Just as the sentences in a good paragraph connect to create a train of thought, paragraphs themselves should flow together to create the train of thought for whatever it is you are writing. From introduction to body to conclusion, paragraphs are key. “Paragraphing” well is all about moving your reader’s attention smoothly from one paragraph to the next.
Incorporating smooth transitions, or segues, between your paragraphs comes down to two methods. The first method is using key words in the start of the paragraph (or toward the beginning) that shape the reader’s expectations for what comes next. For example: Instead of “Several proposals came through...,” try starting your paragraph with “In the first proposal...” Delegating your discussion items into their own paragraphs not only directs your reader’s attention but organizes your own thoughts.
The paragraph above did this by mentioning two transition methods but only discussing one. The second method is to feature key words in the concluding line of a paragraph to set up what comes next. A paragraph on IT updates might mention “...which brings up implications for cybersecurity,” in the concluding sentence. The next paragraph can then jump right into discussing those implications.
Contact Dave Bounds at x2859 with any questions. Happy writing!