College? If so, stand up.” In both of these cases, the speaker wants her or his audience to respond. A rhetorical question , on the other hand, is a question to which no actual reply is expected. For example, a speaker talking about the importance of HIV testing could start by asking the audience, “I have two questions that I’d like you to think about. How many students on this campus have had sexual intercourse? Of those who have had sex, how many have been tested for HIV?” In this case, the speaker does not expect the audience to give an estimate of the numbers of students that fit into each category but rather to think about the questions as the speech goes on.

Humor is another effective method for gaining an audience’s attention. Humor is an amazing tool when used properly. We cannot begin to explain all the amazing facets of humor within this text, but we can say that humor is a great way of focusing an audience on what you are saying. However, humor is a double-edged sword. If you do not wield the sword carefully, you can turn your audience against you very quickly. When using humor, you really need to know your audience and understand what they will find humorous. One of the biggest mistakes a speaker can make is to use some form of humor that the audience either doesn’t find funny or finds offensive. Think about how incompetent the character of Michael Scott seems on the television program The Office , in large part because of his ineffective use of humor. We always recommend that you test out humor of any kind on a sample of potential audience members prior to actually using it during a speech.

Thinkmedialabs – Audience laughing – CC BY-NC 2.0.

Now that we’ve warned you about the perils of using humor, let’s talk about how to use humor as an attention-getter. Humor can be incorporated into several of the attention-getting devices mentioned. You could use a humorous anecdote, quotation, or current event. As with other attention-getting devices, you need to make sure your humor is relevant to your topic, as one of the biggest mistakes some novices make when using humor is to add humor that really doesn’t support the overall goal of the speech. So when looking for humorous attention-getters you want to make sure that the humor is nonoffensive to your audiences and relevant to your speech. For example, here’s a humorous quotation from Nicolas Chamfort, a French author during the sixteenth century, “The only thing that stops God from sending another flood is that the first one was useless.” While this quotation could be great for some audiences, other audiences may find this humorous quotation offensive (e.g., religious audiences). The Chamfort quotation could be great for a speech on the ills of modern society, but probably not for a speech on the state of modern religious conflict. You want to make sure that the leap from your attention-getter to your topic isn’t too complicated for your audience, or the attention-getter will backfire.

Personal Reference

The tenth device you may consider to start a speech is to refer to a story about yourself that is relevant for your topic. Some of the best speeches are ones that come from personal knowledge and experience. If you are an expert or have firsthand experience related to your topic, sharing this information with the audience is a great way to show that you are credible during your attention-getter. For example, if you had a gastric bypass surgery and you wanted to give an informative speech about the procedure, you could introduce your speech in this way:

In the fall of 2008, I decided that it was time that I took my life into my own hands. After suffering for years with the disease of obesity, I decided to take a leap of faith and get a gastric bypass in an attempt to finally beat the disease.

If you use a personal example, don’t get carried away with the focus on yourself and your own life. Your speech topic is the purpose of the attention-getter, not the other way around. Another pitfall in using a personal example is that it may be too personal for you to maintain your composure. For example, a student once started a speech about her grandmother by stating, “My grandmother died of cancer at 3:30 this morning.” The student then proceeded to cry nonstop for ten minutes. While this is an extreme example, we strongly recommend that you avoid any material that could get you overly choked up while speaking. When speakers have an emotional breakdown during their speech, audience members stop listening to the message and become very uncomfortable.

Reference to Occasion

The last device we mention for starting a speech is to refer directly to the speaking occasion. This attention-getter is only useful if the speech is being delivered for a specific occasion. Many toasts, for example, start with the following statement: “Today we are here to honor X.” In this case, the “X” could be a retirement, a marriage, a graduation, or any number of other special occasions. Because of its specific nature, this attention-getter is the least likely to be used for speeches being delivered for college courses.

Key Takeaways

• In developing the introduction to your speech, begin by deciding upon a statement to capture the audience’s attention.
• Attention-getters can include references to the audience, quotations, references to current events, historical references, anecdotes, startling statements, questions, humor, personal references, and references to the occasion.
• Make a list of the attention-getting devices you might use to give a speech on the importance of recycling. Which do you think would be most effective? Why?
• You’ve been asked to deliver a speech on the use of advertising in children’s media. Out of the list of ten different possible attention-getting devices discussed in the chapter, how could you use four of them to start your speech?

Aesop (1881). Aesop’s fables . New York, NY: Wm. L. Allison. Retrieved from http://www.litscape.com/author/Aesop/The_Boy_and_the_Filberts.html

Leung, R. (2004, September 5). Porn in the U.S.A.: Steve Kroft reports on a $10 billion industry. Retrieved from http://www.cbsnews.com .

Miller, E. (1946). Speech introductions and conclusions. Quarterly Journal of Speech, 32 , 181–183.

