What best describes the central idea of an informational text?

• A. The most interesting fact
• B. The main point the author argues
• C. The chronological sequence of events
• D. The author's personal opinion

Answer: (B)

The central idea is the main point the author is making in an informational text. It’s the overarching claim or purpose that runs through the piece and is supported by the details, evidence, and explanations that follow. It’s not just one fact you happen to find, and it isn’t the order in which things happened. It’s also not the author’s personal opinion, unless the text is clearly an opinion piece; informational texts aim to inform or explain, so the central idea is about what the author wants you to understand about the topic.

So, the best choice describes the main point the author argues or conveys, rather than a single fact, a sequence of events, or a personal viewpoint. To pinpoint it, look for the idea that the text repeatedly builds toward and supports with evidence. For example, in a piece about how recycling works, the central idea would be that recycling reduces waste and preserves resources, with details about sorting, processing, and benefits that reinforce that message.