DEMONSTRATION ONLY: This demonstration presents an abbreviated version of the complete VPT course. Click 'Next' at the bottom of the screen or make a selection from the links on the left to begin. Not all links are available for the demo.

Analyzing and Revising Sentences

Apply Revision Strategies to Topic Sentences

Because the topic sentence states the main idea of a paragraph, it is the most important sentence in the paragraph. Check the content and sentence structure to make sure that this sentence clearly states the very limited subject.

Wordy phrases, such as "I am trying to show that," "I am trying to write about," and "This paragraph is going to be about," can help a writer organize his thoughts, but they waste space.

Revise the topic sentences below by eliminating the wordiness.

A part-time job seems to me to interfere with studying.
Check answer

A part-time job interfers with studying.

Consumer Reports magazine helps when buying a used car.
Check answer

Sentence is ok.

In this paragraph I am going to show that a good professor enjoys students.
Check answer

A good professor enjoys students.

All handguns should be registered in my opinion.
Check answer

All handguns should be registered.

Traveling by bus is a good way to see the country.
Check answer

Sentence is ok.

I am going to write about how taking a math course will help a person as a manager.
Check answer

Taking a math course will help a person as a manager.

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