Digital SATReading and Writing: Expression of IdeasMedium
A student is writing a research paper on the advancements in quantum computing. She has just detailed the theoretical breakthroughs in qubit stability. She now wants to explain the practical challenges of scaling these systems, emphasizing that despite the theoretical progress, significant hurdles remain. Which transition best captures this relationship?
- ANevertheless, scaling these systems presents significant practical challenges.
- BMoreover, scaling these systems presents practical challenges.
- CIn the same way, scaling these systems presents practical challenges.
- DTherefore, scaling these systems presents practical challenges.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Nevertheless, scaling these systems presents significant practical challenges.
The student wants to highlight that *despite* the theoretical progress, there are still significant practical challenges. 'Nevertheless' effectively conveys this concession or contrast, indicating that the challenges persist even in the face of advancements.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 'Moreover' indicates an addition or further point, implying the challenges are just another aspect, not a contrasting hurdle despite previous progress.
- C. 'In the same way' indicates a comparison or similarity, which is inappropriate here as the ideas are contrasting (progress vs. hurdles).
- D. 'Therefore' indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, suggesting the theoretical breakthroughs *lead to* challenges, which is not the intended meaning.
Concessive Transition
Words or phrases that introduce a statement that admits something, often something that seems to contradict or hinder the main point, but does not ultimately invalidate it.
- Signals that a point is being acknowledged despite a contrary main argument.
- Shows that something is true 'even so' or 'in spite of.'
- Common examples: 'nevertheless,' 'however,' 'even though,' 'although,' 'despite,' 'in spite of.'
Memory trick: Concession means 'giving in' a little, but still holding your ground!