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Preparing for the HESI A2 entrance exam can be daunting, especially when it comes to the reading comprehension section. But fear not! Understanding how to identify supporting details within a passage can significantly boost your score. In this guide, we’ll delve into what supporting details are, provide examples, and equip you with expert tips to ace this part of the test. And hey, stick around till the end—we’ve got a killer HESI A2 reading comprehension study guide waiting for you.

What Exactly Are Supporting Details?

Supporting details are the backbone of a passage, providing evidence, examples, and explanations to bolster the main idea. Think of them as the building blocks that strengthen the author’s argument or narrative. Here’s what you need to know:

Examples of Supporting Details

• Statistics: Numbers and data that lend credibility to the author’s claims. For instance, if the main idea is about the prevalence of smartphone usage, supporting details could include statistics on the percentage of people who own smartphones.
• Examples: Concrete instances or scenarios that illustrate a point. If a passage discusses the benefits of renewable energy, examples might include specific projects or initiatives that have successfully implemented renewable technologies.
• Quotes: Direct quotations from experts, eyewitnesses, or reputable sources that add authority to the author’s argument. These quotes can lend credibility and support to the main idea.
• Facts: Objective statements or observations that provide context or background information. Facts help reinforce the main idea by presenting relevant information in a clear and concise manner.

How to Identify Supporting Details: Expert Tips

Now that you understand what supporting details are, let’s explore some strategies to help you spot them like a pro during the HESI A2 reading comprehension section:

Skim First, Then Dive Deep

Before diving into the passage, take a moment to skim through it quickly. Pay attention to headings, subheadings, and the first and last sentences of paragraphs. This can give you a sense of the passage’s structure and help you anticipate where supporting details might appear.

Look for Key Words and Phrases

Scan the passage for key words and phrases that indicate the presence of supporting details. Words like “for example,” “such as,” “in addition,” or “furthermore” often signal that the author is about to provide additional information or examples to support their argument.

Highlight and Take Notes

As you read through the passage, highlight or underline any information that seems important or relevant. Taking brief notes can also help you keep track of key points and supporting details. Just be mindful not to get bogged down in too much detail—focus on the information that directly supports the main idea.

Pay Attention to Transition Words

Transition words and phrases can provide clues about the relationship between ideas in the passage. Words like “however,” “on the other hand,” and “in contrast” signal shifts in perspective or the introduction of contrasting information, which often indicate the presence of supporting details.

Examples of Identifying Supporting Details in Practice

Let’s put these strategies into action with a couple of examples:

Example 1: Passage About Climate Change

Main Idea: Climate change is having a significant impact on global weather patterns.

Supporting Detail: “According to recent studies, the frequency of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves has increased dramatically in the past decade.”

In this example, the supporting detail provides specific examples (hurricanes, droughts, heatwaves) to illustrate the broader claim about the impact of climate change on weather patterns.

Example 2: Passage About Healthy Eating

Main Idea: Adopting a balanced diet can improve overall health and well-being.

Supporting Detail: “A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals necessary for maintaining optimal health.”

Here, the supporting detail offers a specific example (fruits and vegetables) to support the main idea that a balanced diet is beneficial for health.

Get Ready to Ace the HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Section

Armed with these strategies, you’re well-equipped to tackle the HESI A2 reading comprehension section like a pro. But if you’re still feeling a bit shaky, don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Check out our comprehensive HESI A2 reading comprehension study guide, packed with tips, practice questions, and everything you need to succeed on exam day. With the right preparation, you’ll be on your way to acing the HESI A2 and pursuing your dreams in no time. Happy studying!