linking words in an argumentative essay

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Linking/transition words: Things you need to know...

All assignments are written in formal language. You need to ensure that you demonstrate your knowledge and understanding alongside your ability to answer the question/solve the problem.

Below are some ideas to help you to develop your structure and flow.

Linking / transition words and phrases join ideas, sentences and paragraphs together. They should be used within sentences and to move from one idea to another (between sentences).

These words and phrases indicate the direction, order and flow of ideas. Significantly, they strengthen the quality and structure of your work.

Redundant Words - less is more. P articularly when trying to reduce the word count, it is important to look for phrases which can be replaced with a single word.

Linking/Transition Words

Transitions link one main idea to another separated by a semi-colon or full-stop. When the transition word is at the beginning of the sentence, it should be followed by a comma:

Among other functions, they can signal cause and effect or sequencing (see examples in the table below).

Linking words: conjunctions

Linking words within a sentence are referred to as coordinating conjunctions. Do not worry about the term: think about the function.

Conciseness / redundant words

Microsoft Word now has an additional feature within the Edito r - it is called conciseness or wordiness.

If you cannot see the Editor menu a quick tip is to hold down the function (fn key at the bottom left of the keyboard) + F7 (top line of keys).
From the Refinements section - select Conciseness - if there are any suggestions a number will appear in the box alongside this option
A dotted line will appear under any groups of groups
Either select the identified text by clicking with your right mouse button OR click on the down down next to the Conciseness menu.
MS Word will display any alternative words which you can either select and they will be replaced in your text or reject if you want to keep the original phrases.

Examples: try to replace phrases with a single words which mean the same.

Need to know more...

Related pages
External links
Academic writing Illustrates the main features of academic writing so that you are aware of what it is and what it involves
Critical Thinking Academic work involves thinking, not just accepting what you read or are told.
Terms and Definitions Important words appear in your assignments and examinations. The aim of this factsheet is to help you to fully understand what they mean.

Additional resources to help you to improve your confidence and grades:-

Writing Effectively demonstrates the importance of: clarity, structure, relevance, argument and precision.
Writing Mechanics gives further examples and resources on areas including: sentence structure, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Linking/Transition words - Scribbr https://www.scribbr.co.uk/syntax/transition-words-examples/ [Accessed 10 February 2023]

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Connecting ideas in writing

Suggestions for connecting ideas at the sentence and paragraph level in academic writing.

In academic writing, it is important to present an argument clearly and cohesively. In addition, you may be required to discuss and evaluate existing research or ideas about the topic under discussion. Often you will be assessed on your ability to do both. Developing the language to connect ideas in academic writing will help you with both these tasks. The appropriate use of ‘discourse markers,’ that is, words or phrases that signal a relationship, can reveal and reinforce the direction that your argument is taking, and make clear the relations between sections of your writing.

Here we provide suggestions for sentence openers, ‘linking words’ within sentences and between paragraphs, and alternative vocabulary choices you might use when connecting ideas in writing.

Connectives used in and between sentences

Connectives allow us to be more precise about the relationships between statements in a sentence or between sentences. Particular phrases and words serve different functions in connecting ideas and arguments. For example, different clauses or words can signal or ‘signpost’ additional or similar information, opposition or contrast, concession, cause or effect, emphasis, clarification, or a relationship in time or sequence. Some useful examples of each are categorised by function below.

Note that most of these terms can also be used to start new paragraphs. However, some of them need to be incorporated into fuller sentences to be effective as paragraph openers. For example, if you use notwithstanding as a paragraph opener you may have to add other content words to provide more information such as “Notwithstanding a lack of natural resources, the region has…”

Additionally, and, also, apart from this, as well (as), in addition, moreover, further, furthermore.

If, in that case, provided that, unless.

Correspondingly, equally, for the same reason, in a similar manner, in comparison, in the same way, on the one hand, similarly.

Alternatively, although, but, conversely, despite, even so, even though, however, in contrast, in spite of, instead, on the contrary, contrary to, nevertheless, nonetheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, rather, still, though, yet, whereas, while.

Again, in fact, interestingly, indeed, it should be noted (that), more important(ly), most importantly, to repeat, (un)fortunately, unquestionably.

