Minutes a day n e w y o r k

2. Clearly state the main point of the essay. Your readers should know from the beginning what idea you will
be developing throughout the essay. A clear thesis statement is a key component of an effective introduc-
tion. (See Lesson 9 for a review of thesis statements.) In the previous example, the last sentence expresses
the main idea of the essay—the question, and its relevance today.
The exception to this rule is the college application essay. Because of the high volume of essays each
admissions officer must read, it makes sense to stand out, and keep his or her attention, by being mysteri-
ous in your introduction. Make him or her read on to the second paragraph by not revealing your subject
until then.
Here’s an example:
I will never forget the moment I landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As the plane descended, I was awed by the
dynamic geography and the juxtaposition of the sea, the mountains, and the city’s skyline. I absorbed the land-
scape further and my eyes focused on the favelas mounted on the hillsides.
This introduction works well on a number of levels: It takes the reader to an exotic location, describing the
landscape and setting the scene. The writer tells you the moment is unforgettable, and brings you along
with her. But, most importantly, she does not reveal anything about her subject. You have to read on to
find out what her essay is about.