And not just because it makes their job easier! But because:
Your examiners, teachers and tutors LOVE it when you use signposting. As an added bonus: any vague phrases ( “several factors”, “these factors”) have been clarified with specifics, and paragraph breaks make the structure obvious! Signposting makes everyone happy – trust me! You can see how the highlighted green signposting language immediately makes the listed causes and examples easily identifiable. Thanks to History On The Net for refreshing my high school history to be able to write these examples… Take a look at the next version of this example, now with signposting – it’s so much easier to understand! So how can we improve this paragraph, and make the structure of our argument crystal clear – simply by adding signposting words?
Signpost words series#
It reads like a series of disjointed information. Take a look at this example of writing without any signposting language. Let me show you the power of using signposting words in your essay writing: Your examiner / teacher won’t get lost, have to re-read a paragraph or two, get frustrated … and dock you marks! All achieved by some simple, well-placed vocab. These are both important things that help your examiner understand your argument as smoothly as possible (great for top marks!). Most importantly, signposting language improves the clarity and readability of your essay. There are plenty of benefits to using signposting words and phrases in your writing!
Did you spot how I used it in the bullet points above?įor a truly top-mark essay, it’s best to plan out where you want to put some signposts to make your essay as streamlined and persuasive as possible! Why bother using signposting words? An example! You probably already use some signposting words and phrases naturally as you write. And secondly, to remind your reader of that structure and show how everything links together.Firstly, to point out the structure of your overall essay or next section / chapter – usually in the introduction.There are two common uses for signposts in your writing: You need to scatter them throughout the path of your essay to show your reader where they are in the discussion and what’s up next – just like the physical signposts that point the way on a hike! Using signposting in your essays is all about adding strategically placed words and phrases to create a clear map of your structure.
Signposting in writing acts just like signposts on a hike! Imagine a handily placed wooden post that proudly proclaims “ You are here! Conclusion: 3 miles“.Įssentially, they stop your reader from getting lost in the forest of your words and arguments. Not sure what I’m talking about? It’s actually pretty simple:
Signpost words how to#
Looking to take your essay to the next level WITHOUT learning a load of complex structures, knotty grammar and fancy vocabulary? It’s simple: start using signposting words and you’ll level up your essays, dissertations and assignments in no time at all!Īnd here’s how to use signposting words to improve your writing in 5 easy steps: First up, what is signposting in writing? Supercharge your studies today with our time-saving, grade-boosting “genius” study tips sheet. Helping half a million students in 175+ countries every year to study smarter, not harder. The Cambridge-educated memory psychologist & study coach on a mission to help YOU ace your exams.
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