A paragraph is a group of sentences that focus on a single idea or topic. Paragraphs help organize and structure writing, making it easier for readers to follow the author's ideas. Characteristics of a good paragraph Topic sentence: Expresses the main idea of the paragraph Body sentences: Provide details, context, and/or examples to support the topic sentence Concluding sentence: Wraps up the paragraph or transitions to the next paragraph Unified: All sentences relate to the main idea Coherent: Sentences are arranged in a logical manner Well-developed: Ideas are explained and supported with evidence and details When to start a new paragraph When making a transition between ideas, When adding a new line of thought, and When summing up. Types of paragraphs Comparison or contrast paragraphs, Descriptive paragraphs, Narrative paragraphs, Classifying paragraphs, and Cause and effect paragraphs.