Next, revise your paragraphs. In contrast to topical paragraphs that develop the point of a topic sentence, functional paragraphs serve other purposes. They may arouse or sustain interest; present a special effect; emphasize a point; indicate dialogue; or make a transition. As you revise, analyze your paragraph structure. Look for places where material from a longer paragraph may be more effective as a functional paragraph. Restructure your paragraphs accordingly. Write down the definitions for the different kinds of paragraphs.