A paragraph is a small piece of written work consisting of several (usually 3–8) sentences. All of these sentences relate to a general theme or idea. There are several types of paragraphs. There are paragraphs that contain argumentative claims, and there are paragraphs that tell fictional stories. No matter what type of paragraph you write, you can start by organizing your ideas, keeping your audience in mind, and planning carefully.
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Method 1 of 6: Starting an Argumentative Paragraph
Step 1. Recognize the structure of an argumentative paragraph
Most argumentative paragraphs have a clear structure, especially paragraphs in an academic context. Each paragraph supports the overall thesis (or argumentative claim) in the paper, and presents new information that can convince the reader that your position is correct. The components that make up a paragraph are as follows:
- Topic sentence. The topic sentence explains the content of the paragraph to the reader. Usually, this sentence brings together the larger argument and explains why the paragraph was included in the essay. Sometimes, the topic sentence consists of 2 or even 3 sentences although usually it is only one sentence.
- Proof. Most discussion paragraphs in argumentative papers contain some kind of evidence to support the author's position. This evidence can take many forms, such as quotes, surveys, or even self-observations. The paragraph is where the evidence is presented in a convincing way.
- Analysis. A good paragraph not only presents the evidence, but also explains the reasons that make the evidence valuable, what makes the evidence better than other evidence, and what it means. This is where analysis is needed.
- Conclusions and transitions. After analysis, a good paragraph will close with an explanation stating the significance of the paragraph, how it fits into the essay thesis, and as a starting point for the next paragraph.
Step 2. Reread the thesis statement
If you are writing an argumentative essay, each paragraph should further explain the overall claim. Before you write an argumentative paragraph, define a thesis statement first. A thesis statement is a 1–3 sentence description of what you are describing and the reasons that make your opinion important. Do you think that all Indonesians should use energy efficient light bulbs at home? Or do you think that everyone should be free to choose the product they want to buy? Before you start writing, make sure your argument is clear.
Step 3. Write down the evidence and analyze it first
Sometimes, it is easier to start writing in the middle of an argumentative paragraph than at the beginning of a paragraph. If you're having a hard time starting a paragraph from scratch, try focusing on the parts of the paragraph that are easiest to write, namely evidence and analysis. Once you've completed the clearer components, you can move on to the topic sentence.
Step 4. List the evidence that supports the thesis statement
Whatever argument you are trying to make, you must use evidence to convince the reader that you are right. Evidence can be many things, such as historical documentation, quotes from experts, results of scientific studies, surveys, or your own observations. Before starting the paragraph, write down all the evidence you think will support the claim.
Step 5. Select 1-3 related pieces of evidence to include in the paragraph
Each paragraph must be unified and can stand alone. This means that you shouldn't include too much evidence to analyze. Instead, each paragraph should contain only 1-3 pieces of evidence. Check all the evidence that has been collected. Does anything seem related? That is an indication that the evidence can be put together in the same paragraph. Some indications of evidence that can be attributed are:
- If you have the same theme or idea
- If they have the same source (such as the same document or study)
- If the author is the same
- If the type of evidence is the same (such as two surveys with the same results)
Step 6. Write the proof with 5W + 1H technique
The 5W + 1H technique in writing is to question Who (Who), What (What), When (When), Where (Where), Why (Why), and How (How). This is very important background information that readers need to understand the point of your description. When writing evidence, consider the reader. Explain what your evidence is, how and why it was collected, and what it means. Some specific things to keep in mind are:
- You should define important terms or jargon that readers may not be familiar with (What).
- You should provide important dates and locations, if relevant (such as where historical documents were signed (When, Where).
- You must explain how the evidence was obtained. For example, describe a scientific study method that provides evidence (How).
- You must explain who provided the evidence. Are there quotes from experts? Why is the person considered knowledgeable about your topic? (Who).
- You must explain why this evidence is important or noteworthy (Why).
Step 7. Write 2-3 sentences analyzing the evidence
After presenting important and related evidence, you should explain how it contributes to the larger argument. This section requires analysis. You can't just provide evidence and then move on to another discussion. Explain the reasons that make the evidence important. Some questions you can think about when analyzing evidence are:
- What connects this evidence?
- How does this evidence prove my thesis?
- Are there any counter statements or alternative explanations I should look into?
- What makes this evidence stand out? Is there anything special or interesting about this evidence?
