A paragraph is a distinct section of writing, usually dealing with a single idea. You can tell where one paragraph ends and another begins because there’s a new line, an indent, or a number.
The common paragraph acronym is “par.” (or “para.”) for a single paragraph and “pars.” (or “paras.”) for multiple paragraphs. These abbreviations are just a way to save space in certain situations.
Let’s take a closer look at when it’s okay to use these paragraph abbreviations.
What does “paragraph” mean?
A paragraph is a distinct section of writing that focuses on a single idea. It’s a noun that refers to a group of sentences – at least one – that all relate to the same topic.
Paragraphs are separated from one another by an indentation on the first line or by an extra space in between. They help to organize thoughts and make the overall text more readable.
Abbreviations: “par.” and “para.”
When you’re writing, you might want to use a shortened version of the word “paragraph.” The two most common abbreviations are “par.” and “para.” Both are correct, so you can choose whichever you like best.
To make either of these abbreviations plural, just add an “s” to the end. So, the plural forms are “pars.” and “paras.,” both of which mean “paragraphs.”
Here are a few examples of how you might use these abbreviations:
- “Check par. 4”
- “Para. 6, line 22”
- “I added new paras. to explain things further.”
When should you use paragraph abbreviations?
Paragraph abbreviations can be a handy shortcut in certain situations, but they’re definitely not right for every occasion.
Where abbreviations work
- Note-taking. When you’re scribbling notes and space is tight, abbreviations can save you time and room.
- Editing and proofreading. They’re great for marking specific paragraphs. For instance, you might write “Check par. 4” to flag a section that needs another look.
- Projects and assignments. You can use abbreviations for internal references and keeping things organized.
Where abbreviations don’t work
Avoid using paragraph abbreviations in formal writing, like essays or general prose. You want to maintain clarity and professionalism in those contexts.
Abbreviations can look unprofessional or even careless. Plus, they can confuse readers who aren’t familiar with the shorthand.
Final Thoughts
A paragraph is a distinct section of writing that develops a single idea. It can be shortened to “par.,” “para.,” “pars.,” or “paras.” Use these abbreviations sparingly, such as in endnotes or citations, and always strive for clarity in your writing. In most cases, it’s best to spell the word out.