There are two main types of paragraphs. These are comparison and contrast and cause and effect. Comparison and contrast paragraphs are organized either by similar points or by subtopics. When organized by similar points, the items being compared are dealt with concurrently. When organized by subtopics, the items being compared are dealt with consecutively. Cause and effect paragraphs are organized with the effect stated in the topic sentence, supported by the following sentences. These are the main types of sentence clusters found in most writing.
A topic sentence introduces the paragraph. It states in a coherent way the controlling idea that is going to be developed in the rest of the paragraph. It assists in the organization of the sentences to follow and informs the reader how the argument will proceed.
Most paragraphs have a three-part structure. These parts include introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction includes the topic sentence, which will inform the rest of the paragraph. The body is the discussion of the topic sentence, including the elements of analysis and arguments backed up by facts and other information. The conclusion ties it all together by summarizing the connections between all of the preceding points. This is the best way to organize or cluster sentences for coherence and unity.
The most important goal in the clustering of sentences into paragraphs is coherence and unity. Without these two elements, meaning and understanding are lost. This is best done by restatement of important words or phrases. Creation of consistent grammatical structures adds clarity. Using transition sentences between paragraphs also assists the reader in understanding the flow of the argument. This flow of understanding is the goal of the creation of unity and coherence in the writing of all sentences in paragraphs.