How to Write a Topic Sentence (With Examples)

TL;DR

A topic sentence is the first sentence of each body paragraph. It states the main point of THAT paragraph and connects to your thesis. Think of it as a mini-thesis for the paragraph. Without it, your reader doesn't know what the paragraph is about.

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What Is a Topic Sentence?

A topic sentence does two things:

1. States the main idea of the paragraph
2. Connects to the thesis of your essay

It's the first sentence of each body paragraph, and it tells the reader exactly what that paragraph will prove or discuss.

The Formula

[Subject] + [Your claim about it] + [Connection to thesis]

Examples:

For an argumentative essay about social media: Thesis: "Social media harms teen mental health through body image issues, cyberbullying, and reduced social skills."

• Topic sentence 1: "Social media platforms promote unrealistic body standards that damage teens' self-perception."
• Topic sentence 2: "Cyberbullying on social platforms has become an epidemic, with lasting psychological effects on victims."
• Topic sentence 3: "Constant digital communication is eroding teenagers' ability to navigate face-to-face interactions."

Each topic sentence: ✅ States a specific claim ✅ Connects to the thesis ✅ Tells the reader what the paragraph will argue

Bad vs. Good Topic Sentences

❌ "Social media has many effects." (Too vague — what effects? Good or bad?) ✅ "Social media's emphasis on likes and followers creates a toxic cycle of validation-seeking among teenagers."

❌ "In this paragraph, I will discuss cyberbullying." (Never announce what you're about to do — just do it.) ✅ "Cyberbullying has become the most pervasive form of teen harassment, with 37% of students reporting online abuse."

❌ "Many people use social media." (This is a fact, not an argument.) ✅ "Despite social media's potential for connection, its design encourages isolation through algorithm-driven content bubbles."

Tips for Strong Topic Sentences

1. Be specific. Vague topic sentences lead to vague paragraphs.
2. Make a claim. Your topic sentence should be arguable, not just factual.
3. Connect to your thesis. Each paragraph should support your overall argument.
4. Use transitions between paragraphs: "Furthermore," "In contrast," "Additionally"
5. Don't start with "I think" or "I believe." State it confidently.

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Think of topic sentences as road signs — they tell your reader where each paragraph is going. Clear signs = clear essay = better grade. 🚦