TRANSITION WORDS OR LINKING WORDS
Transition words, also known as linking words or connectors, play a crucial role in improving the flow and coherence of your writing. They help establish connections between sentences, paragraphs, and ideas, making your text more organized and reader friendly. Here are some common categories of transition words and examples:
- Addition:
Additionally, moreover, furthermore, in addition, not only… but also, also.
Example: She not only completed her project on time but also exceeded the expectations.
- Contrast:
However, nevertheless, on the other hand, in contrast, although, yet, but.
Example: The weather was hot; however, they decided to go for a hike.
- Comparison:
Similarly, likewise, in the same way, compared to, just as.
Example: The new model performs similarly to its predecessor.
- Cause and Effect:
Therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, so, because.
Example: He missed the bus; consequently, he arrived late to the meeting.
- Time:
Meanwhile, meanwhile, subsequently, afterward, during, before, after, finally.
Example: She studied for hours; meanwhile, her friends went to the movies.
- Example and Illustration:
For example, for instance, in particular, such as.
Example: There are several reasons for his success; for instance, his dedication and hard work.
- Conclusion:
In conclusion, to sum up, ultimately, in summary.
Example: In conclusion, the experiment provided valuable insights into the behavior of the new material.
- Sequence/Order:
First, second, third, next, then, finally.
Example: First, gather all the necessary materials; next, follow the step by step instructions.
- Emphasis:
Indeed, in fact, certainly, of course.
Example: The results of the study were, indeed, surprising.
- Summary:
In brief, to summarize, overall, to conclude.
Example: To summarize, the new policy has had a positive impact on employee satisfaction.
Using transition words appropriately enhances the overall coherence of your writing, helping readers follow your ideas more easily.