What are signal words used for in writing?

Signal words serve a crucial role in guiding readers through a text by alerting them to changes in ideas, topics, or sections. These words help create a roadmap of the content and can indicate transitions between points, point out contrasts, provide examples, or highlight conclusions. For example, words like "however," "furthermore," and "for instance" signal a shift in the discussion or introduce supporting details that are essential for understanding the flow of the argument or narrative.

In contrast, summarizing the main points involves condensing information rather than indicating shifts, which is different from the purpose of signal words. Adding embellishments and style pertains to enhancing writing but doesn’t directly relate to the functional role of guiding readers through the text. Marking the beginning of a paragraph is more about formatting or structural organization rather than the transitional clarity that signal words provide. Thus, the use of signal words is fundamental for coherence and comprehension in writing.