Plan and write
Writing the first draft - paragraphs
- Each paragraph has one main idea.
- Start with a topic sentence.
- Develop the idea using 3-5 supporting sentences
- Bring points together with transitional words and phrases, e.g., firstly, in contrast, as a result.
- Provide references known as ‘in-text citations’ to support points.
- Finish with a linking or concluding sentence.
More info
- Writing paragraphs (University of North Carolina Writing Center)
- Writing paragraphs that flow (Penn State)
- Topic sentence (RMIT Study & Learning Centre)
- Linking words and phrases (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
- Referencing in USQ (USQ Library)
- Concluding sentences (University of Sydney The Write Site)