Section 2: Identifying Main Ideas and Supporting Details

Identifying main ideas and supporting details is an essential skill for success in the TOEFL reading section. In this section, we'll explain what it means to identify main ideas and supporting details, why it's important, and provide some examples of how to do it effectively.

What does it mean to identify main ideas and supporting details?

When reading a passage, it's important to identify the main idea, or the central point that the author is trying to convey. The supporting details, or specific examples or evidence used to support the main idea, help to clarify and expand upon it. Identifying the main idea and supporting details can help you understand the text better and remember the information more effectively.