Topic Sentences

A topic sentence presents the main idea or goal for a paragraph. Remember to be clear, concise, and creative!

Topic or thesis statements can be some of the hardest components of a paragraph or essay. Here are some things to avoid!

1. Do not say "My topic is..."

It should be evident by your statement what it is you are talking about. This phrase is considered redundant. Avoid similar phrases like "in this essay I will...," "I am going to summarize...," "the book/article was about..."

2. Stay on topic.

Do not introduce any details you do not plan to discuss further. The goal of the topic sentence is to provide a road map to your readers and yourself!

3. Use transitions.

Transition words are usefully because they improve the flow of your paper and help the reader understand what you plan to do with the ideas (ex: add to, contrast, conclude, etc.)

4. Revise your sentence.

Chances are you will not come up with a good statement from the beginning. It is ok to write a placeholder statement that you will correct letter. Have others look over your sentence to help you decide if it is correctly communicating your purpose!

One type of topic sentence is a definition. This is where you begin by explaining a particular thought, action, etc.

Example:

A bridge is a stretch of material that connects one or more items (topic sentence). It then follows that friendship is a form of bridge. It is a connection formed between two or more people built upon continual interactions. Like a bridge, friendship takes time and energy to develop.

Another kind of topic sentence is fact. This is one of the most commonly use sentences in starting essays.

Example:

Higher education is known to impact an individual's economic status (topic sentence). This is evident through the jobs one can attain, the student debt one can accrue, and the pay one can receive according to their degree.

Especially in persuasive papers, writers will often begin with an opinion. An opinion is an idea that, while it can be supported by evidence, is not based solely in facts.

Example:

Dogs make the best pets.

The University of North Carolina provides the most efficient medical education.

Using hand sanitizer does not keep your from becoming ill.

This is commonly confused with an opinion topic sentence. The main difference is that an attitude or feeling reflects an emotional response/appeal or personal behavior.

Example:

Students need to study regularly to prevent themselves from having a mental break down.

We need to donate to ministries that help dying children in Africa.

Time and Place topic sentences are often used to discuss particular events or eras in history. These can also be facts!

Example:

The first major Russian Revolution occurred in the Red Square in 1905.

Check out this explanation of topic sentences!