how to write a teel essay introduction

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• English Grammar
• Writing Paragraphs

How to Write TEEL Paragraphs

Last Updated: June 9, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. and by wikiHow staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. 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 218,991 times.

If you’ve ever written an essay for school, you may have heard of a TEEL paragraph. These are paragraphs that follow a defined and logical structure, helping you present your information in a clear, well-organized manner. To write a TEEL paragraph, you’ll need to include a T opic sentence, an E xplanation, an E xample or E vidence to support the topic, and a L inking sentence to put it all in context.

Learning the TEEL Structure

• Keep your topic sentence clear and concise so that the reader can tell exactly what the paragraph is about. For example, your topic sentence might be “A zebra is a type of mammal.”
• You may have seen a variant on the TEEL structure called a PEEL paragraph. In a PEEL paragraph, the P stands for “Point,” i.e., the main point of the paragraph. [2] X Research source

• For example, your explanation might state, “A mammal is a warm-blooded animal with hair or fur. Female mammals secrete milk to feed their offspring, and typically give birth to live young as opposed to laying eggs.”
• Think about what kind of explanation or additional detail would benefit the reader. For example, are there terms in the topic sentence you need to define?

• For instance, in your paragraph about zebras, you could follow up your explanation by saying, “Like all mammals, zebras are warm-blooded. They also have a coat of striped black and white fur. The females give birth to live foals, which they feed with milk from a pair of teats located between their back legs.”
• You might have several examples or pieces of evidence to choose from. Try to pick the example or evidence that is most relevant and best supports your argument. [5] X Research source

Variation: Sometimes it’s helpful to include a “Comment” in your TEE(C)L paragraph after the Example/Evidence. For instance, this may be useful if you need to critique the evidence or provide an explanation to show how it supports your argument.

• For example, you might sum up your paragraph on the zebra by saying, “Therefore, the zebra meets all the major criteria for being classified as a mammal.”

Perfecting Your TEEL Paragraph

• “What exactly am I trying to say with this paragraph?”
• “What’s the best evidence I have to support my point?”
• “How does the information in this paragraph connect to the question I’m trying to answer or the main point I’m trying to make?”

• There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you’re writing a personal essay for a college application, you might use the TEEL structure along with the first person.

• For example, don’t write something like, “I’m pretty sure zebras aren’t reptiles, because they don’t have scales.”
• Instead, you might write, “Unlike all known species of reptiles, zebras do not have scales. This evidence suggests that zebras are probably not reptiles.”

• For example: According to Dr. Pritchard’s 1974 dissertation on zebras, “The zebra is undoubtedly a mammal” (p. 62).
• You can also use an indirect quote, where you rephrase or summarize what someone else said in your own words. If you do this, you must still indicate where the information came from.
• If you need to leave a word or phrase out of a quote, indicate that something is missing with ellipses (…). For example, “The zebra is related to other equine mammals, including…the horse.”
• If you have to change or add a word, use brackets. For example: According to her diary, “[Veronica] thought that zebras were insects.”

• You might find it helpful to read your paragraph out loud since your ears sometimes pick up on problems that your eyes miss.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about writing TEEL paragraphs, check out our in-depth interview with Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. .

• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/content/paragraph-structure
• ↑ https://www.matrix.edu.au/ultimate-peel-paragraph-checklist/
• ↑ https://galston-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/learning-at-our-school/what-is-t-e-e-l--.html
• ↑ https://learn.stleonards.vic.edu.au/yr7eng/files/2012/07/Year-7-English-TEEL-Paragraph-Writing-Guide-Wonder.pdf

About This Article

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Did this article help you?

Apr 18, 2018

Maria Judith Masters

Nov 30, 2019

Simon Scooner

Mar 25, 2022

Mango Grape

Jul 4, 2020

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

How to Write a TEEL Paragraph for Your English Essay

Trying to work towards a Band 6 in HSC English , but are struggling with how to construct paragraphs well in your essays and need clearer examples? Don’t worry, because we’ll break down the TEEL paragraph structure for you right now!

Here’s the ultimate guide to writing a TEEL paragraph that you’re proud of, so you can get an awesome mark in English. You’ll discover our useful techniques for creating cohesive paragraphs.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

What is TEEL and why should you use it? Using TEE Tables Constructing the Paragraph Top 5 Rules to Remember when Constructing TEEL Paragraphs

What is TEEL and why should you use it?

Basically, the TEEL structure provides you with an organised method for getting your point across . Using the TEEL structure can help show your reader that you are able to clearly analyse and respond to a given text and question.

To see this, let’s break down the TEEL paragraph structure:

T for Topic Sentence The very first sentence in your paragraph which gives the reader a good understanding of what you are going to talk about. It helps to directly respond to what the question is asking you here!

E for Example In the example section of the paragraph, you are required to extract important quotes in your text to support you overarching theme and thesis . In preparation for this part of your paragraph, highlighting, underlining, and annotating your text as you read it could serve you well.

E for Explanation So you’ve got your examples written. Now it’s time to explain exactly why they relate to your theme in the explain section. This will be the bulk of your paragraph. Over here, you will go into further detail, analysing and fleshing out any key points that you want to make.

L for Linking Sentence Sum up your argument over here with your linking sentence . Highlight how your paragraph supports your overarching thesis/point.

Not sure how to find and use quotes in your English Essay? Check out our in-depth guide to embedding quotes .

Download your own copy of our TEEL paragraph template

It is also important to note that the TEEL paragraph structure is very generic, and as you go into older years, you’ll find that your paragraphs start to look more like TEEEEEEL paragraphs! This just means that your paragraphs will be packed full of examples and explanations, so you’re on the right track.

