- Choose the transition that best signals the concession in the second clause.
Answer: nevertheless
When you encounter transition word questions, focus on the logical relationship between the two clauses. Here, the passage presents contrasting ideas: residents generally supported solar panels, but some had concerns about costs. This creates a concession relationship where the second clause acknowledges an opposing viewpoint or limitation.
The correct answer is A) "nevertheless" because it properly signals this concession. "Nevertheless" means "despite what was just stated" or "even so," which perfectly captures how some residents had concerns despite the overall support. This transition acknowledges that while most people favored the solar panels, there was still opposition based on financial worries.
Let's examine why the other options don't work. B) "furthermore" adds information in the same direction as the first clause, suggesting the cost concerns would strengthen support rather than contrast with it. C) "thereafter" indicates a time sequence, but this passage isn't about events happening in chronological order—it's about simultaneous but opposing viewpoints. D) "as a result" shows cause and effect, implying the cost worries were caused by the support, which doesn't match the intended meaning.
When you see contrasting ideas like this on the GED, look for concession transitions such as "nevertheless," "however," "nonetheless," or "still." These words signal that the writer is acknowledging a counterpoint while maintaining their main position. Practice identifying whether clauses agree, disagree, show cause and effect, or follow a time sequence—this will help you choose the right transition every time.
- Which transition best introduces the alternative solution proposed by the environmental groups?
Answer: instead
When you encounter transition word questions on the GED, focus on the logical relationship between ideas. Transitions act as bridges that show how one thought connects to the next, so you need to identify what type of connection the author is making.
In this passage, environmental groups first present a criticism (the highway would destroy habitat), then offer a different approach (invest in public transportation instead). This creates a contrast where the second idea replaces or substitutes for the first idea.
The word "instead" (A) perfectly captures this replacement relationship. It signals that rather than building the destructive highway, the groups propose an alternative solution. This transition clearly shows the environmental groups are rejecting one option in favor of another.
Looking at the incorrect choices: "Also" (B) would suggest the groups want both the highway AND public transportation, which contradicts their opposition to the highway project. "Finally" (C) implies this is the last point in a sequence, but there's no series of points being made here—just one criticism followed by one alternative. "Indeed" (D) would reinforce or emphasize the previous point about habitat destruction, but the sentence actually shifts to proposing a solution, not dwelling on the problem.
Remember that transition words must match the logical flow of ideas. When you see one group opposing a plan and then suggesting something different, look for transitions that signal alternatives or contrasts—words like "instead," "rather," or "alternatively" often fit these situations better than additive transitions like "also" or emphatic ones like "indeed."
- Which word or phrase best connects the two sentences by highlighting the conflict in the decision-making process?
Answer: However
This question tests your ability to identify transition words that show contrast or conflict between two ideas. When you encounter questions about connecting sentences, look for the logical relationship between the ideas being presented.
The passage presents two contrasting viewpoints: small business owners avoid cybersecurity software because of high costs, but then explains that the consequences of not having protection are actually much more expensive. This creates a clear conflict between short-term thinking (avoiding upfront costs) and long-term reality (potentially devastating losses).
"However" (C) is correct because it's a contrast transition that highlights this conflict. It signals that the second sentence presents information that contradicts or challenges the logic in the first sentence. The word emphasizes the irony that while owners worry about initial costs, they're actually risking much greater expenses.
Choice A, "Similarly," is wrong because it would suggest the two ideas support each other, when they actually conflict. Choice B, "For instance," would incorrectly indicate that the second sentence is providing an example of the first, rather than contrasting with it. Choice D, "Consequently," would imply that the data breach losses are a result of being hesitant to invest, but the passage is comparing potential outcomes, not describing a cause-and-effect sequence.
Study tip: When choosing transitions, identify the relationship first: Are the ideas similar, contrasting, or showing cause-and-effect? Contrast words like "however," "nevertheless," and "on the other hand" are common on the GED when passages present conflicting perspectives or ironic situations.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Conversely
This question tests your ability to identify transition words that show relationships between contrasting ideas. When you see two sentences presenting different viewpoints or opposing theories, you need to choose a transition that signals this contrast.
The passage presents two different economic theories: one suggesting that tax cuts stimulate the economy, and another arguing that government infrastructure spending is more effective. These are opposing approaches to economic stimulus, so you need a transition word that highlights this contrast.
