How to Write a Topic Sentence (With 3 Examples)

Summary

In this video, Miss Pure Editor explains how to write an effective topic sentence step by step. A topic sentence should introduce the focus of a paragraph and support the thesis statement. The video provides examples from various types of essays, demonstrating how topic sentences can convey key points, such as cause and effect, comparison, and contrast. Additionally, Miss Pure Editor highlights optional elements like transitions and new concepts while cautioning against including direct quotations or restating the thesis. The video wraps up with an invitation to viewers to practice by writing their own topic sentences.

Takeaways

• 😀 A topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph and supports the thesis statement.
• 😀 The topic sentence should clearly explain the specific focus of the paragraph.
• 😀 It can suggest the form of the paragraph (e.g., definition, cause and effect, counterargument).
• 😀 Think of topic sentences as mini thesis statements for each body paragraph.
• 😀 The topic sentence should concisely state the paragraph’s main purpose.
• 😀 Optional elements in a topic sentence include a transition phrase, introduction of new concepts, or contrasting with the previous paragraph.
• 😀 Avoid direct quotations, restating the thesis, or making claims unrelated to the paragraph in the topic sentence.
• 😀 The first example of a topic sentence illustrates a focused analysis on two trends: increased partisanship and political maneuvering.
• 😀 The second example demonstrates a transition from discussing mass hysteria to exploring abuse of power in witch hunts.
• 😀 The third example contrasts two characters (Caesar and Brutus) and highlights a cause-and-effect relationship in a literary analysis essay.

Q & A

What is a topic sentence?

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph that supports the thesis statement and explains the specific focus of the paragraph. It often implies the structure of the paragraph, such as definition, cause and effect, or counter-argument.

Why are topic sentences important?

Topic sentences are important because they introduce the focus of a paragraph and connect the paragraph to the thesis statement. They also give readers a preview of what the paragraph will discuss.

Can a topic sentence include a transition from the previous paragraph?

Yes, a topic sentence can include a transition from the previous paragraph, but this is optional. If a transition has already been made in the previous paragraph, it may not be necessary in the topic sentence.

What is a good strategy for writing an effective topic sentence?

A good strategy is to think of a topic sentence as a mini thesis statement. It should explain the paragraph's main purpose concisely and can introduce new concepts or contrast ideas from previous paragraphs.

Should direct quotations be included in a topic sentence?

No, it is recommended to avoid using direct quotations in a topic sentence. The purpose of the topic sentence is to provide an overview of the paragraph, not to present specific evidence.

What types of claims should be avoided in a topic sentence?

Avoid restating the thesis statement, stating general facts, contradicting the thesis, or making claims that are unrelated to the paragraph's focus.

What is the role of a topic sentence in literary analysis?

In literary analysis, a topic sentence serves to introduce the central argument or comparison between elements in the work being analyzed. It may also suggest cause and effect relationships, as seen in the example about Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar'.

How does the topic sentence example about U.S. presidential elections function?

The topic sentence about U.S. presidential elections connects to the thesis by discussing the increased partisanship and political maneuvering in early elections. It sets the focus for the paragraph on analyzing these two trends.

What does the topic sentence example about witch hunts reveal?

The topic sentence about witch hunts shows a transition from discussing mass hysteria in the previous paragraph to focusing on the abuse of power due to disputes between accusers and suspects. It demonstrates a shift in the focus of the essay.

What is the significance of the comparison in the 'Julius Caesar' topic sentence?

The comparison between Caesar and Brutus in the 'Julius Caesar' topic sentence highlights their contrasting traits. Caesar’s weakness stems from ignoring signs of his impending death, while Brutus’s downfall is caused by his naive idealism. This contrast helps to structure the analysis in the paragraph.