linking words, structure for an analysis

• • Start with a topic sentence summarizing basic information (author, title) and the core message.

  
  

  Main part:

  • Structure doesn't have to follow the original text but ensure clarity and use linking words like "moreover," "however," "for example," etc.
  • Use reporting words to paraphrase information: neutral verbs for factual descriptions, weak verbs for speculation, and strong verbs for assertive claims.
• Step 1: Reading / Preparation

  • First reading: Skim the text to understand the main message and the type of text.
  • Second reading: Read carefully, identify expected aspects, and underline relevant ones.
  • Divide the text into sections, pay attention to subheadings, and take notes using your own words.
  • Ways to structure the text: headlines for paragraphs, an outline, a mind map, a flowchart, a grid, etc.

  
  

  Step 2: Writing the summary

  • A summary includes an introduction and a main part; a conclusion is usually not needed.
  • Clearly identify the original work: type, title, author, and publication year if mentioned.
  • Cover all important points without minor details, quotations, direct speech, or personal opinions.
  • Ensure a well-structured summary with visual aids and linking words.
  • Write in the present tense, except when referring to past events.
  • Use phrases like "the article claims" to remind the reader it's a summary.

  
  

  Introduction:
• Verbs used in summaries to describe information in factual terms:

  • articulates
  • assumes
  • believes
  • concludes
  • defines
  • demonstrates
  • describes
  • discovers
  • discusses
  • evaluates
  • explains
  • examines
  • finds
  • highlights
  • identifies
  • indicates
  • lists
  • mentions
  • notes
  • observes
  • outlines
  • points out
  • reports
  • reveals
  • shows
  • states
  • studies
  • suggests
  • takes into consideration
  • thinks
  • writes
• Verbs used in summaries to suggest or speculate on a topic:

  • hypothesizes
  • implies
  • intimates
  • poses the view that
  • postulates
  • proposes
  • questions the view that
  • recommends
  • speculates
  • suggests
• Verbs used in summaries to make strong arguments and claims for the main idea:

  • argues
  • asserts
  • challenges
  • claims
  • contends
  • denies
  • emphasizes
  • maintains
  • negates
  • refutes
  • rejects
  • supports the view that
  • strongly counters the view/argument that
  • theorizes
• Words used to show addition in writing:

  • "moreover"
  • "besides"
  • "furthermore"
  • "likewise"
  • "firstly, secondly"
  • "so"
  • "as a consequence"
  • "therefore"
  • "subsequently"
• Words used to show reason in writing:

  • "because (of)"
  • "since"
• Words used to give examples in writing:

  • "for example"
  • "for instance"
  • "such as"
• Words used to show contrast in writing:

  • "on the one hand... on the other hand"
  • "nevertheless"
  • "but"
  • "however"
  • "although"
  • "even though"
  • "despite"
  • "in spite of"
  • "on the contrary"
• Words used to show comparison in writing:

  • "similarly"
  • "likewise"
  • "just as"
  • "compared to/with"
  • "not only... but also"
• Strong Adjectives


  • Astonishing
  • Compelling
  • Controversial
  • Definitive
  • Eloquent
  • Extraordinary
  • Impressive
  • Insightful
  • Intense
  • Notable
  • Profound
  • Resilient
  • Robust
  • Significant
  • Spectacular
  • Striking
  • Substantial
  • Unprecedented
  • Vibrant
  • Vivid
• Strong Verbs


  • Amplify
  • Bolster
  • Challenge
  • Clarify
  • Consolidate
  • Contend
  • Critique
  • Demonstrate
  • Enhance
  • Enrich
  • Evoke
  • Facilitate
  • Foster
  • Galvanize
  • Illuminate
  • Justify
  • Reinforce
  • Reiterate
  • Substantiate
  • Underscore