PRACTICE EXERCISE: Write Your First Hook

Using the medical topic you selected in 2.2, write a 2–3 sentence Hook for your AJPHI article.

Remember the three rules for a great Hook:

1. Acknowledge the reader’s emotional experience first
2. Normalize their concern (‘You are not alone…’)
3. Make a promise (‘In the next few minutes, you will learn…’)

Example (Hypertension Hook):

  ‘You went in for a routine checkup and came out with a new diagnosis: high blood pressure.It might have caught you completely off guard — especially if you felt perfectly fine. In the next few minutes, we will explain exactly what this means, what causes it, and the simple steps you can start taking today.’

Now write yours. Aim for 2–4 sentences. Share in the cohort forum for peer feedback.