Whitney, L. (2009, July 13). Don’t text while walking? Girl learns the hard way. CNET News Wireless . Retrieved from http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-10285466-94.html

Stand up, Speak out Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Not sure why you need a perfect hook in your essay? Or maybe you want to learn more about attention getters? Keep reading this article!

A hook is essentially the text’s first sentence that captures the reader's attention. It’s usually located in the opening sentence of an essay. It can either state the primary idea or function as an introductory sentence before the main narrative.

Reasons to Use an Attention Getter

There are many reasons why using an attention getter will take your essay to the next level:

• It sparks interest and curiosity in the reader.
• It makes your essay memorable and helps it stand out among others.
• It establishes the mood, style, and voice of your writing.
• It provides context or background information that leads to your essay’s main argument.

🔥 Types of Attention Getters

Did you know there are several diferent types of hooks? Each type is suitable for specific situations and texts. In addition, by using various attention-getting techniques, you can cater to different learning styles and make your essay more accessible to a broader range of readers.

The 4 main types of attention getters are:

Attention Getters for Different Purposes

As you already know, each hook type suits specific texts. In this next segment, we will discuss which attention getters to use with which assignments to get the best outcome.

Attention Getter for an Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essays aim to engage the reader in a discussion. An attention getter for this essay type can be a powerful tool to capture the reader's interest and establish credibility. By presenting compelling evidence in a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact , you can pique the audience's curiosity and make a persuasive impact.

Attention Getter for a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays tell a story. As you can guess, the most suitable hook in this case is the anecdotal type .

Attention Getter for an Informative Essay

Informative essays aim to tell the readers about something. Your aim with the hook would be to create interest. That’s why the best choice here would be statistical and question hook types .

Attention Getter for a Research Paper

Research papers are generally more complex than essays. In this case, a hook of almost any type can fit. We recommend starting with statistics and quotation hooks .

Attention Getter for a Literary Analysis

Literary analysis generally requires a more creative approach than other essay types. That’s why quotation and question hook types are the most appropriate options.

Attention Getter for a Speech

If you’re writing a text for an informative speech, you need a hook that will quickly grab the attention of many diverse people. Generally, a quotation or question hook will do the trick, but you can also use shocking statistics to actualize the topic effectively.

❤️ Writing a Catchy Attention Getter: Helpful Tips

Finally, we present to you the most helpful tips to make your hooks perfect!

Now you know everything necessary for making a great attention grabber for your text. Make sure to use AssignZen’s hook generator to speed up the process! This groundbreaking tool will be a great help even for a seasoned writer.

❓ Attention Getter Generator FAQ

❓ how do you make an attention grabber.

It's pretty easy to make a good attention grabber. Just think of a sentence that can be catchy, informative, and related to your main topic’s problem. You can use any hook, should it be a question, a quote, a personal story, or a shocking statistic.

❓ What is a hook generator?

AssingZen’s hook generator is a free tool that creates attention getters for essays or research papers. All you should do is choose the desired hook type and state your topic in the generator's parameters. After that, you'll receive a perfect hook that you can use however you want.

❓ What is a good attention grabber for an essay?

A good attention grabber must be catchy, informative, and connected with the topic. Here’s an example of a great hook for an argumentative essay: “In recent days, many influential people have asked themselves: can we create a world under a single government?”

❓ What is an example of an attention getter in an essay?

Here’re a few good examples of catchy hooks:

• Everyone knows that committing a crime is a punishable act. But were there situations where committing a crime has helped society?
• According to the most recent statistics, 53% of marriages in the US end in divorce.

Updated: Apr 9th, 2024

• How to Write a Hook: East Stroudsburg University
• How to Write a Hook to Captivate Your Readers: Grammarly
• Hooks & Grabbers: Las Positas College
• Attention Getters: Grand Valley State University
• The Attention-Getter: The First Step of an Introduction: University of Minnesota

How to Write a Good Attention Getter: Tips and Strategies

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Having a strong opening is essential for any piece of writing. It is the attention getter that hooks the reader in and makes them want to keep reading. A good attention getter sets the stage for the rest of the content and can make all the difference between a piece that is engaging or one that falls flat. In this article, we will explore the importance of attention getters in writing and provide tips and strategies for crafting a strong hook.

Understanding the Importance of Attention Getters

Before we delve into how to craft an effective attention getter, it's important to understand its role. An attention getter is the first thing a reader encounters and it serves as a way to hook them in, create curiosity and set the tone for the rest of the piece. A successful attention getter not only captures a reader's attention but it also builds anticipation for what's to come.

The role of attention getters in writing

Attention getters are an essential part of all types of writing, from headlines to essays to novels. They are necessary to grab readers' attention and encourage them to keep reading. Without a strong attention getter, content can fall flat or be dismissed entirely.

Types of attention getters

There are several different approaches to crafting an attention getter. Some popular types include anecdotes and personal stories, quotations, rhetorical questions, statistics and facts, humor, and provocative statements. Each type can be effective depending on the type of writing and the desired tone.

