Connecting Techniques for Paragraphs

Following are a few techniques you can use, along with an explanation of why they are effective. For more on developing coherent paragraphs, see “Chapter 3: Drafting” in your Background Readings.

Numbering or Listing

The technique of numbering your points or providing a sequence of steps or topics is telling your readers in advance how many there will be. By telling your readers how many points you wish to make or how many steps there are in a procedure, you can then lead them from point to point with confidence that there is little room for misunderstanding.

Classifying Items (factors, variables, approaches)

Classifying items tells your readers in advance the types of items you are presenting.

Repeating Key Terms

Repeating key terms provides a visual cue to your readers to recall something that has been written earlier in the text.

Parallel Structure

Parallel structure refers to the alignment of ideas to show how they fit together. It is based on the principle that elements that are similar in function should be similar in form. At the sentence level, parallel structure can take several different forms: single words, phrases, or clauses. It particularly shows up—or should show up—in two kinds of situations: lists and comparisons. Parallel structure is evident in a sentence's grammatical structure and in its visual presentation.