A 3 min read

Ever feel overwhelmed by complex GMAT Reading Comprehension passages? You’re not alone. Just as a spotlight cuts through darkness to reveal what matters, evidence keywords illuminate the crucial connections in RC passages. These powerful linguistic tools help you track how authors build their arguments, distinguish between main ideas and supporting details, and most importantly – answer GMAT questions correctly. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of evidence keywords and show you exactly how to use them to boost your RC performance. Think of this as your backstage pass to understanding how GMAT passages are constructed – let’s master these keywords together.

Evidence and Example Keywords

Evidence and example keywords are like spotlight operators – they illuminate specific details that support main ideas. These keywords help you understand how authors build and strengthen their arguments through concrete evidence, illustrations, and examples.

Types of Evidence and Example Keywords

Example Introducers

• Signal specific illustrations of a point
• Examples: “For instance,” “For example,” “Such as,” “Including,” “Particularly”
• Function: Connect general ideas to specific cases
• Usage note: Often provide concrete applications of theoretical concepts

Evidence Markers

• Signal supporting proof or data
• Examples: “Evidence shows,” “Studies indicate,” “Research reveals,” “Data suggests”
• Function: Introduce factual support for claims
• Usage note: Often precede important statistical or research-based support

Illustration Indicators

• Signal explanatory examples
• Examples: “To illustrate,” “Consider,” “Take the case of,” “As shown by”
• Function: Make abstract ideas more concrete
• Usage note: Often introduce extended examples or case studies

Support Reinforcers

• Signal additional supporting points
• Examples: “Indeed,” “In fact,” “Notably,” “Specifically”
• Function: Strengthen previously stated ideas with additional evidence
• Usage note: Often introduce stronger or more specific support

How to Use Evidence and Example Keywords Effectively

Connecting General to Specific

• When you see “For example,” link the specific example to what has been just discussed
• At “Studies show,” prepare for concrete data or research findings
• With “Consider,” expect a detailed illustration of the point discussed

Understanding Evidence Hierarchy

• Use these keywords to identify key supporting points
• Track how the author builds evidence for main arguments
• Distinguish between major evidence and supplementary examples

Practice Example

Conclusion

Mastering evidence keywords is a game-changer for GMAT Reading Comprehension. As you practice spotting these keywords, you’ll find yourself naturally mapping passage structures and tracking authors’ arguments with greater precision. Remember: “For instance” and “For example” signal specific illustrations, “Studies show” and “Evidence indicates” introduce hard data, while “Indeed” and “In fact” reinforce key points. Apply this knowledge in your practice tests, and you’ll see a marked improvement in your ability to tackle even the most challenging RC questions. Keep this guide handy as you prepare, and watch your RC confidence grow.