The Importance of Paragraphs in an Essay

Paragraphs are the backbone of a clear and readable essay. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, signalled at the beginning by a topic sentence. This helps the reader immediately understand what the paragraph is about. For example, if an essay discusses social media, one paragraph might focus on its benefits, while the next examines its risks. Without clear paragraphing, these ideas blur together and the reader is forced to work unnecessarily hard.

A lack of paragraphs also seriously harms fluency. Long, unbroken blocks of text slow down reading and make even good ideas seem confusing or poorly argued. In an exam situation, this can irritate the reader and weaken the overall impression of the text, regardless of language level.

Planning is therefore essential. When a writer plans the structure in advance—introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion—the train of thought becomes logical and smooth. Although many online texts today ignore proper paragraphing, an essay is not a social media post. Well, technically the model essay below is part of an online discussion. Nevertheless, clear paragraphs show control, maturity, and respect for the reader—and they allow both language and content to flow naturally.

Here is a clear, student-friendly model plan that fits the Finnish matriculation exam expectations and supports fluency, structure, and paragraphing. It allows 2–3 body angles.

Model Essay Plan

Artificial Intelligence: Threat or Opportunity? 99p

Artificial Intelligence has penetrated our culture in recent years. What are some of the uses of AI that you are familiar with, either through personal experience or the media? Do you see AI as a threat or a opportunity in these uses? Write your contribution to an online discussion.

Introduction

  • Briefly introduce Artificial Intelligence as a rapidly growing part of everyday life
  • Mention that AI is visible both in personal experience and in the media
  • Present a clear stance or balanced approach (e.g. AI is mainly an opportunity, but not without risks)

Body Paragraph 1 – Everyday Uses of AI (Opportunity)

Angle: Practical benefits in daily life

  • Examples:
    • Recommendation systems (Netflix, Spotify, YouTube)
    • Navigation apps, smart assistants, language tools
  • Emphasize convenience, efficiency, and time-saving
  • Link clearly to opportunity: AI makes life easier and more personalised

Body Paragraph 2 – Education and Work (Opportunity + Caution)

Angle: AI as a support tool

  • Examples:
    • Language learning apps, writing assistance, data analysis
    • Automation of routine tasks at work
  • Opportunity: frees time for creative and meaningful tasks
  • Caution: risk of over-reliance and loss of basic skills

Body Paragraph 3 – Ethical and Social Concerns (Threat)

Angle: Risks and long-term consequences

  • Examples:
    • Job displacement
    • Privacy issues and data misuse
    • Deepfakes and misinformation
  • Stress the need for regulation and responsible use

Conclusion

  • Summarise the main points briefly
  • Reiterate your overall view (e.g. AI is more of an opportunity than a threat if used responsibly)
  • End with a forward-looking or thoughtful closing line suitable for an online discussion

💡 Exam tip for students:
Each body paragraph = one clear idea.
Plan before writing → better structure → better fluency → better score.

Artificial Intelligence: Threat or Opportunity?

Artificial Intelligence has penetrated our culture in recent years. What are some of the uses of AI that you are familiar with, either through personal experience or the media? Do you see AI as a threat or a opportunity in these uses? Write your contribution to an online discussion.

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Artificial Intelligence has become a visible part of everyday life in recent years. Many people use AI without even noticing it, through apps, online services, and digital platforms. While AI raises understandable concerns, I see it mainly as an opportunity—provided it is used responsibly.

One clear benefit of AI is its role in daily convenience. Recommendation systems on Netflix, Spotify, or YouTube help users find content that suits their interests. Navigation apps use AI to avoid traffic, and smart assistants can answer questions instantly. These tools save time and make everyday tasks easier, which is a clear advantage.

AI is also increasingly present in education and working life. Language learners use AI-based tools for vocabulary practice or writing support, and workplaces use AI to analyse data or automate routine tasks. This can free people to focus on creative and problem-solving skills. However, there is a risk of becoming too dependent on AI and neglecting basic skills such as critical thinking.

At the same time, AI does pose real threats. Automation may replace certain jobs, and issues like privacy, data misuse, and deepfake videos are worrying. These risks show that AI needs clear rules and ethical guidelines.

In conclusion, AI is more of an opportunity than a threat if people remain aware of its limits. Used wisely, it can improve everyday life without replacing human responsibility.