Question 129·Hard·Transitions
Sequencing the genome of the axolotl, a salamander capable of regenerating entire limbs, has been hailed as a milestone in regenerative biology. ______ researchers remain uncertain how to translate the axolotl's genetic mechanisms into therapies for humans.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, always read the full sentence (and, if needed, the surrounding ones) to determine the exact relationship between the ideas: contrast, cause-effect, example, addition, or clarification. Label that relationship in your own words, then quickly match it to the answer choice whose typical function (contrast, example, etc.) fits; eliminate any option whose meaning does not match the logical flow, even if it sounds smooth. This keeps you from guessing based on sound alone and saves time.
Hints
Check the tone of each clause
Look at the part before the blank and the part after it. Is each part positive, negative, or mixed in tone, and do they support each other or push in different directions?
Decide the logical relationship
Ask yourself: Is the second part a result of the first, an example of it, something similar to it, or something that qualifies or pushes back against it?
Eliminate mismatched transition types
Once you know the relationship, cross out any answer choices that show the wrong type of connection, such as cause-and-effect or example, if those do not match what the sentence is doing.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the relationship between the two parts of the sentence
Read the sentence with the blank covered:
"Sequencing the genome of the axolotl ... has been hailed as a milestone in regenerative biology. ______ researchers remain uncertain how to translate the axolotl's genetic mechanisms into therapies for humans."
The first part is very positive (a milestone). The second part introduces a problem or limitation (researchers are uncertain). That means the second idea is in tension with or contrasts with the first.
Identify what each transition word usually shows
Now think about what kind of relationship each answer choice normally introduces:
- "Therefore," usually shows cause and effect (a result or consequence).
- "For example," usually introduces a specific instance or illustration of the previous idea.
- "Likewise," usually shows similarity or adds a parallel point.
- One option in the list signals a contrast between what came before and what follows.
We need the option that fits a contrast between a celebrated achievement and remaining uncertainty.
Match the needed relationship to the correct transition
Because the sentence moves from a celebrated success to ongoing uncertainty, the transition must signal “despite that” or “even so”—a contrast between good news and a remaining problem.
Among the choices, only "Still," has this contrasting meaning, so the completed sentence should read:
"Sequencing the genome of the axolotl ... has been hailed as a milestone in regenerative biology. Still, researchers remain uncertain how to translate the axolotl's genetic mechanisms into therapies for humans."