Concept 5

Maintain paragraph unity by aligning each sentence with the paragraph’s controlling idea.

Core Idea

Every sentence in a paragraph should help the same controlling idea. A detail can be interesting and still not belong.

Understanding

Rule: Every sentence in a paragraph should help the same controlling idea. A detail can be interesting and still not belong.

  • Unity questions are purpose questions in disguise.
  • ACT often tempts you with details that are related to the broad topic but not to the paragraph's narrower focus.
  • Keep the paragraph's job, not the subject in general.

Step by Step

  1. State the paragraph's main point in a few words.
  2. Ask what job the proposed sentence does.
  3. Keep the sentence only if it supports or develops that same point.
  4. Cut the sentence if it shifts to a side topic.

Misconceptions

  • Keeping a sentence because it is vivid or memorable.
  • Confusing the broad subject with the paragraphs exact focus.
  • Assuming any fact about the same event belongs in the paragraph.
Question

Worked Example

A student is writing about how the debate team prepares before tournaments. The paragraph explains that members split research tasks, rehearse rebuttals, and time each practice round. The writer is considering adding the following sentence:

"Last year's tournament was held in a hotel ballroom with red carpeting and large chandeliers."

Should the writer make this addition?

Select an answer to see the explanation