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Sunday, July 21, 2013

Signposting Words

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Signposting is an effective method to help your audience follow what you are saying.

In a previous post, "What is Signposting", the concept of signposting was explained, and several examples were provided. In this post, I will be sharing examples of signpost words, which are words that can be used to connect ideas and sentences.


Signalling Addition - The following words signals addition.
And: We are experiencing cost issues and operational issues.
As well as: We are experiencing cost issues as well as operational issues.
Along with: We experience cost issues along with operational issues.

Signalling Condition - The following words signals a conditional situation.
Except: He usually works hard except when he is stressed.
If: He would have been successful, if only he works hard.

Signalling Contrast - The following words signal contrast.
But: He does not work hard but he earns a lot.
However: He works hard, however he does not earn a lot.
Although:  He works hard, although he does not earn a lot.

Signalling Example - The following words signal examples.
Such as: He has many hobbies, such as jogging and swimming
For example: He has many hobbies; for example jogging and swimming.

Signalling Sequencing - The following words signal a sequence of events.
First: First, I will start by reading the essay, before starting to write.
Before: I need to start preparing before I am ready.

Signalling Cause - The following words signal causality or the cause.
Because: She needs to eat more because she is pregnant.
As: She needs to ear more as she is pregnant.

Signalling Result - The following words signal result or effect.
Therefore: He overeats regularly, therefore he is fat.
So: He is fat, so he needs to try to slim down.


Signposting words are an essential tool in written or verbal communication to help to connect ideas and examples. Do use them regularly to help communicate more clearly.

If you are interested in this post, you might consider the following posts
1) What is Signposting
2) 10 Attention Grabbers for Better Public Speaking
3) Advantages and Disadvantages of Written and Spoken Communication