Choice C, "Conversely," is correct because it specifically indicates that the second idea is the opposite of or contrary to the first. It's the perfect transition to introduce an alternative theory that contradicts the initial one.
Choice A, "Specifically," suggests you're about to provide a detailed example or clarification of the first theory, not introduce a competing one. This would incorrectly imply the second sentence supports the first.
Choice B, "Consequently," indicates cause and effect, suggesting the second theory results from the first. This makes no logical sense since these are independent, competing theories.
Choice D, "Indeed," shows agreement or emphasis, implying the second theory supports or reinforces the first. This contradicts the fact that these theories propose different solutions.
When you encounter passages presenting multiple viewpoints or theories, look for contrast signals in the content. Words like "another," "different," or "more effective" often hint that you need a transition showing opposition or comparison, such as "conversely," "however," or "on the other hand."
- Choose the transition that best connects the definition in the first clause with the implication in the second.
Answer: accordingly
When you encounter transition word questions on the GED, focus on the logical relationship between the two clauses. Look at what the first clause establishes and how the second clause relates to it.
The first clause defines lightning as "a natural electrical discharge" — this is a factual, neutral statement. The second clause states that lightning "poses significant risks to hikers" — this presents a logical consequence or result of what lightning is. The transition word must show this cause-and-effect relationship.
Choice A, "accordingly," is correct because it signals that the second clause follows logically from the first. Since lightning is an electrical discharge (cause), it accordingly poses risks (effect). This transition shows the natural progression from definition to implication.
Choice B, "however," creates contrast or opposition between clauses, but there's no contradiction here — the risk follows naturally from lightning being electrical, so this creates an illogical relationship.
Choice C, "likewise," indicates similarity or comparison, suggesting the second clause is another example like the first. But defining lightning and explaining its risks aren't parallel ideas — one leads to the other.
Choice D, "for instance," introduces a specific example of a broader concept. Here, the risk to hikers isn't an example of lightning being electrical; it's a consequence of that fact.
Study tip: For transition questions, identify the logical relationship first (cause-effect, contrast, similarity, example), then match the transition word to that relationship. "Accordingly," "therefore," and "consequently" all signal cause-and-effect relationships.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: As a result
This question tests your understanding of transitional words and phrases that show logical relationships between ideas. When you encounter sentence completion questions like this, look carefully at how the two parts of the sentence relate to each other.
The passage describes a cause-and-effect relationship: deforestation (removing trees that held soil) has created a consequence (increased susceptibility to mudslides). The missing transition word needs to signal that the second sentence is a direct result of the first.
Choice C, "As a result," is correct because it explicitly indicates that the mudslide problem is a consequence of the deforestation. This transition perfectly captures the logical flow from cause (tree removal) to effect (mudslide danger).
Choice A, "On the contrary," signals opposition or contradiction, which doesn't fit since the mudslide problem doesn't contradict the deforestation—it's caused by it. Choice B, "For instance," introduces an example, but mudslides aren't an example of deforestation; they're a consequence of it. Choice D, "In addition," suggests you're adding similar or related information, but again, mudslides aren't additional information about deforestation—they're the result of it.
When tackling transition questions, always identify the relationship between the ideas first: Are they cause-and-effect? Contrasting? Examples? Additional points? Once you determine the logical connection, choose the transition that explicitly signals that relationship. Cause-and-effect relationships are common on the GED, so memorize key phrases like "as a result," "therefore," and "consequently."
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Nonetheless
When you encounter a sentence with a blank followed by a comma, you're dealing with transition words or phrases that show the relationship between ideas. The key is identifying whether the ideas connect in the same direction (agreement) or opposite directions (contrast).
Looking at this sentence, notice the contrast: the team had advantages (relentless practice, experienced players) but still lost to a "younger, less experienced opponent." This sets up a contradiction between what you'd expect to happen and what actually occurred, so you need a transition word that signals contrast or contradiction.
Nonetheless (D) is correct because it means "in spite of" or "nevertheless." It perfectly captures the unexpected nature of the defeat despite the team's apparent advantages. This word signals that the outcome contradicts what the first part of the sentence would lead you to expect.
Thus (A) is wrong because it indicates a logical result or consequence. Using "thus" would suggest the defeat was expected based on their practice and experience, which contradicts the sentence's meaning.
