Virginia Reading SOL Practice Test

In informational texts, what is the central idea?

The most important point the author is making Minor detail The structure of the text The author's tone

Correct Answer:

The most important point the author is making

Explanation:

The central idea is the main point the author wants you to understand about the topic. It’s the big idea that everything in the text is built around, and the supporting details—facts, examples, and evidence—serve to reinforce it. It isn’t a minor detail, nor is it about how the text is organized (its structure) or the author’s attitude or mood (the tone). For example, in a piece about pollination, the central idea might be that bees are essential for producing many of the foods people rely on, with details about nectar collection, pollen transfer, and impacts on ecosystems providing the support. To spot it, look for ideas that are repeated or summarized in a thesis-like statement, or the opening and closing paragraphs that frame the main message.

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