Paragraph Architecture Vocabulary

the sentence that states the paragraph's main idea

“Usually first, but can be delayed for effect or placed at the end for emphasis.”

sentences that develop, explain, or prove the topic sentence

“Evidence, examples, analysis—the meat of the paragraph.”

the final sentence that reinforces the point or transitions

“A strong ending that echoes the opening or points forward.”

each paragraph focusing on a single main idea

“One paragraph, one point. New idea? New paragraph.”

logical flow between sentences within a paragraph

“Ideas connect through transitions, pronouns, repetition of key terms.”

a strategic decision about where to end one paragraph and begin another

“Short paragraphs quicken pace. Long ones slow readers down for complex ideas.”

a paragraph of single sentence for dramatic emphasis

“Used sparingly, it commands attention. Like this.”

a paragraph that bridges major sections

“So we've established the problem. Now let's consider solutions.”