Final answer:
A strong topic sentence is specific and concise, providing clear guidance on what the paragraph will discuss and how it relates to the overall thesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question is that a strong topic sentence is specific and concise. Topic sentences serve as the foundation of a paragraph and clearly state the main point or argument that the paragraph will address. These sentences are critical because they guide the reader through the ideas presented in the essay, making it easier to follow the writer's arguments. A strong topic sentence summarizes the main argument or point of the paragraph and often includes a transition from previous paragraphs. It not only sets the stage for the evidence and analysis that will follow but also ties back to the essay's thesis statement, which articulates the main argument of the entire essay.
Furthermore, each topic sentence should be unified under a single, clear thesis and connected with appropriate transitions, ensuring that paragraphs consistently support the thesis. The evidence provided should be abundant and relevant, offering the reader a sense of completeness. While it is essential to include good supporting evidence, the topic sentence itself should remain specific and concise to maintain the reader's focus and clearly relay the paragraph's main message.