How can you identify the main idea of a reading passage?

• A. Look for irrelevant details
• B. Focus on concluding sentences
• C. Identify topic sentences and repeated themes
• D. Read the passage in reverse order

Answer: (C)

Identifying the main idea of a reading passage involves recognizing the core concepts that the author wants to communicate. One effective strategy is to look for topic sentences, which often express the primary idea of a paragraph, and to pay attention to repeated themes throughout the text. These elements highlight what the author considers important, allowing readers to grasp the essence of the passage clearly.

When you focus on topic sentences, you can determine the key points that the author is making. Repeated themes can further reinforce the main idea, as they show what the author emphasizes throughout the text.

Other approaches, such as seeking concluding sentences or reading in reverse, do not directly aid in identifying the main idea. While conclusions can summarize concepts, they may not capture the overall message conveyed earlier in the passage. Similarly, reading in reverse order disrupts the natural flow of information, making it challenging to understand the author’s intended message. Thus, focusing on topic sentences and repeated themes proves to be the most effective method for identifying the main idea.