Signal phrases are short phrases that introduce quotation, detail, or summary; they point out to students that an external source is being used.
Why do we use Signal Phrases?
There are three important reasons to use signal phrases:
- To mark boundaries: Signal phrases mark the boundaries between your names and source names. By marking the boundaries, you also provide a smooth transition to the reader between your names and the source.
- To emphasize the source: Signal phrases attract the attention of the author or the source used. In some cases, such as a book review or the use of a well-known author, certain details about the source are important to the reader.
- To avoid plagiarism: All sources should be quoted, and signal phrases are one way to find the source – however, additional quote formatting may be required depending on your quotation style.
We have to choose the right signal phrase and further to know how we plan to use it. Below examples defines the use of signal phrases:
Examples of General Signal Phrase
The following signal phrases work in a variety of situations in your writing, whether you are quoting directly or paraphrasing:
- according to the author this proposition is correct.
- acknowledges/acknowledged. The author acknowledges the fact and acknowledged in past to prove the presence.
- mentions/mentioned. Author mentions about the incident and mentioned in his last fiction.
- observes/observed. An author observes and have observed the culture
- points out / pointed out. Author points out and have pointed out earlier on few improvements.
Signal Phrases Indicating Uncertainty or Opinion
Some signal phrases indicate uncertainty and are opinion-based than the general examples:
- believes/believed. Author believes and have believed the true incident
- cautions/cautioned. Author cautions and have cautioned all characters in his last fiction.
Signal Phrases Indicating Disagreement
Some signal phrases work only for situations.
- denies/denied. Characters denies the presence and have denied the role to accept.
- disputes/disputed. All the disputed disputes can be settled