Paragraph Coherence: Ordering Sentences
A paragraph has coherence when its sentences are arranged in a logical order and connected smoothly. To order scrambled sentences, find the topic sentence first, then arrange the rest by logic — time order, general-to-specific, or order of importance — using transition signals and pronoun reference as clues.
Example (correct order):
(c) The type of paper you choose for a poster depends on how it will be reproduced. (a) For a lightweight sign, you can use offset book stock or cover stock. (d) For a more durable poster, bristol stock is your best choice. (b) You'll probably have to use a commercial printer, however, since bristol won't feed through most desktop printers.
Sentence (c) is the topic sentence; (a) and (d) give the two paper choices; (b) adds a consequence with the signal however.
Tip: Locate the most general sentence — that is usually the topic sentence and comes first. Then follow the chain of reference words (this, these, however, the same) to order the rest.
Common mistake: Ordering by guesswork. Use transition signals and pronoun reference as evidence of what follows what.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. Logical arrangement + smooth connection = ___ .
2. To order scrambled sentences, find the ___ sentence first.
3. "However, this, these" are ___ clues.
4. The most general sentence usually comes ___ .
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — Passion; enthusiasm
“She has a lot of ebullience for getting knowledge.”
Meaning — The period of greatest prosperity or productivity
“The efflorescence of economy is over.”
Meaning — Tolerance of bearing
“Keep forbearance.”
Meaning — Patient self-control; restraint and tolerance
“I have ineffable yearnings.”
Meaning — Highly rich
“She is the most sumptuous girl of our village.”