Digital SATReading and Writing: Expression of IdeasEasy
A student is composing a literary analysis of Shakespeare's *Hamlet*. She is discussing Hamlet's indecisiveness and has provided several examples of his procrastination. She now wants to introduce a counter-argument: that Hamlet's delay is not indecisiveness but a calculated strategy. Which transition best introduces this opposing viewpoint?
- AConsequently, Hamlet's delay is a calculated strategy.
- BFor example, Hamlet's delay is a calculated strategy.
- CHowever, some critics argue that Hamlet's delay is a calculated strategy.
- DIn fact, Hamlet's delay is a calculated strategy.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. However, some critics argue that Hamlet's delay is a calculated strategy.
The student is introducing an opposing viewpoint or counter-argument to the idea of Hamlet's indecisiveness. 'However' is a classic transitional word for indicating contrast or concession, making it the most appropriate choice to signal this shift to an alternative interpretation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Consequently' indicates a result or effect, which is not the relationship between the previous point and the new, opposing argument.
- B. 'For example' is used to introduce an illustration or instance, not a contrasting argument.
- D. 'In fact' is used for emphasis or to confirm a preceding statement, not to introduce an opposing view.
Contrastive Transition
Words or phrases that connect ideas by showing a difference, opposition, or concession between them.
- Signals a shift to a conflicting or different idea.
- Used to introduce counter-arguments or alternative perspectives.
- Common examples: 'however,' 'nevertheless,' 'on the other hand,' 'in contrast,' 'conversely.'
Memory trick: When ideas clash, use 'contrast' words to show the fight!