Step 8. Write a topic sentence
The topic sentence is the clue that the reader will use to follow your argument. The introduction contains a thesis statement, and each paragraph should build on this thesis, providing evidence. When readers examine your paper, they will see how each paragraph contributes to the thesis. Remember that a thesis is a larger argument, and a topic sentence helps prove a thesis by focusing on a smaller topic or idea. This topic sentence states a claim or argument, then it is defended or reinforced in the next sentence. Determine the main idea of the paragraph and write a mini-thesis stating this main idea. For example, if your thesis statement is "Doraemon is the most important comic character in Indonesia", your essay could include the following topic sentence:
- "The high rating that the Doraemon series has gotten every week for decades proves the influence of this character".
- "Some people think that superheroes like Superman are more important than Doraemon. However, studies show that most Indonesians are more familiar with the cute and always ready to help Doraemon than the handsome and strong Superman".
- "Media experts point out that Doraemon's slogan, distinctive appearance, and wisdom are the reasons this character is so loved by children and adults alike".
Step 9. Make sure the topic sentence supports the other paragraphs
After writing the topic sentence, reread your evidence and analysis. Think about whether the topic sentence supports the idea and details of the paragraph. Are all suitable? Are there any ideas that are out of place? If so, think about how to change this topic sentence to cover all the ideas in the paragraph.
- If you have a lot of ideas, you may need to break the paragraph into two separate paragraphs.
- Make sure the topic sentence is not just a restatement of the thesis itself. Each paragraph should have a different and unique topic sentence. If you simply restate "Doraemon is an important character" at the beginning of each discussion paragraph, you will have to narrow down the topic sentence more thoroughly.
Step 10. Conclude the paragraph
Unlike a full essay, each paragraph need not end with a full conclusion. However, to be effective, it is best to focus on one sentence to unite ideas and emphasize the contribution of the paragraph to the thesis. Do it concisely and concisely. Write one final sentence that supports the argument before moving on to the next idea. Examples of words and phrases that can be used to conclude sentences are "Therefore", "In the end", "As explained", and "So".
Step 11. Begin a new paragraph when you continue with a new idea
You should start a new paragraph when moving on to a new point or idea. The new paragraph hints to the reader that there is a shift. Some pointers for starting a new paragraph are as follows:
- When starting to discuss a different theme or topic
- When starting to discuss opposing ideas or counter arguments
- When discussing different types of evidence
- When discussing different time periods, generations or people
- When the paragraph being worked on becomes too long. If there are too many sentences in a paragraph, it may be because there are too many ideas in it. You can split the paragraph in half, or edit the text to make it easier to read.
Method 2 of 6: Starting an Introduction Paragraph
Step 1. Write an introduction that grabs the reader's attention
Start your paper or essay with a catchy sentence that will make people want to read your entire work. There are many ways to choose from. You can use humor, surprise, or smart words. Go over your research notes to see if there are any clever phrases, surprising statistics, or interesting anecdotes to work with. Here's an example:
- Anecdote: "As a child, Samuel Clemens saw a steamboat on the Mississippi River and dreamed of becoming a riverboat captain."
- Statistics: "Women directed only 7% of major Hollywood films in 2014."
- Quote: "'A girl whose mind has been enlightened, her landscape has been expanded, will no longer be able to live in the world of her ancestors,'" R. A Kartini said in her letters.
- Thought-provoking question: "What will Social Health Insurance look like in 50 years?"
Step 2. Avoid universal statements
You may be tempted to use common phrases as attention grabbers. However, introductions are more effective when they are on topic. Resist the urge to start your essay with a sentence that begins with a phrase like this:
- "In ancient times…"
- "Since the beginning of human history…"
- "Everyone should know…"
- "Every human on this earth…"
Step 3. Describe the topic of the essay
After your introductory remarks, you should write a few sentences to orient the reader to the content of the essay. Does your essay outline the argument about Social Health Insurance? Or, Kartini's history? Give the reader a brief explanation of the scope, intent, and overall purpose of the essay.
If possible, avoid phrases such as "In this paper, I will describe Social Health Insurance as ineffective" or "This paper focuses on the ineffectiveness of Social Security." Instead, state points clearly, such as "Social Health Insurance is an ineffective system."
Step 4. Write clear and concise sentences
If you want to grab the reader's attention, you need clear, easy-to-follow sentences. The beginning of the paper is not the place to write long, convoluted sentences that are difficult for the reader to understand. Use common words (not jargon), short statement sentences, and easy-to-follow logic to guide the introduction.
