Why Use Signal Phrases and Attributive Tags?

Signal phrases and attributive tags are essential tools for academic writers, as they enable clear attribution of textual evidence to its original author while maintaining the flow of an essay. In this article, we will explore the importance of using signal phrases and provide examples of strong signal phrase verbs to help you effectively integrate quotations and paraphrases into your writing.

The Importance of Varying Signal Phrases

It is crucial to vary signal phrase verbs throughout your essay to avoid repetition and maintain reader interest. Using the same verb, such as 'states,' repeatedly can make your writing seem monotonous and unengaging. Instead, use a range of active verbs, such as 'continues,' 'observes,' or 'argues,' to add variety to your signal phrases.

Examples of Strong Signal Phrase Verbs

Let's take a look at some examples of strong signal phrase verbs from the work of Ellen J. Langer:

* She then states, “To pay constant, fixed attention to a thought or an image may be a kind of oxymoron” (39).

* Langer continues, “Thus, for students who have trouble paying attention the problem may be that they are following the wrong instructions” (39).

* Langer observes, “For us to pay attention to something for any amount of time, the image must be varied” (39).

APA and MLA Guidelines for Signal Phrases

When writing an essay, it is essential to follow the guidelines set by your chosen citation style. In APA style, signal phrases typically refer to authors by their last name only or with a pronoun when it is clear who is being referred to. In contrast, MLA papers require first names to be included in the signal phrase for authors cited for the first time.

In most cases, a signal phrase should contain only the last name of the author or authors of the source text. This helps to maintain consistency and avoid unnecessary information. Additionally, APA style guidelines recommend avoiding gender-specific pronouns whenever possible.

Signal phrases are an essential component of academic writing, as they enable clear attribution of textual evidence while maintaining the flow of an essay. By using a range of active verbs and following citation style guidelines, you can effectively integrate quotations and paraphrases into your writing. Remember, the key to successful signal phrases is to make them smooth and unobtrusive, allowing the reader to focus on the ideas being presented rather than the attribution itself.

Signal phrases examples list