Where to Find Main Ideas

Check:

1. First paragraph (often introduces main idea)
2. Last paragraph (often summarizes)
3. Topic sentences (first sentence of paragraphs)
4. Repeated concepts throughout passage

Question Types

"The main idea of the passage is..."

• Look for the big picture
• Avoid answers that are too narrow or too broad

"According to the passage..."

• Direct lookup - find it in the text
• Don't rely on outside knowledge

"The author's primary purpose is to..."

• Inform? Persuade? Entertain?
• Describe? Explain? Argue?

Supporting Details

Detail Questions

"According to the passage, which is true?"

Strategy:

1. Scan for keywords from the question
2. Read the relevant section carefully
3. Match to answer choices
4. Eliminate wrong answers

"EXCEPT" Questions

"All of the following are mentioned EXCEPT..."

Strategy:

1. Check each answer choice
2. Find 3 that ARE in the passage
3. The one NOT mentioned is the answer
4. These take more time - do them last if needed

Inference Questions

"It can reasonably be inferred..." "The passage suggests..."

Tips:

• Must be supported by text
• Not stated directly, but logically follows
• Avoid answers that go too far beyond the text

ACT Tips

• Read the passage first (don't go to questions first)
• Underline main ideas and key details
• Skim difficult sections - you can return if needed
• Prove every answer with text evidence
• Eliminate obviously wrong answers first

Main Idea: "Dogs make excellent pets"

Supporting Details:

• "They are loyal companions"
• "Studies show they reduce stress"
• "They encourage physical activity"

ACT Tip: Main idea is like an umbrella - details fit under it!