Which sentence often outlines what to expect in a paragraph?

The correct choice, which identifies the sentence that typically outlines what to expect in a paragraph, is the topic sentence. A topic sentence serves as a guide for the reader, presenting the main idea or point that will be discussed in the paragraph. It sets the stage for the details and information that follow, helping to organize the content and providing a clear focus.

When a reader encounters a topic sentence, they understand the central theme of the paragraph, which allows for better comprehension of the subsequent supporting details. The topic sentence's placement at the beginning of a paragraph is common, as it helps the reader anticipate what is to come.

While the first and concluding sentences can play important roles in a paragraph’s structure, they do not always encapsulate the main idea as effectively as the topic sentence does. The first sentence may introduce the paragraph but doesn't always present the main idea, while the concluding sentence wraps up the discussion, summarizing the information rather than introducing it.