What Is a Central Idea?

A central idea is the definitive and unifying theme or idea of a story or article. It encompasses all the aspects necessary to create a coherent main idea.

The central idea is typically expressed as a universal truth or theme that is built and supported by the setting and characters in a story. The central idea is typically implied in the narrative through the experiences of the characters, as well as the interactions and conflicts that they face in the story. The events that take place and the character’s thoughts and emotions that occur as a result of these experiences may serve as metaphors or catalysts that reflect the story’s central idea.