Meaning & use
signposting writing
Last updated
Meaning
noununcountabletechnical
The use of words and phrases in a text to help readers follow the structure and understand the connections between ideas.
Grammar: Uncountable, so it does not take 'a' or a plural form. Say 'signposting writing' or 'the use of signposting writing'.
Patterns
- signposting writing
- use signposting writing
- signposting writing in an essay
Good signposting writing makes an essay much easier to follow.
The teacher praised her signposting writing, especially the clear transitions.
In academic English, signposting writing is essential for coherence.
Common combinations
- effective signposting writing
- Effective signposting writing guides the reader from one point to the next.
- use signposting writing
- You should use signposting writing to link your paragraphs.
- signposting writing in academic essays
- Signposting writing in academic essays helps clarify your argument.
Synonyms and how they differ
- signposting
- A shorter form that is more common; 'signposting writing' emphasizes the writing itself.
- cohesive devices
- A broader term for words that connect ideas; signposting is a specific type of cohesive device.
Word family
- signpost verb
- To indicate the direction or structure of something, especially in speech or writing.
- signposting noun
- The act or result of using signposts.
Commonly confused: signposting writing or sign writing?
signposting writing vs sign writing
'Sign writing' refers to making physical signs, like shop signs. 'Signposting writing' is about guiding readers in a text.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'signposting writing' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Signposting writing' is an uncountable noun phrase meaning the use of words to guide readers. It cannot be used for physical road signs or shop signs, and it is uncountable, so 'are' is wrong.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “signposting writing”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.