Paragraph A paragraph (from the Greek paragraphos, "to write beside" or "written beside") is a self-contained unit of a discourse in writing dealing with a particular point or idea. A paragraph consists of one or more sentences. The start of a paragraph is indicated by beginning on a new line. Sometimes the first line is indented. At various times, the beginning of a paragraph has been indicated by the pilcrow . A written work—be it an essay or a story—is about an idea or concept. An essay explains it; a story narrates it. To help the reader understand and enjoy it, the explanation or narration is broken down into units of text, or paragraphs. In an essay, each paragraph explains or demonstrates a key point or thought of the central idea, usually to inform or persuade. In fiction, each paragraph serves to advance the plot, develop a character, describe a scene or narrate an action—all to entertain the reader. All paragraphs support each other, leading the reader from the first idea to the final resolution of the written piece of work. Many students are taught to use a minimum number of sentences in a paragraph such as three or five—although length is not a determinant in defining a paragraph.
A paragraph has a topic sentence, a body to support the topic and a conclusion. The topic sentence discusses the overall subject of the paragraph, while the body explains an event, policy or idea. Paragraphs have an attitude, which explains an opinion or emotion on the subject. There are seven different paragraph styles to use in writing, each with their own purpose and message.
Seven Types of Paragraph
Narration Paragraph * A narration paragraph tells a story of one specific event. The primary focus of the topic sentence is to identify the event or thought, including your stance on it. A narration paragraph explains the significance of the event, purpose for writing the narrative and includes enough detail to engage the reader.
Definition Paragraph * A definition paragraph explains how something functions or what its purpose is. The topic sentence identifies the subject or concept to define. A definition paragraph works in both fiction and academic pieces. When writing a definition paragraph, use specific examples and be thorough.
Compare and Contrast * A comparison and contrast paragraph compares two events, people or situations. Explain why the two terms are relevant and use specific examples to portray the similarities and differences. At the end of the paragraph, identify what the comparison or contrast revealed.
Classification Paragraph * A classification paragraph divides items into various groups or categories. The paragraph needs to explain each item and identify how it fits into the classification. Use the appropriate categories to group each item.
Explanation Paragraph * An explanation paragraph clarifies a topic and uses relevant information to support your explanation. The topic sentence should give an idea and identify your view of the topic. Use multiple examples to support your case, without ignoring the opposing point of view. You need to explain why your examples are more significant than the opposition.
Description Paragraph * A description paragraph focuses on actions and uses verbs, as opposed to adjectives or adverbs. In order to describe the event, person, process or position effectively, remains objective in your description. Use specific details in your description.
Exposition * An exposition paragraph is similar to an explanatory paragraph. In an exposition paragraph, your primary focus is to be credible. Ask yourself why is the key concept is worth mentioning and cite specific examples, preferably from reputable sources with authority. Exposition paragraphs appear at the beginning of an article or essay, since they explain the overall importance of the idea.
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