What is the purpose of transition words in persuasive writing?
to state claims
to link ideas
to cite sources
to offer criticism

The correct answer is to link ideas.

What transition words are supposed to do when it comes to any writing, not just persuasive writing, is link ideas. Transition words are usually conjunctions, such as however, additionally, so, and, consequently, etc. which a writer uses in order to connect ideas. They are used so as to provide a smooth transition between ideas and avoid an abrupt change of topics.

to inform readers about the ways young people improve the world.

tending to cause harm