How To Start An Essay Writing Exercises: Level B1-B2 (with Answers)

A thesis statement must include both the topic of the essay and the writer's position or argument. Without a clear position, the thesis statement is incomplete and does not guide the reader through the essay.

This is true. The thesis statement belongs in the introduction because it tells the reader what the essay will argue or discuss. The conclusion restates or reflects on the thesis but does not introduce it for the first time.

'Investing in public transport reduces pollution, decreases traffic congestion, and saves citizens money, making it essential for modern cities' is the strongest thesis because it clearly states a position and previews three supporting points. The other options are too vague, state a simple fact, or ask a question instead of making a claim.

A hook grabs the reader's attention. Background information gives context on the topic. A thesis statement presents the writer's main argument. A rhetorical question engages the reader by prompting thought without requiring a direct answer.

The option beginning with 'In conclusion' uses a closing transition phrase to start an introduction, which is a structural error. 'In conclusion' signals the end of an essay, not the beginning. The other introductions correctly use a hook, background information, or a question to open the essay.

'However' is the best choice because the sentence shifts from a neutral or positive observation about technology to a contrasting point about negative effects. 'However' is a contrast transition that signals this change in direction. 'Furthermore' and 'In addition' signal continuation, and 'For example' introduces an illustration, none of which fit the contrast here.

The error is a spelling mistake: 'then' should be 'than.' 'Then' refers to time, while 'than' is used for comparisons. The correct sentence uses 'than' to compare online learning with traditional classrooms.

A well-structured essay introduction begins with a hook to grab the reader's attention, followed by background information to provide context, then the thesis statement to present the main argument, and finally an outline of the main points that will be discussed in the body.

The option beginning with 'In recent years, the rise in obesity rates has led to a debate about whether governments should restrict fast food advertising' is the most appropriate because it provides relevant context, identifies the issue, and leads naturally into a thesis. The other options are too informal, off-topic, or overly personal for an academic essay.

A hook is designed to capture the reader's interest at the very start of the essay, while a thesis statement presents the writer's main argument or claim. The hook draws the reader in, and the thesis statement tells the reader what the essay will argue.

'Research indicates that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases' uses formal, objective language suitable for academic writing. The other options contain informal expressions such as 'everyone knows,' 'tons of,' or 'a bunch of,' which are inappropriate for academic register.

This is false. A personal anecdote is only one of several techniques for starting an essay. Writers can also use rhetorical questions, surprising facts, statistics, or bold statements as hooks. The best technique depends on the essay type and audience.

Starting with a striking statistic from a credible source immediately establishes the seriousness of the topic and grabs the reader's attention. It also builds the writer's credibility by showing that the argument is supported by reliable data from the very beginning.

'Social media has transformed the way people interact, but its impact on mental health and personal relationships raises serious concerns' is the best improvement because it is specific, uses formal language, and clearly previews the essay's focus. The other options remain vague, informal, or introduce unnecessary personal opinions without context.