What are the characteristics of a topic sentence?

A topic sentence clearly and concisely tells the reader what your main idea is, or what your story (or research essay) will be about. It is generally found in the first paragraph, and sometimes even in the first sentence, though not always. Once you write your topic sentence, you will then proceed to offer the evidence or information to support it.

Some examples:

Of all the heroines in Shakespeare, my favorite is Cordelia in "King Lear."

As the population ages, home health care has become one of today's fastest growing occupations.

There is nothing more dangerous than texting while driving.