English STAAR Practice Test 2026 – The All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Beginning a body paragraph with a topic sentence is an effective strategy as it clearly states the main idea of that paragraph. A topic sentence sets the direction for the reader, indicating what to expect and helping to maintain the focus of the discussion. It acts as a mini-thesis for the paragraph, aligning with the overall thesis of the essay and ensuring cohesion throughout the writing.

This approach provides clarity and organization, making it easier for the reader to understand the argument or point being made. A well-crafted topic sentence helps to establish the tone and scope of the rest of the paragraph, allowing for smoother transitions between ideas.

In contrast, including a personal anecdote may enrich the content but can detract from the primary focus if not carefully connected to the main idea. A rhetorical question can engage readers but often requires follow-up explanations to clarify the point. Providing a long quote may overwhelm the reader if it's not integrated smoothly and may not effectively establish the paragraph's main idea.