Sometimes it can be easy to continue a whole story without any breaks. You write one chapter and it's one long 1000 word paragraph. Stories like this easily become confusing when you add in different people's dialogue and descriptions. Breaking a story into paragraphs makes it more organized and easier to read.
Paragraphs in fiction are different from those in non-fiction because they don't need to be as long. In an essay, you would write at least 4-5 sentences to be a paragraph but you can get away with just 1-2 in your story.
So when should you break off into a new paragraph?
When you start a new topic: I'm sure you're familiar with this in most essay writing but the same goes for your fiction here. You're describing one character and if a new one walks in and you start describing them, that's when you break!
Damian stared at his father, without the cowl he could see him clearly. Black hair that matched his own, tired eyes, a deep scowl. They both were silent as they sized eachother up.
Alfred walked in and scoffed at the display. The old man was bitter and already disinterested with whatever was going on between the father and son.
When you change time or location: This one is pretty easy. I'm sure we're all familiar with "time skips" and usually you break to show the change.
Young Bruce made his way over to Alfred waiting by the limousine. Another day at school done. He just wanted to get home and take a nap. Alfred opened the car door for him and the twelve year old stepped in and took a seat.
A short car ride later, they were back at the manor. Bruce made his trek up the many stairs and to his room. Alfred was left to wonder why the boy was so quiet.
When a new character begins to speak: Every time someone different speaks there should be a new paragraph.
"What about the body?" Jason asks. "I say we throw it in the river."
Dick's eyes widen. "What do you mean? He's not dead, is he?"
These are some of the most important times when you should start a new paragraph-- but that doesn't mean you have to follow them strictly. Your story is what you make it. If there's a change in topic and you think it would be best if you kept in one paragraph then do that. If you want two people to talk in the same paragraph then write it that way, it's up to you.
Happy writing!
Part by CherryPieEvenings
