The main idea of a text is the central point or message that the author wants to convey to the reader. It is what the text is mostly about and reflects the author's primary purpose or argument. Typically, the main idea is expressed as a complete thought and is often found in the introduction or conclusion of the text, though its position can vary depending on the type of writing. Supporting details in the text serve to reinforce and expand upon this main idea. Finding the main idea involves identifying the overall topic and then understanding what the author is saying about that topic, often looking for repeated words or themes and reflecting on the text's key points.