Supporting details

Definition

Supporting details are specific pieces of information that enhance or strengthen the main idea or argument presented in a piece of writing. They provide evidence, examples, or elaboration that clarify and substantiate the central point, making the writing more persuasive and credible.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Supporting details can include facts, statistics, anecdotes, examples, and quotations that provide depth and context to the main idea.
2. In effective writing, supporting details are strategically organized to guide the reader through the argument, enhancing comprehension and retention.
3. Good supporting details not only back up the main idea but also resonate with the audience's interests or needs, making the content more relatable.
4. Each paragraph should ideally contain a clear main idea followed by supporting details that reinforce it, ensuring a cohesive structure.
5. In press releases, compelling supporting details can be crucial for capturing attention and persuading journalists to cover the story.

Review Questions

• How do supporting details contribute to the overall effectiveness of written communication?
  • Supporting details are vital because they give weight to the main idea by providing concrete evidence and examples. This not only enhances clarity but also persuades readers by making arguments more believable and engaging. Without strong supporting details, writing can come off as vague or unconvincing, losing its intended impact.
• Discuss how the use of supporting details can differ between a press release and an academic essay.
  • In a press release, supporting details are often focused on being brief and impactful to grab media attention quickly. They may include quotes from key figures or relevant statistics that highlight the significance of the news. In contrast, an academic essay typically requires more in-depth analysis and a wider array of supporting details that thoroughly develop the argument over several paragraphs, often backed by research and citations.
• Evaluate the role of supporting details in creating effective transitions and conclusions within a piece of writing.
  • Supporting details play a crucial role in crafting effective transitions and conclusions by providing a logical flow between ideas. In transitions, they help link thoughts seamlessly by summarizing previous points while introducing new ones. In conclusions, strong supporting details reinforce the main argument and remind readers of key points, leaving them with a clear understanding of the writer's message and encouraging further reflection on the topic.

Related terms

Main Idea: The primary point or argument that a writer intends to convey in their work, which is often supported by various details.

Evidence: The facts, statistics, examples, or quotations used to support a claim or argument, reinforcing its validity.

Elaboration: The process of providing additional details or explanations that help to clarify and expand upon a main idea.