1.显示顺序的信号词

Internet speeds communication between companies, among co-workers through video-conferences, and among other individuals. First, media companies use the Internet for online news, or to broadcast audio and video, including live radio and television programs, while individuals use the Internet for communication, entertainment, finding information, buying and selling goods and services. Second,the notion of distance disappears thanks to the Internet. People also enjoy instant messaging to exchange text messages or pictures in real time, with real-time video and sound. Finally, scientists and scholars use the Internet to perform research, distribute lecture notes or course materials to students, they communicate with colleagues, and can also publish papers and articles.

抓住了这样的信号词就把握住了作者叙述的顺序，也就分清了相对独立的论据。这样的信号词包括：

first, second, third, and so on, then, after, before, next, last, afterward, finally

2.显示思路转折的信号词

I'd like to go but I'm too busy.

“but”前后是完全不同的信息描述，它向读者显示了作者的思路在这里有了转折。阅读时，碰到这样的信号词我们需放慢阅读速度，以准确获取作者真正想要说明的意思。这类信号词还有：

although, however, on the contrary, but, in spite of, otherwise, despite, nevertheless, yet

3.显示因果关系的信号词

As a result of the pilots'strike, all flights have had to be cancelled.

All flights have had to be cancelled as a result of the pilots'strike.

所有航班被取消的原因是因为飞行员们的罢工;飞行员们的罢工导致了所有的航班不得不被取消。显示因果关系的信号词还有：for, thus, because, for this reason, so, therefore, as, since, consequently