Question 217·Easy·Transitions
Many urban planners aim to reduce traffic congestion by encouraging cycling. ______ these planners are expanding networks of protected bike lanes throughout their cities.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, always read the sentences on both sides of the blank and first decide the relationship: are they showing cause and effect, goal and method, example, addition, or contrast? Once you know the relationship, quickly eliminate any choices that clearly signal the wrong type (for example, contrast words when the ideas actually support each other). Then pick the transition that best matches the logical connection you identified, not just what “sounds good” in isolation.
Hints
Check how the ideas are related
Read both sentences together. Ask yourself: does the second sentence go against the first one, or does it support or explain it?
Focus on the planners’ goal and their action
The first sentence tells you what planners want to achieve. The second tells you something they are doing. Decide whether that action helps achieve the goal or contradicts it.
Classify the transition types
Look at the choices and think: which ones show contrast or opposition, and which one connects a goal with an action taken in relation to that goal?
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the first sentence
The first sentence says that many urban planners aim to reduce traffic congestion by encouraging cycling. This is their goal or purpose.
Understand the second sentence
The second sentence says that these planners are expanding networks of protected bike lanes throughout their cities. This is a specific action they are taking.
Ask: Does this action support their goal, or oppose it? Expanding protected bike lanes clearly supports encouraging cycling and reducing traffic congestion.
Decide the logical relationship
Since the second sentence helps explain how planners are trying to reach their goal, the relationship between the sentences is goal → method (purpose and the action taken to achieve it), not contrast or opposition.
Match the relationship to the best transition
Now check the answer choices:
- “Conversely,” signals an opposite or reversed situation.
- “Nevertheless,” signals a contrast or something surprising given what came before.
- “In contrast,” also signals a clear difference or opposition. None of these fit, because the second sentence supports the first.
The only choice that correctly introduces an action taken to work toward the previously stated goal is “To that end,”, so A) To that end, is the best answer.