Identify supporting evidence in a text

Key notes :

  • Supporting evidence refers to the facts, examples, details, or quotations that back up the main idea or claim in a text.
  • It helps readers understand, believe, or agree with the author’s point of view.

  • It strengthens the author’s argument.
  • It helps clarify ideas.
  • It makes the text more persuasive and trustworthy.
  • It allows the reader to verify the claims made.

  1. Facts – Statements that can be proven true.
    • Example: “Water boils at 100°C at sea level.”
  2. Statistics – Numerical data used to support a point.
    • Example: “85% of students prefer digital textbooks.”
  3. Examples – Specific cases that show a general idea.
    • Example: “For instance, many teenagers use social media to connect with friends.”
  4. Quotations – Words taken directly from a source.
    • Example: “According to Dr. Smith, ‘Sleep is essential for brain development.'”
  5. Anecdotes – Short personal stories that support the point.
    • Example: “When I studied with a schedule, my grades improved.”

  1. Read the main idea or claim.
  2. Look for sentences that explain, prove, or add detail to that idea.
  3. Ask: “How does this sentence support the point?”
  4. Look for signal words: For example, such as, according to, research shows…

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