Some of the words that matter most are the basic ones we use every day, which is to say that understanding text depends on more than comprehension of the big words, meaning the subject matter, evidence, or details. The little words–the transitional words and phrases that signal author intent–bring order, logic, and clarity to a text, facilitating meaning and understanding. To become an amazing reader, then, learn to use transitions to better comprehend how key facts and ideas connect to each other to signal the main idea.
The SAT and ACT both test transitions as explicit content on the Writing and English sections. However, transitions are as or maybe even more important on when tackling test Reading passages and questions. For that reason, we’ve long taught transitions as the first step in learning to comprehend complex passages. With familiarity over time comes new insights, one of which is a greater insight into a certain category of transitional words and phrases.
Transitions are deployed to establish specific logical relationships between ideas and facts. We signal agreement or continuity by using words like and, also, or moreover. When ideas disagree or contrast, however, we can say but, although, or… however.
Another distinct category of transitional words and phrases is used to restate or represent information in such a way to improve the chances that a reader (or listener, as transitions aren’t just used in text) will understand a tricky point. I used to call these COMPARISION cues but will now be using the category of CLARIFICATION.
Authors utilize clarification words and phrases to provide additional opportunities for understanding. Look for four specific applications of clarification in communication:
1. To restate with more detail
EXAMPLES: more precisely, particularly, specifically, universally
2. To restate with less detail
EXAMPLES: broadly speaking, generally
3. To provide an explanatory example, analogy, or comparison
EXAMPLES: as, for example, for instance, like, similarly, to illustrate
4. To compare in some way to other information
EXAMPLES: curiously, interestingly, surprisingly
Of course, some words or phrases can be used in multiple ways. For example, the phrase in other words can introduce either a more specific or a more general restatement of information. But just noticing a clarification transition prepares you to learn more about what you just read rather than receiving additional info.
What are your favorite–or least favorite–clarification words and phrases?
Mike Bergin