What does the main idea of a passage represent?

The main idea of a passage represents what the passage is mostly about. It serves as the central point or primary concept that the author conveys throughout the text. Understanding the main idea helps readers to grasp the overall message and purpose of the passage, allowing them to connect with the material more effectively. It encapsulates the essential information that supports the author's arguments or narrative, without getting lost in less critical details or minor points that may be discussed. Recognizing the main idea is crucial for comprehension and analysis in reading, enabling students to summarize the content and engage with it thoughtfully.