What is a supporting detail?

A supporting detail is indeed evidence or examples that help explain the main idea. It provides additional information that reinforces or clarifies the primary point being made in a piece of writing. Supporting details can include facts, statistics, anecdotes, or descriptive examples that help readers understand the main idea more deeply. This framework is crucial in helping the audience grasp the author's intent and the overall message of the text.

In contrast, other options do not fulfill the role of supporting details. A summary of the conclusion would encapsulate the main points but would not contribute new information that supports the main idea. The title of the text identifies the content but does not provide details. Similarly, the first sentence of a paragraph may introduce a topic but does not offer the supporting details necessary to elaborate on the main idea.