Moreover (B) is incorrect because it adds supporting information in the same direction. It would imply the defeat somehow supports or adds to their advantages, which makes no logical sense.
Specifically (C) fails because it introduces a particular example or clarification. The defeat isn't a specific example of their practice and experience—it's the opposite outcome.
Study tip: When choosing transition words, first identify whether the sentence shows agreement (same direction) or disagreement (opposite direction) between its parts. Contrast words like "nonetheless," "however," and "nevertheless" signal unexpected or contradictory relationships.
- Which transition best connects the final sentence to the preceding ideas by showing a parallel relationship?
Answer: Similarly
When you encounter transition questions on the GED, focus on the logical relationship between ideas. Transitions act as bridges, showing readers how sentences connect to each other.
In this passage, each sentence follows the same pattern: it identifies a food group and explains its specific benefit. The first sentence introduces the topic, then "Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, while whole grains offer fiber." The final sentence continues this pattern with "lean proteins are crucial for muscle repair and growth."
Choice C, "Similarly," is correct because it signals that the final sentence parallels the structure and purpose of the previous sentences. All three statements present different food groups with their respective benefits, making this a parallel relationship.
Choice A, "On the other hand," indicates contrast or opposition, which doesn't fit since lean proteins aren't being contrasted with fruits, vegetables, or grains—they're being added as another important component. Choice B, "For instance," suggests that lean proteins are an example of fruits, vegetables, or grains, which is factually incorrect. Choice D, "In conclusion," signals that you're summarizing or ending your argument, but this sentence introduces new information about proteins rather than summarizing what came before.
Study tip: Look for patterns in the surrounding sentences. When each sentence follows the same structure (food group + benefit), choose transitions that emphasize similarity or continuation. Words like "similarly," "likewise," "additionally," or "furthermore" often work well in these parallel structures.
- Identify the transition that indicates the second clause provides precise details of the policy.
Answer: specifically
When you encounter questions about transitions between clauses, focus on the logical relationship being established. The key is understanding what role the second clause plays in relation to the first.
Looking at this passage, the first clause states a general policy goal (reducing plastic waste), while the second clause gives concrete examples of how this goal is achieved (banning single-use bags and encouraging biodegradable alternatives). This is a relationship where the second part provides specific details or examples of the broader concept mentioned first.
Choice A, "specifically," is correct because it signals that what follows will give precise details or examples of what was just mentioned generally. The transition perfectly connects the broad policy intention with its specific implementation methods.
Choice B, "conversely," indicates contrast or opposition, which doesn't fit since both clauses support the same environmental goal rather than presenting opposing ideas. Choice C, "otherwise," suggests an alternative consequence or different scenario, but the second clause isn't presenting what would happen under different circumstances—it's describing the actual policy details. Choice D, "soon," provides a time relationship, but this passage isn't about when something will happen; it's about what the policy specifically entails.
For GED language arts questions involving transitions, always identify the logical relationship first: Are the ideas similar, contrasting, showing cause and effect, or providing examples? Match the transition word to this relationship. Words like "specifically," "namely," and "in particular" signal that examples or details will follow a general statement.
- Which transition best signals the result of the damage described in the first clause?
Answer: as a result
This question tests your ability to choose transitions that show cause-and-effect relationships between ideas. When you see two clauses where one event leads to another, you need a transition that clearly signals this logical connection.
Looking at the passage, the first clause establishes a problem: "The storm damaged the communications tower." The second clause describes what happened because of this damage: emergency responders had to use satellite phones instead of their usual communication methods. This is a classic cause-and-effect relationship.
Choice A, "as a result," is correct because it explicitly signals that the second clause is a direct consequence of the first. The phrase clearly tells readers that the need for satellite phones happened because the tower was damaged.
Choice B, "instead," is incorrect because it signals substitution or contrast rather than causation. While emergency responders did use an alternative method, the key relationship here is that the damage caused this necessity, not merely that they chose a different option.
Choice C, "likewise," shows similarity or comparison between two parallel ideas. This doesn't fit because we're not comparing similar situations—we're showing how one event caused another.
Choice D, "notably," emphasizes importance or draws attention to something remarkable. While the satellite phone usage might be noteworthy, this transition doesn't capture the crucial cause-and-effect relationship between the damaged tower and the emergency response.
