What is the relationship between the central idea and supporting details?

• A. Supporting details help explain or prove the central idea.
• B. Supporting details are unrelated to the central idea.
• C. The central idea is derived from supporting details.
• D. There is no relationship.

Answer: (A)

The main point a passage is trying to communicate is supported and clarified by details. Supporting details are the evidence, examples, facts, and reasons that explain or prove that central idea, making it clearer and stronger for the reader. For example, if the central idea is that solar energy is a smart investment, the details might discuss long-term cost savings, lower environmental impact, and energy independence; these specifics back up the main claim.

Think of it this way: details don’t stand alone or contradict the main idea—they reinforce it. They aren’t unrelated, and the central idea isn’t simply built from details in isolation. Together, the central idea and its supporting details form a coherent argument or description.