The three characteristics that apply to an effective opening statement are:
- States the writer’s opinion - An effective opening statement often presents the writer's viewpoint clearly.
- Debatable - It should invite discussion or disagreement, which is characteristic of a good argument.
- Logical - Effective opening statements are constructed in a way that makes logical sense and provides a rational foundation for the argument that follows.
The other options, such as stating only facts, avoiding controversy, and including a call to action, may not be essential for an opening statement in all contexts, especially in argumentative writing.