what is a signpost in an essay

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What is Signposting in an Essay

Table of contents.

Have you ever struggled to follow someone’s argument in their essay or struggled to organize your thoughts in your own writing? If so, then you may benefit from incorporating signposting into your writing. In this article, we will explore the definition of signposting in an essay, its importance, the different types of signposting, the benefits of using signposting, and how to effectively incorporate signposting into your writing.

What is signposting in an essay?

Simply put, signposting in an essay means using words, phrases, or structures to guide your reader through your argument or narrative. By doing this, you make your writing more coherent and understandable. It helps the reader to see where they are in the essay and how the various parts relate to one another.

But why is signposting so essential in writing? Well, there are a few reasons. Firstly, it allows the writer to clarify their argument. When you use signposting, you make it clear what you’re trying to say and what you’re arguing for. This clarity is essential to help the reader understand your point of view and to make your writing more persuasive.

Secondly, signposting helps you present a clear and logical structure . By guiding the reader through your argument, you ensure that each part of the essay is connected and related to the previous and subsequent parts. This creates a cohesive and easy-to-follow essay that’s enjoyable to read.

Lastly, signposting makes the essay easier to read. It helps the reader to understand the flow of the essay and to avoid getting lost in the structure. This is especially important when you’re writing longer essays that require the reader to keep track of multiple ideas and arguments.

Types of Signposting

Transition Words and Phrases

One of the most common ways to use signposting is through the use of transitional words and phrases.

Transitional words and phrases are words that connect one idea to the next. They help to create a smooth flow between ideas and can be used to introduce or conclude an idea. They act as a bridge between different parts of your essay and make it easier for the reader to follow your argument.

For example, if you’re making a point and want to add more information to support it, you could use a transitional phrase like “additionally” or “furthermore.” These words signal to the reader that you’re going to provide additional information to support your point.

On the other hand, if you want to introduce a contrasting idea, you could use a transitional word like “however” or “although.” These words signal to the reader that you’re going to present a different point of view or idea.

Transitional words and phrases can also be used to conclude an idea or argument. For example, if you’re finishing up a point and want to transition to a new one, you could use a phrase like “in conclusion” or “finally.” These words signal to the reader that you’re wrapping up one idea and moving on to the next.

Some other examples of transitional words and phrases include “similarly,” “on the other hand,” “in addition to,” and “therefore.” By using these words and phrases, you can create a more cohesive and engaging essay that’s easy to read and follow.

So next time you’re writing an essay, try incorporating transitional words and phrases to create a smooth and logical flow between ideas. Your writing will be more coherent, and the reader will have an easier time following your argument.

Headings and Subheadings

Headings and subheadings are used to break up your essay into sections and to make it easier for the reader to navigate through your ideas. They can also help to provide a clear structure to your writing and to make your argument more organized and cohesive.

When using headings and subheadings, it’s important to make sure they’re clear and descriptive of the content that follows. For example, if you’re writing an essay on the effects of climate change, you could use headings such as “Introduction,” “Causes of Climate Change,” “Effects on the Environment,” and “Solutions.”

Headings and subheadings should be formatted consistently throughout your essay. Typically, main headings are centered and in bold font, while subheadings are indented and in italics or regular font. You can also use different levels of headings to create a hierarchical structure.

The use of headings and subheadings is especially important in longer essays, where the reader needs to keep track of multiple ideas and arguments. By using clear and descriptive headings, you can help the reader follow the flow of your argument and make it easier to find specific information within your essay.

In addition to being helpful for the reader, headings and subheadings can also make your essay more organized and easier to write. By breaking up your essay into sections, you can focus on one idea at a time and make sure that your argument flows logically and cohesively.

So next time you’re writing an essay, try incorporating headings and subheadings to create a clear and organized structure. Your essay will be more engaging and easier to follow, which will help you to communicate your ideas more effectively.

Topic Sentences

Topic sentences are sentences that introduce the main idea of a paragraph. They’re typically located at the beginning of the paragraph, and they help to signal to the reader what the paragraph is about. This makes it easier for the reader to understand the focus of the paragraph and how it relates to the essay’s overall argument.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on the importance of exercise, you could have a paragraph discussing the benefits of cardiovascular exercise. The topic sentence for this paragraph could be: “Cardiovascular exercise has numerous benefits for physical and mental health.” This sentence signals to the reader that the paragraph will be about the benefits of cardiovascular exercise.

Using topic sentences can make your writing more organized and easier to follow. They help to create a logical structure in your essay and ensure that each part of the essay is connected and related to the previous and subsequent parts.

Topic sentences can also help you stay focused when writing your essay. By starting each paragraph with a clear main idea, you can make sure that you stay on track and avoid going off on tangents.

In addition to being helpful for the reader, topic sentences can also make your writing more persuasive. By clearly stating your main ideas, you can make a stronger case for your argument and make it easier for the reader to understand your point of view.

Concluding Sentences

Concluding sentences are located at the end of a paragraph, and they summarize the main point of the paragraph. They’re the opposite of topic sentences, which introduce the main idea of a paragraph. Concluding sentences help to signal to the reader that the paragraph is ending and can also provide a smooth transition to the next point in the essay.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on the benefits of reading, you could have a paragraph discussing how reading can improve vocabulary. The concluding sentence for this paragraph could be: “In summary, reading is a great way to improve your vocabulary and expand your knowledge.” This sentence summarizes the main point of the paragraph and signals to the reader that the next paragraph will be about another benefit of reading.

