Paragraphs

A paragraph is a collection of related sentences dealing

with a single issue. Sentences in a paragraph are used in

a variety of ways, particularly to cite evidence

supporting the specific issue being discussed, to explain

the issue, or to comment on it. Introductory, Body, and

Concluding Paragraphs each have a distinct purpose.

Introductory Paragraphs

Introductions invite your reader in, provide necessary

background and contextual information for your essay,

and hopefully engage the attention of your reader. The

introductory paragraph ENDS WITH A CONCISE

STATEMENT OF YOUR ARGUMENT, i.e., A THESIS

STATEMENT.

Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph lays out one key element or point

In your overall argument. Try to begin each body

Paragraph with a topic sentence, which concisely

represents the content of the paragraph.

Concluding Paragraphs

Conclusions reflect on and consider the possible

implications of your argument and findings. They may also

raise questions for future consideration and/or explain

The importance of your findings. Keep in mind this word

of advice from one student : “If you are reading

an essay and at the end of the whole thing you read

basically the same thing as what the essay started with,

you’re going to be really annoyed.”

Below, you will find links to several other resources related to understanding Body Paragraphs: