Skip to Main Content

Assignment skills: Paragraphs

Paragraphs

A paragraph is a block of text that is all about the same topic. Paragraphs can be used to present evidence for a particular point, or to keep information together in one place. You should present only 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
 

     

 Image by SFIO CRACHO Shutterstock accessed 080823 reproduced with permission

 

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:

Suggested phrases and words

To make your writing more interesting and engaging, you should use a variety of phrases and language. If you are looking for somewhere to start, the Manchester Academic Phrasebank is a great resource. 

Videos

 

© Copyright 2023 Bendigo Kangan Institute ABN 74 802 942 886

Bendigo TAFE acknowledges their campuses are located on the ancestral lands of the Djaara people of the Dja Dja Wurrung and the Yorta Yorta People. The institute respects traditional custodians, Elders and their cultural heritage.

Kangan Institute acknowledges their campuses are located on the ancestral lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations. The institute respects traditional custodians, Elders and their cultural heritage.

Images/icons used by BKI under license from Canva ; Microsoft image used with permission ; Book cover images under license from Syndetics