Which type of sentence is most likely a supporting detail for a paragraph's main idea?

• A. A sentence that gives an example or specific fact.
• B. A sentence that repeats the main idea in different words.
• C. A sentence that introduces a new, unrelated topic.
• D. A sentence that includes a transition word only.

Answer: (A)

Supporting a paragraph's main idea means adding concrete examples or facts that back it up. When a sentence gives an example or a specific fact, it shows exactly how the main idea works in real life, making the point clearer and more believable. For instance, if the main idea is that exercise improves mood, a supporting sentence might share a specific fact like, “University studies show that 30 minutes of daily activity can lift mood for most people.” That kind of detail gives readers something tangible to hold onto.

Other options don’t fit as well because they don’t add new information that supports the main idea. Repeating the main idea in different words is just restating, which doesn’t provide fresh evidence. Introducing a new, unrelated topic shifts the focus away from the main idea. Using a transition word by itself helps with smoothness, but it doesn’t supply evidence or details to support the point.