SAT Reading Concepts Review: Main Idea, Theme, Purpose

The main idea of a paragraph is the primary point or concept that the author wants to communicate to the readers about the topic

• True

• False

In a paragraph (non Literary), when the main idea is stated directly, it is expressed in what is called the topic sentence. It gives the overarching idea of what the paragraph is about and is supported by the details in subsequent sentences in the paragraph.

• True

• FALSE

In a multi-paragraph (non Literary) passage the main idea is expressed in the thesis statement, which is then supported by individual smaller points.

• True

• False

Think of the main idea (all passage types) as a brief but all-encompassing summary. It covers everything the paragraph talks about in a general way, but does not include the specifics.

• True

• False

Facts and details that support the main idea will come in later sentences or paragraphs and add nuance and context; the main idea will need those details to support its argument.

• True

• False

Finding the main idea is critical to understanding what you are reading. It helps the details make sense and have relevance, and provides a framework for remembering the content (choose what applies):

• identify the Topic

• Summarize the Passage

• Look at the First and Last Sentences of the Passage

• Look for Repetition of Ideas

Writers of multiple choice tests are often tricky and will give you distractor questions that sound much like the real answer. You should avoid:

• selecting an answer that is too narrow in scope

• selecting an answer that is too broad

• selecting an answer that is complex but contrary to the main idea.

• Note distractors that changes the flow of the passage.

Theme relates to:

• Central message of a passage

• A moral that the reader learns after reading a passage

• the topic

• the main idea

• A universal truth that can apply to anyone.

How do we determine the theme of a passage?

• Identify what the characters learned.

• Ask what lesson is the author trying to teach us?

• Consider the specific details that the author presents.

Some common literary themes are:

• acceptance

• honesty

• kindness

• perseverance

• courage