Pretty simple right? You’ll find that the more TEEL paragraphs you write, the more repetitive it gets.

But what happens if you’re in an exam and forget what you were going to write as your explanation or examples?

Using TEE Tables

To avoid sticky situations like these, it can be helpful to use TEE Tables to structure your arguments in a clear and logical manner.

To summarise, a TEE table is used as an organiser for the techniques, examples, and effects that you wish to analyse for a specific text.

In general, it is helpful to split up your TEE analysis into the various themes that you are exploring in your text.

Here is a sample TEE table for Ray Bradbury’s ‘The Pedestrian’ , in reference to the theme of dehumanisation :

The theme being analysed in this TEE table is dehumanisation, which is a motif that runs throughout Bradbury’s entire short story! By creating a TEE table, we have successfully analysed the text regarding this theme.

This table can be created for each of your themes and serves as an efficient way for you to organise all your techniques and quotes in a clear manner!

After creating these tables, the only thing left to do is put them in a TEEL paragraph format . Since we have our TEE tables for reference, our techniques and examples section of the paragraph is already down pat, and all that’s left to add is a solid thesis statement and a conclusion!

Incorporate some style in your essay by learning how to use persuasive techniques !

Constructing the Paragraph

We must ensure that the topic sentence , or thesis statement relates not only to the question, but also to the theme we will be exploring . A good topic sentence will try to incorporate both the theme and question in one succinct sentence.

Similarly, an effective linking sentence serves to sum up the points you have addressed in your TEEL paragraph while relating them back to the question.

For example, let’s use the TEE table created above to make a TEEL paragraph:

In this paragraph, each section has been highlighted for your convenience, TEEL being yellow, red, blue, and pink respectively.

And there we have it! We have successfully used our TEE table to create a succinct and clear TEEL paragraph which addresses a theme relevant to the text.

Remember, the key to perfecting your TEEL paragraph writing skills is to practise them regularly!

If you’d prefer to use a different paragraph structure, then you should check out how the STEEL paragraph structure , PEEL paragraph structure or the  PETAL paragraph structure works!

Top 5 Rules to Remember when Constructing TEEL Paragraphs

#1: Language must always be formal  Using formal language in TEEL paragraphs is important because it helps to clearly and seriously present your ideas in a professional way .

#2: Use Third Person  Using the third person in TEEL paragraphs helps students maintain an objective and unbiased tone in their writing.

#3: Check for Spelling and Grammar Mistakes It’s crucial for students to scan their TEEL paragraphs for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure clear, professional, and well-crafted writing that leaves a positive impression on the reader.

#4: Avoid Using Contractions Students should refrain from using contractions in their TEEL paragraphs as it diminishes the formality of the writing. Utilising complete words instead of contractions, such as replacing “can’t” with “cannot” and “it’s” with “it is,” enhances the overall clarity of the essay .

#5: Remember to Use Single Quotation Marks (‘) when Referencing the Book Title Students should use single quotation marks when referencing book titles in their writing to distinguish them and indicate they are the titles of larger, standalone works .

Looking for some extra help with your TEEL paragraph?

We have an incredible team of hsc english tutors and mentors.

We can help you master your HSC English text and ace your upcoming HSC English assessments with personalised lessons conducted one-on-one in your home or at one of our state of the art campuses in Hornsby or the Hills!

We’ve supported over  8,000 students over the last 11 years , and on average our students score mark improvements of over 20%!

To find out more and get started with an inspirational HSC English tutor and mentor,   get in touch today  or give us a ring on  1300 267 888!

Aarya Mogarkar is an academic tutor and senior coach at Art of Smart Education. She is currently completing her Bachelor’s degree in Economics at the University of New South Wales and tutors students in the areas of English, Economics and Business Studies.

• Topics: ✏️ English , ✍️ Learn

Related Articles

How to write a kickass band 6 hsc english essay, how to write a band 6 discursive writing piece for hsc english module c, ia3 english short story – your essential guide to writing an imaginative response, 45,861 students have a head start....

Get exclusive study content & advice from our team of experts delivered weekly to your inbox!

Looking for English Support?

Discover how we can help you!

We provide services in

• Workshop Calendar
• The 5 Critical Classroom Strategies
• Supporting EAL/D Students
• Supporting Students in Reading
• Prep to Year 6 Reading 'The Big Six'
• Year 3-6 Reading 'The Big Six'
• The Science of Reading
• Introduction to the 6 Traits of Writing
• All Workshops

In-school Services

Consultancy services, demonstration lessons.

We demonstrate lessons with students while your teachers and support staff observe. Modelled teaching supports educators to action the teaching approaches discussed at workshops.

Build a common understanding of approaches to teaching literacy across the primary school. Assist educators to extend their knowledge and expertise to produce the best possible outcomes for students.

Face-to-face delivery customized for your school

Practical Strategies for Teaching Comprehension

Angela Ehmer will deliver 'Practical Strategies for Teaching Comprehension' to Teachers' Aides on 22 March 2023

• Webinar Calendar
• Intervention Strategies (R & W)
• Prep to Years 6 Reading: 'The Big Six'
• The Six Traits of Writing
• Introduction: 6 Traits of Writing
• The Art of Teaching Writing

Video Presentations

• Guided Reading
• Guided Writing
• Prep to Year 3 Reading: 'The Big Six'
• Primary Writing Workshop
• Teachers' Aides Reading
• Teachers' Aides Writing
• The Writing Process
• Top Level Structures

Short Courses

• Literature Circles
• Reading Stamina
• Shared Reading

Angela Ehmer, presenting the Top Level Structures component of the Primary Writing Workshop.

