Master Main Idea and Supporting Details for TOEFL Success

Question 1

Which sentence best expresses the main idea of the passage on integrating computers into the classroom?

Accepted Answer

Technology has revolutionized education, and computers are essential in modern classrooms.

Answer

Students prefer learning with computers because they offer interactive and engaging experiences.

Answer

Computers can be used to teach a variety of subjects, from math to science.

Answer

The use of computers in the classroom is becoming more common.

Question 2

Identify the defining characteristic of a strong supporting detail:

Accepted Answer

B. Is a proven fact

Answer

A. Contradicts the main idea

Answer

C. Differs significantly in style from the main text

Answer

D. Is not critical to understanding the text

Question 3

Which of the following is the primary purpose of supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

To develop and clarify the main idea by providing evidence and examples

Answer

To restate the main idea in different words

Answer

To introduce the main idea

Question 4

Read the following sentence: 'The main cause of climate change is the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.' Identify the main idea of this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Climate change is primarily caused by greenhouse gas emissions

Answer

Greenhouse gases are harmful to the atmosphere

Answer

Climate change is a serious global issue

Question 5

Which of the following sentences is a supporting detail for the main idea: 'Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle'?

Accepted Answer

Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves circulation

Answer

A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet and sufficient sleep

Answer

There are many different types of exercises to choose from

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a useful strategy for identifying the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Relying solely on the title or the first sentence

Answer

Reading the entire text

Answer

Summarizing the text

Answer

Identifying key words and phrases

Question 7

Which of the following is a characteristic of an effective supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

It is relevant to the main idea and provides specific evidence or examples

Answer

It is very long and detailed

Answer

It is interesting and engaging to read

Answer

It is controversial and sparks debate

Question 8

Read the following sentence: 'Exploring different cultures can be a great way to broaden your horizons.' Identify the main idea of this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Exploring different cultures can be beneficial

Answer

Exploring different cultures is fun and exciting

Answer

Exploring different cultures is dangerous

Answer

Exploring different cultures is expensive

Question 9

Which of the following is a potential drawback of using multiple supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

It can make the text overly repetitive and reduce its impact

Answer

It can make the text more interesting and engaging

Answer

It can simplify the text and make it easier to read

Answer

It can help to clarify the main idea and make it more convincing

Question 10

Which of the following sentences most effectively supports the main idea: 'Climate change is a pressing issue facing our planet'?

Accepted Answer

Global average temperatures have risen significantly over the past century

Answer

Climate change is only a problem for future generations

Answer

Climate change is a hoax created by scientists

Question 11

Which of the following is a recommended way to identify the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Pay close attention to the topic sentence.

Answer

Read only the opening and closing paragraphs.

Answer

Identify the most frequently used keywords.

Question 12

Which option is NOT a characteristic of a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

It contradicts the main idea.

Answer

It serves as proof for the main idea.

Answer

It is connected to the main idea.

Answer

It is specific and concrete.

Question 13

Identify the main idea in this paragraph: 'The Eiffel Tower, an iconic French landmark, stands as a symbol of engineering excellence. Its construction, spanning over two years, involved the meticulous efforts of thousands of workers. The tower serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.'

Accepted Answer

The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of architectural prowess, is a renowned tourist destination.

Answer

The Eiffel Tower's construction involved many workers.

Answer

The Eiffel Tower is located in France.

Question 14

Which statement effectively supports the main idea that 'higher education opens doors to career opportunities'?

Accepted Answer

A university degree enhances job prospects.

Answer

College campuses often have beautiful architecture.

Answer

Students can socialize and make new friends in college.

Answer

Attending college can be expensive.

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT classified as a supporting detail type?

Accepted Answer

Personal belief

Answer

Example

Answer

Statistics

Question 16

Which strategy is beneficial for identifying the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Read the title and opening paragraph.

Answer

Focus solely on the conclusion.

Answer

Read the text in reverse order.

Answer

Skip over unfamiliar vocabulary.

Question 17

Which option is NOT considered a text that typically has a clear main idea?

Accepted Answer

A shopping list

Answer

A news article about environmental issues

Answer

A scientific report on a medical breakthrough

Answer

A short story about a young person's adventure

Question 18

Which sentence best represents a main idea?

Accepted Answer

The rising cost of living poses significant challenges for families.

Answer

The price of groceries has increased.

Answer

Many families struggle to make ends meet.

Question 19

Read the following text: 'The advent of the internet has revolutionized global communication. It enables near-instantaneous connections among people across the globe. Social media platforms have significantly contributed to the growth of virtual communities and information sharing.' What is the main idea of this text?

Accepted Answer

The internet has transformed global communication, enabling real-time connections and fostering online communities.

Answer

Social media is the key mode of communication on the internet.

Answer

The internet facilitates the creation of online communities.

