EFL

Narrative Structure

Paragraphing

How to use paragraphing to structure a piece of writing

Once you have planned your writing, it is important to think about the layout. Use the content of
each paragraph within your work to ensure your ideas are well organised and they follow a
logical order.

Paragraphs should direct your reader through your writing, or create a particular effect. A good
way to remember when to start a new paragraph is by using the TiP ToP acronym:

Time, Place, Topic, Person

Start a new paragraph whenever you are:

 ● moving to a different time in your story
● changing location
● bringing in a new idea
● introducing a new character
● starting a new piece of action
● starting dialogue

You can also use paragraphs to highlight tense or significant moments within your story. For
example, a one-sentence paragraph is likely to add tension or highlight a turning point in a
narrative.

When you start a new paragraph, ask yourself the questions:

● Is the narrative moving forward to a different moment in time?

● Is the narrative moving to another location?
● Is the narrative moving on to the next phase?
● Do you want to create a specific moment of tension?