how to create topic sentences for an essay

Topic sentences and signposts make an essay's claims clear to a reader. Good essays contain both. Topic sentences reveal the main point of a paragraph. They show the relationship of each paragraph to the essay's thesis, telegraph the point of a paragraph, and tell your reader what to expect in the paragraph that follows. Topic sentences also establish their relevance right away, making clear why the points they're making are important to the essay's main ideas. They argue rather than report. Signposts , as their name suggests, prepare the reader for a change in the argument's direction. They show how far the essay's argument has progressed vis-ˆ-vis the claims of the thesis.

Topic sentences and signposts occupy a middle ground in the writing process. They are neither the first thing a writer needs to address (thesis and the broad strokes of an essay's structure are); nor are they the last (that's when you attend to sentence-level editing and polishing). Topic sentences and signposts deliver an essay's structure and meaning to a reader, so they are useful diagnostic tools to the writer—they let you know if your thesis is arguable—and essential guides to the reader

Forms of Topic Sentences

Sometimes topic sentences are actually two or even three sentences long. If the first makes a claim, the second might reflect on that claim, explaining it further. Think of these sentences as asking and answering two critical questions: How does the phenomenon you're discussing operate? Why does it operate as it does?

There's no set formula for writing a topic sentence. Rather, you should work to vary the form your topic sentences take. Repeated too often, any method grows wearisome. Here are a few approaches.

Complex sentences. Topic sentences at the beginning of a paragraph frequently combine with a transition from the previous paragraph. This might be done by writing a sentence that contains both subordinate and independent clauses, as in the example below.

Although Young Woman with a Water Pitcher depicts an unknown, middle-class woman at an ordinary task, the image is more than "realistic"; the painter [Vermeer] has imposed his own order upon it to strengthen it.

This sentence employs a useful principle of transitions: always move from old to new information. The subordinate clause (from "although" to "task") recaps information from previous paragraphs; the independent clauses (starting with "the image" and "the painter") introduce the new information—a claim about how the image works ("more than Ôrealistic'") and why it works as it does (Vermeer "strengthens" the image by "imposing order").

Questions. Questions, sometimes in pairs, also make good topic sentences (and signposts). Consider the following: "Does the promise of stability justify this unchanging hierarchy?" We may fairly assume that the paragraph or section that follows will answer the question. Questions are by definition a form of inquiry, and thus demand an answer. Good essays strive for this forward momentum.

Bridge sentences. Like questions, "bridge sentences" (the term is John Trimble's) make an excellent substitute for more formal topic sentences. Bridge sentences indicate both what came before and what comes next (they "bridge" paragraphs) without the formal trappings of multiple clauses: "But there is a clue to this puzzle."

Pivots. Topic sentences don't always appear at the beginning of a paragraph. When they come in the middle, they indicate that the paragraph will change direction, or "pivot." This strategy is particularly useful for dealing with counter-evidence: a paragraph starts out conceding a point or stating a fact ("Psychologist Sharon Hymer uses the term Ônarcissistic friendship' to describe the early stage of a friendship like the one between Celie and Shug"); after following up on this initial statement with evidence, it then reverses direction and establishes a claim ("Yet ... this narcissistic stage of Celie and Shug's relationship is merely a transitory one. Hymer herself concedes . . . "). The pivot always needs a signal, a word like "but," "yet," or "however," or a longer phrase or sentence that indicates an about-face. It often needs more than one sentence to make its point.

Signposts operate as topic sentences for whole sections in an essay. (In longer essays, sections often contain more than a single paragraph.) They inform a reader that the essay is taking a turn in its argument: delving into a related topic such as a counter-argument, stepping up its claims with a complication, or pausing to give essential historical or scholarly background. Because they reveal the architecture of the essay itself, signposts remind readers of what the essay's stakes are: what it's about, and why it's being written.

Signposting can be accomplished in a sentence or two at the beginning of a paragraph or in whole paragraphs that serve as transitions between one part of the argument and the next. The following example comes from an essay examining how a painting by Monet, The Gare Saint-Lazare: Arrival of a Train, challenges Zola's declarations about Impressionist art. The student writer wonders whether Monet's Impressionism is really as devoted to avoiding "ideas" in favor of direct sense impressions as Zola's claims would seem to suggest. This is the start of the essay's third section:

It is evident in this painting that Monet found his Gare Saint-Lazare motif fascinating at the most fundamental level of the play of light as well as the loftiest level of social relevance. Arrival of a Train explores both extremes of expression. At the fundamental extreme, Monet satisfies the Impressionist objective of capturing the full-spectrum effects of light on a scene.

The writer signposts this section in the first sentence, reminding readers of the stakes of the essay itself with the simultaneous references to sense impression ("play of light") and intellectual content ("social relevance"). The second sentence follows up on this idea, while the third serves as a topic sentence for the paragraph. The paragraph after that starts off with a topic sentence about the "cultural message" of the painting, something that the signposting sentence predicts by not only reminding readers of the essay's stakes but also, and quite clearly, indicating what the section itself will contain.

How To Write An Essay

Topic Sentence

Learn How to Write a Topic Sentence that Stands Out

Published on: Jan 13, 2021

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

What is a Topic Sentence?

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph in an essay that introduces the main idea or topic of that paragraph. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, letting them know what to expect in the upcoming paragraph.

Purpose of Topic Sentence

The purpose of a topic sentence is to clearly and concisely convey the main point of the paragraph to the reader.

It helps to guide the reader through the essay, making it easier for them to follow the overall argument or narrative.

Features of a Good Topic Sentence

A good topic sentence has a few key features. Letâs take a look:

Expresses the main idea of the paragraph or essay clearly and concisely.
Is specific and focused , avoiding vague or overly general statements.
Introduces the main point and is typically located at the beginning of the paragraph or essay.
Presents a claim or position that is arguable or debatable, which the rest of the paragraph or essay will support.
Can be a complete sentence or a concise phrase that effectively conveys the main idea.
Is relevant to the thesis statement and overall topic of the essay.
Engages the reader by creating interest and highlighting the significance of the topic.
Is well-written and avoids grammar and spelling errors.
Provides a roadmap for the rest of the paragraph or essay by indicating what will be covered.
Encourages coherence and unity in the writing by linking the paragraph or essay to the broader topic.

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Types of Topic Sentences

There are several different types of topic sentences that can be used in writing to introduce the reader through a paragraph or essay.

Simple Statement Topic Sentence This is the most common type of topic sentence, which straightforwardly states the main point or idea of the paragraph or essay.

Example: The rise of social media has revolutionized the way people communicate with each other.

Complex Topic Sentence This type of topic sentence is more nuanced and may require some explanation or elaboration to fully understand.

Example: While the rise of social media has had many positive effects on communication, it has also led to concerns about privacy and online harassment.

Pivot Topic Sentence A pivot topic sentence begins by connecting the current paragraph or idea to the previous one, before pivoting to introduce a new point or idea.

Example: Building on the idea of social media's impact on communication, it is important to consider how it has also affected business and marketing strategies.

Question Topic Sentence A question topic sentence poses a question that the rest of the paragraph or essay will answer or explore.

Example: How has social media changed the way businesses interact with customers and advertise their products?

Command Topic Sentence This type of topic sentence gives a directive or instruction, often used in persuasive or argumentative essays.

Example: Support local businesses by shopping at independently owned stores instead of large chains.

How to Write a Topic Sentence?

Here are a few instructions to help you write a good topic sentence.

Step#1 Clearly State The Main Idea

A topic sentence is the first paragraph of the paragraph. It must clearly explain the particular subject that would be discussed in the paragraph. This should be stated in very clear language so that the reader can easily understand the idea.

Also, it should include a bit of your personal opinion and also the main idea.

Step#2 Hook Your Reader

Grab your reader's attention with an intriguing topic sentence. It would excite and make the reader curious about the content and convince them to read the particular part.

Look out for some amazing hook examples and see what fits your essay type.

Use a meaningful and relevant question or a fact as a topic sentence of the paragraph. Make sure that you have identified your audience and are developing everything accordingly.

Step#3 Keep It Short and Precise

The paragraph topic sentence must be expressive enough that a reader understands your point of view effortlessly. This is only possible if you keep everything to the point, short, and meaningful.

Choose the words in such a way that they help you express your idea in an ideal way. Avoid using complex sentences and use independent clauses.

A topic sentence acts as a link between a paragraph and the main thesis statement. It should be specific and connected to the overall essay. Keeping it short and precise helps maintain the paragraph's flow and its relevance to the rest of the writing.

Step#4 Give A Reasonable Opinion

The body paragraph explains a topic sentence. This is why it is important that you should write this sentence in such a way that it can be explained in the paragraph. If you are mentioning a fact in the topic statement, make sure that you have authentic evidence to support it.

While the topic sentence is an integral part of the paragraph, it should stand out and possess a distinctiveness that sets it apart from the other sentences. This can be achieved by employing transition words and establishing connections between sentences.

Step#5 Use The Topic Sentence As A Transition

The topic sentences that serve as transition sentences can be considered a guide for the readers. This way, they can help the reader to move through the essay in a flow.

Write this sentence in such a way that it creates a gateway between the previous paragraph and the rest of the essay. Moreover, it will also help keep the essay organized, and the reader understands the point of a paragraph.

Step#6 Look For Some Good Examples

Examples can help you learn a thing in a better way. If you are new to writing topic sentences, it can help to look at some examples. Find some great examples of topic sentences relevant to your essay topic.

Difference Between Topic Sentence and Thesis Sentence

Here's a table outlining the differences between a topic sentence and a thesis statement:

Good Topic Sentence Examples

Here are ten examples of good topic sentences:

"Despite the advancements in technology, traditional forms of communication are still essential in today's society."
"The theme of power is prevalent throughout Shakespeare's play, Macbeth."
"In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the impact of climate change on our planet."
"The legalization of marijuana has been a topic of debate for many years." "Education is the key to success in life."
"The rise of social media has greatly impacted the way we communicate with one another."
"The effects of childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on mental health."
"The concept of justice is explored in depth in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird."
"Eating a balanced diet is crucial for maintaining good health."
"The Industrial Revolution had a profound effect on the world as we know it today."

