MLMN

A practical guide from MLMN

Use the checklist

Plan an academic paragraph around a claim

An academic paragraph needs a purpose in the argument, not simply a collection of quotations. Use this worksheet to connect a claim, evidence and explanation before polishing sentences.

Checklist

  1. Write the point the paragraph should establish and why it belongs here. Check that it advances the assignment's question rather than repeating background information.

  2. Choose evidence that actually supports the point. Record its source and page details, noting limits or counterexamples that affect how strongly you can state the claim.

  3. Explain the connection in your own words and review the paragraph's place in the larger structure. Follow your institution's rules for citation and permitted assistance.

Questions and answers

What if I have too many sources?

Group them by the question they help answer. Select material for its role in the argument rather than trying to include everything you read. Keep unused notes separately so that removing a quotation does not feel like losing the research.