Final answer:
The purpose of topic sentences is to introduce the paragraph topic and connect it to the thesis, setting the stage for the evidence and analysis to follow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of topic sentences is to gently introduce the topic of that paragraph and prepare your readers to hear what you will say.
A topic sentence suggests generally what the paragraph is talking about and often includes a transition from previous paragraphs. It is the central idea of the paragraph, usually stated in your own words at or toward the beginning of the paragraph, and each topic sentence should relate to the thesis.
The evidence you provide develops the paragraph and supports the point made in the topic sentence.
This can include details, examples, quotations, paraphrases, and summaries from sources if formal research was conducted.
Finally, the analysis explains how the evidence actually relates to the argument and typically comes at the end of the paragraph.