Using concluding sentences can make your writing more organized and easier to follow. They help to provide closure to each paragraph and ensure that the reader understands the main point of the paragraph before moving on to the next one.

Concluding sentences can also help you to make your writing more persuasive. By summarizing the main point of the paragraph, you can reinforce your argument and make it more memorable for the reader.

In addition to being helpful for the reader, concluding sentences can also make your writing more engaging. By providing a smooth transition to the next point in the essay, you can keep the reader interested and ensure that they stay engaged with your writing.

Connectors and Discourse Markers

Connectors and discourse markers are words or phrases that establish the relationships between different parts of an essay. They help to create a cohesive and logical flow between ideas, and can be used to show cause and effect, contrast, or similarity.

For example, if you’re writing an essay on the effects of social media, you could use a connector like “because” to show cause and effect: “Because of the addictive nature of social media, users can experience negative effects on their mental health.” This sentence makes it clear that the addictive nature of social media is the cause of the negative effects on mental health.

On the other hand, you could use a discourse marker like “however” to show contrast: “Social media can be a great way to connect with others; however, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.” This sentence acknowledges the positive aspects of social media while also recognizing the potential negative effects.

Connectors and discourse markers can also be used to show similarity or emphasize a point. For example, you could use a connector like “similarly” to draw a comparison: “Similarly, television can also have negative effects on mental health.” This sentence draws a parallel between social media and television and shows that both can have negative effects.

Using connectors and discourse markers can make your writing more engaging and persuasive. They help to create a smooth and logical flow between ideas, and can make your argument more cohesive and easy to follow.

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Benefits of using signposting in your essay.

One of the main benefits of using signposting is that it ensures your writing is clear and easy to understand. Signposting helps the reader to follow the structure of your argument, which makes your writing more coherent. By using transitional words and phrases, headings and subheadings, topic sentences, and concluding sentences, you can guide the reader through your essay and ensure that each part is connected to the others.

Another benefit of using signposting is that it helps to create a logical structure in your writing. Signposting makes the essay more organized, and each part of the essay is connected and related to the previous and subsequent parts. This creates a more cohesive essay that’s enjoyable to read and easier to understand.

Using signposting also helps the reader to follow your argument. By guiding the reader through your essay, you can ensure that they understand your point of view and can engage with the content. Signposting also ensures that the reader does not get lost in the essay’s structure, which can be especially important in longer essays or complex arguments.

In addition to these benefits, using signposting can also make your writing more persuasive. By creating a clear and logical structure, you can make a stronger case for your argument and ensure that the reader understands your point of view.

How to Incorporate Signposting into Your Writing

To use signposting effectively, you should start with a clear and coherent argument. Identify the key points and ideas that support your argument and make sure that they are organized logically. Then, use the different types of signposting, such as transition words and phrases, headings and subheadings, and topic sentences to guide the reader through your argument.

One tip for using signposting effectively is to be consistent in your use of different types of signposting. Use a consistent format for headings and subheadings, and make sure that your use of transition words and phrases is consistent throughout the essay.

It’s also important to use signposting in a way that’s appropriate for the type of essay you are writing. In a persuasive essay, for example, you can use signposting to introduce the main arguments and their supporting evidence. In a narrative essay, signposting can be used to help the reader understand the different parts of the story and how they relate to each other. Regardless of the essay type, it’s important to use signposting consistently throughout the essay.

In addition to these tips, it’s also a good idea to use online tools and resources to help with the signposting process. Tools like Grammarly and Hemingway can help you identify areas where you can improve your writing, including your use of signposting.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is to overuse or misuse signposting. Overusing signposting can make the essay appear repetitive and confusing. Using too many transition words and phrases or unnecessary headings and subheadings can be overwhelming for the reader and detract from the main argument. It’s important to use signposting judiciously and only when necessary. Use it to guide the reader through the argument or narrative and avoid using it as filler content.

On the other hand, not including enough signposting in your work can also be a mistake. This can make the essay appear disorganized and difficult to follow. It’s important to use signposting throughout the essay to help guide the reader through your argument or narrative. This includes using transition words and phrases, clear and descriptive headings and subheadings, and topic sentences and concluding sentences. Without sufficient signposting, the reader may get lost in the essay’s structure and miss important information.

Another common mistake is not using signposting consistently throughout the essay. It’s important to use a consistent format for headings and subheadings and to use transition words and phrases consistently throughout the essay . This creates a more cohesive and logical structure, making it easier for the reader to follow your argument or narrative.

In conclusion, signposting is an essential element of effective writing. It helps to make the essay more coherent, understandable, and engaging. The different types of signposting, including transition words and phrases, headings and subheadings, topic sentences, concluding sentences, and connectors and discourse markers, can be used to guide the reader through the argument or narrative. By using signposting consistently throughout your writing, you can improve its clarity and organization. So next time you’re writing an essay, make sure to incorporate signposting to make your writing more effective and engaging.

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The Lexington Review

A Journal of Scholarly Writing from the Baruch College Writing Center

Signposting – Showing your reader where you’re going

Signposts , like traditional transitions, prepare a reader for changes in an essay’s direction. But rather than easing the shift from one paragraph to another, signposting signals a new section or mode of the writer’s argument. A signpost might, for example, indicate that the essay is:

• pausing for historical background or context;
• about to present a countering claim;
• raising a new question;
• turning to another writer’s ideas; or
• introducing a new method of analysis.