• Mind Maps, Organisers & Planners for Writing
• Multiple Intelligences Response Cards
• Planners and Organisers for Writing
• Supporting Readers and Writers
• The Bookmark Book
• The Daily Chat
• The Daily Write
• The Daily Write (Early Years)
• The Task Card Book
• The Comprehension Toolkit (5-8)
• Mind Maps & Organisers Reading
• Comprehension Charts
• Top Level Structures: Graphic Organisers
• Top Level Structures: Signal Words

Writing TEEL or PEEL Paragraphs

• Writing: Text Types
• Writing: Reviewing and Editing

Prompt Cards

• Active Reader Cards
• Comprehension Card Set
• Literature Circle Role Cards
• Reciprocal Teaching
• Vocabulary Activities
• Vocabulary Cards

Six Traits of Writing

• Blank anchor charts - Ages 5-11
• Blank anchor charts - Ages 9-16
• Detailed Wall Charts - Ages 5-11
• Detailed Wall Charts - Ages 9-16
• Six Traits Overview
• Picture Charts - Ages 5-11
• Picture Charts - Ages 9-16
• Rubric Scorer (App)
• Simple Chart Set - Ages 5-11
• Simple Chart Set - Ages 9-16
• Single Chart - Ages 5-11
• Single Chart - Ages 9-16
• Sorting Task Headings
• Sorting Task Prompts
• Sensory Details Chart

Other Resources

• Bookmarks (high frequency words)
• Book Reviews
• Literacy Glossary
• Popular Rhymes
• Read Aloud Books (Recommended)
• Reading Strategy Bookmarks
• Reading Strategy Bookmarks for Younger Readers
• Short videos to support parents
• Tic Tac Toe: Games
• Transition words

Lesson Guides

• 'Have Your Say' Writing Prompts
• Compare / Contrast

The Comprehension Toolkit (Ages 5-8)

The Comprehension Toolkit (Ages 5-8) is a 240 page publication including more than 80 reading lessons to help busy teachers deliver high quality comprehension lessons.

Literacy survey closes today!

In-Person Services

• Consultancy Services Overview
• Demonstration lessons We demonstrate lessons with students while your teachers and support staff observe. Modelled teaching supports educators to action the teaching approaches discussed at workshops.
• Coaching Build a common understanding of approaches to teaching literacy across the primary school. Assist educators to extend their knowledge and expertise to produce the best possible outcomes for students.
• Workshops Face-to-face delivery customized for your school

Online Learning

Many students use the PEEL or TEEL structure when constructing nonfiction paragraphs. The structures have been particularly popular in supporting students to write persuasive essays, discussions and arguments, as it provides a framework for constructing individual, main-idea paragraphs which transition smoothly to the next main idea. As a result, student essays contain clear, focused paragraphs in which sentences are sequenced, coherent and cohesive. If writing purely factual texts or reports, the PEEL or TEEL structure applies; if writing opinionative essays students may incorporate an additional 'E' into the framework, making the structures PEEEL or TEEEL.

If you are new to the structures, this overview will briefly explain the acronyms. The video below addresses the decisions students make when using the structure and may be useful in adding clarity.

What do the acronyms stand for?

P = Point : This is the main point or main idea of the paragraph. This sentence outlines what the paragraph will be about and should support the overall argument or thesis. If using TEEL, simply replace the ‘P’ with the ‘T’ and replace the word ‘point’ with ‘topic’.

T = The main topic of the paragraph and this sentence is referred to as a 'Topic' sentence.

E = Explain/Elaborate : These sentences explain or elaborate on information in the previous sentence or sentences. These sentences add clarity to build reader understandings. If the 'Explain' sentence follows the opening sentence, it should explain or add clarity about the main point; if it follows an 'Evidence' or 'Example' sentence, it should explain precisely how the evidence or example supports the point and provide any further information readers require to fully understand its relevance.

E = Example/Evidence : These sentences affirm the author's assertions, either by offering an anecdote or example through which audiences can better relate or connect to the author's idea, or highlighting evidence offered as proof.

E= Evaluate : In this sentence the author makes a judgement, provides the views of another entity, or prompts the audience to reflect or evaluate.

L = Link : This sentence may connect the ideas from one paragraph to the next to ensure a smooth transition across paragraphs. Alternately, the sentence may link the ideas in that paragraph to the author's overall thesis, opinion, or topic of the essay.

It is important for students to know every sentence must earn its place. Quality paragraphs are comprised of carefully crafted, well-executed, quality sentences. A quality sentence is one which provides essential information or information which 'value adds'. Students must learn to ask themselves, "What am I trying to say and to whom? What do I want my audience to know, understand or think? How can I best achieve this?"

When using the structures, students should be flexible. They should think about where a particular sentence may be required by the reader. There is no rule that sentences must follow a rigid sequence. Sometimes a writer will begin a paragraph with an ‘Evaluate’ sentence (or question) and the ‘T’ or ‘P’ sentence will be last sentence and will sum up the ideas in that paragraph.

Sentence charts

These simple writing sentence charts support the TEEL and PEEL framework.

Point sentence

Topic sentence

Explaining sentence

Elaborating sentence

Example sentence

Evidence sentence

Evaluating sentence

Linking sentence

Download all sentence charts.

