The word count for a page will vary depending on font size and type, margin size, and spacing elements (single/double space, blank lines, subheadings, graphics).
For a page with 1 inch margins, 12 point Times New Roman font, a good rule of thumb for a 3-4 page double spaced paper is 750-1000 words.
As with any rule, there are exceptions, but broadly speaking, essay writing and academic writing calls for paragraphs in the 100-200 word range.
So, 4-page double spaced paper can have 5 to 10 paragraphs.
You should be aware these standards will vary from class to class. For historical writing, there should be between four and six paragraphs in a two-page paper, or six and twelve in a five-page essay. Journalists, on the other hand, tend to write in many short paragraphs. The same is true in some of the sciences. Just know that many short paragraphs are generally to be avoided here.
Tip! ScienceBuddies.org shares how to format your research paper using either the MLA or APA guidelines.