In a well-structured paragraph, which sentence signals the main idea upfront?

In a well-structured paragraph, which sentence signals the main idea upfront?

• A. A closing sentence.
• B. The topic sentence.
• C. An optional concluding remark.
• D. A supporting sentence.

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how a paragraph signals its central point from the start. In a well-structured paragraph, the opening sentence states the central idea and tells the reader what the paragraph will be about. That opening line—the topic sentence—best communicates the main idea upfront, helping the paragraph stay focused and cohesive. A closing sentence appears at the end and serves to wrap up what was discussed; it does not introduce the main idea at the beginning. An optional concluding remark is not required for signaling the main idea. A supporting sentence provides details, evidence, or examples to develop the idea, not to present the main idea itself. For example: if the paragraph argues that daily exercise boosts mood and energy, the topic sentence would state that claim at the start, and the remaining sentences would provide reasons and evidence.

The main idea being tested is how a paragraph signals its central point from the start. In a well-structured paragraph, the opening sentence states the central idea and tells the reader what the paragraph will be about. That opening line—the topic sentence—best communicates the main idea upfront, helping the paragraph stay focused and cohesive. A closing sentence appears at the end and serves to wrap up what was discussed; it does not introduce the main idea at the beginning. An optional concluding remark is not required for signaling the main idea. A supporting sentence provides details, evidence, or examples to develop the idea, not to present the main idea itself. For example: if the paragraph argues that daily exercise boosts mood and energy, the topic sentence would state that claim at the start, and the remaining sentences would provide reasons and evidence.