Why are transition words important in comprehension passages?

Transition words are crucial in comprehension passages because they function as signposts that guide readers through the text. By signaling connections between ideas, these words clarify relationships and enhance the flow of information. This allows readers to understand how each idea relates to the previous one and how it builds towards the next, making the overall message more cohesive. Successfully using transition words can help highlight contrasts, cause-and-effect relationships, and sequences in reasoning, which are essential for grasping the author's intent and comprehending the material extensively.