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Developing the Middle Part

The middle paragraphs provide information that supports or develops the thesis. These paragraphs should be arranged according to your planning. You should use a pattern of organization that fits the topic and purpose of your essay.

Patterns of Organization

• Chronological order: This method of organization works well when you are presenting information that is time based.
• Order of importance: This method of organization works well when you are arguing for or against something. Writers often save their most important point for last.
• Logical order: This method of organization works well when you are informing your reader. (See the example below.)
• Spatial order: This method works well when you are trying to describe something: top to bottom, left to right, and so on.

Middle Paragraphs

Use your outline as an organizing guide. Each middle paragraph should cover one main point (II) and supporting details (A, B, C).