After the introduction come the body paragraphs, which make up the majority of the essay. In a persuasive essay, the body is the argument that explains, exemplifies and develops the claim and supporting points presented in the thesis statement. In other words, every paragraph in the essay must clearly relate to the controlling idea presented in the thesis statement. The typical body paragraph has three main parts:

  • Topic Sentence
  • Supporting Sentences
  • Concluding Sentence

Topic Sentence

Each body paragraph must contain one main idea to develop, and each main idea must be unique from the other body paragraphs within the essay. This main idea, often referred to as the controlling idea, is presented in the topic sentence, which is typically the first one or two sentences, though experienced writers can place the main idea anywhere within a paragraph. The main idea of each body paragraph must be related to one of the main supporting points outlined in the essay's thesis statement. Therefore, it is essential that the paragraph has a strong, clear topic sentence:

  • The following are weak topic sentences:
    • One out of every four university students suffers from depression.
      • Too narrow. A fact cannot be a topic sentence because it is too specific and does not contain an idea that can be developed.
    • Changing the one-child policy would be bad for the country.
      • Too broad. This sentence is too general and needs to be made more specific. Bad in what way?
    • Because financial literacy gives people more control over their own success.
      • Incomplete sentence. This is a weak topic sentence because it is grammatically incomplete.
    • The purpose of this paragraph is to examine the underlying causes of street crime in urban areas.
      • Do not announce your topic or intentions.

A good topic sentence clearly introduces the topic of the paragraph and makes a point about that topic (i.e. a main idea). It makes a statement which is neither too specific nor too general.

  • Here are revised topic sentences:
    • The prevalence of depression on campus has become a serious concern.
    • Changing the one-child policy could have negative effects on the country's economy and labour market.
    • Financial literacy gives people more control over their own success.
    • There are several socio-economic factors that influence the amount of street crime in urban areas.

Supporting Sentences


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Exercise

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