Planning templates

If you are using this structure with students, a free Planning template for both PEEL and TEEL is available to assist you. Please note:

• The only difference between the PEEL and TEEL planning templates is the initial letter and terminology used for the ‘P’ and ‘T’. The purpose of the sentence remains the same.
• There are two versions of each planning template. One version poses questions for the purpose of building metacognition, and this may be a more helpful template in the early stages when students must think about ‘why’ information is provided ‘how’ the information across sentences is supported.

• Services for education institutions
• Academic subject areas
• Peer connection
• Evidence of Studiosity impact
• Case studies from our partners
• Research Hub
• The Tracey Bretag Integrity Prize
• The Studiosity Symposium
• Studiosity for English learners
• Video case studies
• Meet the online team

Academic Advisory Board

Meet the board.

• Social responsibility
• Meet the team
• Join the team

How to structure paragraphs using the PEEL method

Sophia Gardner

Sep 1, 2023

You may have heard of the acronym PEEL for essays, but what exactly does it mean? And how can it help you? We’re here to explain it all, plus give you some tips on how to nail your next essay.

There’s certainly an art to writing essays. If you haven’t written one for a while, or if you would like to hone your academic writing skills, the PEEL paragraph method is an easy way to get your point across in a clear and concise way, that is easily digestible to the reader. 

So, what exactly is PEEL ? 

The PEEL paragraph method is a technique used in writing to help structure paragraphs in a way that presents a single clear and focused argument, which links back to the essay topic or thesis statement. 

It’s good practice to dedicate each paragraph to  one  aspect of your argument, and the PEEL structure simplifies this for you.

It allows you to create a paragraph that is easy and accessible for others to understand. Remember, when you’re writing something, it’s not just you who is reading it - you need to consider the reader and how they are going to be digesting this new information. 

What does PEEL stand for? 

P = Point: start your paragraph with a clear topic sentence that establishes what your paragraph is going to be about. Your point should support your essay argument or thesis statement.

E = Evidence/Example: here you should use a piece of evidence or an example that helps to reaffirm your initial point and develop the argument. 

E = Explain: next you need to explain exactly how your evidence/example supports your point, giving further information to ensure that your reader understands its relevance.

L = Link: to finish the paragraph off, you need to link the point you’ve just made back to your essay question, topic, or thesis.

Download a free PEEL paragraph planner below. 👇

Studiosity English specialist Ellen, says says students often underestimate the importance of a well-structured paragraph. 

PEEL in practice

Here’s an example of what you might include in a PEEL structured paragraph: 

Topic: Should infants be given iPads?  Thesis/argument: Infants should not be given iPads.

Point : Infants should not be given iPads, because studies show children under two can face developmental delays if they are exposed to too much screen time. 

Evidence/Example: A recent paediatric study showed that infants who are exposed to too much screen time may experience delays in speech development.

Explanation: The reason infants are facing these delays is because screen time is replacing other key developmental activities.

Link: The evidence suggests that infants who have a lot of screen time experience negative consequences in their speech development, and therefore they should not be exposed to iPads at such a young age.

Once you’ve written your PEEL paragraph, do a checklist to ensure you have covered off all four elements of the PEEL structure. Your point should be a clear introduction to the argument you are making in this paragraph; your example or evidence should be strong and relevant (ask yourself, have you chosen the best example?); your explanation should be demonstrate why your evidence is important and how it conveys meaning; and your link should summarise the point you’ve just made and link back to the broader essay argument or topic. 

Keep your paragraphs clear, focused, and not too long. If you find your paragraphs are getting lengthy, take a look at how you could split them into multiple paragraphs, and ensure you’re creating a new paragraph for each new idea you introduce to the essay. 

Finally, it’s important to always proofread your paragraph. Read it once, twice, and then read it again. Check your paragraph for spelling, grammar, language and sentence flow. A good way to do this is to read it aloud to yourself, and if it sounds clunky or unclear, consider rewriting it. 

That’s it! We hope this helps explain the PEEL method and how it can help you with your next essay. 😊

You might also like:  Proofreading vs editing: what's the difference? How to get easy marks in an exam 5 study hacks that actually work

Topics: English , Writing , Grammar

About Studiosity

Asking for feedback on your work is an essential part of learning. So when you want to better understand a concept or check you're on the right track, we're here for you. 

Find out if you have free access through your institution here .

Recent Posts

Posts by topic.