The Bottom Line!

An opening sentence is crucial to grab your reader's attention and set the tone for your piece of writing. The topic sentence introduces the controlling idea and acts as an important sentence in the essay outline.

Effective topic sentences are necessary for a well-structured and organized essay. It's an integral part of the writing process that should not be overlooked.

Make sure to spend time crafting a compelling topic sentence that clearly conveys your main point and guides your readers throughout your essay. You can even take ideas from an AI essay generator to get started.

However, if you find yourself struggling to write a good opening sentence, don't worry! CollegeEssay.org is here to help you with all your writing needs. We have the best online essay writing service providing top-quality essays that are sure to impress your professors.

So, why wait? Contact our essay writing service now and take the first step toward academic success!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a topic sentence.

A topic sentence can be multiple sentences long. The first sets the context for your ideas, while the second provides more depth on what you are saying beyond just stating it outright.

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What’s Covered:

What Is a Topic Sentence?
5 Steps to Writing a Good Topic Sentence

Elements of a Good Topic Sentence

Common pitfalls to avoid.

Where To Get Your Essay Edited For Free

Crafting the perfect essay takes time and dedication. There are so many elements you have to worry about, such as tone, purpose, and correct spelling and grammar. Writing a strong topic sentences is another critical part in writing a cohesive essay.

Without a strong topic sentence, you risk losing your reader and perhaps part of your grade. If it’s a college admissions essay, then you need it to be as strong as possible to back up your application. Learn about what steps you should take to write a strong topic sentence.

What Is a Topic Sentence?

People often confuse a topic sentence with a thesis statement. A thesis statement is typically at the end of your opening paragraph, that dictates the main argument you’ll be making in your essay.

Throughout your essay, you’ll have multiple topic sentences, as each paragraph should start off with one. This beginning sentence is used to direct the topic of the paragraph and outline the flow of the following sentences. It’s used to help guide your reader and to continue to keep them hooked on your overall essay. Without topic sentences, your essay will be unorganized, lack transitions, and sound very choppy. To write a good topic sentence, there are several steps to take.

Writing a Good Topic Sentence: 5 Steps

Step 1: decide what you’re going to write about..

When you see the essay prompt, you’ll have some time to think through what you want to say and why. You have to decide if it’s a persuasive essay, informative, narrative, or descriptive. Determine your purpose for writing the essay after reading through the prompt. Whether it’s an assignment for school or if it’s to get into college, you need to make sure you have that purpose clearly outlined.

Step 2: Create a thesis statement.

One of the first things you need to do is create a thesis statement. This is typically a sentence with three points that you’ll back up throughout your essay.

For example: The Office became a cultural phenomenon because it spurred the careers of many of today’s successful movie stars, it talked about situations that most American workers can relate to, and even 15 years later, offers funny, relevant content that helps to break down prejudices.

You then use that thesis statement to create an essay around the points you want to make.

Step 3: Make your essay outline.

Once you have the points you want to make within your thesis statement hammered out, make an outline for your essay. This is where you’ll start to create your topic sentence for each paragraph. You want to clearly state the main idea of that paragraph in the very first sentence. From there, you back up that main idea with facts and reputable sources. Make sure your topic sentence is clear, but does not just announce your topic.

For example, do not write something like: “In this paragraph, I will discuss why it’s bad that poachers are killing giraffes.”

Instead, write something that clearly states your idea with a reasonable opinion and that gives direction to the paragraph: “Giraffes are a key part of the African ecosystem, so it’s important to enforce regulations against the poachers who are killing them for their body parts.”

You’d then follow that up with reasons why giraffes are a key part of the African ecosystem and how poachers are destroying their population.

Step 4: Begin writing your essay.

Once you have your thesis statement and you’ve created an outline with supporting paragraphs and their topic sentences, you can begin writing your essay. It’s important to make that outline before just jumping in–a disorganized essay can spell disaster for you as you continue to write, and could result in a poor grade. Many times, teachers will even require you to turn in your outline as part of your overall essay grade.

Step 5: Proofread and check your resources.

After you’ve written the essay, go back through it with a fine tooth comb. Read through each topic sentence and the paragraphs that follow to ensure that you’ve written clear, solid topic sentences throughout and that the paragraphs with them make sense. During the proofreading phase, you also need to recheck the sources you’re using. Make sure each source is reputable. In other words, do not use sites like Wikipedia where anyone can go in and edit an article to add misinformation. Use sites that:

Are actual reputable news sources, such as the New York Times , CNN, CBS News
Have domain names that end in .edu or .gov
Come from an encyclopedia, such as Encyclopedia Britannica

Using sites that are not reputable could jeopardize the validity of your argument.

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Now that you know the steps to set yourself up for success when writing a topic sentence, there are certain elements that go into a quality first sentence. Always make sure that your topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph. You don’t want to make your reader hunt for the point you’re trying to make. Check out some key elements of a good topic sentence:

Make sure your topic sentence isn’t too vague.

You need a topic sentence that has some specifics to it. It also needs to hook in your reader in some way with an opinion. A vague sentence makes it harder to write a paragraph that can clearly backs up your thoughts. For example:

DON’T: “In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Bingley seems like a nice guy.”

DO: “When Mr. Bingley is first introduced, he comes across as a kind person because he speaks to everyone and doesn’t immediately pass judgment.”

Choose a reasonable opinion.

Your topic sentence should clearly outline whatever point you’re trying to make in the paragraph, but you want to pick a reasonable opinion that you can easily reinforce with facts and statistics. Here’s an example of what you should and should not do:

DON’T: “It’s obvious that Mr. Bingley was a total loser with no backbone.”

DO: “Mr. Bingley could have shown more confidence in his choices and stood up to Mr. Darcy when he found himself in love with Jane Bennet.”

You can then back that up with facts, saying that he was a wealthy Englishman and thus one of the key players in society at the time, which should have given him more confidence. If he’d been more confident, perhaps he would not have left and devastated Jane.

Use your topic sentence as a transition.

Along with telling the reader the point of your next paragraph, your topic sentence should also serve as a transition from the previous paragraph. Without a transition, the essay can feel like it’s choppy and disjointed. For example:

DON’T: “Mr. Bingley is a good man and here’s why.”

DO: “Although Mr. Bingley did break Jane’s heart by leaving, he ended up redeeming himself by returning to Netherfield Hall.”

Keep your topic sentence short.

A long, drawn-out topic sentence can risk losing your reader. Many times, it’s hard to determine the point of a sentence when it goes on for too long. You want a clear, concise sentence that draws in the reader but also leaves some room for you to expand on it in the following paragraph.

DON’T: “Throughout the novel of Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Bingley was often quite different from Mr. Darcy as he would treat all people in a friendly manner, considering them all his friends and acquaintances, even agreeing to throw a ball after Elizabeth’s sisters rudely demanded he do so and was gracious to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet as well despite their manners.”

DO: “Overall, Mr. Bingley served as a foil to Mr. Darcy throughout the story by treating everyone around him equally with dignity and grace.”

Writing an essay can be overwhelming at times, but so long as you avoid some of these common pitfalls, it can be easier to get it done on time.

Don’t wait until the last minute.

If your teacher assigns you an essay or tells you that you have an essay test coming up, don’t wait until the day before to do anything about it. You have to plan or study and you need to give yourself time to do that. If you know it takes you a while to write something, then start planning it as soon as you get the assignment.

Don’t forget to write an outline.

Along with planning, make sure you have that outline written up and planned out well. It will serve as your guideline for writing the essay. Without it, you’ll face the risk of a disorganized essay that does not clearly illustrate your point.

Ask for help if you need it.

This may be the most important pitfall to avoid. If you get in over your head while writing, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask a friend to review the essay or ask your teacher for guidance.

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Writing Topic Sentences — Purpose, Structure, and Examples

What is a topic sentence?

A topic sentence in academic writing identifies how a body paragraph relates to the overall purpose of an essay stated in the thesis statement . Topic sentences are usually at the beginning of a paragraph and identify the paragraph’s controlling idea.

While an essay’s thesis statement identifies the point of the essay in its entirety, the topic sentence has a much narrower focus, as it relates only to the paragraph in which it is located.

What is the purpose of a topic sentence?

The purpose of a topic sentence is to inform the reader of the main idea of the paragraph and how it connects to the overall objective of the essay. An effective topic sentence accomplishes one or more of the following:

Makes a claim

Supports other claims made in the paper

Identifies the purpose of the rest of the paragraph

Relates the paragraph to the purpose of the paper

Precedes information that defends a claim

How to write a topic sentence

To write a topic sentence, incorporate the following guidelines:

Determine the thesis of the essay.

Identify the main supports that help prove the thesis.

Use each main support to structure a topic sentence for each paragraph.

Compose a sentence that answers the following questions:

What will the paragraph prove?

How does the paragraph connect to the thesis?

Where is the topic sentence in a paragraph?

Topic sentences can be placed at the beginning or end of a paragraph.

Although it does not need to be the first sentence, the topic sentence should be placed at the beginning of the paragraph so the reader can quickly identify the purpose of the paragraph.

While not a common placement for a topic sentence, some writers use topic sentences at the end of a paragraph. Writers who choose this method want the reader to deduce the main point of the paragraph by presenting the evidence first.

Topic sentence examples

The following list identifies topic sentences based on the provided thesis statements for five-paragraph essays:

Thesis Statement: Capital punishment should be banned because it is inhumane, unconstitutional, and ineffective at deterring crime.

Support Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: The inhumane nature of the death penalty proves it should be abolished.

