You are classifying when you break anything down into categories. Generally
speaking, there are two main methods of classifying: The X—NOT-X method and
multiple branching. The X - X chart typically results in a
simpler chart and therefore an easier-to-organize paper; however, this method
also results in papers that are often too simplistic. The X - X chart
states simply that if something is not a member of this category it must be a
member of the other category. This method is, of course, binary in nature.
"There are two kinds of men: ______ and _______." Whatever you put in
the first blank means that all men who do not fit the criteria (bald or not
bald, perhaps) must be in the second. So if you used "bald" that
means you must define what you mean by "bald." If you defined bald as
meaning "any man with fewer than four hairs in his scalp" then I
thank you.
Introductory paragraphs for classification papers generally have definitions in them. If what you’re writing about is fairly complicated, then you may have to break the definition out and put it in a separate, following, paragraph.
Nearly all classification charts begin with the general and work toward the
specific. The levels on a classification chart reflect the next step in
limiting, or making more specific, the classification. When you change levels,
a new paragraph usually results. Items on the same level do not necessarily
generate new paragraphs, unless, of course, things start getting long. Usually,
the X – X is going to result in a single paragraph because
explaining one thing categorizes the other.
The title of a chart, or paper, reflects where the focus of the paper should be. Titles can be general: "A Classification of Education" or specific: "A Classification of Southern Appalachian Spotted Salamanders." Charts can be constructed in either case.