Topic Sentence

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a body paragraph. It introduces the paragraph's main idea and connects it to your thesis.

Formula

Topic Sentence = Transition + Claim + Preview

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

• Transition: "Furthermore"
• Claim: "social media platforms increase teenage anxiety"
• Preview: "through algorithmic content"

Characteristics

• Specific — focuses on one idea
• Debatable — makes a claim, not just states a fact
• Connected — relates back to your thesis

Weak vs. Strong

Weak: "Social media has many effects." (Too vague, not debatable)

Strong: "Social media platforms increase anxiety among teenagers through constant social comparison." (Specific, arguable, focused)

Common Patterns

• Cause/Effect: "The rise of standardized testing has led to..."
• Comparison: "Unlike traditional learning, online education..."
• Problem/Solution: "To address the crisis, schools must..."

Think of topic sentences as mini-thesis statements for each paragraph.

Quick Tips

• Place at the beginning of each body paragraph
• Use transition words to connect paragraphs
• Ensure you can support the claim with evidence