In addition to guiding readers, signposting also helps writers articulate and control arguments.

Here’s how one writer, John Baran , indicates how he will address a question he’s just raised:

“If an understanding of Madonna’s attraction to Kabbalah and how it affects her art is to be obtained, an explanation of Jewish Mysticism must be acquired first. Furthermore, in order to begin understanding Jewish Mysticism and its practices, it is imperative to examine some of the historical aspects of the oral traditions of Rabbinic Judaism” (Baran).

In these two sentences, the writer sketches two steps in his methodology. Firstly, he determines that the larger question of “Madonna’s attraction to Kabbalah and how it affects her art” requires knowledge of Jewish mysticism (sentence 1). In the second sentence, he gazes down the road a bit further, telling us that the first step in this knowledge of Jewish mysticism is a background in the “oral traditions of Rabbinic Judaism.” Not surprisingly, then, the next few paragraphs go on to provide this background. Notice that the writer not only alerts us to the upcoming sequence, but also marks its role in the larger project—exploring what all this has to do with Madonna’s work.

Later in this essay, the writer again signposts, this time to introduce a new source and indicate how he will use it:

“The expensive water and magic bracelets that [Kabbalah Center] members are obligated to purchase certainly are red flags, especially since both items are considered to hold powers of protection and healing. But the uses of such religious items are purely dogmatic, and the reasoning of dogma can only be argued by contrasting beliefs from other faiths. An argument against a religion which is based on the philosophy of another is not justification of declaring said religion a cult. Therefore, arguing about a religion’s spiritual practices may not lead to an answer. However, organizations such as The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) may supply some clarification and provide tools to assess a possible cult status” (Baran).

As the final sentence suggests, the writer moves from this paragraph into an assessment of Kabbalah Center practices using an ICSA text to generate evaluative criteria. His signpost thus indicates a turn to a new source and identifies the role it will play in developing the larger argument.

Next Steps:

If your essay needs some signposting, try this three-step process:

• Divide your essay into sections. Where are new sources or analytical methods introduced? Where are you setting up a sequence of background or historical context followed by analysis? Essentially, where do you shift from one kind of writerly work to another? Mark these turning points.
• Reflect on the whole. Now ask yourself how each turning point contributes to the larger essay. For example, John Baran writes that explaining the oral traditions of Rabbinic Judaism happens in order to help the reader understand Jewish mysticism. It’s important that you signpost not only to transition, but also to remind the reader of the essay’s organization. To do that, you need to know why each section does the work it does.
• Write the signposts.

Works Cited

Baran, John. “Mysticism and the Material Girl.”  Lexington Review . 1 Feb. 2010,  https://blogs.baruch.cuny.edu/lexingtonreview/journal/mysticism-and-the-material-girl/ .

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Critical writing: Signposting

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“Do not expect your reader to make the connections in your ideas ... make those connections explicit” Andy Gillet, Angela Hammond and Mary Martala, Successful Academic Writing

Signposting words and phrases are essential elements of academic writing - they make your writing flow. By making explicit how points are connected to each other you make it easier for your reader to follow your arguments . The reader is, after all, your marker and you don't want to make their job too hard. This page gives you a selection of common phrases that you can use to link together your paragraphs and so make logical connections between your ideas.

Signposts to introduce something new

One aspect which illustrates … can be identified as …

The current debate about … illustrates/identifies/highlights …

With regard to…/ with respect to…

Initially/secondly/finally, …

Continuing an argument with a related point

Furthermore, …

To further understand the role of …

In addition, …

Similarly, …

Likewise, …

What is more, …

Moreover, …

Another issue regarding … is …

Another line of thought on … is …

Going into more detail on a point/rephrasing

In particular, …

Specifically, …

Concentrating on …

By focusing on … in more detail, it is possible to …

To be more precise, …

In other words, …

To put simply … /To simplify, ...

Linking to a different point 

Having established …, it is possible to consider …

… is one key issue; another of equal/ similar importance/significance is …

Also of importance is the issue of …

Reintroducing a topic

As discussed/explained earlier, …

The earlier discussion on … can be developed further here, …

As stated previously, …

As noted above, …

Introducing an opposing/alternative view

However, …

Conversely, …

In contrast, …

Alternatively, …

Nevertheless/Nonetheless, …

An alternative perspective is given by … who suggests/argues that …

Despite this, …

This conflicts with the view held by …

Reasoning/summarising the point

Consequently/As a consequence, …

Accordingly, …

Therefore, …

What this means/suggests is...

It could be concluded that …

The strength of such an approach is that …

For this reason …

Evidently*, …

Clearly/It is clear that, …*

Naturally*, …

It is clear that* …

In short, …

From this, it can be concluded/inferred/suggested that …

The evidence highlights that …

------ *Only use such phrases if you really are sure that your arguments cannot be challenged.

These are just a selection of the phrases you can you to make your writing flow and to keep the reader with you and following your line of argument. Academics often complain about a lack of this in assignments they mark so make sure you use them in your writing.

Don't overdo it . Only use signposts when they add clarity to your work. Some students try to put a signposting word into every sentence which can actually obscure meaning.

Be precise . The signposting words have very specific meanings. Only use a word like 'consequently' if you really mean that the following sentence is a true consequence of the previous one!

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The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body

Signs of drug addiction, effects of drug addiction.

Drug addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease that involves complex interactions between a person’s environment, brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences.

People with drug addictions continue to use drugs compulsively, despite the negative effects.