A further instance of this is..., an example of this is…, for example, for instance, such as, thus, as follows.

In other words, more simply, namely, simply put, to put it differently / another way, such as, that is.

A / the consequence of, because, due to, for, the effect of …, since, the result of …

Accordingly, as a result/consequence, consequently, for this reason, hence, so, therefore, thus.

Admittedly, although, clearly though, even though, however, indeed, obviously.

As a rule, for the most part, generally, in general, in most cases, normally, on the whole, usually.

First, second, third (etc), next, before, earlier, finally, following, given the above, later, meanwhile, subsequently, then, to conclude, while.

A note about presentation and style

Check a usage guide for exact rules for punctuation. Many introductory phrases have a comma after them. For example, 'therefore,' and 'in addition,'.

Connecting paragraphs

Apart from using the linking words / phrases above, showing the link between paragraphs could involve writing ‘hand-holding’ sentences. These are sentences that link back to the ideas of the previous paragraph. For instance, when outlining the positive and negative issues about a topic you could use the following:

Example (from beginning of previous paragraph):

One of the main advantages of X is…

When you are ready to move your discussion to the negative issues, you could write one of the following as a paragraph opener:

Having considered the positive effects of X, negative issues may now need to be taken into account…
Despite the positive effects outlined above, negative issues also need to be considered...

It is always important to make paragraphs part of a coherent whole text; they must not remain isolated units.

Checking for paragraph links in your own work

When you are editing your next written assignment, ask yourself the following questions as you read through your work (Gillett, Hammond, & Martala, 2009):

Does the start of my paragraph give my reader enough information about what the paragraph will be about?
Does my paragraph add to or elaborate on a point made previously and, if so, have I made this explicit with an appropriate linking word / phrase?
Does my paragraph introduce a completely new point or a different viewpoint to before and, if so, have I explicitly shown this with a suitable connective?
Have I used similar connectives repeatedly? If yes, try to vary them using the above list.

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Linking Words – Full List, Examples & Worksheet

| Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Worried that your essay lacks structure and coherence? Perhaps you should use linking words, transition words, or connectors to give it a boost.

Linking words join separate sentences to improve writing flow. You can also find them mid-sentence to connect clauses.

Read on as I show you the definition and types of linking words in English. I also list examples of linking words under every category, and I whipped up a helpful worksheet to test your skills.

What Are Linking Words?

Linking words, transition words, or connecting words in the English language help connect ideas and sentences when speaking or writing.

Linking words and phrases are connectors or transitional phrases. They are also part of formal language, so you’ll find them in academic writing, opinion writing, critical essays, dialectic essays , journalism, and business documents.

Some linking verbs link clauses within a sentence, such as although, in case, and whatever. That means you can find them in the middle of sentences from time to time. Others link two complete sentences, such as besides, as a result, and however.

List of Transition Words

Now that you know the meaning of transition words, let’s look at the usage of transition words in sentences and clauses. Don’t worry, I’ll break it all down for you!

Below, I’ve got a list of linking words and phrases to serve as alternative choices for connecting ideas in writing. Note that there are several types of transition words which we will discuss later.

Agreement/Addition/Similarity

Linking words may help the reader understand additional comments or ideas in a statement. They may also express agreement or similarities. These words are also called additive transition words, commonly found in expository essays and narrative essays.

In the first place
As a matter of fact
In like manner
In addition
Not only, but also
Coupled with
In the same way
In the same manner
First, second, third
Not to mention
In the light of
By the same token
Additionally
Correspondingly
Furthermore
Comparatively
At the same time
Together with
Identically

Here are some examples of additive linking words in a sentence.

The group found that a constructivist approach leads to higher test scores. Moreover, essay examinations show higher levels of learning.
The resort has tennis courts. Furthermore, it has an Olympic pool.

Negative Ideas

Some linking words come in pairs to join negative ideas.

Not, neither
Neither, nor

Here are sentence examples of linking words showing negative ideas.

I haven’t seen Lory, neither have I talked to her friend.
I neither drink nor smoke.

Opposition/Limitation/Contradiction

Whereas some linking words show an extra idea, these transition phrases and words express contrasting ideas in writing.