Remember: when you see two related events in sequence, ask yourself whether one caused the other. If so, look for transitions like "as a result," "therefore," or "consequently" that signal causation rather than mere sequence.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Otherwise
This question tests your understanding of logical connectors—words that show the relationship between ideas in a sentence. When you encounter a blank like this, look at the logical relationship between the two parts of the sentence to determine which connector fits.
The sentence establishes a cause-and-effect relationship: missing the March 1st deadline will result in not being considered for the scholarship. You need a word that introduces this negative consequence.
Otherwise (B) is correct because it means "if not" or "in the other case." It perfectly introduces what will happen if you don't meet the deadline—you won't be considered for the scholarship. This creates the logical flow: "Submit by March 1st, or if you don't, you won't be considered."
Let's examine why the other options don't work. Regardless (A) means "without being affected by" or "despite," which would contradict the sentence's meaning—it would suggest you won't be considered no matter what, even if you do meet the deadline. Also (C) adds information rather than showing consequence, making the sentence illogical since it would suggest the negative outcome happens in addition to meeting the deadline. Then (D) shows sequence in time but doesn't capture the conditional relationship—it would suggest the rejection automatically follows the deadline rather than being a consequence of missing it.
When you see sentence completion questions, identify the logical relationship first (cause-effect, contrast, addition, sequence), then choose the connector that expresses that specific relationship. Pay special attention to conditional statements like this one.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Therefore
This question tests your understanding of transitional words and phrases that show logical relationships between ideas. When you encounter these questions, look carefully at how the ideas in the sentence connect to each other.
The passage presents two related ideas: the candidate's qualifications (extensive foreign policy experience and understanding of global economics) and a conclusion about her fitness for the job (well-suited for ambassador). These ideas have a cause-and-effect relationship where the qualifications lead logically to the conclusion about her suitability.
Therefore (B) is correct because it signals that the second part of the sentence is a logical conclusion drawn from the evidence presented in the first part. The candidate's qualifications directly support the claim that she's well-suited for the position.
Nevertheless (A) is wrong because it indicates contrast or opposition, suggesting that despite her qualifications, she's somehow still suitable—which doesn't make logical sense here. Meanwhile (C) is incorrect because it shows simultaneous but separate actions or states, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Instead (D) fails because it suggests an alternative or replacement, implying we're choosing one thing over another, which doesn't fit the context.
When tackling transition word questions, identify the logical relationship between the ideas first. Ask yourself: Are the ideas contrasting, showing cause and effect, happening simultaneously, or presenting alternatives? Match the transition word to that specific relationship. Cause-and-effect relationships are common on the GED, so familiarize yourself with words like "therefore," "consequently," "thus," and "as a result."
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Next
This question tests your understanding of transition words that show sequence and logical flow between ideas. When you encounter questions about connecting sentences or ideas, focus on the relationship between what comes before and after the transition word.
Looking at the passage, you have two sequential steps in what appears to be a recipe: first preheating the oven, then mixing ingredients. The blank requires a transition word that signals the second step in this chronological sequence. Choice C) "Next" perfectly indicates that you're moving to the following step in the process, creating a clear, logical flow from the first instruction to the second.
Let's examine why the other options don't work. Choice A) "Finally" suggests this is the last step in the process, but mixing ingredients is clearly not the final step in baking—you still need to combine wet and dry ingredients, bake, etc. Choice B) "However" indicates contrast or opposition, but there's no conflicting information between preheating an oven and mixing ingredients. Choice D) "Therefore" shows cause and effect, implying that mixing ingredients is a result of preheating the oven, which doesn't make logical sense in baking instructions.
When tackling transition word questions on the GED, always read the sentences before and after the blank to identify the relationship: Are the ideas contrasting? Following in sequence? Showing cause and effect? Match the transition word to the specific logical relationship between the ideas.
- Which transition best completes the sentence so that it accurately signals the relationship between the two independent clauses?
Answer: however
When you encounter transition word questions, focus on the logical relationship between the two independent clauses. Look for clues that signal whether the second clause contrasts with, supports, or results from the first clause.
In this sentence, Benjamin collected data for weeks, but he still needed to interpret the results. The word "still" is your key signal here—it indicates that despite his weeks of work, more work remains. This creates a contrast between expectation (that weeks of data collection might be enough) and reality (that interpretation is still needed).
