signpost

(noun)

A particular type of transition in the form of a brief statement that indicates where the speaker is in the speech, such as "first" and "finally," or that calls attention to a key idea, such as "now remember this."

Related Terms

Examples of signpost in the following topics:

  • Types of Transitions

    • Various types of transactions include: transitional phrases, internal previews, internal summaries, and signposts.
    • Many speakers utilize "first, second, third" type numbering to as a signpost to indicate where they are in their speech.
    • Signposts are often the numerical indications of the main body points.
    • Signposts allow an audience to remember the key points and follow along in the speech.
    • Signposts can also be used as questions.

  • Make Connections

    • Make connections among your ideas and with audience interests; use transitions, signposts, internal previews, and summaries when speaking.
    • Connect the important ideas with signposts.
    • Signposts are a particular type of transition in the form of a brief statement that indicates where the speaker is in the speech, such as first and finally.
    • You use signpost transitions to help the audience organize ideas when you number the main points, such as first, second, etc.
    • For example, you might saynow get this, this is really important, or now remember this when you want to signpost the attention of the audience.

  • Hold the Audience's Attention

    • Use signposts, such as "Now get this..." or "Here is the important point, which I want you to remember. "