Support Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: Capital punishment should be outlawed because it violates the Constitution.

Support Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: Because the death penalty does not effectively deter criminal behavior, states should not continue to use it.

Thesis Statement: College athletes should be financially compensated because they sacrifice their minds and bodies, cannot hold an outside job, and increase the school’s revenue.

Support Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: Student athletes should be paid for their performance because of sports’ impact on their minds and bodies.

Support Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: Because most college athletes cannot play their sport and hold a job, colleges should give them a living wage.

Support Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: Student-athletes’ ability to increase their college’s revenue proves they should be awarded financial compensation.

Thesis Statement: Using alternative energy sources can help lessen the impact of global climate change.

Support Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: Through the widespread use of solar power, countries can limit the environmental impact of other energy sources.

Support Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: Utilizing more wind turbines as a power source can help mitigate the effects of climate change.

Support Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: Using geothermal power will effectively decrease the world's reliance on fossil fuels.

What is a Topic Sentence? (Definition, Examples, How to Use)

What is a topic sentence ? A topic sentence , the first sentence of a paragraph, presents the main concept discussed in the paragraph. It must contain sufficient information to support numerous examples and subtopics without being too broad to obscure the essay’s intended purpose. The remaining sentences in the paragraph will act as supporting statements, providing evidence and examples for the main idea.

Importance of topic sentences

In essays or articles , where subjects can shift from one paragraph to another, a topic phrase is particularly crucial. The topic sentences, superficially, may seem to serve the purpose of only acting like the initial or introductory sentence of a paragraph. But it has numerous other purposes that make it an important part of essays.

Topic sentences link paragraphs together to improve the sentence flow and make reading easier. When topic sentences are not used, switching between paragraphs can feel abrupt and jarring to the reader. Authors can maintain the rhythm of their writing using topic sentences and facilitate smooth transitions.
Topic sentences show the reader a sample of what to expect from the paragraph. The readers can determine from the topic sentence whether the paragraph will comprise a narrative, a list, anecdotal evidence, statistical data, persuasive opinions, or some other form of evidence.
If two conflicting viewpoints are presented in a single paragraph, authors can use more than one topic sentence to inform the readers about the changes in the main concept. For example, paragraphs that “compare and contrast” require more than one topic sentence. In these kinds of paragraphs, authors can start with a topic sentence introducing the first idea and follow it up with proof or evidence supporting the idea. Then they can introduce the second topic sentence conveying the opposing viewpoint, followed by proof or evidence supporting it.

Different types of topic sentences

The different types of topic sentences include:

Simple statement

This topic sentence is used by authors to make a general observation or statement and then elaborate on it in the body of the paragraph.

New studies are emerging indicating the link between climate change and the emergence of numerous new virus strains.

Interrogative or question

This is used by writers in less formal settings. Authors can start a paragraph using implicit or explicit questions related to the topic of discussion to engage the readers.

How many nations are ready to adapt to rising sea levels?

Complex topic sentences are used when the author is discussing a complicated concept that encompasses multiple ideas. Such topic sentences cover more than a single core idea.

Although many people believe that a mother bird will reject its chick if it is touched by humans, the truth is that birds do not abandon their babies after humans touch them.

Authors can use their topic sentences to make explicit demands or pleas to their readers. This will be helpful in breaking the monotony of the essay.

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Purely transitional

Though topic sentences are generally responsible for facilitating a smooth transition between paragraphs, occasionally they are purely transitional. These function best when the main topic shifts abruptly by highlighting the switch.

But not everybody agrees.

Pivot sentences are not found at the beginning of a paragraph but rather in the middle, indicating a change in the topic. Conjunctive adverbs like however, furthermore, and meanwhile are frequently used with them.

However, the undisputed king of tennis, Roger Federer, was dethroned in 2008 at Wimbledon.

How to create good topic sentences

A good topic sentence can be created using some simple steps:

1. Determine the key point of your essay

Writers should first form an understanding of the topic of the essay and then create topic sentences to attract the attention of readers. Constructing a good thesis statement can assist the writer in forming better topic sentences.

2. Have an outline for the essay

The author should form a plan or roadmap beforehand on the topics they want to discuss in a paragraph and the evidence they want to use as supporting statements.

3. Be coherent and clear

Writers should make their topic sentences clear and comprehensible so that the reader can form a clear understanding of what to expect in the paragraph.

4. Share opinions

It is advisable to share the opinion or viewpoint of the author in the topic sentence to attract the attention of the reader. Authors should also refrain from writing obvious facts in the topic sentences.

5. Use specific wordings

The topic sentences ought to be precise enough so that the authors can use a few sentences in the paragraph to support them.

6. Transitions should be added between paragraphs

To give the essay or paper a throughline, authors can create topic sentences that refer to the prior paragraph. A topic sentence can make a reference to the preceding paragraph while introducing the next part by using transitional words.

7. Use new, relevant information

Instead of using an obvious fact that everybody knows as the topic sentence, authors can give new information. It is also important to present them in an interesting way.

8. Create a compound or complex topic statement

Compound or complex topic statements feel advanced and stronger. Authors can create such topic statements to add a high level of sophistication to their text.

Many beginner writers and students confuse thesis statements with topic sentences. In essence, thesis statements establish the major idea discussed in the entire essay or paper, as opposed to topic sentences, which introduce the central concept of a paragraph.

Both of these sentences are responsible for giving the readers a sample of what to expect, but in entirely different capacities. Suppose a person is writing a thesis about the different compounds present in coffee and the health benefits it offers.

The thesis statement will be a generalized statement indicating that there are numerous compounds in coffee that benefit the health of humans. But the topic sentence of each paragraph will introduce any single health benefit or compound present in the coffee.

Topic sentences are typically found at the beginning of a paragraph. But this does not mean that they cannot be placed elsewhere in the paragraph. In some cases, when the details discussed can be summarized into a general statement, topic sentences can be included at the end.

Similarly, in some paragraphs where multiple concepts are discussed, topic sentences may be used in the middle of the paragraph. The placement depends on the number of topics being discussed and the way they are discussed.

Merriam Webster – topic sentence – Definition
Wikipedia – Topic sentence
wikiHow – How to Write a Good Topic Sentence
Scribbr – How to Write Topic Sentences | 4 Steps, Examples & Purpose

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About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

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Abstract Noun
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Alliteration
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Complex Sentence
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Compound Subject
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Copular Verb
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English Grammar

How to Write a Good Topic Sentence

Last Updated: March 7, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Megan Morgan, PhD . Megan Morgan is a Graduate Program Academic Advisor in the School of Public & International Affairs at the University of Georgia. She earned her PhD in English from the University of Georgia in 2015. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,248,486 times.

Perfecting the skill of writing topic sentences is essential to successful writing. A topic sentence usually comes at the beginning of a paragraph and lets your reader know what to expect from each paragraph. Think of it as the preview for a movie or a headline in a newspaper, highlighting the “main point” that’s to come in that paragraph. [1] X Research source Make sure your topic sentences are up to par, and the rest of your writing will feel like a breeze.

Writing a Successful Topic Sentence

Keep in mind that this is not an invitation to simply announce your topic. “Today I’m going to discuss the benefits of gardening” is not an effective topic sentence. You should be able to make your intentions clear without stating them explicitly.
The topic sentence in this example states a clear direction (“health benefits of gardening”) that you can then elaborate on in your paragraph.

Step 2 Balance the topic sentence between specifics and general ideas.

Don’t write too vague or general an idea or you will never be able to discuss it in a single paragraph. This is too general: “The United States suffered a lot during the Civil War.”
Don’t write too narrow of a statement. There’s nothing much to talk about then, because it’s probably a fact. This is too narrow: “Christmas trees are either cedars or firs."
Instead, aim for a good balance: “Sherman’s destruction in the South during the Civil War also caused incredible suffering.” This is big enough to relate to the broader idea of an essay, but not so narrow that there’s nothing left to discuss.

Describe a character. This can be a physical or emotional description.
Use dialogue. If there is a relevant conversation that will attract your reader’s attention, consider using part of it to start your paragraph.
Portray an emotion. Use the opening sentence to portray an emotion to your reader.
Use detail. While you don’t want to write a run on sentence by creating too much detail, it’s a good idea to create interest using sensory language in your topic sentence.
Avoid rhetorical questions. While you want your reader to formulate questions in his or her mind, you do not want to formulate the questions yourself.

Avoid presenting only facts in your topic sentence. While facts may be interesting, they do not introduce the reader to your paragraph nor do they draw the reader in. If you wish to include a fact, also include your own input. For example, instead of writing “All dogs need food,” try “All dogs need regular care, including healthy food, and children are the best ones to do it.” Alternatively, save your facts to use as evidence in the body of your paragraph.

Step 6 Use the topic sentence as a transition.

Using transitional elements, such as “In addition” or “In contrast,” is a good way to show the relationship between your ideas.
For example: “Although gardening has many health benefits, people still need to exercise caution when outside.” This topic sentence establishes a connection to the main idea of the previous paragraph (“health benefits of gardening”) and points to the direction of the new paragraph (“things to be cautious of”).

Planning Your Topic Sentences

You don’t have to write a formal outline using Roman numerals and the like. Even a loose, idea-based outline can help you know what you want to discuss.

A topic sentence, unlike a thesis statement, doesn’t have to present an argument. It can present a “preview” of what the paragraph will argue or discuss.

For example, a topic sentence could look like this: “In addition, increasing funding for public roads in Jackson County will improve local residents’ quality of life.” The rest of the sentences in this paragraph would relate to the main idea of public roads and how they will help benefit local residents.
This is not as successful a topic sentence: “Increased funding for public roads in Jackson County has decreased traffic by 20%.” While this is probably an interesting fact for your argument, it’s too narrow for a topic sentence. The topic sentence has to direct the whole paragraph.

Avoiding Common Problems

Unless it is an opinion piece, avoid using ‘I’ in your topic sentences.