• Students (85)
• Higher education (67)
• Student Experience (46)
• University (46)
• Education (41)
• online study (34)
• Interview (28)
• Learning (28)
• Tertiary education (28)
• Educators (27)
• Research (24)
• Parents (23)
• English (18)
• High School (18)
• Podcast (17)
• Technology (17)
• students first (17)
• Writing (16)
• Student stories (14)
• Homework (13)
• student wellbeing (13)
• Assignment Help (12)
• Education policy (12)
• Formative feedback (12)
• Literacy (12)
• academic integrity (12)
• Events (11)
• Academic Advisory Board (10)
• Studiosity (10)
• covid19 (10)
• international student (10)
• Australia (9)
• Health and Wellbeing (9)
• Learning trends (9)
• Student satisfaction (9)
• Teaching (9)
• Secondary education (8)
• Equality (7)
• Science (7)
• Student retention (7)
• UK students (7)
• staff wellbeing (7)
• Student support (6)
• UK Higher Education (6)
• academic services (6)
• online learning (6)
• CanHigherEd (5)
• Online Tutoring (5)
• Workload (5)
• belonging (5)
• CVs and cover letters (4)
• Internet (4)
• Mathematics (4)
• Partnerships (4)
• School holidays (4)
• Student performance (4)
• Widening Participation (4)
• student success (4)
• #InthisTogether (3)
• Grammar (3)
• University of Exeter (3)
• teaching & learning (3)
• Charity (2)
• Government (2)
• Mentors (2)
• Primary education (2)
• Subject Specialists (2)
• accessibility (2)
• community (2)
• diversity (2)
• plagiarism prevention (2)
• student stress (2)
• webinar (2)
• Biology (1)
• Careers (1)
• Chemistry (1)
• EU students (1)
• First years (1)
• Indigenous Strategy (1)
• Middle East (1)
• Nutrition (1)
• Teacher (1)
• academic support (1)
• academic writing (1)
• business schools (1)
• choice of language (1)
• dyslexia (1)
• ethical AI (1)
• generativeAI (1)
• job help (1)
• library services (1)
• podcasts (1)
• reflection (1)
• university of west of england (1)
• July 2015 (12)
• March 2020 (11)
• June 2020 (10)
• July 2020 (8)
• September 2020 (8)
• March 2015 (7)
• April 2015 (7)
• October 2019 (7)
• April 2020 (7)
• May 2018 (6)
• April 2019 (6)
• May 2020 (6)
• September 2022 (6)
• June 2015 (5)
• August 2015 (5)
• December 2017 (5)
• March 2018 (5)
• February 2020 (5)
• March 2021 (5)
• June 2021 (5)
• July 2016 (4)
• March 2017 (4)
• October 2017 (4)
• February 2018 (4)
• August 2018 (4)
• May 2019 (4)
• July 2019 (4)
• August 2019 (4)
• March 2024 (4)
• August 2024 (4)
• February 2015 (3)
• May 2015 (3)
• September 2015 (3)
• December 2015 (3)
• January 2016 (3)
• April 2016 (3)
• October 2016 (3)
• December 2016 (3)
• April 2017 (3)
• September 2017 (3)
• April 2018 (3)
• October 2018 (3)
• March 2019 (3)
• January 2020 (3)
• October 2020 (3)
• November 2020 (3)
• June 2022 (3)
• October 2022 (3)
• November 2022 (3)
• August 2023 (3)
• November 2023 (3)
• April 2024 (3)
• July 2024 (3)
• March 2016 (2)
• May 2016 (2)
• August 2016 (2)
• July 2017 (2)
• January 2018 (2)
• November 2018 (2)
• December 2018 (2)
• February 2019 (2)
• June 2019 (2)
• September 2019 (2)
• January 2021 (2)
• February 2021 (2)
• April 2021 (2)
• August 2021 (2)
• September 2021 (2)
• December 2021 (2)
• August 2022 (2)
• February 2023 (2)
• March 2023 (2)
• May 2023 (2)
• December 2023 (2)
• June 2024 (2)
• October 2008 (1)
• August 2013 (1)
• October 2015 (1)
• February 2016 (1)
• June 2016 (1)
• September 2016 (1)
• November 2016 (1)
• January 2017 (1)
• May 2017 (1)
• June 2017 (1)
• August 2017 (1)
• November 2017 (1)
• June 2018 (1)
• September 2018 (1)
• January 2019 (1)
• November 2019 (1)
• December 2019 (1)
• August 2020 (1)
• December 2020 (1)
• May 2021 (1)
• February 2022 (1)
• March 2022 (1)
• July 2022 (1)
• December 2022 (1)
• January 2023 (1)
• June 2023 (1)
• July 2023 (1)
• September 2023 (1)
• October 2023 (1)
• February 2024 (1)

Studiosity is personalised study help, anytime, anywhere. We partner with institutions to extend their core academic skills support online with timely, after-hours help for all their students, at scale - regardless of their background, study mode or location. 

Now you can subscribe to our educator newsletter, for insights and free downloads straight to your inbox: 

    ABN 41 114 279 668

Student zone, assignment calculator, calendars and organisers, study survival guides, free practice tests, student faqs, download our mobile app, student sign in, success stories.

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Specialist Sign In

Meet our specialists

Meet the team, media and research, student reviews.

Read more on Google

Studiosity acknowledges the Traditional Indigenous Custodians of country throughout Australia, and all lands where we work, and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Contact     •    FAQ     •    Privacy    •    Accessibility     •    Acceptable Use     •    Terms of Use AI-for-Learning Polic y    •    Academic Integrity Policy

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How to Write an Excellent Essay Introduction

• 3-minute read
• 27th September 2022

Love it or hate it, essay writing is a big part of student life. Writing a great essay might seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re staring at a blank document, but there are formulas you can follow to make sure your paper hits the mark.

When you plan your essays , don’t neglect your introduction! It might seem like a trivial part of the paper, but it can make it or break it. A badly written introduction can leave your reader feeling confused about the topic and what to expect from your essay.

To help your writing reach its full potential, we’ve put together a guide to writing an excellent essay introduction.

How to Write an Essay Introduction

An essay introduction has four main steps:

●  Hook your reader

●  Provide context

●  Present your thesis statement

●  Map your essay

Hook Your Reader

The first part of your introduction should be the hook. This is where you introduce the reader to the topic of the essay. A great hook should be clear, concise, and catchy. It doesn’t need to be long; a hook can be just one sentence.

Provide Context

In this section, introduce your reader to key definitions, ideas, and background information to help them understand your argument.

Present Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement tells the reader the main point or argument of the essay. This can be just one sentence, or it can be a few sentences.

