Main Idea

The main idea is the most important idea a writer makes in a paragraph or passage.

1. Sometimes the main idea is clearly stated in a sentence at the beginning, middle, or end of a paragraph or passage.

2. Sometimes the main idea is not stated. It is implied.

3. To determine the main idea, readers must combine supporting details.

4. Remember, the main idea tells the author’s point about the topic, and the details offer support for the main idea.