Signal Verbs: The Verbs that Guide Your Reader
Signal verbs are action verbs that indicate the relationship between the information in a sentence and the source of that information. They act as signposts for your reader, telling them how to interpret the information you're presenting.
Here's a breakdown:
What do they do?
* Introduce direct quotes: They tell your reader what the source is *doing* with the information. Examples: *said*, *argued*, *explained*, *claimed*, *reported*, *believed*.
* Introduce paraphrases or summaries: They signal that you're summarizing or rephrasing the source's ideas. Examples: *stated*, *suggested*, *noted*, *observed*, *emphasized*, *maintained*.
* Introduce factual information: They indicate that the information is objective and based on research or evidence. Examples: *found*, *discovered*, *determined*, *concluded*, *demonstrated*, *showed*.
Why are they important?
* Clarity: They make your writing clear and concise, avoiding confusion about the source's role in the information.
* Credibility: They demonstrate that you are accurately representing the source's ideas and opinions.
* Engagement: They add variety to your writing, preventing it from becoming repetitive.
Example:
Weak: Researchers found that exercise can improve mood.
Strong: Researchers discovered that exercise can improve mood.
In the strong sentence, the signal verbs *discovered* and *improve* clarify the relationship between the researchers and the findings. They also add a sense of action and engagement to the sentence.
Using signal verbs effectively:
* Choose the right verb: Select a verb that accurately reflects the source's intent.
* Avoid overuse: Vary your signal verbs to keep your writing interesting and engaging.
* Be consistent: Use signal verbs consistently throughout your writing to maintain clarity.
By using signal verbs effectively, you can strengthen your writing, make it more persuasive, and increase its credibility.