Substance abuse has many potential consequences, including overdose and death. Learn about the effects of drug addiction on the mind and body and treatment options that can help.

Verywell / Theresa Chiechi

Drug Abuse vs. Drug Addiction

While the terms “drug abuse” and “drug addiction” are often used interchangeably, they're different. Someone who abuses drugs uses a substance too much, too frequently, or in otherwise unhealthy ways. However, they ultimately have control over their substance use.

Someone with a drug addiction uses drugs in a way that affects many parts of their life and causes major disruptions. They continue to use drugs compulsively despite the negative consequences.

The signs of drug abuse and addiction include changes in behavior, personality, and physical appearance. If you’re concerned about a loved one’s substance use, here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

• Changes in school or work performance
• Secretiveness 
• Relationship problems
• Risk-taking behavior
• Legal problems
• Aggression 
• Mood swings
• Changes in hobbies or friends
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Unexplained odors on the body or clothing

Drug Addiction in Men and Women

Men and women are equally likely to develop drug addictions. However, men are more likely than women to use illicit drugs, die from a drug overdose, and visit an emergency room for addiction-related health reasons. Women are more susceptible to intense cravings and repeated relapses.

People can become addicted to any psychoactive ("mind-altering") substance. Common addictive substances include alcohol , tobacco ( nicotine ), stimulants, hallucinogens, and opioids .

Many of the effects of drug addiction are similar, no matter what substance someone uses. The following are some of the most common effects of drug addiction.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Body

Drug addiction can lead to a variety of physical consequences ranging in seriousness from drowsiness to organ damage and death:

• Shallow breathing
• Elevated body temperature
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Impaired coordination and slurred speech
• Decreased or increased appetite
• Tooth decay
• Skin damage
• Sexual dysfunction
• Infertility
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage and cirrhosis
• Various forms of cancer
• Cardiovascular problems
• Lung problems
• Overdose and death

If left untreated drug addiction can lead to serious, life-altering effects on the body.

Dependence and withdrawal also affect the body:

• Physical dependence : Refers to the reliance on a substance to function day to day. People can become physically dependent on a substance fairly quickly. Dependence does not always mean someone is addicted, but the longer someone uses drugs, the more likely their dependency is to become an addiction.
• Withdrawal : When someone with a dependence stops using a drug, they can experience withdrawal symptoms like excessive sweating, tremors, panic, difficulty breathing, fatigue , irritability, and flu-like symptoms.

Overdose Deaths in the United States

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 100,000 people in the U.S. died from a drug overdose in 2021.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain

All basic functions in the body are regulated by the brain. But, more than that, your brain is who you are. It controls how you interpret and respond to life experiences and the ways you behave as a result of undergoing those experiences.

Drugs alter important areas of the brain. When someone continues to use drugs, their health can deteriorate both psychologically and neurologically.

Some of the most common mental effects of drug addiction are:

• Cognitive decline
• Memory loss
• Mood changes and paranoia
• Poor self/impulse control
• Disruption to areas of the brain controlling basic functions (heart rate, breathing, sleep, etc.)

Effects of Drug Addiction on Behavior

Psychoactive substances affect the parts of the brain that involve reward, pleasure, and risk. They produce a sense of euphoria and well-being by flooding the brain with dopamine .

This leads people to compulsively use drugs in search of another euphoric “high.” The consequences of these neurological changes can be either temporary or permanent. 

• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability 
• Angry outbursts
• Lack of inhibition 
• Decreased pleasure/enjoyment in daily life (e.g., eating, socializing, and sex)
• Hallucinations

Help Someone With Drug Addiction

If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing drug addiction, address your concerns honestly, non-confrontationally, and without judgment. Focus on building trust and maintaining an open line of communication while setting healthy boundaries to keep yourself and others safe. If you need help, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Effects of Drug Addiction on an Unborn Child

Drug addiction during pregnancy can cause serious negative outcomes for both mother and child, including:

• Preterm birth
• Maternal mortality

Drug addiction during pregnancy can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) . Essentially, the baby goes into withdrawal after birth. Symptoms of NAS differ depending on which drug has been used but can include:

• Excessive crying
• Sleeping and feeding issues

Children exposed to drugs before birth may go on to develop issues with behavior, attention, and thinking. It's unclear whether prenatal drug exposure continues to affect behavior and the brain beyond adolescence.  

While there is no single “cure” for drug addiction, there are ways to treat it. Treatment can help you control your addiction and stay drug-free. The primary methods of treating drug addiction include:

• Psychotherapy : Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family therapy , can help someone with a drug addiction develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving.
• Behavioral therapy : Common behavioral therapies for drug addiction include motivational enhancement therapy (MET) and contingency management (CM). These therapy approaches build coping skills and provide positive reinforcement.
• Medication : Certain prescribed medications help to ease withdrawal symptoms. Some examples are naltrexone (for alcohol), bupropion (for nicotine), and methadone (for opioids).
• Hospitalization : Some people with drug addiction might need to be hospitalized to detox from a substance before beginning long-term treatment.
• Support groups : Peer support and self-help groups, such as 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, can help people with drug addictions find support, resources, and accountability.

A combination of medication and behavioral therapy has been found to have the highest success rates in preventing relapse and promoting recovery. Forming an individualized treatment plan with your healthcare provider's help is likely to be the most effective approach.

Drug addiction is a complex, chronic medical disease that results in compulsive use of psychoactive substances despite the negative consequences.

