What signifies the transition from a topic sentence to a summary sentence?

The correct answer highlights the importance of utilizing transition phrases to signify the shift from the topic sentence of a paragraph to a summary sentence. Transition phrases serve as linguistic cues that help guide the reader through the text and indicate that a summarization or conclusion is forthcoming. In writing, these phrases can effectively bridge the main ideas presented in the body of the text with the concluding thoughts that recap or distill those ideas.

For instance, phrases like "in conclusion," "to summarize," or "overall" signal that the writer is wrapping up the discussion and reinforcing the main points made earlier. Transition phrases enhance the coherence of the text, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the logical flow from the exposition of ideas to the conclusion, which encapsulates the essence of the paragraph or section.

The other options suggest incorrect methods for signifying this transition. A sudden shift in subject matter would disrupt the flow of information rather than signal a conclusion. A complete change of tone could confuse the reader and undermine the consistency of the argument. Introducing new names would imply introducing new content or ideas, which does not represent a summarization of what has been discussed. Therefore, the use of a transition phrase is the most effective and appropriate way to transition from a topic sentence to a summary sentence