How To Maintain Paragraph Unity
A good paragraph shows unity in the idea it conveys, aside from being mechanically correct (with the help of your favorite grammar software). Rather than bombard you with multiple thoughts, it seeks to communicate that sole topic in as many sentences as it takes, then moves on.
Too Much, Too Soon
When starting a draft, most writers have too many things they want to get out of their heads and onto paper. Unable to control the flow of ideas, they end up throwing only tangentially-related things onto a single paragraph. The result is one big mess that leaves readers confused about the exact point you were trying to make.
One Paragraph, One Idea
Well-written paragraphs only deal with one main idea. When you find the discussion moving away from that primary topic, it’s a good signal that you should start a new paragraph. When you recognize that, just conclude the current paragraph and go to the next – no need to extend a conversation that’s already reached its logical end.
Inconclusive Paragraphs
Other people go the other way, splitting a single idea into different paragraphs. While easier to read than the other extreme, it leaves paragraphs feeling unfinished and lacking a proper conclusion. Any time you recognize two or more paragraphs essentially making the same point, it’s usually best to just combine them to foster paragraph unity.