People write for different purposes. Some write to entertain, others to educate, while others take to writing just to convey their thoughts. Regardless of the type of writing, it is quite evident that you will have to deploy different types of paragraph to achieve your objective. For instance, those who write to entertain or to convey a message tend to prefer narrative or descriptive paragraphs. Expository and narrative paragraphs are suitable for enlightening or notifying people about things. These kinds of writing aim at swaying people’s opinions regarding a topic or issue. In other words, descriptive paragraphs aim to expound on a topic, as narrative paragraph displays progression (for instance). Expository paragraphs attempt to elucidate on a theme or circumstances.

The type of paragraphs will generally reflect the purpose of writing. Yet it is likely that a group of paragraphs addressing similar themes will be different. That notwithstanding, there are four types of paragraphs that you can deploy in your writing.

Expository Paragraphs

If you are writing to enlighten or instruct, then it is probable that you will use expository paragraphs. It is worth remembering that these paragraphs are not meant to convey personal views. They are particularly suited for research where they are used to present findings.

As such, the primary purpose of an expository paragraph is to offer an apt description of a subject. Thus, expository paragraphs tend to describe or elucidate a subject. As you shed light on a topic, it is also prudent to accompany your explanations with justifications. These groupings and explanations also serve another critical purpose: they provide a framework on which the paragraph is organized.

However, there is a caveat: while these categorizations are important for describing a topic, organization is the most important aspect in writing paragraphs. A great outline or organization is fundamental to the development of paragraphs. With this in mind, you should develop your paragraph much the same way you build a house: the most important components of the building should signify aspects of the paragraph. Much the same way the foundation provides anchorage to the entire building, a thesis statement signifies the foundation on which your paragraph is developed. The opening statement corresponds to the door and the basis for your expository paragraph. In addition, the walls are analogous to the body sentences which are comparable to the framework that began from the opening (or topic) sentences.

In addition, the organization (of paragraphs) should be compared to model consisting of a set of blocks carefully arranged to form a strong structure. Every block within the structure signifies the central parts of the argument(s). The model represents the opening and closing sentences. The top portions should blend with the midsection in a way that support a strong thesis statement. The thesis should then find anchorage in resounding evidence presented by use of logically robust and informative writing.  Similar to strong columns in an engineering edifice, the solidity of an argument depends on the effectiveness of the body sentences. Remember that your opening sentence should be supported by a thesis statement, which must be reiterated to end your paragraph on a high note.

Descriptive Paragraphs

The main purpose of a descriptive paragraph is to impress the reader with an intriguing image of a phenomenon or a situation. In some cases, it involves people with whom we were familiar before or after they incorporate our ideas. Simply put, descriptive paragraphs describe an object, person, situation, or phenomenon. Writers who prefer this kind of writing rely on vivid detail to convey their thoughts. This approach entails showing rather than telling. Similar to narrative paragraphs, descriptive paragraph should provide reasons for the explanations. The explanations should relate clearly to the topic sentence, which should support the theme or at least augment your explanations.

An effective descriptive paragraph can be compared to an opening into an alternative universe. As a powerful tool in the hands of an adroit writer, it can create a scenario that richly describes a person, place, or object. The most effective descriptive paragraph should all the senses (smell, sight, taste, touch, and hearing) at the same time.

Narrative Paragraphs

These paragraphs are more common in case study where they are used to tag readers to a person’s emotional experience.

The purpose of a narrative paragraph is to walk the reader through a problem from start to finish.  It presents an emotional ride (as experienced by the characters) and often begins with a problem and ends with a solution.

Persuasive Paragraphs

As the name suggests, persuasive essays are written to influence the reader to espouse your views on an issue. A strong persuasive paragraph relies on evidence to prove that an idea or viewpoint is superior to others. For instance, you could also show the differences between what you are proposing and what is available.

The main purpose of a persuasive paragraph is to present a strong argument for a position or a view. Yet, it is not enough to merely present an argument. In these kinds of essays, writers have to provide evidence for their assertions. Usually, it is recommended that you provide evidence in support of your views. These may include quotes, instances, and professional views. So, a great persuasive essay should incorporate a position, supporting evidence, and a robust outline.