Write a first line that instantly draws the reader in, preferably something that contains controversy, mystery or something shocking or frightening. For example, the line, "That morning, when I awoke, I knew I was going to die" contains shock value and would cause readers to want to know why the character knew he was going to die. With a line such as this to snag their attention, they would keep reading.
Write good, detailed descriptions of exactly how your character feels and include mentions of his/her surroundings as well. Descriptions are important in literature because they help readers get a clear picture in their minds of the people and objects in the story.
Include anecdotes in your opening line, which are displays of your characters' personality, sense of humor or wit. Readers would rather read about a character they can relate to, who has a very real, human personality, rather than one who is dull and flat.
Write about an unexpected event that happens to a character in the opening paragraph. An example could be an automobile accident occurring where the driver steps out of his/her demolished vehicle completely unharmed.