The comparative order and the cause and effect order can be further subdivided. Cause and effect order can be sequenced three different ways. First, a writer might list all of the causes and then the writer might list all of the effects. Second, a cause and its related effects may be grouped together. A new cause and effect group follows. Last, A cause my be followed by its effect which in turn is followed by a related cause and then an effect. The last sequence forms a chain where an effect is used as a cause for the following effect.

Comparative sequences may be organized by listing the details about one part, and then, listing the details of the second part. Alternatively, details for each part may be presented in pairs.

How do I use sequencing?

Recognizing sequences is important. The sequence of details, facts, or events often reveals the relationships between the facts, details, and events. For example, if numbered horses finished a race in the sequence “3,1,2,4”, the number three horse was faster than the other horses. If the sequence was “2,4,3,1”, the number two horse was faster than the others. A person betting on these races would be very interested in the sequence.

Likewise, writers combine sentences and paragraphs in specific sequences. Recognizing these different patterns allows a reader to predict what will happen and to visualize the events and details. This helps a reader understand more and to remember more. Readers need to be able to recognize these patterns to be able to determine the main idea from inferred relationships.