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As the building blocks of academic papers, paragraphs are groups of sentences that focus on the same idea. In scholarly writing, there are three main types of paragraphs: introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.

What is the Purpose of a Paragraph?

In general, paragraphs are used to categorize similar content, providing visual markers that help your reader follow the logic of your argument. However, different kinds of paragraphs serve different purposes. Explore the flip cards below to learn more about the purposes of introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.

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Because paragraphs are organizational tools, outlining can be helpful for deciding the focus
of each paragraph, as well as the order in which paragraphs appear within your paper.

What Should a Paragraph Include?

Because different paragraphs serve different purposes, each type of paragraph includes different elements. Explore the tabs to learn more about what to include in each type of paragraph. 

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Background information orienting readers to your topic

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A statement summarizing your central argument (i.e., a thesis statement)

Introductions

 

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A topic sentence that expresses the paragraph’s main idea

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Evidence (preferably from an expert source) that supports the paragraph’s main idea

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An analysis of the evidence—in other words, an explanation of how the evidence supports the main idea

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A closing sentence that wraps up the paragraph

Body Paragraphs
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A reminder of your thesis

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A brief recap of the main ideas supporting your thesis

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An explanation of your topic’s significance

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A final sentence that provides readers with a sense of closure

Conclusions

 

Key Takeaways

Paragraphs are groups of sentences that work together to support the same idea. In scholarly writing, they are used to organize similar information, so that related content appears within the same paragraph. While there is no set number of sentences required for an academic paragraph, be sure that each of your paragraphs fulfills its specific purpose:

  • Introductions provide readers with adequate background information and a preview of your argument.  
  • Body paragraphs explain the main points that support your thesis by providing evidence and an analysis of that evidence.   
  • Conclusions recap your argument and main ideas, offering a sense of closure to readers. 

 

Check Your Understanding   

Related Resources  

Do you need more practice with academic paragraphs? Try the Organize and Develop Paragraphs Module.