PARAGRAPHS

What is a paragraph?

A paragraph is one or more sentences focusing on a single subtopic or idea that serves as a visual signal, helping readers to see divisions within the larger whole. Without paragraphs, texts would be harder to read.

How long should a paragraph be?

The length of a paragraph cannot be specifically defined--it depends upon the paragraph topic. However, in business and technical writing, most paragraphs have 2 to 5 sentences and rarely exceed 150 words. A single-spaced paragraph probably will not exceed one-third of a page in length, and a double -spaced paragraph will not exceed half a page in length.

A paragraph provides subtopic definition and visual relief to make reading easier. Visual appearance is affected by the format of the document. Documents with a one-column format can visually accommodate longer paragraphs than documents with two- or three- column formats.

May a paragraph contain only one sentence?

Yes. In fact, a paragraph with a single sentence is very emphatic because it stands out compared to other longer paragraphs that may surround it.

Varying the length of paragraphs helps stimulate reader interest. Obviously, the length of a paragraph depends on its content. However, a great deal of latitude is possible: A single-sentence paragraph can be used to simply state a position or point. Then, explanatory paragraphs that follow can be longer, providing necessary examples and details.

What is a good way to organize a paragraph?

The opening sentence of a paragraph (thesis or topic sentence) reflects the content of the paragraph or at least signals the general direction of the discussion.

The sentence or sentences that follow logically carry forth the discussion of the topic (chronological, whole to parts, general to specific, problem to solution, cause to effect, most important to least important).

For clarity, whatever organizational structure is used should be very evident to the reader.

How can sentences within a paragraph be written to facilitate understanding?

Sentences within a paragraph must appear to belong together--a certain sense of cohesiveness must exist.

To achieve cohesiveness among sentences within a paragraph:

1. Open the paragraph with a topic sentence.
2. Employ a clear organizational scheme.
3. Use pronouns to link sentences to the major topic of the paragraph.
4. Use transitional words like however, furthermore, next, then, consequently, etc., to move from sentence to sentence.
5. Repeat key words to show a clear connection between sentences.

How can an effective flow of information be achieved among paragraphs in a document?

Achieving a good flow of information requires a smooth transition between paragraphs. These transitions may be accomplished by:

• Previewing the content, i.e., using an opening paragraph to list the topics to be discussed in later paragraphs. This sets up a natural topic progression for subsequent paragraphs.

• Using key words to connect the closing sentence of a paragraph to the opening sentence of the next:

. . . and therefore can explore options for satisfying

both types of needs. 

One option is trading off. Employing this option can

enable two individuals with different mind-sets to . . . 

• Using headings or numbering systems to indicate the transition from one topic to the next:

. . . Those who got more help than they gave were the

most lonely and dissatisfied. 

Reciprocal Concessions 

A second way to employ the reciprocity rule

is to get someone to comply with a request; the

technique of making reciprocal concessions . . .