The paragraph and essay models in “Paragraphs vs. Essays in Illustration” use the topic sentence (paragraph) and thesis statement (essay) from the Main Point section of this chapter. Both models include the support used in all illustration writing: examples backed up by details about the examples. In the essay model, however, the major support points (examples) are topic sentences for individual paragraphs.

To generate good detailed examples, use one or more of the prewriting techniques discussed in Chapter 2. First, write down all the examples that come into your mind. Then, review your examples, and choose the ones that will best communicate your point to your readers.