Some effects of drug abuse and addiction include changes in appetite, mood, and sleep patterns. More serious health issues such as cognitive decline, major organ damage, overdose, and death are also risks. Addiction to drugs while pregnant can lead to serious outcomes for both mother and child.

Treatment for drug addiction may involve psychotherapy , medication, hospitalization, support groups, or a combination.

If you or someone you know is experiencing substance abuse or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

American Society of Addiction Medicine. Definition of addiction .

HelpGuide.org. Drug Abuse and Addiction .

Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services. Warning signs of drug abuse .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Sex and gender differences in substance use .

Cleveland Clinic. Drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction Drugs and the Brain .

American Heart Association. Illegal Drugs and Heart Disease .

American Addiction Centers. Get the facts on substance abuse .

Szalavitz M, Rigg KK, Wakeman SE. Drug dependence is not addiction-and it matters . Ann Med . 2021;53(1):1989-1992. doi:10.1080/07853890.2021.1995623

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. top 100,000 annually .

American Psychological Association. Cognition is central to drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts .

MedlinePlus. Neonatal abstinence syndrome .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Treatment and recovery .

Grella CE, Stein JA.  Remission from substance dependence: differences between individuals in a general population longitudinal survey who do and do not seek help . Drug and Alcohol Dependence.  2013;133(1):146-153. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.05.019

By Laura Dorwart Dr. Dorwart has a Ph.D. from UC San Diego and is a health journalist interested in mental health, pregnancy, and disability rights.

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At the Jerusalem synagogue where Hersh Goldberg-Polin danced in life, grief and anger reign after his death

JERUSALEM — Three hundred and thirty-two days after Hersh Goldberg-Polin danced in the courtyard next to his Jerusalem synagogue on the holiday of Simchat Torah, more than a thousand people gathered there in grief and prayer to mourn his murder by Hamas terrorists in Gaza.

During the Sunday night vigil, the courtyard railings were lined with oversized yellow ribbons to symbolize advocacy for the hostages, Hapoel Jerusalem soccer flags — the 23-year-old’s favorite team — and posters that read, “We love you, stay strong, survive,” a mantra coined by his mother, Rachel Goldberg-Polin.

Just hours earlier, one of the posters had been hanging over the balcony of the home of Shira Ben-Sasson, a leader of Hakhel, the Goldberg-Polins’ egalitarian congregation in the Baka neighborhood of Jerusalem.

“We were sure we would take it down when he came home,” Ben-Sasson said.

The community wanted to unite while respecting the Goldberg-Polins’ desire for privacy, she said, prompting them to organize the prayer gathering.

“But it’s like a Band-Aid or giving first aid, it’s what you do in an emergency. I don’t know how we go on after this,” she said.

A covered courtyard at the Hakhel congregation was filled with mourners the day after Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whose family are prominent members, was found to have been killed in Gaza. Hundreds of other people crowded outside the gates, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

She added that the community, which has a large contingent of English-speaking immigrants, was not prepared for the High Holidays, which begin in about a month. She said, “Seeing his empty seat is hard.”

For Ben-Sasson, who wore a T-shirt bearing the Talmudic dictum “There is no greater mitzvah than the redeeming of captives,” the tragedy is especially painful because, she said, it could have been avoided with a ceasefire agreement that freed hostages.

“Hersh was alive 48 hours ago. We think a deal could have saved him. There is no military solution to this,” she said.

That feeling of bereavement, often mixed with betrayal, pervaded gatherings across Israel on Sunday, as the country struggled with the news that six hostages who may have been freed in an agreement were now dead as negotiations continue to stall. Speakers at protests in Tel Aviv blamed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who himself apologized for not getting the hostages out alive but blamed Hamas for obstructing a deal. The country’s labor union, the Histadrut, has called a national strike on Monday to demand a deal.

A rare early September rain lashed parts of Israel on Sunday, leading to a widespread interpretation: God, too, was weeping.

Some at the Jerusalem gathering, including the relative of another former hostage, said Netanyahu had chosen defeating Hamas over freeing the captives.

Josef Avi Yair Engel’s grandson Ofir was released from Hamas captivity in November. He paid tribute to Hersh Goldberg-Polin, murdered in captivity, in Jerusalem, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Josef Avi Yair Engel, whose grandson Ofir, 18, was released from Hamas captivity in November during that month’s ceasefire deal, expressed shock over Hersh’s murder but said he was not surprised, given the wartime policies of Netanyahu’s government.

“We knew months ago this was going to happen. Bibi’s formula, to dismantle Hamas and return the hostages, wasn’t logical. It’s an either/or situation,” Engel said, referring to Netanyahu by his nickname. “He’s tearing the country apart. I’m afraid that in the coming months there won’t be a state at all.”

Engel said he felt a close bond with Hersh’s father Jon Polin, not only because of their joint activism in the hostage families’ tent outside the Prime Minister’s Residence, but also because of their shared identity as Jerusalemites.

“There aren’t many of us in the hostage circle,” he said. “We’re like family.”

Sarah Mann, who did not know the family personally, said the weekend’s tragedy reminded her of Oct. 7.

“This day has sparks of the seventh, which created numbness and an inability to talk. Just complete shock,” she said.

Mourners left notes at a gathering at Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s family synagogue in Jerusalem. Many of the messages used the Hebrew word for “sorry.” (Deborah Danan)

Part of the reason for that, Mann said, was Rachel, who she described as a “force of faith.” Goldberg-Polin’s mother emerged as the most prominent advocate for the hostages globally and became a symbol in her own right as she crisscrossed the world calling for her son’s freedom.

