The three techniques a writer can use to engage readers at the beginning of a narrative are:
-
Setting out a problem - Introducing a conflict or issue can create immediate intrigue and encourage readers to continue to find out how it will be resolved.
-
Introducing a situation - Starting with a compelling situation can grab the reader's attention and provide context for the characters and events that will unfold.
-
Making an interesting observation - An intriguing observation can provoke thought or curiosity, drawing readers into the narrative and prompting them to want to learn more.
Describing characters and giving details about the story setting can also be engaging, but the three above are particularly effective at drawing readers in right from the start.