SAT Reading and Writing: Central Ideas and Details

The central idea is the main point or core message the author wants you to remember. It may be stated directly (often in the opening or concluding sentences), or you might need to infer it by reviewing supporting details and the writer’s tone or purpose.

A supporting detail is a fact, example, quote, statistic, or explanation that strengthens, clarifies, or proves the central idea.

• After reading, summarize the passage in one sentence—that’s usually the central idea.
• Watch for topic sentences and conclusions—they often state the main idea.
• Details explain, prove, or develop the central idea. Ask: “How does this fact/example connect to the main point?”
• Eliminate answer choices that focus only on minor details, not the “big picture.”
• If in doubt, preview all answers, not just the first one. Main idea choices are often disguised in complex wording.
• Don’t get distracted by “true but irrelevant” facts. Major focus = main idea; minor focus = supporting detail.

• 1. Predict: Before answer choices, summarize the passage’s core message in your own words.
• 2. Compare: See which answer most closely matches your prediction—ignore distractors focused on only part of the text or a specific person/example.
• 3. Check scope: The correct answer covers the passage as a whole, not just a paragraph or example.

Sample Passage Excerpt:

Urban community gardens are sprouting up in cities across the world. These gardens not only provide fresh produce, but also bring neighbors together and transform unused spaces into vibrant green areas. Many city officials are starting to fund community gardening initiatives, citing positive effects on health, food security, and social cohesion.

Which choice best states the central idea of the passage?

Sample Passage Excerpt:

When Maya entered the library, she noticed every table was crowded with students bent over notebooks. The hum of collaboration filled the air, and huge books were stacked in the arms of a librarian moving from shelf to shelf. It was clear to Maya that this was a place where learning thrived.

Which detail from the passage supports the idea that the library encourages learning?

Sample Passage Excerpt:

In recent years, some educators have debated whether tablets should replace textbooks in schools. Those in favor argue that digital devices provide up-to-date resources and are easier for students to carry. Opponents, however, worry about the effects of screen time on learning and the high cost of technology upgrades.

Which choice best states the central claim of the passage?

Sample Passage Excerpt:

Scientists studying migratory birds have observed that many species travel thousands of miles annually to reach breeding grounds. One recent study found that food availability at stopover sites directly affected how quickly birds could recover energy for the next leg of their trip.

Which detail supports the idea that food availability influences bird migration?

"The new law requires restaurants to clearly post nutritional information on all menus. The measure was introduced as a way to help consumers make healthier choices and combat rising obesity rates nationwide."

• Avoid answer choices that only mention one detail from the passage.
• Don’t be tricked by answer choices that are "true" but miss the author’s main message.
• Central idea questions ask about the whole passage, not one paragraph.
• If two answers sound similar, choose the one matching your predicted summary.

• Always look for the central idea first, then find details that prove it.
• Main idea answers summarize the passage—detail answers only mention a part.
• Practice summarizing every passage you read in a single sentence—this makes main idea questions much easier.
• Supporting details include facts, examples, numbers, and explanations that reinforce the main idea.
• Predict before choosing. Stay alert for “true but not main” traps!

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