Which of the following best describes the difference between a topic and a central/main idea? (1 point) Responses A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic. A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic. A topic helps to introduce the central idea. A topic helps to introduce the central idea. A central idea includes many important details about the topic. A central idea includes many important details about the topic. A central idea is the subject and is usually short, whereas the topic gives the reader lots of extra information. A central idea is the subject and is usually short, whereas the topic gives the reader lots of extra information.

A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic.

The correct response is:

A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic.

The best description of the difference between a topic and a central/main idea is that a topic is the subject being discussed, while the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about that topic.

To determine the difference, consider the purpose of each element. A topic serves as the overall subject or theme of a piece of writing, while the central idea is the specific message or main point that the author is trying to convey about that topic.

To identify the topic, you should look for the subject matter being discussed in the text. It is often stated explicitly or can be inferred from the content. On the other hand, the central idea can be found by analyzing the author's main argument, viewpoint, or message about the topic. It is usually expressed in a clear and concise statement.

While the topic helps introduce the central idea by providing context, the central idea focuses on the main point the author wants to communicate. It may include important details about the topic, but it is not necessarily extensive in length.