Paragraphs
Paragraphs are the building blocks of academic writing. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and contribute to the overall argument of your paper. Here are some key things to remember if you want to write good academic paragraphs:
- Topic Sentence: Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea or point of the paragraph. You should have only one point per paragraph. Here is an example of a topic sentence: “Effective communication is crucial in nursing to ensure patient safety and quality care.”
- Supporting Sentences: Follow the topic sentence with supporting sentences that provide evidence, examples, and explanations. These sentences should develop the main idea and add depth to your argument.
- Coherence: Make sure your paragraph flows from sentence to sentence. One way to achieve flow is to repeat ideas or words so as to link sentences together. Another way is to use transition words and phrases to help the reader through your argument. Notice how the three previous sentences are linked.
- Development: Fully develop your ideas within each paragraph. Aim to have a topic sentence, support and a concluding sentence. These three parts make a complete paragraph, which means paragraphs should have at least three sentences.
- Concluding Sentence: End the paragraph with a concluding sentence that summarises the main point. It is often good to give some kind of link to to the next paragraph. This helps maintain the flow of your writing.
- Paragraph Length: While there is no strict rule for paragraph length, aim for a balance. Typically, a paragraph should be long enough to develop its point but be short enough to keep the reader’s attention. Avoid short paragraphs because they probably won't make your point properly. Likewise, avoid long paragraphs as they will be hard work for the reader to follow. Aim for an average of about three paragraphs per page.
This is just an introduction. For more details and examples, see the links below.
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