Paragraphs Definition Rules

Structure of a Paragraph

Now that you know the definition and purpose of a paragraph, let's look at the structure. We have already discussed how the first line of a paragraph should always be indented. This helps the reader visually see when topics will change.

Besides indenting, there are some other things to keep in mind when structuring a paragraph. The first is to begin a paragraph with a topic sentence. The topic sentence serves as the introduction to the whole paragraph. For example, imagine you are writing that paragraph on Abraham Lincoln's childhood. Your topic sentence should be some broad statement about this main idea. Look at this example: ''Abraham Lincoln had a rough childhood.'' If this is your topic sentence, then the whole paragraph must be about challenges he faced when he was young.

The middle of a paragraph should contain supporting sentences, which support the main idea of the paragraph. This should include any details, evidence and examples that prove your point. For the paragraph on Lincoln's childhood, the supporting sentences need to describe where he was born, what his family life was like, and anything else that happened in his childhood. These details should also support the idea of his having a rough childhood. Finally, each paragraph should end with a closing sentence. You can think of this as the opposite of the topic sentence. This sentence needs to end the paragraph and provide a close to that main idea. For example, ''These events show the early struggles Abraham Lincoln faced in his life.'' could be a possible closing sentence for that paragraph. It summarizes the main idea and provides closure.

What Makes an Effective Paragraph?

Knowing the definition, purpose and structure of a paragraph can help you when reading a piece of writing, but if you want to be a successful writer, you need to know how to make a paragraph effective.

Firstly, you need to use the proper structure. Indenting and having only one main idea per paragraph are both good ways to keep your readers' interest and prevent confusion. In addition, you need to make sure that you not only have topic and closing sentences but that they provide a transition between the ideas of the different paragraphs. For example, if you plan on writing a paragraph about Abraham Lincoln's struggles in early adulthood right after the paragraph on his childhood, then your closing and topic sentences should indicate that change in topic. You can end the childhood paragraph with ''These events show how Abraham Lincoln was able to learn the skills that will allow him to overcome obstacles in his later life.'' This indicates that the next topic you will be discussing relates to struggles he faced in his adulthood. In this way, that closing sentence connects or transitions to the next paragraph.

Lastly, an important way to create an effective paragraph is to include relevant and convincing supporting details. In each paragraph, the middle sentences need to contain the evidence for whatever is your main idea. For example, if you were writing the paragraph on Lincoln overcoming obstacles in his early adulthood, then you need to share details of him succeeding in elections, or in his family, or in any circumstance where he overcame the odds. These ideas support your statement that he had struggles but succeeded anyway. If you have relevant evidence to support your claims, then your paragraph will be effective.