topic sentence and supporting details

http://www.sophia.org/tutorials/topic-sentences-and-supporting-details

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main idea of a paragraph or an essay. It sets the tone and direction for the rest of the content. Supporting details, on the other hand, are specific pieces of information or examples that expand upon or support the main idea stated in the topic sentence.

To create a topic sentence, you should start by identifying the main idea or thesis of your paragraph or essay. This is what you want to communicate to your readers. Once you have a clear understanding of your main idea, you can craft a sentence that presents it concisely and effectively. For example, if your main idea is that "regular exercise is beneficial for mental health," your topic sentence could be, "Engaging in regular physical activity has been proven to enhance mental well-being."

Supporting details provide evidence or examples that strengthen and reinforce the main idea presented in the topic sentence. They help to clarify, expand, and support the argument being made. These details should be relevant and directly related to the main idea. In the case of our topic sentence about exercise's impact on mental health, supporting details could include statistics on reduced stress levels, personal testimonials, or studies that demonstrate the positive effects of physical activity on mental well-being.

To find supporting details, you can conduct research, gather personal experiences, or analyze relevant data. Remember to choose credible sources and ensure the information you use aligns with your main idea. Additionally, make sure that the supporting details logically connect to the topic sentence and contribute to the overall coherence of your writing.