Here's a breakdown of why:
* Switchback words signal shifts: These words, often called transition words or conjunctions, act like signposts within the text. They tell you when the author is moving from one idea to another, introducing a contrast, providing an example, or offering a different perspective.
* Important for comprehension: Recognizing these shifts helps you understand the passage's structure and the author's intent. It allows you to follow the flow of ideas and avoid getting lost in details.
* Essential for test questions: Many test questions are designed to assess your understanding of the main idea, author's purpose, or relationships between different parts of the text. Spotting switchback words can give you valuable clues about how to answer these questions accurately.
Examples of Switchback Words:
* Contrast: however, but, although, on the other hand, nevertheless
* Addition: also, furthermore, moreover, in addition
* Cause and Effect: therefore, consequently, thus, as a result
* Exemplification: for example, for instance, such as
* Clarification: in other words, that is, to put it another way
By circling switchback words, you actively engage with the text and improve your comprehension, leading to better performance on tests.