what is the main idea

The main idea is the central or most important point that an author wants to communicate about a topic in a paragraph or passage. It represents the key message or concept that summarizes what the text is mostly about. The main idea may be stated explicitly, often in the first sentence (topic sentence), or it may be implied and require inference by the reader. Supporting details in the paragraph provide evidence or examples that reinforce the main idea. Identifying the main idea helps readers understand and think critically about the text's purpose and message