A topic sentence helps readers see what the paragraph is about.

The idea

State one main idea broad enough for several details, then make each supporting sentence relevant to it.

Examples

  • Community gardens bring neighbours together.
  • People meet while they plant vegetables.
  • A weekly market can support local farmers.
  • Shoppers can buy fresh food directly from growers.
  • A quiet morning routine can make work easier.
  • For instance, planning tasks helps people focus.

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Watch out

A topic alone is too vague, while a single small detail leaves little room to develop the paragraph.

Try it yourself

  1. Complete the sentence: Main idea: Libraries offer useful community services. Supporting detail: They lend books and ___. (tools / clouds)

    Show answer or example answer

    tools

    tools is another service a library can offer, so it supports the main idea.

  2. Complete the sentence: Choose the broader main idea: Exercise can improve ___. (health / a shoe)

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    health

    health is broad enough to develop with several benefits.

  3. Complete the sentence: A topic sentence introduces the paragraph’s main ___. (idea / comma)

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    idea

    idea names what the following details develop.

Use it today

Write a topic sentence about a place you know, then add two supporting sentences.