ClearTips: Powerful paragraphs

Make the point in the middle

Sometimes, though not often, your point is best put in the middle of the paragraph. The first few sentences of the paragraph introduce the (perhaps surprising) point and soften its arrival.

Amber is fossil resin, the consequence of tree injuries suffered millions of years ago. Its early significance to science can be seen from its ancient Greek name—elektron. Until the invention of batteries, rubbing amber was the best-known way of generating (static) electricity. But amber's modern importance to science is as a trap. Hundreds of species of ancient creepy-crawly are known to paleontologists only because they blundered into a blob of resin many million years ago. David Grimaldi, a curator whose fascination with amber led to the museum's global search for exhibits and treasures, says that amber's paleontological role is much misunderstood, thanks largely to its appearance in "Jurassic Park."

In the paragraph above, the first three sentences inform readers about amber's historical importance, which sets up a comparison with amber's significance today.

The first few sentences of the paragraph below establish the writer's position and provide background to the point:

Among the many convenient targets that Republican politicians and intellectuals have at their disposal, the one at which they direct their fire with perhaps the most delight is the academy. George Will, William Bennett, and other right-wing thinkers never tire of recounting the follies of professors and of portraying them as naive, duped, and possibly duplicitous. The right has made especially clever and effective use of the widespread suspicion of multiculturalism. A large portion of the American middle class has been made to believe that the universities are under the control of a "political correctness" police. This false belief has made it easier for the racists, the sexists, and the homophobes to dismiss their opponents as far-out, self-intoxicated radicals—out of touch with the sound common sense of mainstream America.

To build this kind of paragraph, try folding a paragraph with a strong point into a more general opening or introductory paragraph. Remember that you are placing an important sentence in the least conspicuous place, so be sure that the point is strong enough to stand out—even if you're trying to soften it.

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