What term describes the author's central thought or chief topic expressed in a word or phrase?

The term "Main Idea" refers to the author's central thought or chief topic that is expressed succinctly in a word or phrase. It captures the essence of what the text is about, providing a clear understanding of the primary message or argument the author is trying to convey. Recognizing the main idea helps readers to focus on the key points of a text and to grasp the overall purpose behind it. This skill is fundamental in literature analysis, allowing readers to engage with the material critically and draw connections to broader themes.

In contrast, other options refer to different aspects of literature. Literary elements include components like plot, character, and setting, which work together to create the narrative structure. Mood pertains to the emotional atmosphere of a piece, influencing how the reader feels while engaging with the text. Literary devices are techniques that authors use to convey meaning or enhance their writing, such as metaphor or imagery. Each of these plays a unique role in literature, but none encapsulate the central idea of a work as directly as the main idea does.