Although this may be true
In contrast
(and) still
Notwithstanding
Different from
Of course…, but
On the other hand
On the contrary
Be that as it may
Nonetheless
Even so/though
Nevertheless
In spite of

Here are some sentences with linking words of opposition.

The short story can be analyzed using a functionalist lens. However, its historical theme is better understood with a critical perspective.
As much as I want to go, I must take care of my sister.

Some linking words show relationships between ideas by accepting an idea with reservation instead of showing complete opposition. Here are some examples.

All the same
Regardless of this
Up to a point

Here are some sentence examples.

Many citizens opposed this unfair policy, which the president nevertheless enacted.
I like him even if we have different views in life.

Cause/Condition/Purpose

You may also use linking words in your writing piece to show conditions and purpose for a logical flow of ideas. Words like reason get the reader ready to understand why. These words are commonly found in hypothesis essays.

In the event that
Granted (that)
Provided that
On (the) condition (that)
For the purpose of
With this intention
With this in mind
In the hope that
Inasmuch as
To the end that
For fear that
In order to
Seeing/being that
The researchers used this method so that the results would be valid, reliable, and aligned with the objectives.
I will not be attending the seminar due to a high fever.

Examples/Support/Emphasis

You can also use transition words in your piece of writing that show examples or support of an idea.

In other words
To put it differently
For one thing
In particular
As an illustration
In this case
For example
For instance
For this reason
To put it another way
To demonstrate
That is to say
With attention to
By all means
To emphasize
To enumerate
Particularly
Significantly
Specifically
Surprisingly
Important to realize
Another key point
On the negative side
First thing to remember
Must be remembered
To point out
Point often overlooked
She visited several cities, namely Portland, Jacksonville, Charleston, and Hartford.
Transition words improve writing flow. For instance, we use further to add extra ideas related to the previous statement.

Effect/Consequence/Result

You might also spot transitional devices for essays that show consequences, results, and effects.

As a result
In that case
Under those circumstances
Accordingly
Consequently

Consider the examples below.

We watered the plant for seven days. In effect, it grew three inches taller.
Because she didn’t study for the test, Anna failed and had to retake it.

Conclusion/Summary/Restatement

These words and phrases show transitions between sentences to show conclusions. You’ll find these words in essay conclusions of different essay types.

In simple language
In explanation
In lay terms
In a nutshell
As can be seen
In simple terms
Generally speaking
All things considered
As shown above
In the final analysis
In the long run
In either case
Given these points
As has been noted
In any event
On the whole
By and large
For the most part
In conclusion
To summarize

Note that in lay terms and in explanation are formal alternative choices to “ in a nutshell.”

Here are some examples.

Matter is a material that occupies space and has mass. In simple language, it is any physical substance.
I don’t want to climb the corporate ladder. After all, money isn’t everything.

Time/Chronology/Sequence

Linking words’ other role in writing is to show sequence or chronology. Under the time category, these phrases add a meaning of time. You can find these words in an essay introduction when the writer explains how the paper is structured.

In due time
From time to time
At the present time
Sooner or later
Up to the present time
To begin with
Straightaway
In the meantime
In a moment
Without delay
All of a sudden
At this instant
First, second
By the time
Immediately
Occasionally
I watched the movie on television. Eventually, I fell asleep.
First, fill the pan with water. Then, bring it to a boil.

Space/Location/Place

The following transition words are famous adverbial expressions that limit or modify space. Some of these words and phrases are also transition words of time.

In the middle of
To the left/right
In front of
On this side
In the distance
In the foreground
In the background
In the center of
Adjacent to
Opposite to

Below are sentence examples using transition words of space.

My house is located behind the building.
To the left of the supermarket is a flower shop.

Common Mistakes With Transition Words

Transition words help you create a flow of arguments for readers to understand what you’re saying. But misused transition words and phrases will make your writing unclear. Avoid these mistakes to give your readers a better experience.

Starting a Sentence With So, And, and Also

Both so and and are coordinating conjunctions, which means they can start independent clauses that stand on their own. But it’s not recommended to use these words and also as sentence starters in formal writing. For example:

Incorrect: Also, there are unauthorized charges on my credit card account.
Correct: Furthermore, there are unauthorized charges on my credit card account.