One effective type of attention getter is the use of anecdotes and personal stories. These can be used to create a connection with the reader and provide a relatable example. For example, if you were writing an article about the importance of exercise, you could start with a personal story about how exercise has impacted your life.

Another approach is to use quotations. Quotations can be used to provide an authoritative voice or to add an element of intrigue. For example, if you were writing an article about the benefits of meditation, you could start with a quote from a well-known meditation teacher.

Rhetorical questions can also be effective attention getters. These types of questions are designed to engage the reader and encourage them to think about the topic at hand. For example, if you were writing an article about climate change, you could start with a rhetorical question like "Did you know that the earth's temperature has risen by 1 degree Celsius in the last century?"

Statistics and facts can be used to provide context and support for your argument. These can be especially effective in persuasive writing. For example, if you were writing an article about the dangers of smoking, you could start with a statistic like "Every year, smoking kills over 480,000 people in the United States."

Humor can also be an effective attention getter. If you can make your reader laugh, they are more likely to keep reading. However, it's important to use humor appropriately and in a way that is relevant to your topic. For example, if you were writing an article about the benefits of laughter, you could start with a humorous anecdote about a time when laughter helped you through a difficult situation.

Finally, provocative statements can be used to grab the reader's attention and create a sense of controversy. These types of statements are designed to challenge the reader's beliefs and encourage them to keep reading. For example, if you were writing an article about gun control, you could start with a provocative statement like "Guns don't kill people, people kill people."

Overall, there are many different types of attention getters that can be used in writing. The key is to choose an approach that is appropriate for your topic and your audience. By crafting a strong attention getter, you can capture your reader's attention and encourage them to keep reading.

Crafting a Strong Hook

Now that we've gone over the importance of an attention getter, let's discuss how to craft a strong hook.

Know your audience

The first step in crafting a strong attention getter is understanding who your audience is. What are their interests? What resonates with them? Do they prefer a more serious or humorous tone? Understanding these factors will give you valuable insight into what type of attention getter will be most effective.

Establish your purpose

Next, it's crucial to establish the purpose of your writing. Is it to inform, entertain, or persuade? This information will guide you in determining the most appropriate type of attention getter to use.

Choose the right tone

The tone of your piece is another essential factor to consider. Will it be serious, lighthearted, or somewhere in between? The tone of the attention getter should match the overall tone of the writing.

Types of Attention Getters

Let's further explore the various types of attention getters:

Anecdotes and personal stories

An engaging personal story or anecdote can be an effective way to connect with readers on a personal level. This type of attention getter also helps to make your writing more relatable and memorable.

Using a relevant quote from a respected source can lend credibility to your writing while also capturing the reader's attention. Make sure the quote is relevant and supports the purpose of your piece.

Rhetorical questions

Rhetorical questions can be a powerful tool for engaging readers and getting them to think. They are particularly effective when the question is thought-provoking or challenges conventional thinking.

Statistics and facts

Using statistics and facts can grab the reader's attention by illustrating the significance of the topic being discussed. However, be sure to use accurate and relevant data.

Humor can be an excellent attention getter when used appropriately. It can help lighten the tone of serious topics, but be cautious not to offend or stray too far from the purpose of your writing.

Provocative statements

A provocative statement can catch the reader's attention by challenging their beliefs or forcing them to consider a new perspective.

Tips for Writing Effective Attention Getters

There are several tips to keep in mind when crafting your attention getter:

Keep it relevant

Your attention getter should be relevant to the topic being discussed. It should also be clear how the attention getter relates to the rest of the piece.

Your attention getter should be succinct and to the point. It should be long enough to be impactful but not so long that it becomes tedious to read.

Create curiosity

The attention getter should create curiosity and anticipation for what's to come. A reader should be intrigued enough to want to keep reading.

Use strong language

Your attention getter should use strong, vivid language to create an emotional connection with the reader. Using sensory details can help make the piece more engaging and memorable.

In conclusion, crafting an effective attention getter is essential for engaging readers and setting the tone for your writing. By understanding the importance of attention getters and following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can create a hook that captivates readers and keeps them engaged throughout your piece.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Good Attention Getter

Use the following prompt in an AI chatbot . Below each prompt, be sure to provide additional details about your situation. These could be scratch notes, what you'd like to say or anything else that guides the AI model to write a certain way.

Please compose a compelling and effective statement or question that will capture the interest of your audience and encourage them to engage with your topic.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

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If you've chosen a good online research and essay writing service, then you don't have to worry. The writers from the firm conduct their own exploratory research, add scientific facts and back it up with the personal knowledge. None of them copy information from the Internet or steal ready-made articles. Even if this is not enough for the client, he can personally go to the anti-plagiarism website and check the finished document. Of course, the staff of the sites themselves carry out such checks, but no one can forbid you to make sure of the uniqueness of the article for yourself.

Thanks to the privacy policy on web platforms, no one will disclose your personal data and transfer to third parties. You are completely safe from start to finish.

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