How is signposting commonly used in a formal literature review?

Signposting is commonly used in a formal literature review primarily through the use of transition sentences. These sentences serve as guides for the reader, helping them to navigate the structure and flow of the review. Transition sentences connect different sections or ideas within the literature, signaling shifts in focus, summarizing key points, or indicating the relationship between various pieces of research. This enhances the readability of the literature review and helps maintain a coherent narrative thread throughout the document.

In contrast, while bullet points can enhance clarity, lists of references organize sources, and footnotes provide citation details, they do not play a direct role in guiding the reader through the argumentation and connections within the text in the same way that transition sentences do. Therefore, the effective use of transition sentences as signposting tools is crucial for a well-structured and comprehensible literature review.