Map Your Essay

Before you wrap up your essay introduction, map it! This means signposting sections of your essay. The key here is to be concise. The purpose of this part of the introduction is to give your reader a sense of direction.

Here’s an example of an essay introduction:

Hook: Suspense is key for dramatic stories, and Shakespeare is well-known and celebrated for writing suspenseful plays.

Context: While there are many ways in which Shakespeare created suspension for his viewers, two techniques he used effectively were foreshadowing and dramatic irony. Foreshadowing is a literary device that hints at an event or situation that is yet to happen. Dramatic irony is a literary technique, originally used in Greek tragedy, by which the full significance of a character’s words or actions is clear to the audience or reader, although it is unknown to the character.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Thesis statement: Foreshadowing and dramatic irony are two powerful techniques that Shakespeare used to create suspense in literature. These methods have been used to keep the reader intrigued, excited, or nervous about what is to come in many of his celebrated works.

Essay mapping: In this essay, I will be detailing how Shakespeare uses foreshadowing and dramatic irony to create suspense, with examples from Romeo and Juliet and Othello.

Pro tip: Essays take twists and turns. We recommend changing your introduction as necessary while you write the main text to make sure it fully aligns with your final draft.

Proofread and Editing

Proofreading is an essential part of delivering a great essay. We offer a proofreading and editing service for students and academics that will provide you with expert editors to check your work for any issues with:

●  Grammar

●  Spelling

●  Formatting

●  Tone

●  Audience

●  Consistency

●  Accuracy

●  Clarity

Want 500 words of your work proofread completely free of charge?

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template (2024)

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Check your paper for plagiarism in 10 minutes, generate your apa citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• College essay

How to Write a Great College Essay Introduction | Examples

Published on October 4, 2021 by Meredith Testa . Revised on August 14, 2023 by Kirsten Courault.

Admissions officers read thousands of essays each application season, and they may devote as little as five minutes to reviewing a student’s entire application. That means it’s critical to have a well-structured essay with a compelling introduction. As you write and revise your essay , look for opportunities to make your introduction more engaging.

There’s one golden rule for a great introduction: don’t give too much away . Your reader shouldn’t be able to guess the entire trajectory of the essay after reading the first sentence. A striking or unexpected opening captures the reader’s attention, raises questions, and makes them want to keep reading to the end .

Table of contents

Start with a surprise, start with a vivid, specific image, avoid clichés, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

A great introduction often has an element of mystery. Consider the following opening statement.

This opener is unexpected, even bizarre—what could this student be getting at? How can you be bad at breathing?

The student goes on to describe her experience with asthma and how it has affected her life. It’s not a strange topic, but the introduction is certainly intriguing. This sentence keeps the admissions officer reading, giving the student more of an opportunity to keep their attention and make her point.

In a sea of essays with standard openings such as “One life-changing experience for me was …” or “I overcame an obstacle when …,” this introduction stands out. The student could have used either of those more generic introductions, but neither would have been as successful.

This type of introduction is a true “hook”—it’s highly attention-grabbing, and the reader has to keep reading to understand.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

If your topic doesn’t lend itself to such a surprising opener, you can also start with a vivid, specific description.

Many essays focus on a particular experience, and describing one moment from that experience can draw the reader in. You could focus on small details of what you could see and feel, or drop the reader right into the middle of the story with dialogue or action.

Some students choose to write more broadly about themselves and use some sort of object or metaphor as the focus. If that’s the type of essay you’d like to write, you can describe that object in vivid detail, encouraging the reader to imagine it.

Cliché essay introductions express ideas that are stereotypical or generally thought of as conventional wisdom. Ideas like “My family made me who I am today” or “I accomplished my goals through hard work and determination” may genuinely reflect your life experience, but they aren’t unique or particularly insightful.

Unoriginal essay introductions are easily forgotten and don’t demonstrate a high level of creative thinking. A college essay is intended to give insight into the personality and background of an applicant, so a standard, one-size-fits-all introduction may lead admissions officers to think they are dealing with a standard, unremarkable applicant.

Quotes can often fall into the category of cliché essay openers. There are some circumstances in which using a quote might make sense—for example, you could quote an important piece of advice or insight from someone important in your life. But for most essays, quotes aren’t necessary, and they may make your essay seem uninspired.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

The introduction of your college essay is the first thing admissions officers will read and therefore your most important opportunity to stand out. An excellent introduction will keep admissions officers reading, allowing you to tell them what you want them to know.

The key to a strong college essay introduction is not to give too much away. Try to start with a surprising statement or image that raises questions and compels the reader to find out more.

Cliché openers in a college essay introduction are usually general and applicable to many students and situations. Most successful introductions are specific: they only work for the unique essay that follows.

In most cases, quoting other people isn’t a good way to start your college essay . Admissions officers want to hear your thoughts about yourself, and quotes often don’t achieve that. Unless a quote truly adds something important to your essay that it otherwise wouldn’t have, you probably shouldn’t include it.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Testa, M. (2023, August 14). How to Write a Great College Essay Introduction | Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 26, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/introduction-college-essay/

Is this article helpful?

Meredith Testa

Other students also liked, college essay format & structure | example outlines, how to end a college admissions essay | 4 winning strategies, what do colleges look for in an essay | examples & tips, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”

How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

• What is an Argumentative Essay? How to Write It (With Examples)
• How to Paraphrase Research Papers Effectively
• How to Cite Social Media Sources in Academic Writing? 
• How Long Should a Chapter Be?