Question 20

Which of the following could be a supporting detail for the main idea 'Education is indispensable for personal development'?

Accepted Answer

Education cultivates critical thinking skills and broadens knowledge.

Answer

Education prepares individuals for lucrative careers.

Answer

Education is a basic right for all citizens.

Question 21

Read the following text: 'Air pollution poses significant risks to human health. It has been linked to respiratory ailments, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to its adverse effects.' Which sentence serves as a supporting detail for the main idea 'Air pollution poses serious health hazards'?

Accepted Answer

Air pollution has been associated with respiratory issues, heart problems, and even cancer.

Answer

Air pollution is a pressing environmental concern.

Answer

Air pollution primarily originates from vehicle emissions and industrial activities.

Question 22

What is the primary purpose of including supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

To provide evidence and elaborate on the main idea.

Answer

To mislead the reader with excessive information.

Answer

To replace the main idea.

Answer

To condense and simplify the text.

Question 23

Which of the following strategies is recommended for effectively identifying the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Carefully read the opening and concluding paragraphs.

Answer

Disregard the supporting details.

Answer

Scan the text for isolated keywords.

Answer

Read the text repeatedly.

Question 24

Read the following text: 'Renewable energy sources offer numerous advantages over traditional energy sources. They are environmentally friendly, cost-effective in the long run, and contribute to energy independence.' What is the main idea of this text?

Accepted Answer

Renewable energy sources provide significant benefits, including environmental preservation and economic savings.

Answer

Solar energy is the most prevalent renewable energy source.

Question 25

Which of the following is an unusual structure for organizing supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

Analogy

Answer

Cause and effect

Answer

Chronology

Answer

Problem and solution

Question 26

Read the following text: 'The preservation of biodiversity is a critical issue. Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change contribute to the loss of species. Conservation and protection efforts are urgently needed to address this crisis.' What is the main idea of this text?

Accepted Answer

The decline of biodiversity is a critical issue caused by human activities, necessitating immediate conservation initiatives.

Answer

Deforestation is the primary cause of biodiversity loss.

Question 27

Which of the following is an essential feature of a well-written paragraph?

Accepted Answer

It presents a clear main idea supported by relevant and specific evidence.

Answer

It is extremely long and provides excessive details.

Answer

It covers multiple unrelated topics.

Question 28

Identify the central idea of the following paragraph:

The Amazon River Basin is immense and diverse, featuring the world's largest rainforest, supporting an astonishing array of flora and fauna. This region serves as a vital water source, with the Amazon River carrying more water than any other river globally.

Accepted Answer

The Amazon River Basin boasts vastness, ecological diversity, and immense hydrological significance.

Answer

The Amazon River's water volume surpasses that of all other rivers combined.

Answer

The Amazon rainforest hosts countless plant and animal species.

Question 29

Which detail from the paragraph supports the central idea that the Amazon River Basin is ecologically diverse?

Accepted Answer

It sustains the world's largest rainforest, teeming with a staggering variety of plant and animal life.

Answer

The region's hydrological significance stems from the Amazon River's immense water flow.

Question 30

Among the provided paragraphs, choose the one that best supports the main idea that advancements in technology have reshaped communication practices:

Paragraph 1:
Technology has revolutionized the communication landscape. Historically, correspondence relied on letters, telegraphs, and telephones; today, methods abound, including email, instant messaging, social media, and video conferencing.

Paragraph 2:
Technology has transformed learning methods as well. In the past, education was confined to classrooms or libraries; now, vast knowledge is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

Paragraph 3:
Technology has shifted work practices too. Traditional office settings have given way to remote work options and flexible locations.

Accepted Answer

Paragraph 1

Answer

Paragraph 3

Answer

Paragraph 2

Question 31

Select the sentence that exemplifies a supporting detail for the main idea: 'Exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining good health.'

Sentence 1: Exercise is a great way to maintain a healthy weight.

Accepted Answer

Sentence 1: Exercise is a great way to maintain a healthy weight.

Answer

Exercise can help you make new friends.

Answer

Exercise is enjoyable.

Question 32

Which question aligns closely with the main idea of this paragraph:

The Amazon rainforest is renowned for its immense biodiversity, estimated to house over 10% of the world's known species. This extraordinary richness stems from factors such as its tropical climate, abundant rainfall, and diverse habitats.

Accepted Answer

What contributes to the remarkable biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest?

Answer

What is the geographical extent of the Amazon rainforest?

Answer

Which river flows through the Amazon rainforest?

Question 33

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between the main idea and supporting details?

Accepted Answer

Supporting details serve as evidence that substantiate the main idea.

Answer

Supporting details are always located at the end of a paragraph.

Answer

The main idea is always stated explicitly in the first sentence.

Question 34

By providing evidence and explanation for the main idea, which of the following serves a crucial purpose in developing a coherent text?

