Student Writing Handbook Fifth+Edition

Writing / 25

Develop the list from Step 1 into a thesis sentence. Then compare with the following
examples:

Example 1.

A model-glider builder may paint a simple two-tone combination, but a more

creative builder will develop a startling over-under pattern or even a humorous

color combination.

Three points:

1. Two-tone combination


2. Over-under pattern


3. Humorous combination

Example 2.

Working with pets requires tedious daily routines, occasionally heartbreaking

responsibilities, and frequent loving attention.

Three points:

1. Tedious daily routines


2. Occasionally heartbreaking responsibilities


3. Frequent loving attention

Example 3.

A diamond broker must have expertise in color, clarity, and cut.

Three points:

1. Color


2. Clarity


3. Cut

Note that each example includes three points. Each point will become the subject of
a body paragraph. Revise your thesis sentence as suggested by these models.

STEP 3: Choosing the Order

In organizing paragraphs and longer papers, writers use one of three orders: spatial,
chronological, or order of importance.