Sometimes, though, you may be writing a paper that classmates will read and criticize. In any event, every writer, before he or she begins to write something, must develop a clear idea of who his or her audience is, and keep that audience constantly in mind. Make certain that your first paragraph introduces the main point of your paper. The theme of your paper is what will attract the attention of your reader. After reading your first paragraph, the reader should know what your paper is about, and just what it is that you are attempting to communicate.
First paragraphs are usually the most difficult paragraphs to write.
Keep your verbs active. Such a passive construction obscures rather than reveals. Other verbs will lend your writing clarity, action and life. Avoid using one-sentence paragraphs. One-sentence paragraphs may be acceptable in newspaper writing, but almost nowhere else are they acceptable.