A paragraph uses several related sentences to develop a single subject or a single aspect of a large subject. A paragraph is constructed with a topic sentence, several sentences that support and expand the topic sentence, and a concluding sentence that draws the paragraph to a close and/or transitions to the next paragraph. The writer moves the reader from one paragraph to the next by repeating key words, phrases, and thoughts.
The topic sentence states what the paragraph is all about. It sets the reader’s expectations and is usually the first sentence of a paragraph. It states the point you are going to make in the paragraph. All the following sentences expand on the topic sentence and serve to prove your point. The entire paragraph works together and has no extraneous elements. It is focused and direct.
Most business writing is explanatory and/or persuasive.
Explanatory paragraphs answer who, what, where, when, why, and how. They are used to interpret facts, give directions, or provide reasons.
Persuasive paragraphs communicate the writer’s opinions and attempt to influence and persuade the reader to adopt an idea, support a cause, or take action. With persuasive paragraphs, you:
- Develop an opinion, which is stated in the topic sentence.
- Add support by using facts, figures, expert opinion, comparison, etc.
- Acknowledge and refute arguments for the other side.
- Anticipate and answer questions.
- End with a call to action.
