Final answer:
Hooks are crucial in writing as they grab the reader's attention and introduce the topic and argument, helping to make the introduction engaging and informative.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hooks are important elements in writing because they capture the attention of the reader and make them want to find out more. By using a quotation, a surprising or interesting fact, an anecdote, or a humorous story at the beginning of an introduction, a hook not only piques the interest of the reader but also serves to introduce the topic and argument. This makes the introduction both intriguing and useful for the essay. A successful introductory paragraph provides a foundation for the topic before delving into the argument, ensuring that the audience is as informed about the topic as the writer is, thus facilitating a better understanding of the argument being presented.