Fix the mistake: Advanced English Composition (Free Composition)

Paragraph Writing — The PREP Method

English paragraphs follow the pattern “point → reason → example → restatement of the point.” The PREP method helps you write logical paragraphs.

Basic Rules

PREP method:
- Point: State your conclusion in the first sentence of the paragraph.
- Reason: Show the logical basis for why you can make that claim.
- Example: Strengthen your reason with specific examples, data, or statistics.
- Point: Emphasize your conclusion at the end of the paragraph.
Example (a paragraph written using PREP):
“P: Reading books is the best way to expand your knowledge.
R: Books allow you to learn from experts who have spent years studying their fields.
E: For example, by reading 'Sapiens' by Yuval Noah Harari, you can understand the entire history of humanity in just a few weeks.
P: Therefore, if you want to grow intellectually, you should make reading a daily habit.”
Applications of PREP:
- One paragraph = one point: Do not pack multiple points into one paragraph.
- 100〜150 words is the standard length for one paragraph in high school English composition.
- Five sentences is a useful guide (P + R + E + additional information + P).

Complete Example (Five-Sentence Paragraph)
Topic: Exercise is essential for students.
1. (P) Regular exercise is essential for high school students.
2. (R) It improves both physical health and concentration in class.
3. (E) A recent study found that students who exercise 30 minutes a day score 15% higher on tests.
4. (Additional information) Moreover, exercise reduces stress, which is important during exam seasons.
5. (P) Therefore, schools should encourage daily physical activity.

Points to Note

① Make your point specific: “Reading is good” is vague. Be specific, as in “Reading books expands knowledge.”
② Distinguish reasons from examples: A reason explains “why,” while an example shows “this actually happened.” “Books are educational (reason) because they contain information from experts. For instance, ... (example)”
③ Avoid excessive repetition of “I think”: Starting every paragraph with “I think” may seem childish. Use varied expressions such as “In my view,” “It seems to me,” and “Arguably.”
④ Expressions for conclusions: Clearly signal your conclusion with Therefore / Thus / Hence / As a result / In conclusion.
⑤ Paragraph length: A paragraph that is too short (2-3 sentences) lacks content, while one that is too long (10 or more sentences) loses focus. Five to seven sentences is a useful guide.

Key Points
  • PREP: Point → Reason → Example → Point
  • One paragraph = one point, 5〜7 sentences, 100〜150 words
  • Write specific points and avoid vague expressions
  • Clearly state conclusions using Therefore / Thus / In conclusion
  • Vary expressions for stating opinions (In my view / Arguably)

Practice

  1. Write a five-sentence paragraph using the PREP method about the topic “Smartphones are useful for students.”
  2. Write one Reason and one Example in English for the point “Studying abroad is valuable.”
  3. Write three different ways to express your point (not using “I think”).

English (High School): related lessons