CLOUD Nine

One of the most useful things I have learned in my MCOM class is the concept of writing a CLOUD paragraph. If one applies this concept, their paragraphs will be more clear, compelling, and successful.

Coherence:   Make sure that each paragraph flows in logical order. It should tie in to any paragraphs before it, and each sentence in the paragraph should flow in a logical order. Try using transition  words between paragraphs and sentences to help coherence.                      
Length: Do not make a paragraph to long. It will look hard to the reader and will be difficult to read. Try not to have paragraphs that are longer than six to seven lines.
Organization: Write paragraphs in a top-down order. This means that a writer introduces their topic in the  beginning of the paragraph, and then the rest of the sentences support the topic that was introduced in the first.                  
Unity: Make sure that all sentences in each paragraph pertain to the topic. Do not start discussing topics that were not covered in the introduction sentence.
Development: A paragraph's main point must contain proper development and support. Include statistics,  examples, stories, and explanations.

Using CLOUD paragraphs can greatly improve your writing. Hopefully the reader will be on CLOUD nine after reading your work.

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