Topic Sentences: How to Start Strong Paragraphs

A topic sentence serves as the foundation of a strong paragraph, as it links all parts of the essay via the thread of one main idea. It is supported by facts so that all paragraphs are easy to follow and flow together. Clarity is key, and the topic sentence relates everything back to to the main argument. To ensure a solid topic sentence, it is important to write clearly, deliver evidence, and avoid deviations so that readers don’t lose focus. 

The Topic Sentence (The Basics)

A paragraph can be compared to a much smaller, contained essay in itself. If that is true, then the topic sentence is the introduction and main point. It is the glue holding it all together, which proposes your theme and your attitude toward it. In this way, the reader can anticipate what to expect and can trace all your supporting evidence back to the essay thesis. 

The Framework for a Solid Paragraph

Topic Sentence: Take the time to introduce the paragraph’s single, focal idea (e.g., “The local bakery serves the best baked bread downtown”).

Supporting Sentences: This functions as the substance of your argument – proof, examples, or clarifications that prove your topic sentence (e.g., “Their dough is freshly prepared,” “The bread is perfectly toasted”).

Concluding Sentence: Tie up all the loose ends, tracing back to the topic sentence or the essay as a whole, or offer a transition to the next paragraph (e.g., “This grouping of fresh ingredients and crisp bread will make any lunch break an unforgettable experience”). 

Topic Sentence Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Write Clearly and Exactly: Get right to the point so the reader isn’t surprised or sidetracked.

Make a Declaration: Don’t just start throwing out facts; make a statement that you can offer supporting evidence for (e.g., “The bakery’s quality is unrivaled because of its farm-to-table ingredients,” not “The bakery sells awesome bread”).

Make It Relevant: Convince the reader that this point is relevant to them or the essay’s thesis.

Reel the Reader In: Choose your most interesting facts or thought-provoking suggestions to attract the reader’s attention. 

Don’ts

Avoid Vague Language: Don’t blather on or make over-generalizations.

Use Simple Language: Save details for the supporting sentences; the topic sentence should only set the tone.

Avoid Introducing New Ideas: The topic sentence’s singular idea should be your main focus. 

Bring It All Together: Example Paragraph

Topic Sentence: “I had a disastrous first day of college because of poor planning and unexpected complications.”

Supporting Sentences: “First, I went to the wrong classroom, causing me to miss the first 10 minutes. Then, I couldn’t find the bookstore, so I couldn’t buy my essential textbooks on time. Finally, I lost my dorm key, which resulted in a stressful check-in process.”

Concluding Sentence: “These initial hurdles taught me the importance of careful preparation for future academic success.”