Another super common hook style is one that shocks your reader.

Something upfront to stop you in your tracks and say “what???”

That being said, some people abuse this. They shock their reader, and then the actual body content doesn’t even relate to the hook.

Here are some great examples of shock hooks I’ve seen:

Cheating is allowed.

If you want to make it in Web3 ... You must cheat.

→ First line makes you go “what?” Second line makes you go “ahhh.”

Do you like feet?

→ Yes, this is a real hook I saw. But it works, and you have to read another couple lines as your brain is curious why they’d actually ask that!

My 6 figure agency doesn’t have a website.

→ This post did very well. You wonder, how did they grow that much without a website?

I’m the youngest member of my team.

Psst - I’m also the Founder.

→ This post also did extremely well. “Then how old is he?” it makes you wonder.

In 2020, I lost my mum.

→ Boom. Instantly grabs your attention. Very powerful hook & story.

In 2010 I was raped by my boyfriend’s brother.

→ Very powerful story I saw recently. The hook instantly grabs you.

As you can see…

They work best when they make you stop and go “What?, I need to learn more.”

Make it dramatic, upfront, or in other words… shocking!