Basic Transitions

Estonia is one of the wealthiest nations in the former Soviet bloc, with a thriving economy. _____ Tajikistan is one of the poorest.

• A. Therefore,
• B. For example,
• C. By contrast,
• D. As a result,

Answer: C. “By contrast” is the best answer because it appropriately introduces a contrast between Estonia's wealth and Tajikistan's poverty.

❌ “Therefore” is incorrect because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, suggesting that Estonia's wealth is the reason for Tajikistan's poverty. However, the sentence is presenting a contrast between two countries.

❌ “For example” is incorrect because it is used to introduce a specific instance that supports a general statement. In this case, the sentence is not providing an example of a broader trend but rather highlighting a direct contrast between two countries.

✅ “By contrast” is the best answer because it appropriately introduces a contrast between Estonia's wealth and Tajikistan's poverty.

❌ “As a result” is incorrect because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, suggesting that Estonia's wealth is the reason for Tajikistan's poverty. However, the sentence is presenting a contrast between two countries.

Researchers at the University Medical Center Utrecht have found that scientific papers are using more positive descriptive words than in previous years. _____ they found that the use of words such as "novel," "amazing," and "spectacular" increased ninefold between 1974 and 2015. This trend could potentially skew the perceived importance of scientific findings.

• A. Next,
• B. Therefore,
• C. By contrast,
• D. For example,

Answer: D. “For example” is the correct answer. It is used to introduce a specific instance or evidence that supports the previously stated claim. In this case, the increase in the use of positive descriptive words like "novel," "amazing," and "spectacular" serves as evidence for the trend of using more positive language in scientific papers.

❌ “Next” is incorrect because there is no indication that the passage is describing a sequence of events. Rather, the sentence following the blank is providing specific details about the types of words used and their increasing use over a particular timespan.

❌ “Therefore” is incorrect because it introduces a conclusion or a result derived from a previously stated premise. In this context, the sentence aims to provide an example or evidence rather than arriving at a result based on the previous statement.

❌ “By contrast” is incorrect because it is used to present a contrasting or opposing idea to what has been previously mentioned. Since the sentence provides further support rather than contrast to the initial observation, this choice is not appropriate.

✅ “For example” is the correct answer. It is used to introduce a specific instance or evidence that supports the previously stated claim. In this case, the increase in the use of positive descriptive words like "novel," "amazing," and "spectacular" serves as evidence for the trend of using more positive language in scientific papers.

Madagascar's unique biodiversity has long posed a mystery due to a gap in its fossil record from 66 million to 26,000 years ago. _____ paleontologist Karen Samonds and her team have begun to uncover fossils from this era, such as a 40-million-year-old sea cow, that are leading to new insights into the island's evolutionary history.

• A. For example,
• B. As a result,
• C. Likewise,
• D. However,

Answer: D. “However” is the best answer. "However" introduces a contrast between the previously mentioned gap in Madagascar's fossil record and the recent discoveries that are filling that gap. This choice emphasizes the unexpected nature of finding fossils from this era, despite the long-standing gap in the record.

❌ “For example” is incorrect because it is typically used to provide an example of a previously stated concept or situation, which is not applicable here since no example of the gap itself is provided.

❌ “As a result” is incorrect because it implies a cause-effect relationship that does not exist in the context of these sentences. The discoveries by Karen Samonds and her team are not a direct result of the gap in the fossil record.

❌ “Likewise” is incorrect because it indicates a similarity or continuation of a state or action, which does not fit with introducing new, contrasting information about fossil discoveries after a significant gap.

✅ “However” is the best answer. "However" introduces a contrast between the previously mentioned gap in Madagascar's fossil record and the recent discoveries that are filling that gap. This choice emphasizes the unexpected nature of finding fossils from this era, despite the long-standing gap in the record.

Recognizing faces is something most people do instantly and automatically. _____ some lack this ability due to a condition known as developmental prosopagnosia, or face blindness. Harvard researchers found that the condition may be more common than previously thought, with up to 10 million Americans affected.

• A. For instance,
• B. Nevertheless,
• C. Indeed,
• D. Furthermore,

Answer: B. “Nevertheless” is the best answer because it signals a contrast between the general ability to recognize faces and the fact that some people lack this ability due to prosopagnosia. "Nevertheless" is commonly used to introduce exceptions to a general rule, making it the most logical transition.

