Question 93·Hard·Transitions
Lingering just beyond the edges of Saturn’s bright rings is an elusive structure known as the Phoebe ring. Astronomers long suspected its existence because of unexplained dust patterns around the planet. ______ a recent survey using NASA’s infrared telescope confirmed that the ring extends millions of miles into space, dwarfing Saturn’s better-known neighbors.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, ignore the answer choices at first and focus on the logical relationship between the connected sentences or clauses: Are you seeing contrast, similarity, example, emphasis, cause-and-effect, or sequence? Paraphrase each sentence in simple terms to clarify that relationship. Then, classify each answer choice by its usual function (contrast like “however,” example like “for instance,” result like “consequently,” emphasis/confirmation like “indeed”). Eliminate any choice whose function doesn’t match the relationship you identified, and choose the one remaining word or phrase that fits the logic of the passage, not just what “sounds good.”
Hints
Focus on the logical connection
Ask yourself: Does the second sentence go against the first, support it, give an example of it, or show a result of it?
Paraphrase the two ideas
Put both sentences into simple language: astronomers suspected something, and then a survey confirmed it. Think about what kind of transition links a suspicion to later confirmation.
Match meanings, not just sound
Don’t pick the word that “sounds good.” Instead, recall what each option usually does in writing: one shows contrast, one gives an example, one emphasizes/backs up, and one shows a result. Then see which function you actually need here.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the relationship between the two sentences
First, restate the ideas in your own words:
- Sentence 1: Astronomers suspected the Phoebe ring existed because of some dust patterns.
- Sentence 2: A recent survey confirmed the ring exists and is huge.
So the second sentence is not disagreeing with the first or giving a random detail. It is backing up and strengthening what was suspected earlier with solid evidence.
Identify what kind of transition is needed
Ask: How does a confirmation relate to a prior suspicion?
- It does not show a contrast (the new information doesn’t go against the old idea).
- It is not just an example of the earlier point.
- It is not a result that follows as a consequence described in the first sentence.
- It does strongly support and emphasize that the earlier suspicion was right.
So you need a transition that signals emphasis/confirmation of the earlier statement.
Match each option to its function and eliminate mismatches
Now connect each choice to its usual meaning and see if it fits the relationship you just identified:
- However, usually signals contrast or an opposing point.
- For instance, introduces a specific example of something just mentioned.
- Consequently, shows a result or effect of the previous statement.
- Indeed, emphasizes or confirms that what was just said is true or even more true than it seemed.
Because the second sentence is confirming and emphasizing the earlier suspicion, eliminate any choice that shows contrast (However,), a mere example (For instance,), or a result (Consequently,).
Choose the transition that shows confirmation/emphasis
After eliminating the options that show contrast, example, or cause-and-effect, the only transition that correctly signals confirmation and emphasis is “Indeed,”. This makes the completed text:
“...Astronomers long suspected its existence because of unexplained dust patterns around the planet. Indeed, a recent survey using NASA’s infrared telescope confirmed that the ring extends millions of miles into space, dwarfing Saturn’s better-known neighbors.”