Which statement best describes the function of supporting details in a nonfiction passage?

Which statement best describes the function of supporting details in a nonfiction passage?

• A. They restate the main idea in different words
• B. They are used to list the author's favorites
• C. They expand the central point with facts, explanations, and examples
• D. They contradict the main idea

Answer: (C)

Supporting details in nonfiction expand the central point by providing facts, explanations, and examples that back up the idea and help readers see why it’s true or important. They go beyond restating the main idea by adding specific evidence and context that clarify and strengthen the argument. For instance, if the central point is that regular exercise improves mental health, the supporting details might include statistics about mood changes, explanations of how exercise affects brain chemistry, and a real-world example of someone who felt more energized after starting a routine. This is what makes the argument credible and understandable, rather than simply repeating the idea or introducing unrelated information.

Supporting details in nonfiction expand the central point by providing facts, explanations, and examples that back up the idea and help readers see why it’s true or important. They go beyond restating the main idea by adding specific evidence and context that clarify and strengthen the argument. For instance, if the central point is that regular exercise improves mental health, the supporting details might include statistics about mood changes, explanations of how exercise affects brain chemistry, and a real-world example of someone who felt more energized after starting a routine. This is what makes the argument credible and understandable, rather than simply repeating the idea or introducing unrelated information.