Similarity Checks: The Author’s Guide to Plagiarism and Responsible Writing

Types of plagiarism and 6 tips to avoid it in your writing , you may also like, dissertation printing and binding | types & comparison , what is a dissertation preface definition and examples , how to write a research proposal: (with examples..., how to write your research paper in apa..., how to choose a dissertation topic, how to write a phd research proposal, how to write an academic paragraph (step-by-step guide), maintaining academic integrity with paperpal’s generative ai writing..., research funding basics: what should a grant proposal..., how to write an abstract in research papers....

How to write a TEEL Structure And Their Benefits?

Team Desklib

Published: 2022-08-22

TEEL stands for Topic Sentence, Explanation, Evidence, and Link and is used in the context of writing. TEEL is the pattern of writing that must be followed while writing an essay or any academic piece of writing as it helps in making your essay sorted and divided into a few informational paragraphs that is helpful for readers because it is easily understandable for them.

It is important to follow the structure of TEEL, as the structure influences the reader to read the essay further. Hence, the structure of your piece of writing should be clear and managed in paragraphs. The TEEL structure makes your essay more meaningful and patterned as in TEEL structure you break your thoughts into different sections and make a single paragraph for a single thought to explain it well and elaborate the particular thought well in a single paragraph.

This blog is solely dedicated to helping you to write a good essay in a well-organized form. Further, you will find some more tips for writing well, you will get to know what should be done and what should be avoided. while writing an essay.

How to write a TEEL Structure

Generally, students write essays either in a single flow or they use a traditional way of writing an essay that is an introduction then the body of an essay followed by the conclusion. This traditional way of writing an essay has become outdated as it makes your essay more lengthy, due to which the reader loses his/her interest in reading and barely reads the full essay that is written by you after so much hard work.

It is really daunting to know that nobody is reading what you write after so much research and hard work. To make your readers enjoy your writing you should do something that is unique and not followed by the majority of people. TEEL is a new technique that provides a good blueprint for your essay.

TEEL stands for topic sentence, explanation, evidence, and link. It sounds similar to a general pattern, of introduction, then body, and then the conclusion, but TEEL is more elaborate than the latter, as it deals with providing more information in lesser and selective words.

• Topic Sentence

TEEL follows a pattern of first writing a “topic sentence”, in which you write only a single sentence for the topic on which you are writing a whole essay. That line should be well-defined and explain your whole essay in just a single line. Let’s understand the importance of writing a “ topic sentence ”.

In an essay, a topic sentence can be referred to as a first impression and your whole essay will be signified through this single topic sentence. So, write this single line in such a way that it should look like the main theme or crux of an essay. This first line should ignite a fire in the minds of readers and compel the reader to read the whole essay. So be careful while writing the first line which is the “topic sentence” of your essay.

A common tip for writing a good topic sentence: It is advisable that you do not write the Topic sentence at the beginning/starting of the essay, kindly write down the whole idea in the form of an essay then read out your essay, and then give an appropriate topic sentence to your essay. So first, complete the whole essay and then write its topic sentence, by this you will get the most appropriate title for your essay.

• Explanation

The next most important step is to write an explanation of your idea. An idea is always a single notion but in an essay, you explain your concept and elaborate on that single notion. 

At least one paragraph must be dedicated to the explanation in which you can actually write what you accept and reject about an idea. You can support your idea and convince someone to support it too. Here you should write the advantages and disadvantages of innovation too.

A common tip for writing a good explanation of an idea: Suppose you are writing an essay on “clean energy”. Now clean energy is an idea that you have to explain. 

So while explaining this idea you should first write what is the need for clean energy, then if you support the idea you should explain why you support this by giving the advantages of clean energy and how it is beneficial for humanity. And then end up by telling the disadvantages of clean energy as it is quite expensive.

The next paragraph should be revealing the shreds of evidence for the points you mentioned above in the separate paragraph of explanation. Here you support your idea with evidence. But your evidence should be valid and real, based on scientific research , and scientifically proven. 

This evidence could be in the form of a quote, factual data, or a reference from a valid source. The shreds of evidence provided by you can make a big difference as it compels a reader to follow your idea. Remember, readers are going to trust your idea only if a piece of strong evidence backs it.

A common tip for writing a good paragraph on evidence of an idea:

It is advisable to research how valid your idea is. You may find help on google. Suppose you get an idea to write on clean energy then search this idea on google to collect some valid pieces of evidence or proof that support the idea of clean energy. These proofs should be collected from some valid websites only.

A Link is the most important paragraph of the essay, as it connects all other paragraphs together. This paragraph should be the last paragraph of the essay in which you should combine all the paragraphs of the essay and wind up the essay by adding a conclusion with this. The link finally explains the whole essay shortly and ends on a very subjective note as it depends on readers, whether they will support your idea or not.

A common tip for writing a paragraph or assignment on a link: suppose you have expressed an idea of clean energy throughout the essay, then in the linked paragraph you actually link an idea with its explanation and evidence and add some conclusive lines to wind up the essay. 

The link is important because it creates a connection between all the paragraphs you have added in the essay and squeezes the lengthy essay into a single paragraph. This makes the reader comfortable to read and connect the idea easily. 

Advantages of using TEEL structure

TEEL is very advantageous for writers as it provides the best structure to them in which they can fit their knowledge.TEEL technique has the potential to convert a normal essay into an exclusive one. It increases the chances of your essay, getting more potential readers. 

If you apply the TEEL structure skillfully, your paragraphs will have a stronger effect on readers’ minds and make the whole essay very convincing. This technique makes your writing more creative so that readers could adhere to your writing and end up reading the whole essay till the end. 

