What is the difference between topic and main idea?

Answer 1

✅ Topic

The topic is what the text is mostly about — it's usually just one or two words.

📌 Think: One word or short phrase.

For Example: Sharks, The solar System, Ab Lincoln

✅ Main Idea

The main idea is the most important point the author is making about the topic.

It’s usually a full sentence and answers the question:

“What is the author saying about the topic?”

📌 Think: The topic + what the author wants you to know about it.

For Example:

1. The solar system is made up of the sun and eight planets that orbit it.
2. Sharks are powerful hunters that help keep the ocean ecosystem balanced.
3. Abraham Lincoln was a strong leader who helped end slavery in the U.S.

🧠 Helpful Tip for Students:

Topic = Subject

Main Idea = What the author says about that subject

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