Accepted Answer

Supporting details

Answer

Contradictory perspectives

Answer

Unrelated topics

Question 35

When authors present supporting details in a text, which of the following is atypical?

Accepted Answer

Reiterating the main idea repeatedly

Answer

Citing research or expert opinions

Answer

Incorporating statistics and data

Answer

Utilizing examples and illustrations

Question 36

Read the following passage and determine its main idea:

The internet has revolutionized our communication. Email facilitates nearly instantaneous global correspondence. Social media connects individuals with similar interests across vast distances. Video conferencing enables face-to-face interactions without geographic boundaries.

Accepted Answer

The internet has transformed the way we communicate globally

Answer

Social media is exclusive to individuals with shared interests.

Answer

Email is the most efficient mode of global communication.

Question 37

Which sentence best encapsulates the main idea of this passage?

Despite initial skepticism, electric cars are gaining momentum rapidly. Concerns regarding their limited range are being addressed through advancements in battery technology. Charging infrastructure is expanding, enhancing accessibility. Additionally, government incentives and tax benefits are making electric cars more affordable.

Accepted Answer

Electric cars are surging in popularity due to technological advancements and government support.

Answer

Initial skepticism towards electric cars stemmed from their restricted range.

Question 38

In academic texts, where is the main idea typically located?

Accepted Answer

First sentence (topic sentence)

Answer

Text title (overarching theme)

Answer

Middle of the paragraph

Answer

Concluding sentence

Question 39

Which of the following is not a common signal phrase that introduces a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

In conclusion

Answer

For instance

Answer

Specifically

Answer

This is evident in

Question 40

Understanding the main idea and supporting details is crucial for:

Accepted Answer

All of the above

Answer

Creating effective summaries of lengthy texts

Answer

Tackling multiple-choice questions on standardized tests

Question 41

How does identifying the main idea enhance reading comprehension?

Accepted Answer

It helps grasp the central message and organize the information in the text.

Answer

It allows memorization of the text verbatim

Answer

It enables critique of the author's writing style

Question 42

Read the following sentences and identify the one that diverges from the main idea:

Main Idea: Regular exercise offers numerous health benefits.
(1) It strengthens the cardiovascular system.
(2) It elevates mood and reduces stress.
(3) It aids in weight loss and muscle development.
(4) It necessitates expensive gym memberships.

Accepted Answer

(4) It necessitates expensive gym memberships.

Answer

(2) It elevates mood and reduces stress.

Answer

(3) It aids in weight loss and muscle development.

Answer

(1) It strengthens the cardiovascular system.

Question 43

When identifying the main idea, it's important to consider:

Accepted Answer

The overall message the author intends to convey about the topic

Answer

Personal opinions on the topic being discussed

Answer

The length of the text and the number of paragraphs

Question 44

The main idea of this passage is:

Accepted Answer

The importance of regular exercise for physical and mental health.

Answer

The different types of exercise available.

Answer

The history of exercise trends.

Question 45

Which sentence BEST supports the claim that eating a balanced diet is essential for good health?

Accepted Answer

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides the necessary nutrients for optimal bodily function.

Answer

Many people enjoy cooking and experimenting with different cuisines.

Question 46

The passage primarily focuses on:

Accepted Answer

The challenges of learning a new language.

Answer

The benefits of traveling to different countries.

Answer

The importance of language proficiency in the workplace.

Answer

The history of language learning methods.

Question 47

Which statement is NOT supported by the passage?

Accepted Answer

Learning a new language is only beneficial for career advancement.

Answer

Language learning can enhance cognitive abilities.

Answer

Immersion is an effective language learning strategy.

Question 48

Which of the following is NOT a key detail supporting the main idea of the passage?

Accepted Answer

The invention of plastic revolutionized packaging and manufacturing.

Answer

Plastic pollution harms marine life and ecosystems.

Answer

Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose in landfills.

Question 49

The passage primarily discusses the:

Accepted Answer

Benefits and drawbacks of online education.

Answer

Future trends in online education.

Answer

Comparison between online and traditional education.

Answer

History of online learning platforms.

Question 50

Which detail provides evidence for the claim that online education offers flexibility?

Accepted Answer

Students can access course materials and lectures at any time and from anywhere.

Answer

Online courses often provide personalized feedback from instructors.

Answer

The cost of online education can be more affordable than traditional programs.

Question 51

The author's main point in this passage is to:

Accepted Answer

Explain the potential risks associated with social media.

Answer

Promote responsible social media usage.

Answer

Advocate for stricter social media regulations.

Question 52

Which sentence BEST summarizes the main idea of the passage?

Accepted Answer

While social media can connect people and provide valuable information, excessive use can lead to negative consequences for mental health and well-being.

Answer

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, influencing communication and entertainment.