What is the primary purpose of transitional phrases in writing?

Transitional phrases play a crucial role in writing by linking ideas and providing flow throughout a piece. Their primary purpose is to help guide the reader smoothly from one thought to the next, enhancing coherence and clarity. By using these phrases, writers can highlight relationships between concepts, chronological sequences, contrasts, or additions, which ultimately aids in establishing a logical progression in the text. This seamless connection between ideas allows the reader to follow the writer’s arguments or narrative without feeling lost, ensuring an engaging and comprehensible reading experience.

While other options might suggest actions that could be seen in writing, they do not align with the purpose of transitional phrases. For instance, confusing readers with complex ideas, introducing topics abruptly, or excluding details actively detracts from the effectiveness and clarity of writing rather than enhancing it. Thus, the use of transitional phrases is integral to maintaining unity and flow in written communication.