1. Clearly state and support a single claim: The paragraph should focus on one specific argumentative point related to the overall essay's thesis. This claim needs to be explicitly stated (often in a topic sentence) and then thoroughly supported with evidence and reasoning. Avoid tangents or introducing multiple arguments within a single paragraph.
2. Convince the reader of the claim's validity: The goal isn't just to present information; it's to persuade the reader to accept your viewpoint. This requires using strong, credible evidence (facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions), logical reasoning, and effective rhetorical strategies to address potential counterarguments and build a convincing case for your claim within the confines of the paragraph.