“Millions of people around the world held onto her. Once that was cut, people’s ability to hold onto faith was knocked out today. But even though this has shattered us, we need to keep holding onto God,” Mann said.

For Susi Döring Preston, the day called to mind was not Oct. 7 but Yom Kippur, and its communal solemnity.

She said she usually steers clear of similar war-related events because they are too overwhelming for her.

“Before I avoided stuff like this because I guess I still had hope. But now is the time to just give in to needing to be around people because you can’t hold your own self up any more,” she said, tears rolling down her face. “You need to feel the humanity and hang onto that.”

Like so many others, Döring Preston paid tribute to the Goldberg-Polins’ tireless activism. “They needed everyone else’s strength but we drew so much strength from them and their efforts, “she said. “You felt it could change the outcome. But war is more evil than good. I think that’s the crushing thing. You can do everything right, but the outcome is still devastating.”

Guy Gordon, with his daughter Maya, added a broken heart to the piece of tape he has worn daily to mark the number of days since the hostage crisis began, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Guy Gordon, a member of Hakhel who moved to Israel from Dublin, Ireland, in the mid-1990s, said the efforts towards ensuring Hersh’s safe return have been an anchor for the community during the war. The community knew him as the family described him in its announcement of his funeral on Tuesday, as “a child of light, love and peace” who enjoyed exploring the world and coming home to his family, including his parents and younger sisters, Leebie and Orly.

“It gave us something to hope for, and pray for and to demonstrate for,” he said. “We had no choice but to be unreasonably optimistic. Tragically it transpired that he survived until the very end.”

Gordon, like many others in the crowd, wore a piece of duct tape marked with the number of days since Oct. 7 — a gesture initiated by Goldberg-Polin’s mother. Unlike on previous days, though, his tape also featured a broken red heart beside the number.

Nadia Levene, a family friend, also reflected on the improbability of Hersh’s survival.

“He did exactly what his parents begged him to do. He was strong. He did survive. And look what happened,” Levene said.

She hailed Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s “unwavering strength and belief in God,” adding, “There were times I lost faith. I suppose I was angry with God. But she just kept inspiring us all to pray, pray, pray.”

Leah Silver of Jerusalem examined stickers showing Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s mantra for her son Hersh, who was murdered in captivity in Gaza, at a gathering after Hersh’s death, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Jerusalem resident Leah Silver rejected politicizing the hostages’ deaths.

“Everything turns political so quickly. I came here because I felt that before all the protests, we need to just mourn for a moment and to pray. And show respect for each other,” she said. “We’ve become confused about who the enemy is. It’s very sad.”

But not everyone at the gathering joined in to sing Israel’s national anthem at the closing of the prayer gathering.

“I’m sorry, I can’t sing ‘Hatikvah,'” Reza Green, a Baka resident who did not know the Goldberg-Polins personally, said. “I’m too angry. We shouldn’t be here.”

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Money blog: House prices hit two-year high - see the average cost in your region

House prices have hit a two-year high after jumping 0.3% in August, the latest data from Halifax has shown. Scroll through the Money blog for this plus more personal finance and consumer posts - and leave your comments below.

Saturday 7 September 2024 08:31, UK

• Liam Gallagher jokes about Oasis ticket prices
• Reality star tells Sky News she didn't have pension in her 40s 
• Sharp rise in price of first class stamp
• House prices hit two-year high - see how they vary by region
• Supermarket's tea beats more expensive brands in taste test  

Essential reads

• Who's to blame for concert prices going through roof - and who gets money?
• Fake voucher trend sees supermarket call in police
• How data roaming charges compare by network
• How your pension could be taxed

Tips and advice

• Weekly mortgage guide
• Free school meals guide
• Cheapest holidays dates before Xmas
• Money Problem : 'My dog died but insurance still wants a year's payment'

Ask a question or make a comment

Instead of our regular Saturday long read, we've published our first ever Money blog spin off - a student finance special.

In it you'll find:

• All the best student discounts - food, clothes, beer and more
• Top 10 budgeting tips for starting uni 
• What are the highest-paying jobs in the UK?
• The best bank accounts for students
• Eight things you need to know about renting as a student
• Student loans: How do they work and is it too late to apply? 
• The towns and cities where it's cheapest to be a student 

Check it out here - and we'll be back with live updates on Monday...

By Jimmy Rice , Money blog editor

Away from Oasis ticket prices, the news agenda in Money this week was dominated by pensions.

We learned on Wednesday that the state pension looks set to rise by just below 4% next April - equalling around £400 extra per year for those on the full state pension.

Pre-2016 retirees who may be eligible for the secondary state pension could see a £300 per year increase.

Because of the triple lock, each year the state pension rises by whatever is highest from inflation, average wage growth or 2.5%.

Officials did nothing to downplay a BBC report, apparently based on internal Treasury figures, that average wage growth would be the highest of these this year.

The figures that would be used to set next April's rise are released next week but the OBR forecast is for 3.7% - which would take the full state pension to around £12,000.

Whether or not pensioners would view this as good news is up for debate (see our last post), but there was definite bad news for older Britons earlier in the week, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves refused to rule out heavier taxation on pensions in the October budget.

How could pensions be taxed further? We had a look here...

Ms Reeves also confirmed on Tuesday that she'd impose a cap on corporation tax.

She said the tax would be capped at its current level of 25% to "give business the confidence to grow".