Rather than stating something like “In the story, Amelia did many good things such as help out her friends, talk to her parents, and support her team at school” say something like “As a result of the many activities Amelia participated in, she was recognized for her positive influence on the community.”

Sample Topic Sentences

Community Q&A

Avoid using words like you or we because it implies you know the reader, which you don’t. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
In formal writing, avoid contractions such as “don’t,” “can’t,” and “isn’t.” Also avoid other common contractions like “would’ve” and “could’ve” which are commonly used. Instead type them out to look like “do not,” “can not”, “is not”, “would have”, and “could have.” Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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↑ http://www.writing.utoronto.ca/advice/planning-and-organizing/topic-sentences
↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/paragraphs-and-topic-sentences.html
↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/paragraphs_and_paragraphing/index.html
↑ https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/topic-sentence-paragraph.aspx
↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/paragraphs/topicsentences
↑ https://www.rit.edu/ntid/sea/processes/paragraph/process/sentence
↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/writingprocess/outlining
↑ https://www.touro.edu/departments/writing-center/tutorials/topic-sentence/
↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/engagement/2/2/57/
↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/paragraphs/

About This Article

If you’re trying to write a good topic sentence, start by clearly stating your main idea, which should include the topic and the position you’re taking on it. Aim to write a sentence that’s broad enough for discussion but narrow enough to be covered in a single paragraph. If you can, start with a hook, like a detail, character, or emotion that would draw in your readers. For more advice from our reviewer on writing a good topic sentence, like how to make it effective while keeping it short and sweet, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Essay Writing Guide

What Is A Topic Sentence

Last updated on: Jun 13, 2023

What is a Topic Sentence - An Easy Guide with Writing Steps & Examples

By: Nova A.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Mar 12, 2019

A topic sentence is the opening sentence at the beginning of each paragraph. These sentences tell the readers about the main idea that will be discussed in that paragraph.

It is most important part of a body paragraph, and knowing how to write a good topic sentence is essential for writing an essay . However, writing an effective topic sentence could be tough.

If you find it difficult to write clear and engaging topic sentences, you are not alone. But don’t worry!

This blog will help you understand topic sentences better with examples. Also, you’ll get step-by-step guide and tips for writing more effective topic sentences.

So let’s dive in!

On this Page

What is a Topic Sentence in a Paragraph?

A topic sentence is the opening sentence of the body paragraphs of your essay. It introduces the main idea of that paragraph.

So what is the purpose of a topic sentence?

It serves as a guidepost, indicating the main purpose and point of the paragraph. Essentially, it is a concise and direct statement that captures the essence of what you want to convey.

A topic sentence is defined by the following characteristics:

It is the first sentence of a paragraph
It indicates the main idea of the paragraph
Acts as a signpost and transition sentence, ensuring clarity and cohesiveness of an essay.

Why are Topic Sentences Important?

Topic sentences are an essential component of body paragraphs , especially in academic writing which is more formal. Here’s why good these sentences are necessary for an essay:

They help maintain the organization and coherence of the essay.

Topic sentences act as a roadmap for your essay, providing a clear path for your readers to follow. They establish the main ideas or arguments of each paragraph, allowing your essay to flow logically and coherently.

By presenting a central focus in each paragraph, they help you maintain a strong sense of organization. Also, they prevent your essay from becoming a jumbled collection of random thoughts.

They enhance clarity and readability.

Well-crafted topic sentences promote clarity and conciseness in your writing by summarizing the main idea in a concise manner.

Moreover, they serve as signposts that signal the beginning of a particular discussion. This creates a smooth reading experience and reduces the chances of confusion.

They help the reader skim through the essay.

These sentences provide readers with a preview of what each paragraph will discuss. This helps them grasp the main point before delving into the rest of the paragraph.

They also enable the readers to quickly grasp the content of a paragraph. This makes it easier for them to skim through the main ideas of the essay without reading it word-by-word.

Topic Sentence vs Thesis Statement: Main Differences

Topic sentences are similar to thesis statements as they fulfill a similar purpose: they show the reader what the paragraph or essay is about.

However, a thesis statement is written at the end of the essay introduction, and it presents the main idea of the entire paper or essay. Whereas, a topic sentence presents the main idea of a specific paragraph, and is the first sentence of that paragraph.

Here are the major differences between topic sentences and thesis statements:

Difference between a Topic Sentence and a Thesis Statement

How to Write a Topic Sentence? Here are 4 Simple Steps

If you think about it, writing such a sentence seems like a simple task. All you have to do is write one line about the idea you’ll discuss, and you’re done.

Well, it’s not as easy as it sounds. You need to follow some conditions to write good opening lines for your body paragraphs.

Here are the steps to write engaging topic sentences:

1. Develop your Thesis Statement

Writing a specific and self-defining thesis statement is the first step in writing an essay. A thesis statement is necessary as it lays out the main points or structure of your entire essay.

Having a thesis statement helps you figure out what your body paragraphs will be about. This, in turn, helps you identify each paragraphs controlling idea and craft a topic sentence.

2. Identify the Controlling Ideas of Your Body Paragraphs

Once you have a thesis statement for your essay, identify the main idea or central theme of the paragraphs.

Ask yourself, "What is the key point I want to convey in this paragraph?" This will serve as the focus and topic of your paragraph. Moreover, identifying your main points will also help you make an essay outline.

Here’s an example of how you can identify the main ideas of your body paragraphs:

3. Write your Topic Sentence

Now that you know the main idea of each paragraph, you should attempt to write your topic sentences. It is not necessary that you get the sentences right the first time. Try different variations and see which of the sentences explains the paragraph idea in a better way.

Ensure that your topic sentence relates directly to your thesis statement or the main argument of your essay. The topic sentence should support and reinforce the overall message you want to convey in your writing.

The example below shows topic sentences based on the main ideas identified in step 2:

4. Revise and Make your Topic Sentences Better

A strong topic sentence should be clear, concise, and directly related to your thesis statement. They should also be logically connected to the previous paragraph. It is important that you revise, make them better, and rewrite the sentences as you progress with the paper.

Make sure that they reflect the main theme of the paragraph and are according to the paragraph’s content. Use appropriate transition words for essays when transitioning from one paragraph to another.

Read on to learn about different types of topic sentences. They will help you to write, rewrite, and revise your opening sentences in the best ways.

What are the Different Types of Topic Sentences?

Here are some common types of topic sentences you can incorporate in your essay.

[Infographic]

Statement of Fact or Information

This type of topic sentence presents a straightforward statement of fact or information that sets the stage for the paragraph. It provides essential background knowledge or introduces a key concept.

Hook or Shocker

This kind of sentence presents a shocking statement of fact about the paragraph’s key idea. This type of topic sentence aims to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more.

Illustration or Example

An illustration or example topic sentence provides a specific instance or anecdote to support the main idea of the paragraph. It helps to clarify and reinforce your argument by providing concrete evidence or a real-life scenario.

Question or Thought-Provoking Statement

A topic sentence in the form of a question or thought-provoking statement engages readers by encouraging them to seek an answer. It stimulates curiosity and anticipation for what follows in the paragraph.

You can also watch this video that explains topic sentences in a simple way:

Topic Sentence Examples

‘What is a topic sentence example?’

Check out some helpful and effective topic sentence examples to help you get started.

Professional baking is a lot more than mixing some flour, eggs, and sugar into a bowl and putting it into the oven; it requires precision, attention to detail, and dedication to the craft.
Writing is a thorough and time-consuming process, but with some dedicated practice, you can become a better writer.
Learning a foreign language opens doors to several new opportunities that are not only available when a person is familiar with his mother tongue.
Home remodeling is an exciting project, but without proper designer skills and taste, it could turn into a disaster.
Several human activities are the main reasons behind global environmental pollution, and excess usage of plastic is one such cause.

Helpful Tips for Writing Better Topic Sentences

You’ve read some great examples, but how can you write similarly effective topic sentences yourself? Here are some amazing tips to help you out.

Be Clear and Concise: Focus on expressing the main idea of the paragraph in a concise and direct manner. Avoid unnecessary details or convoluted language that may confuse your readers.
Consider the Paragraph's Focus: Avoid including multiple ideas or concepts within a single topic sentence. Instead, focus on one central point for each paragraph.
Vary Your Sentence Structure: To maintain reader interest and engagement, vary the structure of your topic sentences. Experiment with different types, such as simple sentences, rhetorical questions, or even shocking facts.
Use Strong and Descriptive Language: Choose powerful and descriptive words that accurately capture the essence of your main idea. Avoid vague or generic language that lacks impact. Instead, opt for words that evoke emotions or create vivid imagery.
Seek Feedback: Consider sharing your writing with others and seeking feedback on your paragraphs. Ask for input on clarity, coherence, transitions, and overall effectiveness.

A great topic sentence directs the reader about the main content of the paragraph. It is brief and engages the reader.

Remember, mastering the art of writing effective topic sentences takes practice and refinement. As you develop your writing skills, focus on crafting clear and engaging topic sentences that align with your thesis statement.

However, we understand that writing essays can still be challenging, especially when faced with tight deadlines or complex assignments.

That's where 5staressays.com comes in!

If you’re short on time or lack good writing skills, you can team up with a professional essay writer. Our ‘ write my essay ’ service works with professional and subject-expert writers that help you write engaging and A-worthy essays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the topic sentence located in your essay.

Topic sentences come at the beginning of body paragraphs. They are the first sentence of a paragraph and introduces the main idea of that paragraph.

Can a topic sentence be a question?

Yes, a topic sentence could be a question. You can use a rhetorical question or an interrogative sentence to engage your reader and encourage them to read on.

How long is a topic sentence?

It depends on the depth of the idea. Usually, it is just one sentence, but in some cases, it could be composed of two sentences. However, the first few lines of the paragraph should be able to present its main idea effectively.

