Then the topic sentence indicates that this paragraph will address evidence that complicates or contradicts that point. In this example, the first sentence summarizes the main point that has been made so far. However, the environmental costs of dietary choices are not always clear-cut in some cases, small-scale livestock farming is more sustainable than plant-based food production. Given this evidence of the meat industry’s impact on the planet, veganism seems like the only environmentally responsible option for consumers. The topic sentence usually goes at the very start of a paragraph, but sometimes it can come later to indicate a change of direction in the paragraph’s argument. Research has consistently shown that the meat industry has significant environmental impacts. In countries with high levels of meat consumption, a move towards plant-based diets is the most obvious route to making food more sustainable. Is veganism the only solution, or are there more sustainable ways of producing meat and dairy? You can also imply contrast or complicate your argument by formulating the topic sentence as a question. If the paragraph makes a comparison or introduces contrasting information, the topic sentence can use words that highlight difference or conflict (for example, in contrast, however, yet, on the other hand).

While beef clearly has the most dramatic footprint, other animal products also have serious impacts in terms of emissions, water and land use. If the paragraph turns to a different aspect of the same subject, the topic sentence can briefly sum up the previous paragraph and anticipate the new information that will appear in this one. Indeed, cattle farming alone is responsible for a large proportion of greenhouse gas emissions. If the paragraph goes into more detail or gives another example to make the same point, the topic sentence can use words that imply emphasis or similarity (for example, furthermore, indeed, in fact, also). Topic sentences as transitions between paragraphsĪs you write each topic sentence, ask yourself: how does this point relate to what you wrote in the preceding paragraph? It’s often helpful to use transition words in your topic sentences to show the connections between your ideas. To improve sentence flow even more, you can also utilize the paraphrase tool. To make your writing stronger and ensure the connections between your paragraphs are clear and logical, you can also use topic sentences to create smooth transitions. You can think of it like a signpost: it should tell the reader which direction your argument is going in. But it’s important to revise them as you write, making sure they match the content of each paragraph.Ī good topic sentence is specific enough to give a clear sense of what to expect from the paragraph, but general enough that it doesn’t give everything away.

Topic sentences usually start out as simple statements. In our example, you might mention specific research studies and statistics that support your point about the overall impact of the meat industry. This helps keep your paragraphs focused: everything you write should relate to the central idea expressed in the topic sentence. The rest of the paragraph should flow logically from the topic sentence, expanding on the point with evidence, examples, or argumentation. Research has consistently shown that the meat industry has a significant environmental impact.

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