The document provides guidelines on structuring body paragraphs in academic writing, emphasizing the need for a topic sentence, supporting examples, and a clincher statement. It outlines the importance of transitions to connect ideas between paragraphs and discusses the proper integration of quotations using MLA citation format. Additionally, it offers tips for handling longer quotations and encourages looking up unusual citation scenarios.

1. Dissertation Help
Body Paragraphs
Transitions
Working with quotations

2. Body Paragraphs
Each body para. must begin with a topic
sentence
– This is the most general sentence of the
paragraph, and tells what main point will be
disscussed

3. Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph should include at least
three examples or supporting details
– This can be thought of as “proof” that what
you’re saying is true
– Make sure you explain each example- do not
expect the reader to draw his/her own
inferences

4. Body Paragraphs
Each should end with a clincher statement
– This restates the main point of the paragraph
– This is one sentence that summarizes
everything explained in the paragraph

5. Transitions
Each body paragraph should be connected
to the other through transitions
– Transitional statements
• Whole sentences used to hook one idea from
previous paragraph to the next paragraph
– Transitional expressions
• First, second, on the other hand, not only/but also,
finally, therefore, however, in addition to,
furthermore, etc.
• Usually used within paragraphs

6. Integrating Quotations
Quotations from research can NOT simply be
‘plopped’ into your body paragraphs.
They must be seamlessly worked in.
Mediocre example: For example, So-and-so says,
“Quote” (Citation 56)
Better example: Wordsworth stated that Romantic
poetry was marked by a “spontaneous overflow of
powerful feelings” (Citation 263).

7. Handling Quotes in Your Text
Author’s last name and page
number(s) of quote must appear in
the text
Romantic poetry is characterized by
the “spontaneous overflow of powerful
feelings” (Wordsworth 263).

8. Handling Long Quotations
More than 3 lines long:
– Indent left side 1”
– Single space
– Citation at the end
– No indentation- simply resume paragraph

9. There are many different
combinations and
variations within MLA
citation format.
If you run into something
unusual, look it up!
Handling Quotes in Your Text

10. There are many different
combinations and
variations within MLA
citation format.
If you run into something
unusual, look it up!
Handling Quotes in Your Text