Resources

General
Definitions
Graphic Aids
How to Summarize
Paragraphs
Plagiarism
Writing Process

Outlines

Sentence Style

Formatting

Citing Sources

1.  What is a paragraph’s function?
   1. A paragraph indicates a block of information about one specific topic.
   2. A paragraph should focus on one specific key term or concept.
       
2. What is the best way to start a paragraph?
   1. Start paragraphs with a topic sentence that focuses on the key term the paragraph deals with.
   2. Put the main point first. This is a basic principle of technical writing.
       
3. What is the best way to end a paragraph?
   1. Conclude paragraphs by analyzing or explaining what the facts and data in the paragraph mean.
   2. DO NOT put the topic sentence for the next paragraph at the end of the paragraph for a transition.
       
4. How long can a paragraph be?
   1. There is no set length but:
      1. You never want to confront your reader with a full-page paragraph.
      2. Short paragraphs work better for technical writing than long paragraphs.
   2. One sentence paragraphs are ok for
      1. transitions
      2. emphasizing main points
   3. -- So, you don’t want to use them very often.
   4. Generally, paragraphs should be ½ to 1/3 of a page long (double-spaced pages).
   5. Vary paragraph lengths: a document with paragraphs that are the same length is a boring document.
       
5. How do you format paragraphs?
   1. For most documents:
      1. Indent 5 spaces.
      2. Leave no extra space between paragraphs.
   2.  For letters:
      1. Leave extra space between the paragraphs (block style). See Letter Format.