Structure

How texts are built.

Common shapes

Claim then evidence. Problem then solution. Chronological. Compare and contrast. Recognising the shape early tells you where the important sentences will be.

Topic sentences usually open a paragraph and carry its point.
Introductions and conclusions carry the thesis; middles carry support.

Signal words

However and although mark contrast, therefore and thus mark conclusion, for instance marks an example, moreover adds. They map the argument without close reading.