Read paragraphs aloud to see if your sentences are clear and easy to understand. If you have to take a lot of breath while reading, or have trouble following through with a series of ideas, then the sentence needs to be shortened
Step 5. End the introductory paragraph of the argumentative essay with a thesis statement
The thesis statement is a 1-3 sentence long description of the whole argument. The thesis statement is the most important part of an argumentative paper. However, usually the thesis will undergo changes in the writing process. Remember that the thesis statement must:
- argumentative. You can't just state something well known or basic fact. "Ducks are a kind of bird" is not a thesis statement.
- Convincing. The thesis must be based on evidence and careful analysis. Don't write a thesis that is random, highly unconventional, or unprovable. Follow the directions given by the evidence.
- According to the task. Follow all parameters and guidelines in the given task.
- Can be described within the space provided. Create a thesis with a small, focused scope. Thus, you may be able to prove a point in the given space. Don't make a thesis statement that is too broad ("I discovered a new reason for World War II") or too narrow ("I will prove that left-handed soldiers wear jackets differently than right-handed soldiers").
Method 3 of 6: Starting a Conclusion Paragraph
Step 1. Relate the conclusion to the introduction
Bring the reader back to the introduction by starting the conclusion with a reminder of how the paper began. This strategy serves as the frame that surrounds the paper.
For example, if you start your paper with a quote from Kartini, you can start your conclusion with, "Even though Kartini spoke 100 years ago, her statement is still relevant today."
Step 2. Make a final point
You can use the final paragraph to provide a final summary of the discussion in the paper. Use this opportunity to ask a final question or call for action.
For example, you might write, "Are e-cigarettes really any different from regular cigarettes?
Step 3. Summarize your paper
If you have written a long and complex paper, you may choose to use the conclusion as a recap. So you can reiterate the most important points for readers. It also helps the reader understand the alignment of the paper.
You might start by writing, "In short, the European Union's cultural policies support global trade in three ways."
Step 4. Consider other possible studies
Conclusions are a great opportunity to imagine and think about the bigger picture. Does your essay open up new space for other studies? Are you asking big questions for others to answer? Think about the larger ramifications of the essay and emphasize it in the conclusion.
Method 4 of 6: Starting a Story Paragraph
Step 1. Define 5W + 1H in your story
As mentioned above, 5W + 1H consists of Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. If you are writing a fictional and creative story, this question should be answered before you start writing. Not all "W" and "H" must be answered in every paragraph. However, don't start writing unless you have a solid idea about the characters, what they do, when and where they do it, and why their actions are important.
Step 2. Start a new paragraph when you switch "W" or "H"
Creative writing paragraphs are more flexible than paragraphs in academic and argumentative essays. However, the rule is, you have to start a new paragraph every time there is a big change in the "W". For example, if you move from place to place, start with a new paragraph. When describing different characters, start a new paragraph. When telling a flashback, start a new paragraph. Thus, the reader will understand.
Change paragraphs when another character is speaking in dialogue. If you include two-character dialogue in one paragraph, the reader will be confused
Step 3. Use paragraphs of varying length
Academic papers usually contain paragraphs that are roughly the same size. In creative writing, a paragraph can be just one word or hundreds of words. Think about the effect you want to create, which helps you determine the length of the paragraph. Varying paragraph lengths can make writing look appealing to the reader.
- Long paragraphs can help create a deep and nuanced description of a person, place, or object.
- Short paragraphs can help create humor, surprise, or fun action and dialogue.
Step 4. Consider the purpose of the paragraph
Unlike argumentative paragraphs, creative paragraphs do not explain the thesis. However, the goal remains. Don't let a paragraph be meaningless or confusing. Think about what you want to explain to the reader. The following is an example of the purpose of a fictional story paragraph:
- Provide background information
- Develop story plot
- Shows the relationship of one character to another character
- Describe the background story
- Explain the character's motivation
- Provoke an emotional reaction from the reader, such as fear, laughter, sadness, or sentiment.
Step 5. Use prewriting exercises to get ideas
Sometimes you have to plan before you can write effective sentences. Pre-writing exercises are great for getting to know the story you want to create. This exercise also helps you see the story from new angles and perspectives. Some exercises that help inspire inspiration are:
- Writing letters from one character to another
- Write several journal pages from the character's point of view
- Read about the time and place used as the setting for the story. What historical details interest you the most?
