What is a three point paragraph structure? (2024)

A three-point paragraph structure is a fundamental writing tool that helps in organizing a paragraph effectively. It generally comprises three main components:

1. Topic Sentence: This is the first sentence of the paragraph and serves to introduce the central idea or main point. It provides context and tells the reader what the paragraph will be about.
2. Supporting Details or Evidence: These are the body sentences that follow the topic sentence. They provide information, examples, facts, or explanations that support or elaborate on the topic sentence. It’s important to ensure that this information is directly related to the topic sentence and is presented clearly and concisely.
3. Concluding Sentence: This is the final sentence in the paragraph. It sums up the points made and relates them back to the topic sentence, often providing a sense of closure. Sometimes, it may also create a transition to the next paragraph.

Using the three-point paragraph structure helps in creating coherent and focused paragraphs, which in turn contribute to the overall clarity and effectiveness of the writing.

A three point sentence, or a CEC sentence, should proceed as follows:

Claim: This is the point you are trying to make. This could also be your thesis. An example of a claim could be, "Vanilla is the best ice cream flavor."

Evidence: This is the information you use to support that claim. You want to rely on reliable, unbiased sources for your evidence. You should also cite your evidence. An example of evidence for the aforementioned claim could be, "Vanilla is the most ordered ice cream flavor."

Commentary: Here is where you will explain your evidence. How does your evidence support your claim? Sometimes, the evidence speaks for itself, but sometimes, it requires elaboration. An example of commentary for our previous evidence could be, "Because vanilla is the most ordered ice cream flavor, it is clearly the widest-reaching and most enjoyed flavor."