Discourse Markers
Words like however, because, next that signal relationships.
What & why
Listeners build a running model of how your ideas connect, and they have to infer each link in real time. A marker like however or therefore hands them the relationship outright, so they spend attention on the content instead of guessing whether two points agree, contrast, or follow from each other. This lowers cognitive load and cuts misreadings, since the structure is stated rather than assumed. The words also set expectations, priming people for a contrast or a conclusion just before it arrives, which makes the line easier to absorb.
Before & after
“We changed the button. Users clicked less.”
“We changed the button. However, users clicked less.”
When you’ll use it
Status updates: 'First, we completed the design. However, testing revealed issues. Therefore, we need another week.'
Problem-solution presentations: 'Although revenue grew, costs rose faster. Consequently, we must reduce overhead.'
Meeting transitions: 'Meanwhile, the marketing team made progress. In addition, sales exceeded targets.'
Pro tip
Pick the marker that matches the logic.
Questions & answers
What are discourse markers in business presentations?
How do discourse markers improve presentation clarity?
What are the most effective discourse markers for business communication?
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