Choice A, "however," correctly signals this contrasting relationship. It shows that while Benjamin accomplished one task (data collection), there's an unexpected continuation of work required (interpretation).
Choice B, "moreover," adds supporting information rather than showing contrast. Using "moreover" would suggest Benjamin collected data AND ALSO needed to interpret results, which doesn't capture the "still needed" relationship properly.
Choice C, "consequently," indicates cause and effect, suggesting that interpretation is a direct result of data collection. While this might seem logical, it doesn't work with "still needed," which implies the interpretation wasn't automatically completed by collecting data.
Choice D, "for example," introduces a specific instance of a general concept. This doesn't fit the sentence structure at all, as interpretation isn't an example of data collection.
Study tip: Watch for signal words like "still," "yet," "nevertheless," or "despite" in the sentence—they often indicate you need a contrasting transition like "however," "although," or "but."
- Which transition most logically introduces wind farms as one example of the broader trend?
Answer: for instance
Transition words are crucial for creating logical flow between ideas in writing. When you encounter questions about transitions, focus on the relationship between the ideas being connected.
The passage establishes that "many renewable energy sources are being explored" and then introduces wind farms. This structure signals that wind farms serve as a specific example of the broader category mentioned in the first part of the sentence.
Choice (A) "for instance" is correct because it explicitly introduces an example. When you see this transition, it tells readers "here's a specific case of what I just mentioned." Wind farms are indeed one specific type of renewable energy source, making this the logical connector.
Choice (B) "nonetheless" indicates contrast or contradiction, suggesting that wind farms somehow oppose or contradict the trend of exploring renewable energy. This doesn't make sense since wind farms are part of that exploration.
Choice (C) "otherwise" presents an alternative or consequence of not doing something. This would imply wind farms are what happens if we don't explore renewable energy, which is backwards from the intended meaning.
Choice (D) "in contrast" also signals opposition, suggesting wind farms differ from or oppose renewable energy exploration. Again, this contradicts the logical relationship since wind farms represent renewable energy.
Remember this pattern: when a passage moves from a general statement to a specific example, look for transitions like "for instance," "for example," or "such as." These signals help readers understand that what follows illustrates the broader point just made.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: In fact
This question tests your ability to identify transition words that show contrast or contradiction between two ideas. When you encounter questions about sentence completion, look for clues in the surrounding context that signal the relationship between the ideas being connected.
The passage presents two contrasting situations: a politician's public promise to lower taxes versus private plans that would actually increase taxes for middle-income families. You need a transition that highlights this contradiction.
Why C is correct: "In fact" is the perfect choice because it introduces information that contradicts or provides a stark reality check against what was previously stated. It signals "here's what's really true" in contrast to the politician's promise. This transition emphasizes the gap between the public promise and the private reality.
Why the other answers don't work:
A) "To summarize" suggests you're about to recap or conclude information already presented, but the second sentence introduces new, contradictory information rather than summarizing the first.
B) "For this reason" indicates a cause-and-effect relationship where the second idea follows logically from the first. However, the internal memos don't exist because of the politician's promise—they contradict it.
D) "In like manner" suggests similarity or parallel action, but these two situations are opposite, not similar.
Study tip: When choosing transitions, identify the relationship between ideas first—are they similar, contrasting, or cause-and-effect? Words like "in fact," "however," and "actually" signal contradiction, while "similarly" and "likewise" show agreement. Always match the transition to the logical relationship.
- Which word or phrase best connects the two sentences by adding a related but distinct benefit?
Answer: Moreover
This question tests your ability to identify transition words that show the relationship between ideas. When you see a blank between two sentences, look carefully at how the ideas connect—are they similar, opposite, or does one cause the other?
The passage presents two related benefits of exercise: cardiovascular health and mental well-being. These are separate but complementary advantages, so you need a transition that adds information rather than contrasting or showing cause-and-effect.
"Moreover" (B) is correct because it signals that you're adding another related point to strengthen the argument. The word means "in addition to what has already been said," which perfectly fits the structure here—first discussing physical benefits, then adding mental benefits.
