Three reasons to avoid multi-level paragraph numbering | Judy Knighton, Information with clarity

Ask yourself:

• Are you numbering the paragraphs you are writing? And the subparagraphs and the sub-subparagraphs?
• Do you think you’re making your writing easier to read and refer to?
• Do you think you’re saving time?

Knighton's blog questions the value and clarity to readers of that writing format, when overused, I assume. She then describes why her firm recommends "writing flowing text"--making these three points:

• You reduce complexity. 
• You keep your message clear and your reader focused. 
• You make your task easier and quicker.