The TEEL structure brings you one step closer to becoming a first-class and exclusive writer and shows your potential to the readers that, yes this writer could become a future writer. TEEL structure allows you to stay focused on a particular topic and bind the reader’s concentration from one paragraph to another. 

With its help, a writer can present information in a lucrative, more structured, and logical way. It enables you to provide pieces of evidence to the presented arguments, which strengthens the analytical aspect of the writer’s essay. 

In the field of academic writing , one must use this technique. The TEEL technique not just provides the structure to your idea but also manages your idea to make it more lucid. In short TEEL technique is the best way to add embellishments to your thoughts.

The idea is the most precious thing in the world only a few humans have ideas and only a few out a few can write their ideas beautifully. So do not hesitate in writing your ideas, if you want to write down your idea then write it in such a way that can influence every reader who reads your essay or any document written by you. Remember, readers can not see you apparently but they can see you in your words so every word that you write should be chosen with great care. So proper shade of word should be chosen by you. 

In order to choose the right words, you don't need to work hard just use formal words in your documents and write an essay in the third person perspective, this will help you to connect with the readers. Hope we are successful in explaining to you the importance of the TEEL technique and we wish, that now you will definitely use this technique to make your document/ essay more convincing and powerful.

More Reading

• Top 10 Most In-Demand Professional Skills in 2022
• 6 Phases of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Top 10 Business Growth Strategies For Your Company To Increase
• Importance of building Teacher-Student Relationship
• How to Write an Outline For an Essay | Guidelines | Examples

Your Feedback matters

• RMIT Australia
• RMIT Europe
• RMIT Vietnam
• RMIT Global
• RMIT Online
• Alumni & Giving

• What will I do?
• What will I need?
• Who will help me?
• About the institution
• New to university?
• Studying efficiently
• Time management
• Mind mapping
• Note-taking
• Reading skills
• Argument analysis
• Preparing for assessment
• Critical thinking and argument analysis
• Online learning skills
• Starting my first assignment
• Researching your assignment
• What is referencing?
• Understanding citations
• When referencing isn't needed
• Paraphrasing
• Summarising
• Synthesising
• Integrating ideas with reporting words
• Referencing with Easy Cite
• Getting help with referencing
• Acting with academic integrity
• Artificial intelligence tools
• Understanding your audience
• Writing for coursework
• Literature review
• Academic style
• Writing for the workplace
• Spelling tips
• Writing paragraphs
• Writing sentences
• Academic word lists
• Annotated bibliographies
• Artist statement
• Case studies
• Creating effective poster presentations
• Essays, Reports, Reflective Writing
• Law assessments
• Oral presentations
• Reflective writing
• Art and design
• Critical thinking
• Maths and statistics
• Sustainability
• Educators' guide
• Learning Lab content in context
• Latest updates
• Students Alumni & Giving Staff Library

Learning Lab

Getting started at uni, study skills, referencing.

• When referencing isn't needed
• Integrating ideas

Writing and assessments

• Critical reading
• Poster presentations
• Postgraduate report writing

Subject areas

For educators.

• Educators' guide
• Paragraph structure

Using the TEEL structure

Well structured paragraphs are important because if the information is well organised it is easier to read.

The TEEL strategy is very helpful for knowing what should be included in a paragraph.

• Topic sentence (contains the main idea is usually first in the paragraph)
• Evidence and example (use references)
• Link (refer back or sum up main idea) - optional

Sample paragraph

One factor within the team that seems to be more important than the leader is the notion of team cohesiveness. 1 Team cohesiveness enables a diverse group of individuals to work towards a common goal. 2 Although there must be some minimum amount of cohesiveness if the team is going to continue to function as a team, Allen (2017, p. 48) states that highly cohesive teams 'are more motivated and effective in attaining goals when they have set these for themselves', and thus, achieve higher levels of member satisfaction. 3 Further, team dynamics, particularly in teams with high team morale, is more important in terms of team effectiveness and productivity than the team leader (Park 2017; Taylor 2018). 4 In this way the productivity of any group of employees is influenced by their ability to effectively work together so that their specialised skills and capabilities are maximised. 5

• Paragraphs activity
• Topic sentences
• Why use linking words?
• Common linking words

Still can't find what you need?

The RMIT University Library provides study support , one-on-one consultations and peer mentoring to RMIT students.

• Facebook (opens in a new window)
• Twitter (opens in a new window)
• Instagram (opens in a new window)
• Linkedin (opens in a new window)
• YouTube (opens in a new window)
• Weibo (opens in a new window)
• Copyright © 2024 RMIT University |
• Accessibility |
• Learning Lab feedback |
• Complaints |
• ABN 49 781 030 034 |
• CRICOS provider number: 00122A |
• RTO Code: 3046 |
• Open Universities Australia

How to write an essay: Introduction

• What's in this guide
• Introduction
• Essay structure
• Additional resources

The Introduction

An in troduction generally does three things. The first part is usually a general comment that shows the reader why the topic is important, gets their interest, and leads them into the topic. It isn’t actually part of your argument. The next part of the introduction is the thesis statement . This is your response to the question; your final answer. It is probably the most important part of the introduction. Finally, the introduction tells the reader what they can expect in the essay body. This is where you briefly outline your arguments .

Here is an example of the introduction to the question - Discuss how media can influence children. Use specific examples to support your view.

Pathways and Academic Learning Support

• << Previous: Essay structure
• Next: Body >>
• Last Updated: Nov 29, 2023 1:55 PM
• URL: https://libguides.newcastle.edu.au/how-to-write-an-essay