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Assignment skills: Paragraphs

Paragraphs

Paragraphs are a block of text used to present evidence for a particular point, or to keep information together in one place. You should only present one new idea in each paragraph. 

A few quick tips about paragraphs.

1.  Start a new paragraph:

   -   every time you present a new idea

   -   for the Introduction and conclusion

2.   Each paragraph should have:

   -   a topic sentence summing up main idea of the paragraph

   -  explanation of the main idea

   -   supporting evidence that is referenced

   -   a concluding sentence that links to the next paragraph

 

 

Suggested phrases and words

Use a variety of phrases and choice of words to engage the reader with your writing. The Manchester Academic Phrasebank is a great resource to start:

Manchester Academic Phrasebank

Connecting words

Connectors, or connecting words, are words that link sentences together in your paragraphs. Using connectors in your assignments will improve your writing style and allow you to be more persuasive.


Check out this guide by RMIT on Common Linking Words:

Common linking words - RMIT University

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