Transitions

The connection between one paragraph and the next should be clear to the reader. To make the connections clear, you can use transition words and phrases. Transition words and phrases build bridges between paragraphs, and between sentences, so that they read smoothly.

Transition words and phrases are used for different purposes. And, unless they are part of a longer phrase, transition words and phrases are followed by a comma.

The chart below lists transition words and phrases that can help you connect the ideas in your sentences and paragraphs. For additional information, consult our writing handbook.

To Introduce Examples:

• for example

• for instance

• to illustrate

• in one example

• in one instance

• in one case

• in fact

• as proof

To Add Another Point:

• in addition

• also

• another

• furthermore

• moreover

• a second (third, fourth, etc.)

To Indicate Time Relationships:

• before

• after

• next

• then

• finally

• soon

• since

• meanwhile

• eventually

• at last

• afterward

• at this point

• in the meantime

• to begin with

• at the same time

• not long after

• as time passed

• first, second, third, etc.

To Signal Results or Effects:

• as a result

• because (of)

• therefore

• thus

• consequently

• due to

• for this reason

• in response to

• in conclusion

To Show Comparison or Contrast:

• similarly

• like

• unlike

• just as

• the same as

• different from

• in contrast

• on the other hand

• on the contrary

To Connect Ideas:

• yet

• however

• though

• so

• nevertheless

• moreover