Topic Sentence: Your Paragraph's North Star

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a body paragraph that introduces the main idea and connects it back to your thesis statement. It serves as a roadmap for the entire paragraph, telling readers exactly what to expect.

Purpose and Function

Introduces the Main Idea

The topic sentence presents the single focus of your paragraph in clear, specific terms.

Connects to Thesis

It shows how this particular point supports your overall argument.

Guides the Reader

It creates expectations for what evidence and analysis will follow.

Characteristics of Strong Topic Sentences

Specific and Focused

❌ "Social media has many effects." ✅ "Social media platforms increase anxiety among teenagers through constant social comparison."

Debatable

❌ "Many teenagers use Instagram." (fact) ✅ "Instagram's design features deliberately exploit teenage insecurities." (arguable claim)

Connected to Thesis

If your thesis argues that social media harms teen mental health, your topic sentence might focus on one specific way this happens.

Formula for Success

Topic Sentence = Transition + Claim + Preview

Example Breakdown

"Furthermore, social media platforms increase teenage anxiety through algorithmic content that promotes unrealistic comparisons."

• Transition: "Furthermore" (connects to previous paragraph)
• Claim: "social media platforms increase teenage anxiety"
• Preview: "through algorithmic content" (hints at evidence to come)

Common Patterns

Cause and Effect

"The rise of standardized testing has led to a narrowed curriculum in public schools."

Comparison/Contrast

"Unlike traditional classroom learning, online education requires greater student self-discipline."

Problem/Solution

"To address the growing mental health crisis among students, schools must implement comprehensive wellness programs."

Evidence-Based

"Recent studies reveal that homework loads exceeding two hours per night actually decrease learning effectiveness."

Placement and Flow

First Sentence

Topic sentences typically appear as the very first sentence of each body paragraph.

Transition Words

Use transitional phrases to connect paragraphs:

• First, Additionally, Furthermore (adding points)
• However, In contrast, On the other hand (showing difference)
• As a result, Therefore, Consequently (showing cause/effect)

Example in Context

Thesis: "High schools should eliminate homework to improve student well-being, family relationships, and actual learning outcomes."

Body Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: "First, excessive homework assignments contribute to dangerous levels of stress and sleep deprivation among high school students."

Body Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: "Additionally, heavy homework loads strain family relationships by reducing quality time and creating conflict over academic priorities."

Body Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: "Most importantly, research demonstrates that homework beyond two hours per night actually decreases learning retention and academic performance."

Red Flags to Avoid

• Too broad: Could apply to multiple paragraphs
• Too narrow: Only covers one small detail
• Disconnected: Doesn't clearly relate to your thesis
• Factual: States something that can't be argued
• Vague: Uses unclear or general language

Revision Checklist

• Does it clearly state one main idea?
• Can I support this claim with evidence?
• Does it connect to my thesis statement?
• Would a reader know what to expect in this paragraph?
• Is it specific enough to guide my writing?

Remember: A strong topic sentence is like a good headline—it tells readers exactly what they're about to learn and why it matters to your overall argument.