What is a Paragraph?
A paragraph consists of some sentences, but not random sentences. A paragraph is a
group of sentences organized around a central topic. In fact, the basic rule of paragraph writing is
to focus on one idea. A good paragraph takes its readers on a clear path, without detours. Master
the paragraph, and you’ll be on your way to writing essays, compositions and stories.
Four Essential Elements
Paragraph writing is the foundation of all essay writing, whether the form is expository,
persuasive, narrative, or creative. In order to write a good paragraph, learners need to understand
the four essential elements of paragraph writing and how each element contributes to the whole.
The four elements are: unity, order, coherence, and completeness. The following example
illustrates the importance of these elements in paragraph writing.
A basic paragraph structure usually consists of five sentences: the topic sentence, three
supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence. But the secrets to paragraph writing lay in four
essential elements, which can make a good paragraph.
Element #1: Unity. Unity in a paragraph begins with the topic sentence. Every paragraph
has one single, controlling idea that is expressed in its topic sentence, which is typically the
first sentence of the paragraph. A paragraph is unified around this main idea, with the
supporting sentences providing detail and discussion. In order to write a good topic
sentence, think about your theme and all the points you want to make. Decide which point
drives the rest, and then write it as your topic sentence.
Element #2: Order. Order refers to the way you organize your supporting sentences.
Whether you choose chronological order, order of importance, or another logical
presentation of detail, a solid paragraph always has a definite organization. In a well-ordered
paragraph, the reader follows along easily, aided by the pattern you’ve established. Order
helps the reader grasp your meaning and avoid confusion.
Element #3: Coherence. Coherence is the quality that makes your writing understandable.
Sentences within a paragraph need to connect to each other and work together as a whole.
One of the best ways to achieve coherency is to use transition words. These words create
bridges from one sentence to the next. You can use transition words that show order (first,
second, third); spatial relationships (above, below) or logic (furthermore, in addition, in
fact). Also, in writing a paragraph, using a consistent verb tense and point of view are
important ingredients for coherency.
Element #4: Completeness. Completeness means a paragraph is well-developed. If all
sentences clearly and sufficiently support the main idea, then your paragraph is complete. If
there are not enough sentences or enough information to prove your thesis, then the
paragraph is incomplete. Usually three supporting sentences, in addition to a topic sentence
and concluding sentence, are needed for a paragraph to be complete. The concluding
sentence or last sentence of the paragraph should summarize your main idea by reinforcing
your topic sentence.
Types of paragraphs
There are different types of paragraphs. Here is an overview.
Descriptive : In a descriptive paragraph you describe a scene or a thing or a person. The aim is
to give a vivid picture of the object. Only the significant details should be given in a descriptive
paragraph.
Narrative : In a narrative paragraph you narrate an incident. The ideas are presented in a
coherent manner. Your account must be clear and cogent.
A paragraph of definition : In a paragraph of definition you define a person or an object. When
you define things use precise words and expressions. Be objective, scientific and dispassionate in
defining things.
A paragraph of similarities : When you compare two things you have to bring out the
similarities between them in a convincing manner.
A paragraph of differences : When you contrast two things, the differences have to be
expressed in an explicit manner. Use linking words like but, whereas, on the other hand, on the
contrary etc.
Statement of facts and figures : There are paragraphs which do not belong to any of the above
categories and are mainly concerned with giving facts and figures in a clear and emphatic
manner.
Paragraph Examples – Narrative, Descriptive, Persuasive and Many More
Think for a while before writing a paragraph. What are you trying to achieve in this paragraph?
What is your purpose here? Do you wish to describe? Do you want to evaluate? Is your goal to
narrate? Is your intent to persuade?
1. Personal Narrative Paragraph
I am going to give a PERSONAL NARRATION of an event that changed my life.
