Signal words are important in a story or essay for the following reasons:
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Prepare Readers for Transitions: They help prepare readers for a transition in time, location, or topic. This guides the reader through the narrative or argument, making it easier to follow the flow of ideas or events.
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Clarify Meaning: They can point out places where a reader might get confused, providing clarification and helping to organize thoughts.
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Enhance Understanding: While encouraging readers to slow down and read carefully may not be their primary function, signal words can prompt readers to pay closer attention to changes in the narrative or shifts in the argument.
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Organize Information: They emphasize the structure of the writing, whether it's detailing a sequence of events, comparing topics, or presenting contrasting ideas, which ultimately enhances the overall understanding of the text.
In summary, the primary function of signal words is to improve the organization and flow of a story or essay, making it easier for readers to follow along.