What is the purpose of a topic-to-support map during drafting?

• A. Plan how each topic connects to evidence.
• B. List all potential topics without connection to evidence.
• C. Focus on listing sources only.
• D. Ignore evidence during planning.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is planning how each topic will be supported. A topic-to-support map helps you connect every claim or topic you plan to cover with the specific evidence that will back it. This creates a clear planning scaffold: you know what you’re asserting for each part of your draft, what evidence will substantiate that point, and how each piece ties to your overall thesis. It also helps you spot gaps early, decide the most effective order for ideas, and anticipate where you’ll need additional sources or data. Because of this, the map keeps your writing focused and persuasive from the ground up.

Other approaches that only list topics without tying them to evidence leave you with disconnected ideas. Concentrating solely on sources without showing how they will support particular points misses the link between claim and backing. Ignoring evidence during planning means you risk drafting with unsubstantiated points.