Law, Marketing

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Table of contents

1 What Is a Topic Sentence
2 Characteristics of an Effective Topic Sentence
3.1 Interrogative
3.2 Reinforcement
3.3 Transitional
4.1 Understanding the Paragraph’s Main Idea
4.2 Keeping it Concise
4.3 Positioning the Topic Sentence
4.4 Make it Interesting but not Over-complicating
4.5 Better to Use Active Voice
4.6 Enhance with Evidence
4.7 Bind the Paragraph Together by Repeating Words or Phrases
4.8 Use Transition Words
5 Examples of Topic Sentences
6 Topic Sentences as an Integral Part of Every Paragraph
7.1 How to find a topic sentence?
7.2 How long should a topic sentence be?
7.3 Is the topic sentence always the first sentence?
7.4 Can topic sentences be questions?
7.5 What is the difference between a topic sentence and a thesis statement?

The structure of academic writing requires several standards to be followed to ensure the coherence of your essay. One of the techniques you should use in your writing is essay topic sentences. However, why is it necessary, and how to write a topic sentence? We will answer this and many further questions in this article. Keep reading if you want to know:

The essence of the topic sentence and its use;
The crucial aspects of composing a topic sentence;
Types of topic sentences and their implementation in the text;
How to write your topic sentence and see the examples of it.

A strong topic sentence is a guarantee to be heard by the readers! Let’s start by looking at the meaning of this term and the main purpose of topic sentence.

What Is a Topic Sentence

A topic sentence is a generalized main idea of a paragraph summarized in one phrase. This statement provides a smooth transition from one central point to the next. But do not confuse it with the thesis statement. So, let’s review the topic sentence vs thesis statement and see if there is any difference.

A thesis statement sums up the idea of your essay or thesis, but it is usually found in the introduction, presenting the main point of the whole piece. Our service is ready to help you with writing a thesis statement correctly to ensure the highest results. An effective topic sentence includes two parts: the topic and the controlling idea. Use a topic sentence to organize your formal writing. Thus, you will delimit the main ideas within the boundaries of your essay paragraphs and ensure your text is coherent. This technique also aims to interest the reader by revealing the concept of your written work.

Characteristics of an Effective Topic Sentence

Using a topic sentence is an efficient strategy that will inform a reader about the topic of its paragraph briefly. To achieve this result of idea explanation and its evolution through the following parts of the text, learn the main characteristics of effective topic sentences. Below, we listed particular features that create a perfect topic sentence formula.

A good topic sentence requires clarity and unambiguity. The reader must understand exactly what work he is about to read. Therefore, your task is to introduce the main idea of each paragraph clearly.

Always remember about the idea of your paper, and don’t add anything extraordinary. You should only include information in your topic sentences that will be presented in the supporting sentences of the body part of an essay . Thus, your text will be easy and exciting to read, regardless of the topic.

Completeness

You are faced with the difficult task of condensing a complete main idea into just one topic sentence. It must be comprehensive, express a complete thought, contain the controlling idea, and convey the topic you presented in a particular paragraph.

The topic sentences should motivate further reading. Therefore, you should present the information in a captivating way, ensuring the reader’s interest.

Types of Topic Sentences

There are three main types of topic sentences that cover a wide range of functions. Each type is suitable for a different purpose, but they all aim to include the key information in the current paragraph and emphasize the reader’s attention to it.

Interrogative

The topic sentence is presented as a question, and the following paragraph provides the answer. Such a topic sentence will effectively attract attention, increasing interest in reading. However, be careful to give an unambiguous answer to the question posed in your topic sentence.

Topic: Fast fashion

Topic sentence: What changes are required in the organization of the fashion industry to overcome total environmental pollution?

Reinforcement

Topic sentences and supporting details can serve as a reinforcement, supporting the central idea expressed in the essay’s thesis statement. This keeps the story flowing, showing that you’re not jumping between ideas inconstantly.

Thesis statement: AI development will provide the labor market with dozens of new positions.

Topic sentence: A lot of new job opportunities will be discovered with the development of AI.

Transitional

The topic sentences can also play the role of a link, logically and smoothly connecting several paragraphs into one whole. In this way, a clear structure of academic writing is maintained, and the author can relate one central point to another.

Last sentence of the previous paragraph: The issue of the need for school uniforms has been actively discussed for many years.

Topic sentence: School uniform is necessary for the development of discipline in children.

How to Write a Good Topic Sentence

First, remember that the focus sentence is the most important sentence in a paragraph. It should not only state the paragraph’s main idea, but it should be intriguingly interesting, concise, and include a controlling idea. Experts of our writing service have prepared for you some tips on how to make a topic sentence. It’s important to consider many different factors before writing a topic sentence for an essay. Keep reading to see the most essential ones.

Understanding the Paragraph’s Main Idea

The key to writing the topic sentence is to determine the main point of the paragraph. Think about the purpose for which you wrote this fragment. What would you like the reader to remember most? In other words, if you extract all the topic sentences from your essay and compose a text from them, you will get a complete digest of all the main ideas of the thesis.

Keeping it Concise

Sometimes, it can be difficult to fit everything you want to convey to the reader into one concluding sentence. After all, everything you wrote is valuable information worthy of attention. Still, be brief when writing your topic sentence to entice the audience to continue reading the rest of the paragraph.

Positioning the Topic Sentence

The topic sentence can be written in any part of the paragraph. Most commonly, placing it in the beginning, thus you ensure a smooth transition from the previous paragraph and give readers a hint about what the upcoming piece will be about. If it’s in the middle of the text, it can describe the main idea after having revealed some crucial background details of the main idea. When you write the topic sentence at the end of the paragraph, it concludes and highlights the essential concepts of the piece.

Make it Interesting but not Over-complicating

To start with, brainstorm to point out the most creative and interesting idea for your topic sentences. For example, if you use statistics in later paragraphs, include them in the hook sentence as well, this will intrigue readers. At the same time, do not forget that due to the topic sentence structure, the size of the topic sentence is very limited, so do not try to overcomplicate it.

Better to Use Active Voice

From a grammatical and lexical point of view, it is believed that the passive voice complicates the construction of sentences. You may consider the previous sentence as an example of a topic sentence that is difficult for a reader. Your topic sentences should be brief and comprehensive yet simple to understand. Prefer active voice to make the body paragraph easier to read.

Enhance with Evidence

First of all, any essay, likewise scientific work, requires accuracy. That is why using verified statistical data and citing reliable sources makes your topic sentence and controlling idea credible and respected. Pay attention to the plausibility of data when you write academic essay papers to avoid misleading information. Topic sentences for essays should also contain precise facts, which you subsequently describe in the new paragraph.

Bind the Paragraph Together by Repeating Words or Phrases

In poetry, there is a technique called anaphora, when each line or sentence of a verse begins the same. This is often used to influence the reader’s emotions, strengthening his awareness of a certain concept of the subject. So, to reinforce your main idea and relate your paragraphs, you can also use this device in your essay writing.

Use Transition Words

Of course, without connecting words, argumentative essays will turn into a collection of words and incoherent sentences. Build a clear essay structure by combining topic sentences with the rest of the paragraph with linking words. Therefore, to make your narrative coherent and logical, you should soften the transitions. Introduce these words at the beginning: first of all, to start with, therefore, based on this, moreover, and many others to enrich your writing.

Examples of Topic Sentences

Modern technologies have helped to significantly simplify working conditions for people. For centuries, people have had to work hard to provide basic means of living. In the absence of mechanization, unfathomable amounts of effort were required to complete basic tasks. For this reason, people worked day and night for six days a week and, in some cases, without days off at all. However, our generation was much luckier. The development of artificial intelligence and the automation of most production processes at this point allow people to work more efficiently while spending less time and effort.

What we know about recycling is a drop, what we don’t know is the ocean. In recent years, there have been many environmental campaigns to explain the importance of recycling. Most developed countries invest a large share of their budget in developing environmental solutions for the most optimal recycling of waste. However, at the same time, ordinary users still know very little about the rules for sorting waste. In reality, only a very small percentage of plastic can be recycled. Few people know that only the cap of a plastic bottle is recycled.

Society is moving online, and the changes it brings to the future are difficult to ignore. Of course, we don’t know exactly what the future of our society will be, but now we can trace some trends that will lead to steady changes. The children from the youngest age know how to use gadgets and independently find information on the Internet. Friendship, relationships, study, work, and all this already exist in the electronic dimension. Sociologists are interested in the question of what the society of the future will look like and whether there will be a place for offline communication in it.

The eternal question of style: to follow or not to follow the fashion trends. There probably is no single correct answer to this question. Social media influencers are actively sharing the hottest trends in the fashion world. The main fashionistas immediately run to the store to buy the latest new items. However, one thing is obvious – trends are certainly not for everyone. Starting from different body types to color types. We are all different, and this is our uniqueness. Trends certainly cannot look complimentary to everyone.

Our inner confidence provides external attractiveness. I have seen more than once that confident people often receive more positive attention. This is due to certain biological factors since a person with leadership qualities can lead a community, and therefore, people are drawn to him/her. And yet the advantage is not only respect from others. People with high self-esteem are perceived as more physically attractive.

Topic Sentences as an Integral Part of Every Paragraph

Your creative ideas that bring scientific novelty are the key element of your academic essays. At the same time, an idea without form is just a set of concepts. Using topic sentences will help you navigate and organize your ideas in a logical flow. Furthermore, it not only provides direction and focus for a paragraph, ensuring coherence and unity, but it also guides the reader’s journey through a text.

How to find a topic sentence?

How long should a topic sentence be, is the topic sentence always the first sentence, can topic sentences be questions, what is the difference between a topic sentence and a thesis statement, readers also enjoyed.

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A topic sentence is the first sentence in a body paragraph that summarizes its main idea. It's like a mini-thesis statement for each body paragraph. A well-crafted topic sentence should be focused and specific, so that your audience has a clue of what the paragraph will be about.

