But we also know that some sentences will be shorter and others longer, so it is upon you to make the right judgment when using paragraph breaks or when splitting sentences.Ĭonsider also using boldface to signal transition, while italics, underlining, and solid caps, keep the reader focused on your piece. The trick around paragraph breaks is to use three to four paragraphs before starting another one. They are mostly ideal in longer essays such as research essays or after major headings like Methodology and Result which tend to get longer. Paragraph breaks and subheadings are also a form of signposting signals that keep readers focused on your essay by informing them when you are starting a new subsection or a new argument. So if you are talking about the same point, the reader will know from the repetition likewise, if you are talking about a different point. Reminding readers of key points, destinations, and what you intend to write is a good orientation technique. Another reason for reminding readers of the destination or key points is it brings them back to your essay just in case their minds wander away.Ĭonsider also repeating complicated points-ones that are hard to comprehend because they may cause controversy or create unnecessary surprises. When you do so, it shows that the point matters and they need to take it into serious account. For example, you can use phrases like “the key point here is.” or “in other words.” or “I had already mentioned earlier that X = Y.”. You can achieve this by reminding your readers of where you are headed, key points, what you have covered, and what is coming. You also need to keep them engaged and motivated to continue reading your essay.
Reiterate key pointsĪs a writer, you can’t stop capturing your readers’ attention. As a result, don’t be afraid to tell readers what your essay is all about before you set off writing the meaty part of it.įor example, in your introduction, you can say, “this essay will discuss three factors affecting the gender pay gap.”. Your chances of having more people read past your essay headline lie in revealing to the reader where the text is heading early on.įailure to do so, other things will distract them or they’ll begin to prejudice. Besides, as little as 20% of readers read past the headline of an article or essay. You have only eight seconds to capture the reader’s attention. Here are six tips to keep in mind when using signposting words, to help you write an essay that stands out.
Signposting the structure of your essay strengthens the presentation of your argument, especially when used in the introduction. It involves using words and phrases that will require the reader much less concentration to understand your point.Īpart from helping the reader to easily follow your work, signposting in an essay makes your work enjoyable to read, as you will sound professional. It shows how each point is connected, the link between paragraphs, what you are discussing, and where you are, so your readers can follow your essay with ease. Signposting gives your essays a certain flow and style that readers love. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what is signposting in an essay and also share 40 signposting words you can use. It is a surefire way to help readers understand your point or the connection between points, guide readers through your essay or remind them when you change direction and of key points. They play an important role in keeping your readers focused on the point of discussion and the overall aim of the essay.Īs a result, signposting in an essay is a technique you must have in your writing skillset. Have you ever read any piece of academic work and come across phrases like “In this essay,” “this essay is about,” or “as we conclude?” These are signposting words or phrases, and we commonly use them in supporting points throughout an essay.Įssays need to have a logical flow and using signposting words can help you achieve that.
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