Let's examine why the other choices don't work: (A) "Nevertheless" indicates contrast or contradiction, suggesting the second idea goes against expectations from the first. That doesn't fit since both benefits support exercise. (C) "Therefore" shows cause-and-effect, implying that cardiovascular benefits directly cause mental benefits, which isn't what the passage suggests. (D) "In contrast" explicitly signals opposition between ideas, but these two benefits complement rather than oppose each other.
Remember this pattern: when passages list multiple benefits, advantages, or supporting points, look for additive transitions like "moreover," "furthermore," "additionally," or "also." These words signal that the author is building a case by stacking related evidence, which is common in persuasive and informational writing on the GED.
- Which word provides the most logical transition at the beginning of sentence (3) to show the relationship between the actions described?
Answer: Subsequently
When you encounter transition word questions on the GED, you need to identify the logical relationship between ideas in the passage. Look at what happens before and after the blank to determine how the ideas connect.
In this passage, sentence (2) describes the researchers administering medication to the experimental group over six weeks. Sentence (3) talks about collecting and analyzing blood samples. These are sequential steps in the research process - first they gave the medication, then they collected samples to measure the results.
Choice A, "Subsequently," is correct because it means "afterward" or "following in time or order." This perfectly captures the chronological relationship between administering the medication and then collecting samples to analyze the results.
Choice B, "Nevertheless," indicates contrast or opposition, suggesting the blood collection happened despite something. There's no contradictory relationship here - collecting samples is the logical next step, not something unexpected.
Choice C, "Specifically," introduces detailed examples or clarification of a general statement. The blood collection isn't elaborating on the medication administration; it's a separate, subsequent action.
Choice D, "As a result," shows cause and effect, implying the blood collection happened because of the medication administration. While related, the sample collection isn't a consequence of giving medication - it's simply the next planned step in the experimental procedure.
Study tip: For transition questions, identify the relationship first (time sequence, contrast, cause-effect, etc.), then match the transition word to that specific relationship. Sequential actions typically need time-based transitions like "subsequently," "then," or "afterward."
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: Furthermore
This question tests your understanding of transition words and how they show relationships between ideas in writing. When you encounter a fill-in-the-blank question like this, look at what comes before and after the blank to determine what logical connection the author is making.
The passage presents two separate but related qualities needed for entrepreneurial success: having vision and taking risks (first sentence), then communication skills (second sentence). Since both sentences describe positive traits that successful entrepreneurs need, the transition word should signal that the author is adding another important point to support the same argument.
"Furthermore" (B) is correct because it indicates addition—the author is building upon the first point by adding another essential quality. The word signals "here's another important thing" and smoothly connects two supporting ideas about entrepreneurial success.
Here's why the other choices don't work: "In short" (A) signals a summary or conclusion, but the second sentence isn't summarizing—it's introducing new information about communication skills. "By contrast" (C) indicates opposition or difference, which doesn't fit since both sentences describe positive entrepreneurial traits rather than contrasting ideas. "As a result" (D) shows cause and effect, suggesting that communication skills result from having vision and taking risks, but the passage presents these as separate, equally important qualities.
Study tip: When answering transition questions, read the sentences before and after the blank aloud with each answer choice. The correct transition will create a logical flow that matches the author's intended relationship between ideas.
- Which word or phrase best completes the sentence?
Answer: For example
This question tests your ability to identify transitional words and phrases that show logical relationships between ideas. When you encounter questions about sentence completion, look for clues in the surrounding context to determine what type of connection the missing word should create.
The passage discusses defense mechanisms in general, then provides a specific case about poison dart frogs. This structure signals that the second part serves as a concrete illustration of the broader concept mentioned first. The phrase "For example" (B) perfectly establishes this relationship, introducing the poison dart frog as one instance of the many species with unique defense mechanisms.
Let's examine why the other options don't work: "In conclusion" (A) suggests you're wrapping up an argument or summary, but this sentence is clearly providing supporting evidence, not a final thought. "Even so" (C) indicates contrast or contradiction, implying the frog example somehow conflicts with the opening statement about defense mechanisms—but it actually supports it. "In contrast" (D) also signals opposition, suggesting the frog's behavior differs from typical defense mechanisms, when it's actually a perfect example of one.
When tackling transition word questions on the GED, read the sentences before and after the blank carefully to identify the logical relationship. Ask yourself: Is this an example, a contrast, a cause-and-effect, or a conclusion? Match the transition to the specific connection being made between ideas, not just what sounds good in isolation.
