The best way to help readers follow where you’re going is to structure your document logically, with related ideas presented in a sequence that readers will be able to follow. For example, if a particular idea needs to be explained so that readers can understand the rest of your argument, start with that idea. Presenting ideas in a logical order is critical, largely because readers find it challenging to rethink the order of entire sections and paragraphs so that they can follow your argument. Readers count on writers to organize clearly in the first place.

Presenting ideas in a logical order can be tricky because, while writing is linear, the relationships among ideas may not be. As you think about how to organize a complex set of ideas, think again about readers’ expectations. Ask what idea your readers are likely to expect to learn about next. Or set their expectations with a map at the beginning of a section.

Your readers will also expect you to provide enough information about an idea for them to understand it. When you introduce a new idea, ask yourself how much your readers will know about it. If it’s likely to be unfamiliar to them, you’ll need to help them understand it. Unfortunately, providing enough information to help readers understand an idea can detract from your argument. Handled badly, explaining complicated background information just when your readers are expecting you to launch into your new idea can make your document seem unorganized. You can solve this problem by signaling to your readers why you’re providing background information before moving on to your next major point.