Transitions

By showing the relationships between ideas, transitions help the writing to move from one point to another, so the reader is carried on smoothly from the start of a document to the end. Such movement can take place in two directions: an idea can continue in the same direction as the one before, or it can deviate. Thus, the two basic types of transitions can be described as those that support and those that modify. These two main types have numerous variations, so select the precise words that express the particular concept you have in mind.

Support is often expressed by words and phrases like these:

Concept

Words

likeness

similarly, likewise

amplification

and, also, again, in addition, moreover, furthermore

example

for example, that is, for instance

restatement

that is, in effect, in other words, in simpler terms, in short

conclusion

thus, therefore, finally, in conclusion

Modification often takes these forms:

contrast

but, however, nevertheless, although, in contrast

concession

still, granted that, of course, admittedly

consequence

so, as a result, accordingly, for that reason

emphasis

in fact, indeed, equally, even more important, here, there, in the foreground, in the background

sequence

next, afterward, as soon as, subsequently, until now;

first, second(ly), third(ly); first, next, finally

You may also want to use a technique other than concept statement, such as

Whichever technique you use, remember that you are working with ideas, not with a formula that you can apply arbitrarily; organize the ideas well, and then use transitions to make the coherence evident.