❌ “For instance” is incorrect because it introduces a specific example that illustrates a general point. However, the second sentence is not providing an example of face recognition but rather contrasting the general ease of recognizing faces with a condition that makes it difficult.

✅ “Nevertheless” is the best answer because it signals a contrast between the general ability to recognize faces and the fact that some people lack this ability due to prosopagnosia. "Nevertheless" is commonly used to introduce exceptions to a general rule, making it the most logical transition.

❌ “Indeed” is incorrect because it is used to emphasize or reinforce a previous statement. Here, the second sentence does not reinforce the first but instead contrasts with it by introducing an exception.

❌ “Furthermore” is incorrect because it is used to add additional supporting information. However, the second sentence does not extend or elaborate on the first point but rather introduces an exception.

Concerns over the waste generated by the plastic beads used in Mardi Gras celebration necklaces led molecular biologist Naohiro Kato to create an alternative made from microalgae. Production costs are high. Still, Kato believes the appeal of reducing plastic pollution can't be understated. _____ he aims to produce 3,000 of his biodegradable necklaces for the next Mardi Gras.

• A. Additionally,
• B. Nevertheless,
• C. For this reason,
• D. However,

Answer: C. “For this reason” is the best answer because it establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship. Since Kato strongly believes his eco-friendly necklaces will be a popular alternative at the next Mardi Gras, he is motivated to produce 3,000 biodegradable necklaces. This transition effectively connects his motivation with his intended action.

❌ “Additionally” is incorrect because it suggests that the following sentence is adding another point to the discussion. However, the sentence after the blank does not just add information—it explains the result of Kato's belief in reducing plastic pollution.

❌ “Nevertheless” is incorrect because it introduces contrast or contradiction. However, Kato's goal of producing biodegradable necklaces does not contradict the previous statement—it follows logically from his commitment to producing an eco-friendly alternative to plastic beads and thereby reducing plastic waste.

✅ “For this reason” is the best answer because it establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship. Since Kato strongly believes his eco-friendly necklaces will be a popular alternative at the next Mardi Gras, he is motivated to produce 3,000 biodegradable necklaces. This transition effectively connects his motivation with his intended action.

❌ “However” is incorrect because it introduces contrast or contradiction. However, Kato's goal of producing biodegradable necklaces does not contradict the previous statement—it follows logically from his commitment to producing an eco-friendly alternative to plastic beads and thereby reducing plastic waste.

In her book Cue the Sun! The Invention of Reality TV, television critic Emily Nussbaum explores the history of reality television, tracing its origins back to shows like Candid Camera. Nussbaum highlights how reality TV has evolved to incorporate elements of both contrivance and authenticity. _____ she discusses the ethical questions surrounding the genre and the influence it has on its audience.

• A. By contrast,
• B. Initially,
• C. Therefore,
• D. Furthermore,

Answer: D. “Furthermore” is the best answer. It effectively adds additional information to what has already been mentioned, indicating that, beyond exploring the history and evolution of reality TV, Nussbaum also discusses the ethical questions and the genre's influence on its audience. "Furthermore" appropriately connects the related ideas.

❌ “By contrast” is incorrect because it introduces an opposing idea or highlights a difference from the previous statements. In this context, the sentence continues to describe topics that Emily Nussbaum covers in her book, aligning with the earlier points about the history and evolution of reality TV. There is no contrasting information.

❌ “Initially” is incorrect because it indicates the beginning of a sequence or the first point in a series. However, the sentence does not introduce the first topic Nussbaum discusses but rather adds to the list of subjects covered in her book. Using "Initially" would incorrectly suggest that discussing ethical questions is where her exploration starts, which contradicts the previous sentences that already mention other topics.

❌ “Therefore” is incorrect because it signifies a cause-and-effect relationship, suggesting that the preceding information leads directly to the subsequent point. In this case, the discussion of ethical questions is not a direct result of how reality TV has evolved; instead, it is another aspect of her comprehensive examination. There is no cause-and-effect link justifying the use of "Therefore" here.

✅ “Furthermore” is the best answer. It effectively adds additional information to what has already been mentioned, indicating that, beyond exploring the history and evolution of reality TV, Nussbaum also discusses the ethical questions and the genre's influence on its audience. "Furthermore" appropriately connects the related ideas.

