Which of the following indicates a paragraph has adequate development?

• A. It contains many examples and details.
• B. It lacks sufficient specific examples and explanations.
• C. It has a strong thesis.
• D. It uses varied sentence structure.

Answer: (B)

Adequate development means the paragraph is supported by specific details, examples, and explanations that flesh out the main idea. The choice that says it contains many examples and details matches that, because those concrete details give evidence, clarify points, and help readers see how the idea is supported. When a paragraph is rich with examples and explanations, it shows it’s doing the work of teaching or proving its point, not just stating it.

Saying there aren’t enough specific examples signals underdevelopment, since the idea isn’t being backed up with concrete support. Having a strong thesis is important for focus, but it doesn’t by itself prove the paragraph is well developed with ample evidence. Using varied sentence structure improves readability and flow, but it doesn’t guarantee that the paragraph has enough depth or details to fully develop the idea.