Writing a Topic Sentence

What is a Topic Sentence?

A topic or "focus" sentence states the main point of the paragraph. It is a complete sentence and sets the stage for what will be included in the paragraph. Include a topic sentence for any major paragraph. A topic sentence also helps relate the paragraph to the paper of essay thesis. A successful topic sentence not only prepares the reader for the rest of the paragraph, but is clear and simple. Topic sentences should not be too broad or vague and should only encompass a single idea.

Consider the two parts of a topic sentence:

1. The topic - which will always be an idea or a noun that the sentence is about.

2. The assertion - which is a statement that says something about the topic.

For example:
Good, strong topic sentences (the topic) direct the reader through the paragraph and support the main thesis of the essay (the assertion).

Topic Sentence Exercise:
Please use the information given above to create an appropriate topic sentence that will complete a paragraph using the below supporting sentences.

Exercise 1.

a. Some fires are caused by careless people tossing matches out of car windows.

b. A few are started when lightning strikes a tree.

c. Some result from campers who fail to douse cooking fires.

d. The majority of forest fires are deliberately set by arsonists.

Exercise 2:

a. We had to wait a half hour even though we had reserved a table.

b. Our appetizers and main courses all arrived at the same time.

c. The busboy ignored our requests for more water.

d. The wrong desserts were delivered to us.

Exercise 3:

a. My phone goes dead at certain times of the day.

b. When I talk long distance, I hear conversations in the background.

c. The line to the phone service center is busy for hours.

d. My telephone bill includes three calls I never made.