When your reader says something like: I couldn’t tell where you were going.
To understand what you write, readers need to be able to do 2 things:
- See where they’re going
- Connect new information to what they already know.
Keeping this in mind can help you to create a more reader-friendly text.
Give your reader a map
Clearly marked paragraphs of one idea each gives your reader a visual road map of the ideas in your paper. Click here to find out more about creating good paragraphs.
Create a breadcrumb trail
Use paragraph transitions that recap where you’ve been and show logical connection with what the reader already knows.
In this example, the writer connects a new idea to one that has already been presented:
While many students are concerned about choosing healthy meals, a visit to the cafeteria shows that the healthiest choices are not winding up on their trays.
Click here to find out more about creating good paragraph transitions.