Relationships & Partners and Writing Skills Tips. (A Writing Advice Guide Book

Transition Words Lesson

Transition Words Lesson

Have you ever read an essay that's hard to follow, that leaves you wondering what you just took in? This usually happens when the writer fails to move you through the piece gently, from one idea to another. Successful essays, on the other hand, contain fluid connections between sentences and paragraphs. These connections are called transitions. Using them well results in smooth writing, while also securing a tone of confidence and authority. Effective transitions are a hallmark of good writing. The list below features some common transitions. Take a minute to study them.

1. above
2. after
3. also
4. although
5. another
6. because
7. beside (s)
8. consequently
9. finally
10. first, second...
11. for example
12. furthermore
13. however
14. in addition to
15. in fact
16. last
17. meanwhile
18. moreover
19. nevertheless
20. next
21. of course
22. similarity
23. since
24. therefore
25. while
26. yet

Notice that the transitions serve different functions in ordering ideas. We can break these functions into four areas: chronological, order of importance, spatial (physical) and general (persuasive). Here is an example of each:

Meanwhile, the cake was burning in the oven. (chronological)
- In the first place, we should thank Mrs. Smith for her donation. (importance)
- Below, you will find the treasure map. (spatial)
- Furthermore, you cannot drive until you are sixteen. (persuasive)

Much of the time, transitions exist in expressions or phrases. Here are just a few:
another reason
at the same time
as soon as
contrary to
in the first place
just as
more importantly
to begin with
rather than

Writing Exercise Prompt
1. As you get acquainted with transitions, your writing will become more fluid and varied.
It would be useful, then, to write a series of twenty sentences using different transitions and transitional phrases. Choose some of the less familiar ones!

Persuasive Writing Transitions In Action
Writing Exercise Prompt
2. Transitions are especially important in persuasive writing, since they help you emphasize certain ideas. If you use most importantly, for example, the reader will pay special attention to what follows. Using effective transitions, write a three paragraph persuasive essay. Choose any topic you feel strongly about. Be sure to use lots of details to support your opinion.