Last year was the first time I had ever been the new learner at Bangladesh Open University. For
the first four days, I was completely alone. I don’t think I even spoke to a single person. Finally,
at lunch on the fifth day, Sumona Sharmin walked past her usual table and sat down right next to
me. Even though I was new, I had already figured out who Sumona Sharmin was. She was
popular. Pretty soon, all of Sumona’s friends were sitting there right next to me. I never became
great friends with Sumona, but after lunch that day, it seemed like all sorts of people were happy
to be my friend. You cannot convince me that Sumona did not know what she was doing. I have
a great respect for her, and I learned a great deal about what it means to be a true leader.
2. Descriptive Paragraph
I am going to DESCRIBE a sunset!
Sunset is the time of day when our sky meets the outer space solar winds. There are blue, pink,
and purple swirls, spinning and twisting, like clouds of balloons caught in a blender. The sun
moves slowly to hide behind the line of horizon, while the moon races to take its place in
prominence atop the night sky. People slow to a crawl, entranced, fully forgetting the deeds that
still must be done. There is a coolness, a calmness, when the sun does set.
3. Critical Paragraph
Persuasive Paragraph and Argumentative Paragraph
Persuade: I am going to PERSUADE my neighbors to buy tickets to the college fair.
The college fair is right around the corner, and tickets have just gone on sale. We are selling a
limited number of tickets at a discount, so move fast and get yours while they are still available.
This is going to be an event you will not want to miss! First off, the college fair is a great value
when compared with other forms of entertainment. Also, your ticket purchase will help our
college, and when you help the college, it helps the entire community. But that’s not all! Every
ticket you purchase enters you in a drawing to win fabulous prizes. And don’t forget, you will
have mountains of fun because there are acres and acres of great rides, fun games, and
entertaining attractions! Spend time with your family and friends at our college fair. Buy your
tickets now!
Argue: I am going to present a logical ARGUMENT as to why my neighbor should attend the
school fair.
The college fair is right around the corner, and tickets have just gone on sale. Even though you
may be busy, you will still want to reserve just one day out of an entire year to relax and have
fun with us. Even if you don’t have much money, you don’t have to worry. The college fair is a
community event, and therefore prices are kept low. Perhaps, you are still not convinced. Maybe
you feel you are too old for fairs, or you just don’t like them. Well, that’s what my grandfather
thought, but he came to last year’s college fair and had this to say about it: “I had the best time of
my life!” While it’s true you may be able to think of a reason not to come, I’m also sure you can
think of several reasons why you must come. We look forward to seeing you at the college fair!
4. Process or How-to Paragraph
Process: I am going to explain the PROCESS of cleaning and organizing your room.
OR
How-to: I am going to describe HOW-TO clean and organize your room.
Here is the perfect system for cleaning your room. First, move all of the items that do not have a
proper place to the center of the room. Get rid of at least five things that you have not used
within the last year. Take out all of the trash, and place all of the dirty dishes in the kitchen sink.
Now find a location for each of the items you had placed in the center of the room. For any
remaining items, see if you can squeeze them in under your bed or stuff them into the back of
your closet. See, that was easy!
5. Compare and Contrast Paragraph
I am going to COMPARE and CONTRAST an ocean and a lake.
Oceans and lakes have much in common, but they are also quite different. Both are bodies of
water, but oceans are very large bodies of salt water, while lakes are much smaller bodies of
fresh water. Lakes are usually surrounded by land, while oceans are what surround continents.
Both have plants and animals living in them. The ocean is home to the largest animals on the
planet, whereas lakes support much smaller forms of life. When it is time for a vacation, both
will make a great place to visit and enjoy.
6. Cause and Effect Paragraph
I am going to explain the CAUSES that had the EFFECT of making me a high achieving learner.
(Note: This is also a first person narrative.)
I do well in study, and people think I am smart because of it. But it’s not true. In fact, three years
ago I struggled in school. However, two years ago I decided to get serious about study and made
a few changes. First, I decided I would become interested in whatever was being taught,
regardless of what other people thought. I also decided I would work hard every day and never
give up on any assignment. I decided to never fall behind. Finally, I decided to make study a
priority over friends and fun. After implementing these changes, I became an active participant
in tutorial sessions. Then my test scores began to rise. I still remember the first time that
someone made fun of me because “I was smart.” How exciting! It seems to me that being smart
is simply a matter of working hard and being interested.