William Shakespeare's first published work, the 1593 narrative poem "Venus and Adonis," was not the career-launching success he or publisher Richard Field might have hoped for, and critics disparaged it. _____ they noted that the poem borrowed heavily from Latin poet Ovid and lacked stylistic coherence.

• A. With that in mind,
• B. Namely,
• C. Hence,
• D. Even so,

Answer: B. “Namely” is the best answer because it introduces specific details or examples that clarify the general statement made in the previous sentence. It effectively signals that the second sentence will specify why critics disparaged Venus and Adonis, particularly its heavy borrowing from Ovid and lack of stylistic coherence.

❌ “With that in mind” is incorrect because it suggests that the second sentence follows logically from the first in a way that requires consideration or application of the prior information. However, the second sentence is not instructing the reader to consider something but rather providing specific details about the criticism.

✅ “Namely” is the best answer because it introduces specific details or examples that clarify the general statement made in the previous sentence. It effectively signals that the second sentence will specify why critics disparaged Venus and Adonis, particularly its heavy borrowing from Ovid and lack of stylistic coherence.

❌ “Hence” is incorrect because it implies a cause-and-effect relationship. However, the sentence after the blank does not present a conclusion or result of the first sentence but rather elaborates on the nature of the criticism.

❌ “Even so” is incorrect because it introduces a contrast. The second sentence does not contradict or counter the first; instead, it expands on the reasons behind the initial criticism of Venus and Adonis.

The farming of ostriches in the United States has experienced periodic surges in popularity, but in spite of initial enthusiasm, each boom has inevitably crashed due to lack of sustained demand for ostrich products. _____ ostrich farming in America can be described as a recurring agricultural bubble.

• A. That is,
• B. Admittedly,
• C. Nonetheless,
• D. By the same token,

Answer: A. “That is” is the best answer. Here, "That is" signals that the second sentence rephrases the idea of ostrich farming's boom-and-bust cycle as a "recurring agricultural bubble."

✅ “That is” is the best answer. Here, "That is" signals that the second sentence rephrases the idea of ostrich farming's boom-and-bust cycle as a "recurring agricultural bubble."

❌ “Admittedly” is incorrect because it is used to introduce a concession or acknowledgment of a point before presenting a counterpoint. However, the second sentence does not acknowledge an opposing view—it simply restates the previous idea.

❌ “Nonetheless” is incorrect because it introduces a contrast or an exception. However, the second sentence does not contradict the first.

❌ “By the same token” is incorrect because it is used to introduce a similar idea. However, the second sentence is not adding a new idea; rather it is restating the previous idea.

Harry Partch, an American composer, created unique musical compositions using his own scale system. To perform these unusual works, Partch constructed a variety of innovative musical instruments. _____ he created the Chromelodeon, a re-tuned organ, and the Zymo-xyl, a percussion instrument made from assorted materials such as wine bottles and wood blocks.

• A. In comparison,
• B. For instance,
• C. As a result,
• D. However,

Answer: B. “For instance” is the correct answer. This transitional phrase introduces specific examples that support the previous statement about Partch's innovative musical instruments.

❌ “In comparison” is incorrect because the sentence does not compare Partch's instruments with those of another composer.

✅ “For instance” is the correct answer. This transitional phrase introduces specific examples that support the previous statement about Partch's innovative musical instruments.

❌ “As a result” is incorrect. The sentence lists examples of musical instruments Partch constructed; it does not present an effect of the fact that he constructed a variety of musical instruments.

❌ “However” is incorrect because the sentence does not present a contrast or contradiction to the previous statement about Partch's creation of instruments.

"Back-Water Blues," a song recorded in 1927 by blues artist Bessie Smith, is widely associated with the 1927 Mississippi River flood. _____ research reveals that the song more likely refers to a 1926 flood in Nashville, Tennessee.

• A. That is,
• B. However,
• C. Furthermore,
• D. Indeed,

Answer: B. “However” is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the information in this sentence — research indicating that the song refers to a different flood — presents a contradiction to the widely held belief about its association with the 1927 Mississippi River flood.

❌ “That is” is incorrect because it suggests a restatement or clarification of the previous information. However, the information after the blank challenges rather than clarifies the association with the Mississippi River flood.

✅ “However” is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the information in this sentence — research indicating that the song refers to a different flood — presents a contradiction to the widely held belief about its association with the 1927 Mississippi River flood.

