California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

What should a writer avoid when using transitions in narrative essays?

1. Repetitive phrases

2. Clear connections

3. Varied vocabulary

4. Logical flow

The correct answer is: Repetitive phrases

In narrative essays, using transitions effectively is crucial for guiding readers through the story and enhancing the overall clarity. When a writer relies heavily on repetitive phrases for transitions, it can detract from the fluidity and engagement of the narrative. Repetitive phrases may lead to a monotonous reading experience, where the narrative feels predictable and lacks dynamism. Instead, a skilled writer should aim to use varied transitional phrases that contribute to a seamless flow, allowing readers to easily follow the progression of events and ideas without becoming fatigued by sameness. Clear connections, varied vocabulary, and logical flow all play important roles in effective writing. Clear connections help maintain coherence, varied vocabulary keeps the writing interesting and engaging, and logical flow ensures that the narrative progresses in a way that makes sense to the reader. Therefore, avoiding repetitive phrases is essential for achieving a well-crafted narrative.