What is a Topic Sentence in an Essay?
A topic sentence is a sentence that introduces the central idea of a paragraph. It should be written effectively to help the audience understand the main idea.
Each topic sentence in a paragraph should have a topic and a controlling idea to show where the information is heading. It also explains what the rest of the paragraph is all about.
Typically, it is stated at the start of each body paragraph. Most people considered it as the paragraph’s first line.
Purpose of a Topic Sentence
The following are the major purposes behind writing a topic sentence.
- It makes a claim.
- It gives an idea of what the paragraph is all about.
- It relates the paragraph to the central argument of the essay.
Difference Between a Topic Sentence and a Thesis Statement
A topic sentence and a thesis statement have some clear differences. A thesis statement discusses what the whole paper is focusing on. It is a fact that you aim to prove or explain throughout the paper. However, a topic sentence also explains what a particular paragraph is about.
Moreover, a topic sentence is stated at the beginning of every paragraph, but the thesis statement comes at the end of the introduction.
For Example:
Thesis Statement: Capital punishment should be outlawed because it is immoral and does not deter crime.
Topic Sentence: Capital punishment is immoral. (back to top)
Elements of a Topic Sentence
“What does a topic sentence consist of?”
There are two main elements of a topic sentence that includes:
- The Topic - It is WHAT the paragraph is going to be about.
- A Controlling Idea - It explains the reason WHY the paragraph is being written.
Similarly, keep in mind, a good topic sentence must identify the main idea to be discussed in the paragraph. It is better to read the paragraph several times and think about the central idea to brainstorm an engaging sentence.
The supporting details in a paragraph will also help you develop the topic sentences. Give yourself enough time and think about the ideas being discussed. It must be related to the thesis statement.
Almost every paragraph is a topic sentence, but there is no need to add it in some cases. For example, you can ignore it if the paragraph continues an idea you have introduced in the previous paragraph.
How to Write a Topic Sentence?
“How do I write a topic sentence?”
Below are the steps for you to write excellent topic sentences for various types of papers.
1. Develop a Thesis
Develop a strong thesis statement at the beginning of the essay. It explains all the ideas and central arguments that you are going to discuss in your writing piece.
2. Make an Outline
Next, make an outline of the essay that summarizes what you want to say in each paragraph. It will also list down the evidence that you will use. Remember, the topic sentences should be more specific than the thesis statement but are always related to it.
3. Expand Supporting Evidence
The paragraph should logically flow from the topic sentence, expanding with evidence, examples, and argumentation. It helps to keep the paragraphs focused. Everything you write should relate to the central idea discussed in the sentence.
4. Make it Engaging
Try to make the topic sentence specific but engaging. Check if the sentence makes any sense or does it explain the topic effectively. Also, consider if there is any logical connection.
5. Revise the Topic Sentence
Topic sentences usually start as simple statements. However, it is important to revise them after writing to make sure it matches the content of each paragraph.
Try to make it consistent and specific enough so that the readers can easily understand all its aspects. It should also tell the reader which direction the argument is going in.
To make your writing stronger, ensure the connections between the paragraphs are clear and logical. You can also use topic sentences to create smooth transitions. If you are still unsure, you can ask someone else to have a look at your paper. The feedback will help you avoid common writing problems.
Examples of a Topic Sentence
“What is a topic sentence example?”
Before starting writing, it is better to search for good topic sentences and choose the main idea of the paper. Here are some examples that will help you understand what a topic sentence is and how to write a perfect one.
- My summer vacation at my grandparents' farm was filled with hard work and fun.
- School uniforms would help us to feel more united as a student body.
- Making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is easy if you know the steps.
- Research has consistently shown that the meat industry has a significant environmental impact.
- Dogs make wonderful pets because they help you to live longer.
- It is important to be ready before buying a house.
- Graduating from high school is important for many different reasons.
- Having a first child is difficult because of the significant adjustments in your life.
- Remodeling a kitchen successfully requires research and a good eye.
- Cooking requires a number of different skills.
Undoubtedly, it is crucial to add topic sentences to any kind of paper. You should learn how to write them properly to make your work even more exciting to the audience. Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand writing a convincing sentence.
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