❌ “Furthermore” is incorrect because it implies additional support for the previous statement. However, the new information contradicts the previous belief about which flood is being referred to.

❌ “Indeed” is incorrect because it is used to emphasize a point that has just been made or to introduce an agreement with the previous statement. Here, the new information about which flood is being referred to does not reinforce but rather corrects the previous association.

The Bouba/Kiki effect is a psychological phenomenon in which people associate the nonsense word "bouba" with rounded shapes and "kiki" with spiky shapes. Discovered in the 1920s, this effect is prevalent across various cultures and languages. _____ studies show that 95% to 98% of English and Tamil speakers associate "bouba" with a curvy shape and "kiki" with a jagged one.

• A. At any rate,
• B. In addition,
• C. Indeed,
• D. Similarly,

Answer: C. “Indeed” is the best answer because it serves to affirm and strengthen the previous information about the Bouba/Kiki effect. It is used here to confirm the extensive prevalence of this effect as demonstrated through the high percentage of English and Tamil speakers showing the same associative patterns, effectively reinforcing the initial description of the effect's impact across cultures.

❌ “At any rate” is incorrect because it is typically used to dismiss the previous statements or to change the subject, which is not appropriate here as the sentence after the blank is reinforcing the prior claim about the Bouba/Kiki effect.

❌ “In addition” is inappropriate as it implies the introduction of new information. However, the sentence following is emphasizing the extent of the effect previously described, rather than adding new information.

✅ “Indeed” is the best answer because it serves to affirm and strengthen the previous information about the Bouba/Kiki effect. It is used here to confirm the extensive prevalence of this effect as demonstrated through the high percentage of English and Tamil speakers showing the same associative patterns, effectively reinforcing the initial description of the effect's impact across cultures.

❌ “Similarly” is incorrect because it suggests a comparison or parallel example, which is not being introduced here. The sentence is continuing the discussion on the same psychological phenomenon, not comparing it to another.

Florence Price, the first African American woman to gain recognition as a symphonic composer, made significant contributions to music. Her compositions, although rooted in the European classical tradition, also — and uniquely — incorporate elements of African American folk music. _____ Price's work represents a novel blend of musical traditions.

• A. Moreover,
• B. For example,
• C. However,
• D. In other words,

Answer: D. “In other words” is the best answer because it serves to rephrase and clarify the unique aspect of Price's compositions mentioned earlier. It underscores that the integration of European classical elements and African American folk music into her work creates a new and distinct musical synthesis.

❌ “Moreover” is incorrect. It is used to add additional information that aligns with what was previously stated. However, in this case, the phrase following does not add new information about Price's compositions but restates the previous description for emphasis and clarity.

❌ “For example” is incorrect because it suggests the introduction of a specific instance or example that illustrates a general statement, but the subsequent text is not presenting an example; rather, it clarifies the nature of her compositions.

❌ “However” is incorrect as it typically introduces a contrast or contradiction, which is not present in this context. The text following this transition does not present a contrasting idea but rather elaborates on the information already provided.

✅ “In other words” is the best answer because it serves to rephrase and clarify the unique aspect of Price's compositions mentioned earlier. It underscores that the integration of European classical elements and African American folk music into her work creates a new and distinct musical synthesis.

Medieval gaming pieces, including a well-preserved chess piece, have been unearthed in a recently discovered castle in southern Germany. The pieces, carved from antlers, provide insights into leisure activities dating back nearly a millennium. They bear unmistakable signs of wear, consistent with having been used in chess games. _____ researchers suggest that they weren't merely decorative.

• A. For instance,
• B. Nevertheless,
• C. Likewise,
• D. Therefore,

Answer: D. “Therefore” is the best answer as it logically introduces a conclusion based on the observed evidence. The wear on the chess pieces suggests they were frequently used in games, leading to the conclusion that these were functional game pieces, not just decorative objects.

❌ “For instance” is incorrect because it is typically used to introduce a specific example or instance, which is not necessary here as the final sentence is making a conclusion based on evidence in the previous sentence.

❌ “Nevertheless” is incorrect because it introduces a contrast or exception, which does not align with the continuation and conclusion based on the information given about the wear on the chess pieces (which suggests they were used — and not just ornaments or decorations).

❌ “Likewise” is incorrect because it suggests a similarity with previously mentioned facts, which isn't the purpose here; the intent is to draw a conclusion from the evidence.

