How can I improve my paragraph writing?

Scientific article writing is closely related to storytelling. The author must be able to reel the reader in like a fisherman with a fish. Bit by bit, the bait must be laid from the title, tension built during the introduction, moving through the methodology and results, and finally pulling the reader out of the water with a powerful discussion and conclusion—the final blow to ensure the fish never escapes. In this way, the researcher ensures the message is understood and that the "fish" will want to replicate their findings through citations.

However, if we want to share our research findings with the world in written form, we cannot write as though we're talking to a neighbor or a street vendor. Journal editors and scientific peers around the world will dismiss the manuscript before we even get a chance to cast the fishing line. That’s why writing paragraphs for a scientific article or short communication requires a specific structure. We offer these tips to both early-career and experienced researchers to make the writing process easier, increase publication chances, and reduce turnaround time:

Tip 1: Be concise and precise.

Put yourself in the reader’s shoes: Would you want to read a 20-page article where the truly important findings are buried in just six? Get straight to the point and avoid filler words or content not directly related to your topic. A fish has limited attention—if you circle too much, it may lose interest. Ideally, paragraphs should be under 100 words.

Tip 2: Fewer commas, more full stops.

Paragraphs are made up of sentences, and each sentence should be separated by a period. Each sentence expresses a main or supporting idea and should be able to stand on its own. Don’t fear having your paragraph look “chopped up”; this gives the reader’s brain a much-needed breath while they bite the hook.

Tip 3: Paragraph structure.

The first and last sentences of a paragraph are like the nibble and strike of a fish—they’re the strongest parts. Start each paragraph with a single main idea. The next 4 or 5 sentences should support or elaborate on that idea. End with a strong closing sentence. Often, readers only focus on the first and last sentences, especially when they're reviewing 450 papers a day. So make those count.

The first sentence should summarize the paragraph’s content. Consider presenting the paragraph's main conclusion upfront. The final sentence should summarize or interpret what was said and ideally serve as a bridge or hook to the next paragraph.

Tip 4: Planning.

Don’t write before planning! The fastest way to write effectively is to plan what each paragraph will say in advance. That means holding off the urge to write and instead sitting down—ideally with your team—to build a section outline. The best way is to list only the main idea of each paragraph. For example: "In paragraph 1, I’ll focus on this main idea; in paragraph 2, on that one." This makes the meditative trance that authors often fall into in front of their computer a much more enjoyable and productive experience.

For more writing tips and examples of different styles, we recommend visiting:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cAKHrdTK9E

https://annaclemens.com/blog/good-paragraphs-scientific-writing/

Additionally, from the Ecología y Desarrollo Sostenible journal, we remind you that we are currently accepting submissions for Scientific Articles, Literature Reviews, and Short Communications.

Our next issue will be published in December 2025.

M.Sc. Daniel Rodríguez García
Editor-in-Chief
Revista Ecología y Desarrollo Sostenible