Question 100·Easy·Transitions
Many migratory birds navigate using Earth’s magnetic field. ______ researchers have found that certain proteins in the birds’ eyes may act as tiny compasses, allowing them to “see” magnetic lines.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, first ignore the answer choices and read the sentence(s) to decide the relationship between ideas: addition/support, contrast, cause–effect, example, or time. Once you’ve named the relationship in your own words, eliminate any transitions whose meanings don’t match that relationship (for example, cross out contrast words if there’s no real contrast). Finally, plug the remaining option back into the sentence to check that it sounds natural and accurately reflects how the second idea connects to the first.
Hints
Compare the ideas before and after the blank
Paraphrase both parts: the first sentence states a general fact about how birds navigate; the second reports a research finding about proteins in their eyes. Ask how these two ideas relate.
Decide the relationship: support, contrast, or time?
Ask yourself: Does the research result go against the first sentence, simply describe something happening at the same time, or help explain and support the first sentence?
Use meaning to eliminate choices
Think about which options usually show contrast or a time relationship and cross those out. The remaining option should fit a relationship where the second sentence strengthens the first.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand what each part of the sentence is saying
Read the full sentence without a transition:
“Many migratory birds navigate using Earth’s magnetic field. ___ researchers have found that certain proteins in the birds’ eyes may act as tiny compasses, allowing them to ‘see’ magnetic lines.”
The first sentence makes a general claim about how birds navigate. The second gives a specific scientific finding that helps explain how that navigation might work.
Identify the logical relationship between the two parts
Ask: Does the second part oppose the first, happen just at the same time, or support and explain it?
Here, the research about proteins acting as compasses supports and explains the idea that birds navigate using Earth’s magnetic field. It strengthens the first statement by giving evidence and detail.
Match the relationship to the type of transition
Now think about what each type of transition usually does:
- Some show contrast or exception (a surprising difference from what came before).
- Some show time or simultaneity (things happening at the same time).
- Some show support, emphasis, or confirmation (backing up the previous idea with evidence). Because the second part provides supporting evidence, you need a transition that signals emphasis/confirmation, not contrast or time.
Eliminate wrong choices and select the best match
Check each option:
- “Nevertheless,” introduces a contrast or exception.
- “Meanwhile,” indicates something happening at the same time as something else.
- “In contrast,” also signals a clear difference. None of these fit, because the second sentence is not contrasting with or just happening alongside the first; it is backing it up. The only choice that signals emphasis and strong support for the previous statement is “Indeed,”, so the correct answer is C) Indeed,.