Which one of the following statements is true regarding paragraphs?
A. A paragraph with two main topics is called a complex paragraph
B. A paragraph should have one main topic.
C. A topic sentence should not be placed in the middle of a paragraph.
D. The topic of a paragraph is always placed in the first sentence.
What do you think?
The answer is B. Although it may seem the other answers are correct as well, in fact they are not. A 'complex paragraph' is indeed one which explains multiple sides of an issue, but favors one, thus only one main topic is represented. It doesn't really matter where the topic sentence is placed - it can be anywhere in the paragraph. However, it is traditionally placed in the first sentence, although that rule isn't written in stone - the topic sentence can also be placed at the end of the paragraph. Therefore, we are left with only one option, and that is B, 'a paragraph should have one main topic'.
The correct answer is B. A paragraph should have one main topic.
Explanation: A paragraph is typically a group of sentences that discuss a single main idea or topic. It should focus on expressing and supporting this main idea in a coherent and organized manner. Therefore, having one main topic helps in maintaining clarity and cohesion in the paragraph.
To determine which statement is true regarding paragraphs, let's analyze each option one by one:
A. A paragraph with two main topics is called a complex paragraph.
To verify the accuracy of this statement, we need to understand the definition of a complex paragraph. However, a complex paragraph is not a recognized term in standard paragraph structures. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
B. A paragraph should have one main topic.
This statement is generally true. A well-written paragraph typically focuses on one clear main topic or idea. This ensures that the paragraph maintains coherence and clarity. If a paragraph contains multiple main topics, it can confuse the reader and make the paragraph less effective.
C. A topic sentence should not be placed in the middle of a paragraph.
To determine the validity of this statement, it is important to understand the purpose of a topic sentence. A topic sentence is a sentence that introduces the main idea of a paragraph. While it is most commonly found at the beginning of a paragraph, it is not a strict rule that it cannot be placed in the middle. Sometimes, in longer paragraphs, the topic sentence can be strategically placed in the middle to provide a transition or emphasize a particular point. Therefore, this statement is not entirely true.
D. The topic of a paragraph is always placed in the first sentence.
This statement is not always true. While it is a common practice to place the topic sentence, which introduces the main idea, at the beginning of a paragraph, it is not a strict rule. In some cases, an author may choose to build up to the main idea before explicitly stating it in the topic sentence. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that the topic of a paragraph is always placed in the first sentence.
In conclusion, the correct statement regarding paragraphs is B. A paragraph should have one main topic.