A final piece of news from Money this week that could have consequences for your bank balance was confirmation that the Household Support Fund would be extended until April.

Councils decide how to dish out their share of the fund but it's often via cash grants or vouchers. Many councils also use the cash to work with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.

People should contact their local council for details on how to apply for the Household Support Fund - they can find their council here .

On the Oasis ticket price story, which continued to make headlines through the week including today, a post in Money appeared to help prompt a U-turn from official reseller Twickets.

The company told us it would be lowering its fees after criticism online...

Unofficial resellers were also in the spotlight and, on an episode of the Daily podcast, Niall Paterson spoke to Viagogo - eliciting an admission that things need to change...

Here in Money, we published a few explainers that are well worth checking out...

We'll be back with live updates on Monday - but do check out our Money blog spin-off tomorrow, a student finance special.

Have a good weekend.

We start this week's round up of your comments with Virgin Media O2's decision to axe its weekly free Greggs perk...

Customers on social media claimed they'd review whether they remained with O2 - while one Money blog reader asked what his rights were if he wanted to cancel...

I signed a new O2 contract on 16 August based largely on the advertised promise of the Greggs priority offer. I'm angry that I have been mis-sold my new contract and I will not be able to enjoy the benefit that I signed it for. I want to end it early, what are my rights? Phil

We looked at O2 Priority's T&Cs - and they clearly set out that they can make any change to the terms of the agreement and service without giving you a right to cancel.

Therefore, if you want to cancel you'll have to pay an early termination charge.

There is one exception - but only if you're in the first two weeks of your contract.

Consumer champion Scott Dixon says: "When you enter into a phone contract with a mobile phone provider online, it is classed as a distance sale and is covered by legislation.

"This legislation binds traders to provide key information at the point of sale including right to cancel information. This gives you a 14-day cooling-off period to leave without paying any termination fees, although you would have to pay for what you have used such as calls, texts and data.

"If you entered into the contract in-store, this would not apply." 

This probably isn't what Phil wants to hear - but we did look at other ways he and others might be able to get free or discount Greggs...

This post, which we hoped would be helpful, didn't go down well with everyone...

How to eat Greggs on the cheap?! Give me strength... Pork Pie Percy

Another topic that elicited a strong response from readers was a campaign group's call for the chancellor to impose a pay-per-mile tax on electric vehicles.

EV drivers obviously don't pay fuel duty - and the pay-per-mile proposal would make up for lost revenue to the Treasury as more people ditch petrol and diesel cars.

The Campaign for Better Transport group proposing the tax says the public would be on board - but our LinkedIn poll suggests this isn't the case...

Readers said...

I wonder how many people realise that an introduction of pay per mile, I guess by means of a tracker type of device, will actually allow big brother to watch your every move when travelling in your car, your speed on any given road, accident data etc... our freedom is diminishing. Big Ian

EVs need electricity to work, the cost of electricity in the UK is mad. I pay higher electricity bills because I don't have a diesel anymore. Why should I be charged pence per mile just by having an EV? It's money and NOT pollution targets the government are looking at. A Grant

The proposed introduction of pay per mile for ZEV will clearly by necessary to compensate for the taxes lost from the sale of petroleum based fuels. This was always going to happen. EU4ME

Only a matter of time before they came for the electric clan. I wonder if sales of electric will now suffer?  Chappers2013

Read more on this story here...

Pension stories always attract a lot of feedback - and this week's suggestion that the state pension will rise in line with average earnings growth next year was no different.

A rise of 3.7% would equal another £400 a year...

Wow how generous, suggested £400 rise to state pension would equate to a rise of £7.69 a week to a pensioner. But in reality, take away winter fuel and the rise is £100, that's £1.92 a week - will be rolling in the money. SueP

Without raising the personal allowance any pension increases will be eaten up with tax. This country is unbelievable in the way it treats its old folk. Monkee knows best

A potential £400 rise in state pension is hardly a headline, it's still a long way off from the minimum living wage. Prendy

An Oasis fan who spent more than £350 on a single ticket says she was left "fuming" after extra show dates were announced. 

Diane Green, from Middlesbrough, was close to buying a ticket costing £158 but said she was kicked out of an online queue. 

She then had to wait four hours to pay £357.95 for one ticket.

The 60-year-old wanted to buy a total of four tickets to take herself, her son and two friends to see the band at Heaton Park in Manchester, but said "there's just no way I could have got more".

"I would never have done it (purchased the ticket)," she said.

"If I had known they were putting more dates on, I would have just thought 'no, I'll chance it again', but it was really frustrating."

"I paid double. I could have got two tickets when I paid and now only one person can go. In our household, it's like, who goes?"

Ms Green said she bought the ticket thinking it was her only chance to see the band and was "absolutely fuming" when they announced more dates.

"It's disgraceful," she added. "For me to purchase a ticket for £358, it's a lot of money. I regret doing it in a way."

Oasis announced two new Wembley Stadium dates due to "phenomenal public demand" earlier this week.

It comes after controversy over the sale of tickets for their reunion tour, with 17 shows across Cardiff, Manchester, Wembley, Edinburgh and Dublin selling out.

Fans were beset with problems getting on to ticket websites, from being labelled bots and being kicked out of queuing to some ending up paying more than the advertised price of £148 as costs surged past £355. 

Liam Gallagher appeared to brush off the controversy earlier as he joked about ticket prices on social media, telling one person to "shut up" after Oasis were accused of ripping off fans.

