What is the purpose of a hook in writing?

The purpose of a hook in writing is to grab the reader's attention and encourage further reading. A hook is typically found at the beginning of a piece of writing, whether it’s an essay, story, or article. It serves as an engaging entry point that piques the reader's curiosity, making them want to continue to find out more about the topic or story being presented. Effective hooks can take various forms, such as a surprising fact, an intriguing question, or a vivid description, all aimed at drawing the reader in right from the start. By successfully capturing attention, a hook plays a crucial role in setting the tone and direction of the text, ultimately leading readers to invest their time in what follows.