How to Write Engaging Introductions That Hook Your Readers
Trying to build a personal brand as a life coach? Here's how to hook your audiences:
If your introduction doesn’t grab attention in the first few seconds, your reader is gone.
That’s the reality of writing online. People skim. They scroll. And if your first few sentences don’t hook them, they’ll move on.
So, how do you make them stay?
The answer is simple. A framework from one of my systemized writings.
In this article, I’ll show you a simple framework to craft a great introduction that keeps your readers stuck to your content. (I learned this from Nicolas Cole.). Shout out to my indirect online mentor, Nicolas Cole.
Why Your Introduction Matters
Think of your introduction as a movie trailer.
It needs to be short, exciting, and make the audience want more. A weak introduction means your reader won’t even get to the best part of your content.
Most writers either overcomplicate their intros or make them too generic.
Great introductions do three things:
Grab attention immediately (with an SEO-optimized hook).
Give readers a reason to keep reading (build curiosity).
Lead smoothly into the main content (without losing momentum).
The 1–3–1 Formula for Writing Killer Introductions
This simple 1–3–1 format ensures your introduction is pretty easy to read and engaging.
Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Start with a single or two short sentences, an attention-grabbing (hook) sentence.
This could be a shocking fact, a relatable problem, or a bold statement.
Example: Most people fail at writing not because they lack ideas but because they lose their readers in the first three seconds.
3️⃣ Follow with three supporting sentences that add context.
Explain the problem, offer an insight, or introduce the topic in an engaging way.
Example: Think about the last article you read. Did it pull you in right away, or did you lose interest before the first paragraph? A strong introduction isn’t just about sounding smart. It’s about making the reader feel understood.
1️⃣ End with a transition sentence that leads to the main/next content.
This sentence should smoothly connect your introduction to the body of your article.
Example: Let’s break down exactly how you can write introductions that keep your readers hooked until the very last word.
Examples of Powerful Introductions Using 1–3–1
Example 1 — Productivity Article
You don’t need more time. You need better focus.
(1 sentence or 2 short sentences)Most people blame their lack of productivity on busy schedules. But the truth is, even with more free time, most would still struggle to get things done. Productivity isn’t about time management; it’s about attention management.
(3 sentences)Here’s how you can train your brain to focus better and work smarter.
(1 sentence closing)
Example 2 — Self-Improvement Article
The fastest way to change your life? Change your habits.
(1 sentence or 2 short sentences)We all want to improve, like getting healthier, wealthier, and happier. But most people fail because they focus on motivation instead of systems. When you shift from chasing motivation to building habits, everything changes.
(3 sentences)Let’s dive in on how to create habits that stick.
(1 sentence closing)
Bonus Tip: Use SEO in Your First Sentence
If you’re writing online, SEO matters.
Search engines scan your first few sentences to understand what your article is about.
Include a relevant keyword naturally in your opening line.
Don’t force it, but make it sound conversational.
Keep it reader-focused (your goal is engagement first, SEO second).
Example of an SEO-friendly hook:
👉 Want to improve your writing? The secret to better writing isn’t more words. It’s clarity.
The phrase “improve your writing” is a common search query, making this intro both engaging and SEO-friendly.
Final Thoughts
The best introductions aren’t complicated.
They’re clear, compelling, and set the stage for your content.
Use the 1-3-1 method to:
✅ Hook your reader instantly.
✅ Build curiosity with context.
✅ Seamlessly transition into the main topic.
Next time you sit down to write, start strong because if your introduction doesn’t hook them, nothing else will matter.
🚀 Struggling to stay consistent with content?
Most self-improvement creators think writing more = audience growth.
But without a system, your content won’t attract clients or build authority.
Get a FREE 5-day email course, you’ll learn how to systemize your writing to:
✅ Write in a clear and effective way
✅ Spend less time by using an efficient 2-hour system
✅ Turn your content into client-attracting posts