How to Write a Paragraph
Whether it’s an essay, a novel, or part of an academic paper, the paragraph makes up the body of the full text. Paragraphs are related sentences organized to convey a single message. If you have problems composing paragraphs, here are some ways to make writing tasks easy.
The Main Idea
All words, phrases, and sentences are composed of a thought. A paragraph may contain multiple sentences, but the sentences should always have a common idea that keeps the paragraph tight and coherent. The main idea is the key thought that keeps the sentences of the paragraph related.
Except for very long paragraphs used in academic papers, a paragraph should only have one main idea. The reader should be able to understand the paragraph in one sitting. You must also be able to take away the paragraph from the essay or the text, and see if there’s an idea in that set of sentences.
Introductory Sentences
For paragraphs with multiple sentences, a good leading sentence can draw the reader’s attention to the contents of the paragraph. You can use the introductory sentence to summarize the paragraph, or to convey the main idea at the very beginning. An effective introductory sentence can also summarize the main idea of the full text. If the paragraph you’re writing is preceded by another paragraph, the lead sentence should flow smoothly with the concluding sentence of the previous paragraph.
Body of the Paragraph
Writing paragraphs is not just about putting sentences together and arranging them in such a way that they can be read. Here are three important reminders to keep in mind when writing the body of the paragraph:
The key is to be concise. The shorter the paragraph is, the better. Remember that there’s always a simpler word for a complicated one, and a a shorter way to express a long sentence.
Avoid cliché and unnecessary words. Try to express your thoughts in the active voice as much as possible. Clichés also tend to turn off many readers.
Stick to the main idea. The sentences you use to create the body of the paragraph should all be related. If you have a new idea you want to express, you should write new sentences in a separate paragraph.
Ending the Paragraph
From beginning to end, the paragraph must be coherent and solid. One way to end a paragraph would be to refer back to the introductory sentence, and reiterate the main idea. Another way would be to use the concluding sentence as transition to the next paragraph. Remember that the paragraph should be solid and coherent enough to stand on its own.
Paragraphs are the building blocks of text, no matter how long or short they are. With these tips, you can build an effective paragraph that can best convey your message.