Main Idea and Topic Sentence

Question 1

What is a Main Idea?

Answer 1

The main idea is the key point of a text and the author’s message about the topic; it’s usually at the beginning of a paragraph.

Question 2

How to find the main idea?

Answer 2

1. Look at the title.
2. Read the first sentence or paragraph.
3. Read the last sentence or paragraph.
4. Look for repeating words, phrases, or ideas

Question 3

How to identify a topic sentence.

Answer 3

1. Find the position, usually at the beginning of the text.
2. Identify the sentence that states the main idea.
3. Check the rest of the text to see if it supports the main idea.
4. Make sure the main idea covers the paragraph without being too detailed.