Supporting details

Definition

Supporting details are specific pieces of information that back up or enhance the main idea or argument in a text. They provide evidence, examples, or explanations that help clarify and reinforce the primary point, making it more convincing and comprehensive.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Supporting details can include facts, statistics, anecdotes, and quotes that help to illustrate the main idea.
2. They help readers understand the context and significance of the main idea by providing additional information.
3. The effectiveness of supporting details can greatly influence how well the main idea is received by readers.
4. Identifying supporting details is crucial for effective summarizing and paraphrasing since it allows for accurate representation of the original text.
5. Supporting details should be relevant and directly related to the main idea to maintain clarity and focus in writing.

Review Questions

• How do supporting details enhance the understanding of a main idea in a piece of writing?
  • Supporting details enhance the understanding of a main idea by providing concrete examples, evidence, and explanations that clarify the primary point being made. They add depth and context, making it easier for readers to grasp the significance of the main idea. Without supporting details, a main idea might come across as vague or unsupported, leaving readers with questions about its validity.
• What role do supporting details play in effective summarizing and paraphrasing?
  • In effective summarizing and paraphrasing, supporting details are essential as they ensure that the original message is conveyed accurately and comprehensively. When summarizing, it's important to capture not just the main idea but also its supporting details to reflect the author's intent fully. Paraphrasing requires understanding these details to rephrase them correctly while maintaining their relevance to the main idea.
• Evaluate how the choice of supporting details can affect the persuasiveness of an argument in writing.
  • The choice of supporting details can significantly affect the persuasiveness of an argument by determining how well it resonates with readers. If the supporting details are credible, relevant, and compelling, they strengthen the argument and make it more convincing. Conversely, if the details are weak or unrelated, they can undermine the argument's effectiveness, causing readers to doubt its validity. Therefore, selecting appropriate supporting details is crucial for creating a persuasive piece of writing.

Related terms

Main Idea:

The central point or message that the author is trying to convey in a piece of writing.

Evidence: Facts, statistics, or other information used to support a claim or argument.

Examples:

Specific instances or illustrations used to clarify or support a statement or concept.