Controlling idea How does the central idea support the overall argument expressed in the controlling idea? Both men and women must be educated in order to have the same knowledge. Central idea O It shows the benefits of education for women in future generations. It establishes the idea that women are not the only ones who benefit from equal education. O it illustrates how men can have improved education It demonstrates a negative result of improving women's education. Giving women rights will help both men and women.​