How can context clues help?

Writers often leave clues for readers to find. These clues help readers understand the meaning of new words or concepts. Using these clues will give you a general idea about the meaning of new words. Looking in the dictionary is still the best way to discover the exact meaning and use of a word.

Writers will leave clues in specific parts of sentences and paragraphs. Look for context clues in the following places:

1. Immediately after a new word
   
   Writers often rename a person, a thing, or an idea. This information is found between commas. Read these examples.
   
   The shaft, a vertical cave, is used to transport miners, supplies, and rock to the surface.
   
   
2. Before or after a new word
   
   Phrases or clauses contain extra information. They are separated from the main part of a sentence by punctuation.
   
   I take medication for high blood pressure, which can cause major health problems if not lowered.
   
   
3. In the following sentence
   
   Writers may give a definition for a new wording in a following sentence. Look at the example.
   
   The littoral zone is an important ecosystem. The littoral zone is the section of a coastal beach with many types of animals and plants.