Page 94 - University English for non-speacalist

Features of an effective topic sentence

• A topic sentence is not a fragment. It is a complete sentence.

Fragment : Smart phones for college students. (INCORRECT)

Complete Sentence: Smart phones have several useful features for college students.

• A topic sentence is not too general.
Too General: Smart phones are good.
Improved: Smart phones improve communication among friends and family members.

•A topic sentence is not a simple fact or specific detail.
Too Specific: Smart phones cost $300.
Improved: Because smart phones are expensive, people should consider several factors

before buying one.

Step 3: Demonstrate Your Point
After stating your topic sentence, you need to provide information to prove, illustrate, clarify,
and/or exemplify your point. Supporting sentences add information about the topic and the
controlling idea. It can include definitions, explanations, and examples.
Ask yourself:
• What examples can I use to support my point?

93