Asked • 07/17/20

What is a topic sentence?

In academic writing, the concept of a topic sentence is very important.

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Holly W. answered • 07/17/20

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A topic sentence is typically the first sentence in a body paragraph of an essay or research paper. The purpose of the topic sentence is to introduce the topic of the paragraph. This alerts the reader to the kind of information that appears in the rest of the paragraph. The topic sentence also helps the writer only include information in that paragraph that is related to that topic.The topic sentence contains a general statement, which is elaborated on in the following sentences, which can include details, explanations, and examples of the topic.

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Howard S.

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A well-created topic sentence also focuses the position or emphasis presented in the paragraph so that it both prepares the reader for what will follow and helps the writer maintain the exact sharp point s/he intends. The sentences that follow the topic sentence can then accentuate more and more precisely the sharpness of the topic sentence. BTW, the final, not the first sentence, of paragraph one in an essay usually acts as a thesis sentence, not a topic sentences.
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07/17/20

Holly W.

Yes! If it is an argumentative essay, each topic sentence should state a supporting argument for why the thesis is correct.
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07/18/20

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