✅ “Therefore” is the best answer as it logically introduces a conclusion based on the observed evidence. The wear on the chess pieces suggests they were frequently used in games, leading to the conclusion that these were functional game pieces, not just decorative objects.

Psychology doctoral student Megan Lambert and her team observed the greater vasa parrot using pebbles to grind seashells into calcium-rich powder at the Lincolnshire Wildlife Park. _____ the parrots used the pebbles to break the shells into more manageable pieces or dust, a tool-using behavior previously unseen in any species apart from humans.

• A. For this reason,
• B. On the other hand,
• C. Specifically,
• D. Afterwards,

Answer: C. “Specifically” is the best answer because it provides detailed information about how the parrots used the pebbles, adding clarity and precision to the initial observation. This transition helps to narrow the focus to the particular tool-using behavior observed.

❌ “For this reason” is incorrect because it implies a conclusion or result based on the previous statement. Here, the context requires further explanation and specifics rather than a conclusion.

❌ “On the other hand” is inappropriate as it introduces a contrast or alternative perspective, which is not the case here. The sentence is providing additional detail rather than contrasting information.

✅ “Specifically” is the best answer because it provides detailed information about how the parrots used the pebbles, adding clarity and precision to the initial observation. This transition helps to narrow the focus to the particular tool-using behavior observed.

❌ “Afterwards” is also incorrect. It suggests a sequence of events, which does not fit the context of providing specific details about the observation.

The MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa's Karoo region has significantly advanced our understanding of the cosmos through its various discoveries, such as magnetic filaments surrounding the supermassive black hole at the heart of the Milky Way. _____ the project has fostered scientific collaboration and nurtured local talent, positioning Africa as a leader in astronomical research.

• A. However,
• B. As a result,
• C. Furthermore,
• D. For example,

Answer: C. “Furthermore” is the best answer because it indicates that the information following it is an addition to the previously mentioned benefits of the MeerKAT radio telescope. It logically suggests that, in addition to advancing cosmological knowledge, the MeerKAT project also has significant socio-scientific impacts, thus broadening the scope of its contributions.

❌ “However” is incorrect because it typically introduces a contrast or contradiction, which is not applicable here as the subsequent information complements rather than contradicts the initial statement.

❌ “As a result” is incorrect as it implies a direct cause-effect relationship, which does not fit the context. The nurturing of talent and fostering of collaboration are not presented as direct consequences of the discoveries mentioned.

✅ “Furthermore” is the best answer because it indicates that the information following it is an addition to the previously mentioned benefits of the MeerKAT radio telescope. It logically suggests that, in addition to advancing cosmological knowledge, the MeerKAT project also has significant socio-scientific impacts, thus broadening the scope of its contributions.

❌ “For example” is incorrect as it is used to introduce a specific instance or illustration of a general idea, but the text after the blank continues to describe additional broad outcomes of the MeerKAT project, rather than providing an example of the initial claim about discoveries.

Introduced to the Galápagos in the 1960s by humans, parasitic flies are threatening to drive Darwin's finches, specifically Geospiza fortis, or the medium ground finch, to extinction. _____ researchers predict the finches could be extinct within the century due to the flies. However, if nest fly infestations were reduced by just 40%, the birds could survive.

• A. Indeed,
• B. Nevertheless,
• C. Afterward,
• D. That is,

Answer: A. “Indeed” is the best answer because it reinforces the preceding statement about the severe threat posed by the parasitic flies. It is used to agree with and emphasize the dire prediction made by researchers, effectively intensifying the concern expressed in the previous sentence.

✅ “Indeed” is the best answer because it reinforces the preceding statement about the severe threat posed by the parasitic flies. It is used to agree with and emphasize the dire prediction made by researchers, effectively intensifying the concern expressed in the previous sentence.

❌ “Nevertheless” is incorrect because it introduces a contrast or an exception to the previous information, but the sentence following is a direct reinforcement of the extinction threat, not a contrast to it.

❌ “Afterward” is inappropriate as it suggests a chronological sequence, which does not fit the context here. The sentence is elaborating on the threat rather than describing events that occur later.

❌ “That is” is incorrect because it is used for clarification or rephrasing, but the subsequent information is adding a new, though related, point about the extinction risk (when precisely the extinction may occur), not clarifying the previous one.