This section provides a basic understanding of how to structure your text with a focus on coherence and logical flow.

Each paragraph in an academic text should clearly relate to the overall aim of the text. Think of each paragraph as a puzzle piece that contributes to the bigger picture. While each paragraph should be understandable on its own, it must also connect logically with the rest of the text.

It is common to begin a paragraph with a sentence that introduces the main idea or argument. This sentence is often referred to as the topic sentence.

The Topic Sentence – The most important sentence in the paragraph

The topic sentence is usually the first sentence of the paragraph and signals what the paragraph will be about. It is followed by development of the idea through explanation, analysis, or examples. If your main point is complex and includes several aspects, you may split the topic sentence into two for better readability. A clear and specific topic sentence sets the right expectations for the reader and helps you stay focused.

The topic sentence in the paragraph below suggests that the focus is on a central part of someone’s work. However, it is unclear whose work is being referred to, as this is not explicitly stated in the topic sentence. Only in the second sentence do we get an indirect indication that the paragraph is about teachers. As a result, the paragraph lacks clarity, with a topic sentence that does not accurately reflect the content:

A central part of the work is planning lessons that follow the curriculum and are adapted to students’ needs. The teacher assesses students’ performance and provides feedback to support their development. The role also includes mentoring and collaboration with colleagues and guardians. The role of the upper secondary school teacher is therefore both pedagogical and socially supportive.

It is only in the final sentence that the writer arrives at a summarising main point.

If we instead move the last sentence to the beginning of the paragraph and use it as the topic sentence, the content and focus of the paragraph are signaled much more clearly. To make the sentence work well as a topic sentence, we need to remove the linking word:

The role of the upper secondary school teacher is both pedagogical and socially supportive. A central part of the work is planning lessons that follow the curriculum and are adapted to students’ needs. The teacher assesses students’ performance and provides feedback to support their development. The role also includes mentoring and collaboration with colleagues and guardians.

Now, the topic sentence clearly signals that the paragraph is about the role of the upper secondary school teacher, which includes several different aspects.

You can conclude the paragraph by reinforcing the main point introduced in the topic sentence.

Coherence – Transitions and bridges

To create a coherent text overall, you need to consider how your paragraphs connect. It is not enough for each paragraph to be clear on its own—they must also work together to build your overall argument and purpose. Coherence means the text feels logically connected from beginning to end.

You can achieve this by using transition words and phrases to build bridges between sections. For example, you might write: “Another important aspect is…” or “This leads to…” to show continuity or development. If you are shifting focus or presenting a contrast, you can use phrases like “However…” or “In contrast to…”

You can find useful transition words on the page Connecting ideas from the University of Melbourne.

These bridges can be placed either at the end of the previous paragraph or at the beginning of the next one, either as part of or just before the topic sentence.

Final Tips and Advice

To improve the structure of your text, try reading it aloud. Does it sound logical? Do the paragraphs connect smoothly with clear transitions? It can be hard to spot issues in your own writing, so try taking a longer break before reviewing it again—perhaps let it rest over the weekend, even if you're short on time. Many also find it easier to identify problems when reading a printed version.

You can also ask someone else to read your text and give feedback. Do they understand what you're trying to say? Does everything connect? A fresh pair of eyes can help you see what needs improvement.

In summary, a clear structure in academic writing involves organizing your text into well-thought-out paragraphs, starting each one with a clear topic sentence, developing your ideas with examples and reasoning, and building strong transitions between paragraphs. By planning your text and thinking logically about how to construct your argument, you can write texts that are both clear and easy for the reader to follow.

If you have questions or would like to discuss the structure and coherence of your own text, feel free to book a writing consultation with one of our academic writing tutors.

Contact us: academiclanguage@ju.se.