Nationwide's £2.9bn takeover of rival Virgin Money is expected to complete next month after the deal was approved by the UK's financial regulators.

The deal will still need to be sanctioned in court, with a hearing set to take place on 27 September, but it is due to be formally complete on 1 October. 

It comes after Nationwide agreed to the takeover of its London-listed rival in March.

The building society struck the deal with a 220p-a-share offer for Virgin Money, including a planned 2p-per-share dividend payout.

It will bring together Britain's fifth and sixth-largest retail lenders, creating a combined group with around 24.5 million customers and more than 25,000 staff. 

The new owners of The Body Shop are lining up tens of millions of pounds in new financing as they finalise a deal to buy the chain out of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Aurea, an investment company led by cosmetics entrepreneur Mike Jatania, is in advanced talks to secure more than £30m in working capital from Hilco Capital, a prolific investor in and lender to the retail industry.

Banking sources said that the deal between Aurea and FRP Advisory, The Body Shop's administrators, was likely to be finalised within days.

If confirmed, the new debt from Hilco would be used to help place the cosmetics chain back on a growth footing, the bankers said.

The UK economy would need investment of £1trn over a decade for an annual growth rate of 3% to be achieved, according to a business lobby group.

The Capital Markets Industry Taskforce (CMIT), which represents leaders in the financial services sphere, said £100bn a year must be found to help the country catch up after trailing its peers for many years.

It urged a focus on energy, housing and venture capital, arguing the money could be unlocked from the £6trn in long-term capital within the pensions and insurance sector.

The government has made growing the economy its top priority.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer let it be known during the election campaign that he was seeking to achieve a growth rate of 2.5% - a level the economy has struggled to reach since the financial crisis of 2008.

You've waved your magic wand, and your "happily ever after" home appears... 

It sounds like a buyer's dream - and one property has come to market that could be a dream come true for a Disney fan. 

A semi-detached house in Rhyl, Wales, looks ordinary from the outside, but its interior has been decorated as an homage to Disney and other cartoon characters. 

The cast of Aladdin, Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty and Tinkerbell from Peter Pan are just some of the characters displayed around this three-bed house. 

It's been put on the market for £179,950 - more than £44,400 less than the average price of a property in Wales (you can read more about this in our 8.54 post). 

On Zoopla, it is listed as being close to public transport and within walking distance to the town centre. 

It also has two reception areas, a shed and a garden. 

According to the online estate agent, it is "ideal for first time buyers". 

Daniel Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla, told the Money blog: "It goes without saying that this property would make the perfect home for a Disney fan with its spectacular murals showcasing a whole new world.

"Aside from this, the property is conveniently located near the local leisure centre and schools, while Rhyl’s beautiful beaches are also within walking distance." 

Visa says it is planning a new service which offers more control and better protection to people paying bills by bank transfer.

The dedicated service for account-to-account (A2A) payments will launch early in the UK next year, it said - with an "easy to use" resolution service that could make it easier for customers to claw their money back if something goes wrong.

Visa said consumers using the service will be able to monitor their payments more easily and raise any issues by clicking a button in their banking app, giving them a similar level of protection to when they use their cards.

Biometrics will also be incorporated to offer a new level of security, it added.

Royal Mail is hiking the price of first class stamps again - this time by 30p. 

From 7 October, they will increase to £1.65, while second class stamps will remain at 85p.

In April, first class stamp prices increased by 10p to £1.35, and by 10p to 85p for second class.

Royal Mail said it had sought to keep price increases as low as possible in the face of declining letter volumes, inflationary pressures and the costs of maintaining the Universal Service Obligation, under which deliveries have to be made six days a week.

It added that letter volumes have fallen from 20 billion in 2004/5 to around 6.7 billion a year in 2023/4. 

This means the average household now receives four letters a week, compared to 14 a decade ago.

In the same period, the number of addresses Royal Mail must deliver to has risen by four million, meaning the cost of each delivery has also risen. 

Nick Landon, Royal Mail's chief commercial officer, said: "We always consider price increases very carefully. 

"However, when letter volumes have declined by two-thirds since their peak, the cost of delivering each letter inevitably increases."

He called for the universal service to be adapted to reflect changing customer preferences, saying the financial cost to meet the current demands are "significant". 

"The universal service must adapt to reflect changing customer preferences and increasing costs so that we can protect the one-price-goes anywhere service, now and in the future," he added. 

Postal regulator Ofcom said this week that Royal Mail could be allowed to drop Saturday deliveries for second class letters under an overhaul of the service.

Up to 60 new Wagamama restaurants could be coming to the UK. 

The Asian food chain's owner, The Restaurant Group (TRG), said it wanted to operate between 200 and 220 premises across the country as part of a long-term plan. 

It's currently on track to open 10 new sites this year, which would create around 500 jobs, according to The Caterer. 

It comes as TRG posted its financial results for the year ending December 2023. 

It said Wagamama saw its dine-in like-for-like sales increase by 11%. 

It's other brand, Brunning and Price Pubs, saw sales go up by 10%. 

TRG's chief executive Andy Hornby said 2023 was a "genuinely transformational" year for the company. 

"We traded strongly throughout the year thanks to the phenomenal efforts of our restaurant and pub teams," he said. 

"We are on track to open 10 more Wagamama sites in the UK during 2024 and we have acquired 100% ownership of our Wagamama business in the USA." 

He added that he was "confident" that the company would continue to grow in the years ahead, despite the "challenging" consumer backdrop. 

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