Paragraphs that work
Paragraphs are the building blocks of essays. Each should develop one main idea clearly and connect to the argument as a whole.
One idea per paragraph
A body paragraph usually develops a single main point that supports the thesis. When you move to a new point, start a new paragraph. Paragraphs that try to cover several ideas confuse readers; paragraphs that repeat the same point waste space.
Topic sentences
A topic sentence, often the first sentence, states the paragraph's main point and links it to the thesis. 'Later school start times also improve student safety' tells readers what to expect. Topic sentences should make claims, not just announce facts or quote sources.
Developing a paragraph
After the topic sentence, a developed paragraph provides evidence (data, examples, quotations), explains how the evidence supports the point (analysis), and connects back to the larger argument. One common pattern is claim, evidence, explanation, link, sometimes remembered as 'PEEL': point, evidence, explanation, link.
Paragraph length
There is no fixed length, but academic paragraphs often run 100-250 words. Very short paragraphs may be underdeveloped; very long ones may need splitting. Online and workplace writing uses shorter paragraphs for easy scanning.
Unity and coherence
A unified paragraph keeps every sentence focused on its main idea. A coherent paragraph flows logically from sentence to sentence, using repetition of key terms, pronouns that clearly refer back, and transitions. Readers should never wonder why a sentence is there.
Introductions
An introduction draws readers in (a hook such as a striking fact, question, brief anecdote, or problem), provides context they need, and states the thesis. Avoid sweeping openings like 'Since the dawn of time...'. Many writers draft the introduction last, once they know what the essay argues.
Conclusions
A conclusion should do more than repeat the introduction. It can synthesise the main points, explain the broader significance of the argument (the 'so what?'), suggest implications or next steps, or return to an opening image with new meaning. Avoid introducing major new evidence.
Worked example
Topic sentence: 'Later start times also make teen drivers safer.' Evidence: 'After a Kentucky county delayed school start by an hour, teen car crash rates fell by about 16%.' Explanation: 'Drowsy driving is a leading risk for young drivers, so more sleep plausibly reduces crashes.' Link: 'Safety benefits therefore add to the academic case for later starts.'
Key takeaways
Each body paragraph develops one main idea, introduced by a topic sentence that makes a claim. Paragraphs combine evidence, explanation, and links to the thesis. Unity keeps sentences on topic; coherence makes them flow. Introductions hook, contextualise, and state the thesis. Conclusions synthesise and explain significance rather than repeating.
Flashcard
States the paragraph's main point
Check your understanding
Which is the strongest topic sentence for a paragraph in an essay arguing for more urban trees?