- Write a plot outline to focus
- Practice "free writing," that is, write whatever you can think of for 15 minutes. You can set it later.
Method 5 of 6: Using Transitions Between Paragraphs
Step 1. Connect the new paragraph with the previous paragraph
Each paragraph should have a specific purpose. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that follows from the previous idea.
Step 2. Signal a change in timing or sequence
When paragraphs form a sequence (such as discussing the three reasons for war), start each paragraph with a word or phrase that tells the reader the order.
- For example, you write "First…". The next paragraph is "Second…". The third paragraph can start with "Third…" or "Last…".
- Other words to denote sequence are "In the end", "Later", "In the beginning", "From the beginning", "The second", or "In conclusion".
Step 3. Use transition words to compare or contrast paragraphs
Use paragraphs to compare or contrast two ideas. The word or phrase that starts the topic sentence will give the reader a hint that they should keep the previous paragraph in mind when reading the next paragraph. That way, they will understand your comparison.
- For example, use phrases like "In comparison" or "Likewise" to compare.
- Use phrases like "Nevertheless", "However", "However", or "On the contrary" to indicate that the paragraph is going against the idea of the previous paragraph.
Step 4. Use transition phrases to indicate that there is an example next
If you have already discussed a certain phenomenon in the previous paragraph, provide a concrete example in the next paragraph. This concrete example will emphasize the general phenomenon discussed earlier.
- Use phrases like "For example", "For example", "Consequently", or "Be more specific".
- You can also use instance type transitions when placing special emphasis on examples. In this case, use a transition word like "Especially" or "Especially". For example, you could write, "Most of all, in her letters, Kartini was an outspoken critic against the patriarchal system at that time."
Step 5. Describe the attitude the reader should associate
When you describe an event or phenomenon, provide clues that explain how this phenomenon should be perceived. Use clear and descriptive words to guide the reader and encourage the reader to see things from your point of view.
Words like "Fortunately", "Oddly", and "Unfortunately" can be used here
Step 6. Show cause and effect
The relationship between one paragraph and another may be that an event in the first paragraph causes something in the second paragraph. Cause and effect are indicated by transition words such as "Therefore", "As a result", "Therefore", "Therefore", or "For this reason".
Step 7. Follow the transition phrase with a comma
Use correct punctuation by using a comma after the phrase. Most transitional phrases like "Lastly," "In the end," and "In particular" are conjunctive adverbs. This phrase must be separated from other sentences by a comma.
- For example, "Kartini, above all, is an outspoken critic…"
- "In the end, we can see…"
- "Finally, the expert witness stated…"
Method 6 of 6: Overcoming the Deadlock
Step 1. Don't panic
Most people have experienced impasse. Just relax and take a deep breath. There are some easy tips and tricks that can help you deal with anxiety.
Step 2. Write freely for 15 minutes
If you get stuck, switch brains for 15 minutes. The trick, just write whatever you think is important in the topic. What do you care most about? What should other people care about? Remember what you find interesting and exciting in the paragraph. Free-writing for a few minutes will launch inspiration, although the results won't necessarily be included in the final draft.
Step 3. Continue with the other sections
You don't have to write stories, papers, or paragraphs from start to finish. If there is a problem with writing the introduction, write the most interesting discussion paragraph. You may find it easier to work with, and may come up with ideas for working on the more difficult parts.
Step 4. Say your idea verbally
If you run into a complex sentence or concept, try to describe it verbally, not on paper. Discuss the concept with a partner or friend. How would you explain it over the phone? Write it down once you find a comfortable way to talk about it.
Step 5. Tell yourself that the first draft isn't perfect
The first draft is never perfect. You can always correct any flaws or awkward sentences in your next draft. For now, just focus on putting your ideas down on paper, and revise them at a later stage.
Step 6. Take a walk
The brain sometimes needs rest in order to function at a high level. If you're having trouble with a paragraph for more than an hour, try taking a 20-minute walk, and working again afterward. You may find it easier to write after you rest.
Tips
- Format paragraphs with indents. Use the tab key on the keyboard, or enter about 1.5 cm if writing by hand. This is a visual clue to the reader that you are starting a new paragraph.
- Make sure all paragraphs are united by a series of interrelated ideas. If you have to explain too many concepts, terms, or characters, divide the text into paragraphs.
- Allow plenty of time for revision. The first draft of the paragraph may not be perfect. First, put the idea down on paper, then improve it later.
