What is the function of transition words in writing?

• A. To connect ideas and guide the reader through the argument
• B. To indicate sequence
• C. To show cause and effect
• D. To introduce evidence

Answer: (A)

Transition words connect ideas and guide the reader through the argument. They act like signposts that show how one sentence relates to the next, helping to weave sentences and paragraphs into a coherent flow. By signaling additions, sequence, cause and effect, or presenting evidence, they keep the reader oriented and the reasoning clear. While some transitions specifically indicate order or cause and effect, those are just particular ways to connect ideas; the core function is to link ideas and steer the reader through the writer’s reasoning.