While it's usually 1 sentence long, students often find it tricky to highlight the key idea of a passage. That's why our essay writing service is here to help you. In this blog, we will shed more light on how to write a topic sentence for a body paragraph of an essay and provide decent examples to help you engage your readers. But before we get down to suggestion, let's begin with a definition.

What Is a Topic Sentence: Definition

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a body paragraph that captures its central point. By providing a succinct preview of the whole section, it serves as a roadmap and keeps writing organized.

A good topic sentence should be clear, concise and connected to a thesis statement. Your task is to grab the reader's attention, encouraging them to continue reading. Additionally, you will need to back up your key point by evidence and in-depth analysis.

Topic sentences also act as transitions that link paragraphs to one another. It's like building a bridge between sections allowing readers to move fluently throughout your essay.

Topic Sentence vs Thesis: What's the Difference?

Quite often, students confuse a topic sentence with a thesis statement. Let's clarify the difference between these 2 components.

A thesis statement is the main argument of the whole paper. It usually appears at the end of an essay introduction and presents your central position or claim. A topic sentence introduces the main idea of a single paragraph and should relate back to your thesis.

Take a glance at this example to understand the distinction.

Thesis: The widespread use of social media has had a significant impact on society, affecting communication, relationships, and self-image. Topic sentence 1: Social media has transformed the way we communicate, providing new opportunities for connection and interaction. Topic sentence 2: The rise of social media has also had an impact on relationships, both positive and negative, with increased access to information and social pressure affecting how people relate to one another. Topic sentence 3: Social media has been linked to negative effects on self-image, with the constant pressure to present a perfect online persona leading to increased anxiety and decreased self-esteem.

What Is the Purpose of a Topic Sentence?

The primary purpose of a topic sentence boils down to emphasizing on the point you want to make in any specific section. It also serves other goals:

Guides the writer in developing content of each paragraph
Ties your paragraph back to the larger argument of your paper
Allows readers to follow your line of thought
Creates coherence of your writing piece
Makes ideas easier to follow.

Now that you know what a topic sentence in an essay body is and its purpose, let's discuss its main types.

Types of Topic Sentences and Examples

There are multiple approaches to previewing your paragraph's main point. Depending on the essay type, you may opt for different types of topic sentences – cause and effect, problem-solution, comparison and contrast. They can also appear in the form of a suggestion, question or a simple transition. Below we will define each type and provide topic sentence examples.

General to Specific

This type of topic sentence begins with a broad statement and then narrows down to a specific point.

Many factors contribute to climate change, but one of the most significant is the burning of fossil fuels.

Specific to General

In this case, you will start with a particular detail and then broaden out to a larger point.

The amount of trash in our oceans is staggering, highlighting the urgent need for more effective waste management policies.

Cause and Effect

Such sentences present a causal relationship between 2 ideas, events or phenomena. This type of topic sentence is usually used in cause and effect essays .

Poor nutrition can lead to obesity.

Comparison and Contrast

Sometimes, you may be assigned to compare 2 different concepts. If you are writing a compare and contrast essay , you will need to build topic sentences for each paragraph that reflect the comparison.

While traditional classroom learning has many benefits, online learning offers greater flexibility and convenience for students with busy schedules.

Problem-Solution

As the name suggests, this type of sentence primarily focuses on how to solve a specific issue. You will use this approach when working on a problem-solution essay .

It is becoming increasingly difficult for families to afford housing in major cities, suggesting that governments should pursue policies aimed at making rental costs more affordable.

Advice/Suggestion

Suggestions are an integral part of most kinds of essays. Whether you are writing a persuasive essay or a how-to guide, you need to express an opinion and provide a call for action. That's when you will turn your topic sentence into a piece of advice or guideline.

It is important for young people to develop an understanding of financial literacy, including budgeting and saving.

Sometimes, you may open a paragraph with a question in order to entice the reader and make them more interested in your opinion. Such questions should be used sparingly and confined to the introduction.

What can individuals do to reduce their impact on climate change?

When you are navigating from one paragraph to another, it is important that you make a seamless connection between ideas. The goal is to make the reader feel like they are continuously progressing through your essay. That's when essay transition words come into play. Here's how to create a topic sentence that can be used for linking.

On the other hand, this approach has its shortcomings that cannot be ignored.

How to Write a Good Topic Sentence for an Essay: 5 Easy Steps

When writing a topic sentence, there are 2 important aspects to keep in mind:

You should be specific and focus only on a single idea or point.
Stay on the point and don’t cover too many specifics in one sentence.

Now let’s take a look at the steps involved in the process. Follow these detailed guidelines on how to write a topic sentence and arrange your essay properly.

1. Determine the Main Idea of Your Writing

Before you write a topic sentence for body paragraphs, identify your essay’s main idea, or the point you’re trying to prove. The key argument is usually hidden in your thesis statement. Read through your thesis and think about the overall point that you are trying to make. Powered by the main idea, you can start thinking how to structure your body paragraphs and what specific points to discuss in each section.

The modern educational system should be redesigned to ensure that all students receive a well-rounded education.

2. Break Down the Main Idea into Smaller Pieces

The next step is to split your idea into smaller points. Try to recognize major supporting points or subtopics that reinforce your thesis statement. It can be helpful to create an outline or diagram to map out the essay structure and organize your arguments. By doing so, you will see how your central idea can be separated into more manageable subpoints.

Subpoint 1 : Prioritizing teaching arts, music, and physical education along with core subjects
Subpoint 2: Engaging students in experiential learning (internships, service learning)
Subpoint 3: Enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

>> Read more: How to Write an Essay Outline

3. Make Sure Each Body Paragraph Serves a Specific Purpose

The purpose of each body paragraph is to take one of the subpoints and explain it in detail. In order to do that, make a topic sentence focused and to the point.

One common mistake is integrating too many details in one sentence.

Remember, the goal of your topic sentence is to introduce a single idea. For that, you need to establish the evidence and examples you want to use in your paragraph. Once you are clear on the goal of each paragraph, you can start creating your topic sentence.

❌ Example of a weak topic sentence

Fostering a well-rounded education should involve offering more classes in music, art and physical education, but also providing more opportunities for students to be involved in experiential learning.

In the above topic sentence example, a student combines 2 different ideas in 1 sentence. Eventually, this may lead to unnecessary confusion. Here's how this sentence may be improved.

✓ Example of a strong topic sentence

In order to nurture a well-rounded education, schools should prioritize teaching music, art, and physical education along with core subjects.

4. Grab Reader's Attention

The best topic sentence is the one that sounds compelling and captivates the reader's attention. Just like in the essay introduction, here you also need to integrate a hook. There are several hook techniques that you can use to involve your audience in your body paragraph:

Using surprising facts or statistics that challenge the reader's assumptions or expectations
Opening your paragraph with a rhetorical question that encourages to consider a new angle
Starting a topic sentence with an anecdote or personal story illustrating your point.

Have you ever wondered why many schools are not providing enough classes in music, art and physical education?

>> Learn more: How to Write a Hook for an Essay

Trigger words can also be used to persuade your audience read further. These are the words and phrases that evoke emotions or psychological reactions. Below you can find some of the most efficient trigger words for your topic sentences.

Popular trigger words

When you write a topic sentence that elicits a strong emotional response, you will be able to interest more readers.

5. Write a Topic Sentence

Before you get down to actually writing a topic sentence for an essay body paragraph, remember that it should contain condensed information on your point. Still, you don't want to give away all supporting details or evidence from the get-go. Try to find balance between introducing your ideas and leaving some space for developing your argument further in the body.

Keep in mind the overall structure and flow of your essay. Your topic sentence should match a larger claim stated in your thesis. Otherwise, it will appear out of context and may potentially ruin the entire argument.

Examine good topic sentences examples for essays presented below to get more ideas on how to create your own.

Essay Topic Sentence Examples

Whether you're writing an argumentative , descriptive , or narrative essay , a strong topic sentence plays a crucial role in setting the stage for your main ideas. In this section, we will offer multiple examples of topic sentences. Inspect each topic sentence example for an essay to see how theory can be implemented in practice.

Topic sentence example for an argumentative essay

Social media has a negative impact on mental health , as it creates unrealistic expectations and promotes constant comparison to others.

Descriptive essay topic sentence example

The salty ocean air and the sound of seagulls created a calming and peaceful atmosphere on the beach.

Example of a topic sentence for cause-and-effect writing

Due to the increase in air pollution, many cities are experiencing a rise in respiratory illnesses among their populations.

Topic Sentence Writing Tips

Here are some valuable tips for writing a powerful topic sentence in a paragraph.

Keep it brief but informative. Your topic sentence should contain only relevant information that directly supports the main point.
Associate it to your primary claim. Make sure that your subpoints are intertwined and contribute to your fundamental assertion.
Be precise. Make sure that you use specific language and avoid generalizations.
Make it flow. Each body paragraph should build on the previous one and lead the reader towards your essay conclusion .
Apply active voice. Using an active voice in your topic sentence can help to create a sense of urgency and engagement.

Bottom Line on How to Write a Topic Sentence

Crafting a powerful topic sentence is not easy, but with practice, you will be able to start your paragraphs in a convincing manner. Make sure that each opening is clear and reflects your main idea in a brief, yet, meaningful way. Keep these tips and examples in mind when writing topic sentences for your next essay.

Reach out to StudyCrumb, and have your essay written by an expert. Each academician is experienced in such tasks and can deliver a perfect paper quickly upon ‘ do my homework ’ request.

FAQ About Writing Topic Sentences

1. how to start off a topic sentence.

A good way to start a topic sentence is by introducing the specific idea or concept that you are going to discuss. It should be concise and directly related to the point of your essay. For example: " The increase in air pollution has led to an alarming rise in respiratory illnesses in cities ." This sentence states the main point of your topic and sets the tone for what follows.

