Organise information by main idea

Key Notes :

1. What Is a Main Idea?

  • Definition: The main idea is the central or most important point of a paragraph or text. It tells what the text is mostly about.
  • Explanation: Every piece of writing has a key point or central thought, which is the main idea, while the other details support or explain it.

2. Why Is the Main Idea Important?

  • Explanation: The main idea helps readers understand the overall message or point of a text. It acts as a guide to organize the supporting details in a logical way.
  • Example: In a paragraph about why exercise is good for health, the main idea would be “Exercise has many health benefits.”

3. Identifying the Main Idea

  • Explanation: To identify the main idea, ask yourself, “What is the most important point the author wants me to know?”
  • Tips:
  • Look for the topic sentence: Often, the main idea is found in the first or last sentence of a paragraph.
  • Summarize the paragraph in one sentence: This summary is usually the main idea.
  • Ask, “What are all the details about?”

4. Supporting Details

  • Definition: Supporting details are facts, examples, or explanations that provide more information about the main idea. They help clarify and explain the main idea.
  • Example: If the main idea is “Exercise helps the body stay healthy,” the supporting details could include:
  • “Exercise strengthens the heart.”
  • “It helps control weight.”
  • “It boosts mental well-being.”

5. How to Organize Information by Main Idea

  • Step 1: Identify the Main Idea
  • Read the paragraph or passage and find the central point or the topic sentence.
  • Step 2: Group Related Details
  • Look at the supporting details and group them based on how they connect to the main idea. Make sure all the details support or explain the main idea.
  • Step 3: Maintain Logical Order
  • Arrange the supporting details in a way that makes sense. You can list them by importance, time order, or comparison, depending on the type of writing.

6. Example of Organizing by Main Idea

  • Main Idea: “Eating healthy food is important for growing children.”
  • Supporting Details:
  • “Healthy foods provide the nutrients children need for energy.”
  • “Fruits and vegetables help strengthen the immune system.”
  • “Whole grains and proteins help build strong muscles and bones.”

let’s practice!