Finding the Main Idea

Main Idea The central point or controlling idea of the passage Can be stated directly in the title, the beginning, or at the end of a passage Sometimes, the main idea is implied instead of stated directly.

The Comeback of Rabies Rabies, a deadly disease to both animals and humans, is on the increase in many areas of Florida. In fact, the number of reported human exposures to rabies has not been as high since the 1940s. This particular strain of rabies was brought to Florida by Texas coyotes. Truckloads of these coyotes are imported into the state by hunting clubs and used in fox hunts. The disease has always been found among wild animals, but the real problem is that fewer than half of all dogs, cats, and farm animals have been vaccinated against it. In 1994, twenty cats, ten dogs, and three horses contracted rabies: in increase of 500% in the last five years. Domestic animals must be vaccinated, for they are the ones most likely to have contact with humans.

The Comeback of Rabies Based on the passage, what is the main idea of the paragraph? A. Rabies is a very contagious and dangerous disease. B. Brought to Florida by coyotes, rabies is quickly spreading among domestic animals. C. Few domestic animals have been vaccinated against rabies. D. Domestic animals have more contact with humans that wild animals do.

Tips for Finding a Stated Main Idea Read the title. The main topic for the paragraph or passage is often mentioned in the title. Read the entire paragraph or passage. You’ll get an overview of who or what the selection is about. Read the first and last sentence of each paragraph. Most of the key words and ideas will be stated in these places. Choose the answer that is the best statement or restatement of the paragraph or passage. Your choice should contain the key words mentioned in the title, the first sentences, or the last sentences of each paragraph or passage.

Implied Main Idea Look at this sentence: “Outside, the wind was bitterly cold, and the snow was falling fast.” What season is it? How do you know? Does the sentence state this directly? This is implied.

Putting Energy Back Into Your Life Are you getting enough water? Think of your houseplants. When they are short on water, they droop. The same thing happens to you! Our bodies are made up of millions of cells; the principal part of these cells is water. If the cells are low on water, you will function at less than full efficiency. Strive for six to eight glasses of water each day.

Putting Energy Back Into Your Life What is the main idea of the paragraph? A. Houseplants need water to live. B. The body’s cells are composed of a high percentage of water. C. Our bodies are made up of millions of cells. D. Drink water because your body needs it to be efficient.

Tips for Determining an Implied Main Idea Read the title. The title will help you identify the topic of the selection. Read the entire paragraph or passage. You’ll get a general understanding of the selection. Reread the facts and details in each paragraph. Think of overall ideas that they share in common. Choose the answer that summarizes all of the facts and ideas in the passage. Confirm your choice by going back to the passage to check your evidence one more time.