2. Can a topic sentence be a question?

Yes, a topic sentence can be a question. In fact, beginning a paragraph with a question can create a sense of curiosity and encourage readers to think critically about your topic. Be sure to follow up the question with a clear and concise statement that provides a direct answer.

3. How long should a topic sentence be?

A topic sentence should be concise and to the point, ideally no longer than 1 or 2 sentences long. It should make a preview to the main idea of the paragraph, while also leaving enough room for developing your arguments and evidence.

4. How to write a strong topic sentence?

To compose a strong topic sentence, clearly state the main idea of your body paragraph. Avoid vague or general statements. Instead, your topic sentence should grab the reader's attention and make them want to keep reading. It's suggested to link it to your thesis statement of your paper to ensure that you stay on track.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

How to write a topic sentence

April 16, 2022

Clarity and structure come first when writing an essay. Think of topic sentences as the guiding lights that show you the way through the essay . They are usually the first sentence of paragraph , and act as the road map for both your readers and you as the writer.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the crucial role of topic sentences in essays. They not only set the tone, provide direction, and connect your argument as a whole, but they also introduce the key points.

Purpose of a topic sentence

A topic sentence serves two essential purpose:

Informing readers: It informs readers about the content of the paragraph.
Connecting paragraphs: It connects paragraphs smoothly, facilitating a coherent flow of ideas in the text.

These two core purpose ensure that readers of your essay can quickly understand your main points and follow your argument.

Topic sentence vs. thesis statement

Both thesis statements and topic sentences help readers comprehend your research paper’s structure and main arguments. However, they differ in several ways.

Topic sentence vs. thesis statement example

Introduction

Body paragraph

The ketogenic diet has been shown to assist people in regulating their blood sugar levels. Topic sentence, which is the first sentence of your body paragraph ....(body paragraph continues)

The thesis statement should be in the first paragraph, and topic sentences should be at the start of each body paragraph.
There will be only one thesis statement in each research paper; however, the number of topic sentences will be determined by the number of body paragraphs.
The topic sentence informs your reader about the topic of the paragraph. A body paragraph should be assigned to each argument in your thesis.

Steps on writing a topic sentence

Topic sentences are developed throughout the writing process . Follow these steps to ensure that each topic sentence and paragraph supports your thesis statement.

Step 1 – Create a thesis statement

Make sure you have a solid thesis statement before you start writing your topic sentences. The thesis statement summarizes the paper’s goal and argument.

Thesis statement example

....(introduction starts) ....(introduction continues) ....(introduction continues) By regulating blood sugar, lowering refined food intake, and restricting excessive protein intake, the ketogenic diet may help to reduce the prevalence of illness. Thesis statement, which is usually the last sentence of your introduction

Step 2 – Create an outline and start writing topic sentences

Next, sketch out the outline of your paper, including what you’ll say in each paragraph and what evidence you’ll use.

essay outline infographic (740 × 540 px) 3

The topic sentences should be more precise than the thesis statement, but they should always be connected to it.

Topic sentence example

Step 3 – enrich your arguments with evidence.

The rest of the paragraph should follow the topic sentence and build on it with facts, examples, or reasoning.

Everything you write should be related to the topic sentence’s main idea. In other words, you can reference some research papers and statistics to back up your claim regarding the benefits of the ketogenic diet.

Evidence example

....(body paragraph starts) Compared to a low-fat diet, a ketogenic diet was related to reduced HbA1c levels, a measure of long-term blood sugar management, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Westman et al., 2008). Evidence, which is usually the second sentence of your body paragraph ....(body paragraph continues)

Step 4 – Polish your topic sentences

Most topic sentences start as simple statements, but it’s important to edit them as you write to ensure they align with the content of each paragraph.

A good topic sentence is detailed enough to offer a clear idea of what to expect from the paragraph but it should not be so detailed to reveal everything.

Types and examples of topic sentences

It’s helpful to understand the many forms of a topic sentence before writing one. We’ll go through the different categories and give some examples of topic sentences.

Simple statement

The most basic form of a topic sentence is this one, in which the author makes a broad assertion upon which the rest of the paragraph elaborates.

Simple statement topic sentence example

There are several reasons why India has the worst pollution levels in the world. Simple statement topic sentence ....(body paragraph continues)

Question form (Interrogative)

As long as you don’t steer away from the subject, starting a paragraph with a question is a wonderful approach to get the reader engaged and involved.

Question form topic sentence example

How many countries have plans in place to deal with rising sea levels? Question form topic sentence ....(body paragraph continues)

Complex form

You might want to utilize a complex topic sentence if you have a complicated topic with numerous concepts. Even though they are still considered “statements,” they include more than one primary point.

Complex form topic sentence example

While the Internet has provided many new opportunities for organizations, companies must now consider updating their cybersecurity systems more than ever before. Complex form topic sentence ....(body paragraph continues)

Transitional form

While all topic sentences must deal with transitions to some extent, they can also be simply transitional in some circumstances. These are most effective when the topic shifts dramatically, as they bring attention to the transition (also see transition words and phrases ).

Transitional form topic sentence example

If a random apple had not fallen upon the head of a young Isaac Newton, the world would not be the way it is today. Transitional form topic sentence ....(body paragraph continues)

Pique the reader’s attention with a hook

A “hook,” or anything that makes people want to read more, is frequently included in good topic sentences. While some are more frequent than others, there are a number of techniques to entice your readers:

Surprising findings

Despite the massive turnout, only 1% of the teams were able to finish the first task.

Mysterious questions

What eventually persuaded the senator to change his mind?

Emotional appeal

Find a balance between general and specific.

Learning how much to include and how much to leave for the rest of the paragraph is one of the most difficult aspects of creating topic sentences. You should:

Explain just enough so that the reader understands what the paragraph is about and, perhaps, becomes intrigued.
You can save everything else for the supporting sentences.”

Clarity is the most crucial aspect of topic sentences. Even if you pique the reader’s interest and make them want to read more, it won’t matter if they don’t understand what they’re reading. Make use of common academic words , active and passive voice , and verb tenses to be more clear.

Reminders and helpful hints

Use an interesting hook in your topic sentence to keep your reader interested.
Make sure your topic sentence connects each new paragraph to your essay’s main point.
Try turning your topic sentence into a question to make your writing more interesting.
Use your topic sentence to smoothly connect one paragraph to the next.

The use of topic sentences is crucial in academic writing. They help organize your ideas, enhance reader comprehension, and keep your readers interested.

Learning to create effective topic sentences is important for every academic project, including research papers , essays , and other writing assignments. So keep these in mind as you write to make your writing compelling and clear.

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How to Write a Topic Sentence for an Argumentative Essay

by Antony W

September 13, 2022

In this guide, we’ll look at how to write a topic sentence for an argumentative essay. And don’t worry, it’s an incredibly simple thing to do, so you don’t necessary have to overthink anything here.

Key Takeaways

A topic sentence begins every paragraph of your argumentative essay.
The purpose of the topic sentence is to communicate the main idea you intend to cover in the paragraph, so it should be clear, sensible, and coherent.
If possible, include new information in your topic sentence to make your writing stand out.
You can use transition words such as “another” and “even though” to start a topic sentence in your argumentative essay.
Use compound and complex sentences to strengthen your paragraphs.
You can use reasonable options, but make sure you can support them so that they’re convincing.

What Is a Topic Sentence in an Argumentative Essay?

A topic sentence is the opening statement in every paragraph of an argumentative essay. It provides an idea of what you’ll cover in the paragraph.

A topic sentence should be vast so that it can support many subtopics in the rest of its paragraphs.

It’s important to note that a topic sentence in an argumentative essay is completely different from the thesis statement.

A thesis statement states the repeated focus in an entire writing. A thesis makes a major point that you will discuss in the rest of the argument.

A topic sentence on the other hand will introduce the topics of every supporting paragraphs to back up the thesis.

What is the Purpose of a Topic Sentence in an Argumentative Essay?

You need a topic sentence because it makes the idea of the main paragraph more clear and sensible for coherence.

The topic sentence joins sentences of a given paragraph, backs up what the paper claims, explains what a paragraph says, and claims mini thesis statements.

Tips for Writing a Topic Sentence for an Argumentative Essay

Here are 4 useful tips that will help you write a good topic sentence for an argumentative essay:

1. Use New Information

You should write a topic sentence that’s interesting to read so that it immerses your readers deeply into your essay.

Try as much as you can to make the information you provide look new. By doing so, way it will be far from being another fact statement.

2. Use a Topic Sentence Later in the Opening Paragraph

Many students often choose to write their topic sentence as the first thing in every paragraph. While that’s the standard approach, you can be a bit flexible.

In other words, instead of having your topic sentence in every first sentence of a paragraph, you can write it after the hook in an opening paragraph to grab the reader’s attention and that makes him or her want to read more.

3. Try Transition Words

Transitional words can be used on opening topic sentences or on sentence that begin with supporting paragraphs.

You can use transitional words like “another”, “although” or “even though” to start your new paragraph

4. Make your Topic Sentence Compound and Complex

To make your topic sentence high level with a stronger feels, consider the use of compound and complex sentences.

For compound sentences, use independent clauses – preferably two – and then connect them using a comma and conjunction.

For complex sentences, use independent and subordinate clauses and link them with a comma and subordinating conjunction.

Here are examples of compound and complex sentences:

Complex sentence : When planes fly, they follow paths used by other planes for centuries. “When” at this point is the subordinate conjunction.
Compound sentences : The colonial period was a period of intrusion, but it was monitored by strict social nods. In this case, “but” is the coordinating conjunction.

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1. Clearly State Your Major Idea

Since a topic sentence is the first statement in every paragraph, it is important to make it more clear, straight to the point and easy to digest.

Avoid using extra, unnecessary words as it makes understanding more difficult.

