Signposts

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DIRECT THE AUDIENCE from one point in your speech to the next with signpost words or phrases, such as “similarly” or “on the other hand.” Jonathan Larsen/Veer

Effective speakers make regular use of signposts, key words or phrases within sentences that signify transitions between points. Think of signposts as links or pivot points at which you either connect one point to another (“similarly,” “next,” “once again,”) or move from one point to a related but perhaps opposing or alternative point (“however,” “on the other hand”).

Table 13.1 details various examples of signposts and considers how they function effectively to achieve a specific purpose.

Table :

TABLE 13.1 USEFUL SIGNPOSTS

Source: O’Hair, Stewart, & Rubenstein (2012), p. 189. Adapted with permission.

Function Example
To show comparison Similarly
In the same way
In comparison
To contrast ideas, facts, or data On the other hand
Alternatively
In spite of
To illustrate cause and effect It follows, then, that
Consequently
Therefore
Thus
To indicate explanation For example
In other words
To clarify
To introduce additional examples Another way in which
Just as
Likewise
In a similar fashion
To emphasize significance It’s important to remember that
Above all
Bear in mind
To indicate sequence of time or events First, Second, Third
Finally
First and foremost
Once
Now, Then
Until now
Before, After
Earlier, Later
Primarily
To summarize As we’ve seen
Altogether
Finally
In conclusion