Make sure you include controlling ideas and topics because the sentences that follow thereafter should relate to the topic sentence.

Avoid using an opening statement like “Today we are going to discuss the benefits of afforestation”.

After all, a topic sentence is not an invitation, which allows announcement of topics at hand.

2. Use the Topic Sentence as a Transition

Topic sentences that work as transitions guide readers through arguments on essays.

This makes sure they are not only on track but also don’t get lost in words.

3. Keep it Short and Concise

Don’t have your readers figure out your intentions in your argumentative essay are; just use the topic statements to show them the aim of your essay.

So make your topic sentence more specific than your thesis.

When you use short sentence on your essay you make your paragraph retain its flow.

The shorter you keep the sentences the more you clearly bring out your intentions.

4. Balance the Topic Sentence between Specifics and General Ideas

Topic sentences ought to relate to the thesis statement on your essay. Importantly, ensure the topic sentence is broad and balanced.

Avoid the use of general ideas because they will be a bit challenging to discuss. Avoid the use of narrow statements instead aim for a balance that is good.

Also, hook your readers more by describing characters, portray emotions, use dialogues, details but avoid rhetorical questions.

5. Make Use of Reasonable Opinions

The topic sentence is supposed to outline things that can be supported by concrete evidence. That’s why we need topic sentences in paragraphs.

You are allowed to highlight an opinion on your topic sentence but only make the move when you are certain of backing it up with the paragraph that follows.

Facts are good but avoid them because they won’t introduce the reader to your main idea.

If you find it necessary, consider an input of your own. For example, instead of writing, “All patients need treatment”, you can say, “All patients need regular care, like food, water and nurses are the best for it”.

About the author

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

COMMENTS

How to Write Topic Sentences
Step 2: Make an essay outline and draft topic sentences. Next, you should make an outline of your essay's structure, planning what you want to say in each paragraph and what evidence you'll use. At this stage, you can draft a topic sentence that sums up the main point you want to make in each paragraph. The topic sentences should be more ...
Topic Sentences and Signposting
Topic sentences and signposts make an essay's claims clear to a reader. Good essays contain both. Topic sentences reveal the main point of a paragraph. They show the relationship of each paragraph to the essay's thesis, telegraph the point of a paragraph, and tell your reader what to expect in the paragraph that follows. Topic sentences also ...
How to Write a Topic Sentence
Step#1 Clearly State The Main Idea. A topic sentence is the first paragraph of the paragraph. It must clearly explain the particular subject that would be discussed in the paragraph. This should be stated in very clear language so that the reader can easily understand the idea.
How to Write a Strong Topic Sentence + Examples
Step 3: Make your essay outline. Once you have the points you want to make within your thesis statement hammered out, make an outline for your essay. This is where you'll start to create your topic sentence for each paragraph. You want to clearly state the main idea of that paragraph in the very first sentence.
Writing Topic Sentences
The purpose of a topic sentence is to inform the reader of the main idea of the paragraph and how it connects to the overall objective of the essay. An effective topic sentence accomplishes one or more of the following: Makes a claim. Supports other claims made in the paper. Identifies the purpose of the rest of the paragraph.
How To Write a Topic Sentence (With Examples and Tips)
1. Identify the main point in your piece of writing. Think about the overall topic for your writing. Decide how you can introduce this idea to your readers with an interesting opening sentence. 2. Write a sentence that connects to your main idea with a what and a why. Write a clear topic sentence by describing the what and the why of an idea ...
What is a Topic Sentence? (Definition, Examples, How to Use)
How to create good topic sentences. A good topic sentence can be created using some simple steps: 1. Determine the key point of your essay. Writers should first form an understanding of the topic of the essay and then create topic sentences to attract the attention of readers. Constructing a good thesis statement can assist the writer in ...
How to Write a Good Topic Sentence: 14 Steps (with Pictures)
1. Avoid introducing yourself. Although topic sentences vary in structure and content from person to person, at least two things can be assumed about your paper: 1) that you have a title and entire paper to introduce a topic, and 2) your personal information is present somewhere on your essay.
How to Write a Topic Sentence
The first step is to write the thesis statement. The next step is to outline the paper. A clear outline will help to organize the ideas, research, and evidence into paragraphs. Once the thesis statement and an outline for the paper are created, the topic sentences should be drafted. Be sure your topic sentence reviews what you wrote in the ...
How to Write a Great Topic Sentence
In this article, you'll learn a sequence of steps to help you create great topic sentences: First, you'll need to come up with a question that your paper will answer. For instance, you might try to address how watching violence affects the way children play with toys. 1. Start With a Question.
Generate Topic Ideas For an Essay or Paper
The prompt might tell you write a certain type of essay, or it might give you a broad subject area and hint at the kind of approach you should take. Example: Expository essay prompt Choose a historically significant invention and explain the key events and processes that contributed to its development. This prompt gives us a very general subject.
What is a Topic Sentence & How to Write it
Essentially, it is a concise and direct statement that captures the essence of what you want to convey. A topic sentence is defined by the following characteristics: It is the first sentence of a paragraph. It indicates the main idea of the paragraph. Acts as a signpost and transition sentence, ensuring clarity and cohesiveness of an essay.
How to Write Topic Sentences: The Role in Shaping Writing Flow
3 Types of Topic Sentences. 3.1 Interrogative. 3.2 Reinforcement. 3.3 Transitional. 4 How to Write a Good Topic Sentence. 4.1 Understanding the Paragraph's Main Idea. 4.2 Keeping it Concise. 4.3 Positioning the Topic Sentence. 4.4 Make it Interesting but not Over-complicating.
10 Effective Topic Sentence Examples for Engaging Essays
A bad example of a topic sentence would be: Dogs are good. While most people agree with that statement, it is too broad to make a good topic sentence. Yes, it lets the readers know that you will be writing about dogs and that it will be positive, but they have no idea where that topic will go. Your topic sentence needs to do more than tell the ...
How to Write Powerful Topic Sentences (Tips & Samples)
Regarding topic sentence placement, there are two common approaches: 1. The first is to place it at the paragraph beginning, which is the most common method. This approach immediately lets the reader understand the paragraph's main point, providing a framework for supporting details or examples.
How to Write a Topic Sentence: 3 Topic Sentence Examples
How to Write a Topic Sentence: 3 Topic Sentence Examples. Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Sep 28, 2022 • 3 min read. Learn how to write topic sentences to support the main thesis of any piece of writing.
How to Write a Topic Sentence for an Essay: Steps & Examples
1. Determine the Main Idea of Your Writing. Before you write a topic sentence for body paragraphs, identify your essay's main idea, or the point you're trying to prove. The key argument is usually hidden in your thesis statement. Read through your thesis and think about the overall point that you are trying to make.
How to Write a Topic Sentence (Steps & Examples)
Step 2 - Create an outline and start writing topic sentences. Next, sketch out the outline of your paper, including what you'll say in each paragraph and what evidence you'll use. The topic sentences should be more precise than the thesis statement, but they should always be connected to it.
Example of a Great Essay
This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people's social and cultural lives.
Topic Sentence: Definition, Examples and Useful Tips for Writing ...
Summarise. Anticipate. Emphasise or expand. Conclusion. A topic sentence is one which appears, usually (but not always) at the beginning of each paragraph of an essay. The topic sentence is used to layout the ideas and arguments that will be covered within the paragraph and should be carefully planned out to ensure that they are clear enough to ...
How to Write a Topic Sentence for an Argumentative Essay
Here are 4 useful tips that will help you write a good topic sentence for an argumentative essay: 1. Use New Information. You should write a topic sentence that's interesting to read so that it immerses your readers deeply into your essay. Try as much as you can to make the information you provide look new.
The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay
The essay writing process consists of three main stages: Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline. Writing: Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion. Revision: Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling ...

Learn How to Write a Topic Sentence that Stands Out

What is a Topic Sentence?

Purpose of Topic Sentence

Features of a Good Topic Sentence

Types of Topic Sentences

How to Write a Topic Sentence?

Step#1 Clearly State The Main Idea

Step#2 Hook Your Reader

Step#3 Keep It Short and Precise

Step#4 Give A Reasonable Opinion

Step#5 Use The Topic Sentence As A Transition

Step#6 Look For Some Good Examples

Difference Between Topic Sentence and Thesis Sentence

Good Topic Sentence Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

Keep reading

What are your chances of acceptance?

Your chancing factors

How to Write a Strong Topic Sentence + Examples

What’s Covered:

Elements of a Good Topic Sentence

What Is a Topic Sentence?

Writing a Good Topic Sentence: 5 Steps

Step 2: Create a thesis statement.

Step 3: Make your essay outline.

Step 4: Begin writing your essay.

Step 5: Proofread and check your resources.

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Make sure your topic sentence isn’t too vague.

Choose a reasonable opinion.

Use your topic sentence as a transition.

Keep your topic sentence short.

Don’t wait until the last minute.

Don’t forget to write an outline.

Ask for help if you need it.

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Writing Topic Sentences — Purpose, Structure, and Examples

What is a topic sentence?

What is the purpose of a topic sentence?

How to write a topic sentence

Where is the topic sentence in a paragraph?

Topic sentence examples

What is a Topic Sentence? (Definition, Examples, How to Use)

Importance of topic sentences

Different types of topic sentences

Simple statement

Interrogative or question

Purely transitional

How to create good topic sentences

1. Determine the key point of your essay

2. Have an outline for the essay

3. Be coherent and clear

4. Share opinions

5. Use specific wordings

6. Transitions should be added between paragraphs

7. Use new, relevant information

8. Create a compound or complex topic statement

Core lessons

Popular lessons

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How to Write a Good Topic Sentence

Writing a Successful Topic Sentence

Planning Your Topic Sentences

Avoiding Common Problems

Sample Topic Sentences

Community Q&A

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How to Write a Topic Sentence? Here are 4 Simple Steps

1. Develop your Thesis Statement