Combination of Transition Words And/Or

When writing an essay, avoid English transition words and/or because it makes your paper look messy. Instead, consider whether you need both connectors or only one of them. If you need them both, try this alternative.

Incorrect: boat and/or plane.
Correct: boat, plane, or both.

Using As Well As as Alternative to And

As well as has a different meaning from the transition word and. And means you’re listing something of equal importance. Meanwhile, as well as is for additional, less essential information. Here’s an example.

Incorrect: In this paper, I discuss my movie analysis as well as provide recommendations for improvement.
Correct: In this paper, I discuss my movie analysis and provide recommendations for improvement.

Archaic Words

Your writing may not make any sense to readers if you overuse archaic transition words like therewith .

For example, hereby means as a result. We can replace it with more modern and explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement is connected to the previous statement.

Linking Words Summary

A linking word is a term that connects different ideas in your text, whether they are contrasting, supporting, or adding. They can improve your writing and help it flow better, I promise!

Regardless of the style of writing, every piece of writing contains linking words to show perfect transitions. I hope my guide on the definition and list of transitions helps you use these words and phrases correctly. Memorize each category, and don’t overuse them in essays.

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Transitional Words and Phrases

One of your primary goals as a writer is to present ideas in a clear and understandable way. To help readers move through your complex ideas, you want to be intentional about how you structure your paper as a whole as well as how you form the individual paragraphs that comprise it. In order to think through the challenges of presenting your ideas articulately, logically, and in ways that seem natural to your readers, check out some of these resources: Developing a Thesis Statement , Paragraphing , and Developing Strategic Transitions: Writing that Establishes Relationships and Connections Between Ideas.

While clear writing is mostly achieved through the deliberate sequencing of your ideas across your entire paper, you can guide readers through the connections you’re making by using transitional words in individual sentences. Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between your ideas and can help your reader understand your paper’s logic.

In what follows, we’ve included a list of frequently used transitional words and phrases that can help you establish how your various ideas relate to each other. We’ve divided these words and phrases into categories based on the common kinds of relationships writers establish between ideas.

Two recommendations: Use these transitions strategically by making sure that the word or phrase you’re choosing matches the logic of the relationship you’re emphasizing or the connection you’re making. All of these words and phrases have different meanings, nuances, and connotations, so before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely, and be sure that it’s the right match for your paper’s logic. Use these transitional words and phrases sparingly because if you use too many of them, your readers might feel like you are overexplaining connections that are already clear.

Categories of Transition Words and Phrases

Causation Chronology Combinations Contrast Example

Importance Location Similarity Clarification Concession

Conclusion Intensification Purpose Summary

Transitions to help establish some of the most common kinds of relationships

Causation– Connecting instigator(s) to consequence(s).

accordingly as a result and so because

consequently for that reason hence on account of

since therefore thus

Chronology– Connecting what issues in regard to when they occur.

after afterwards always at length during earlier following immediately in the meantime

later never next now once simultaneously so far sometimes

soon subsequently then this time until now when whenever while

Combinations Lists– Connecting numerous events. Part/Whole– Connecting numerous elements that make up something bigger.

additionally again also and, or, not as a result besides even more

finally first, firstly further furthermore in addition in the first place in the second place

last, lastly moreover next second, secondly, etc. too

Contrast– Connecting two things by focusing on their differences.

after all although and yet at the same time but

despite however in contrast nevertheless nonetheless notwithstanding

on the contrary on the other hand otherwise though yet

Example– Connecting a general idea to a particular instance of this idea.

as an illustration e.g., (from a Latin abbreviation for “for example”)

for example for instance specifically that is

to demonstrate to illustrate

Importance– Connecting what is critical to what is more inconsequential.

chiefly critically

foundationally most importantly

of less importance primarily

Location– Connecting elements according to where they are placed in relationship to each other.

above adjacent to below beyond

centrally here nearby neighboring on

opposite to peripherally there wherever

Similarity– Connecting to things by suggesting that they are in some way alike.

by the same token in like manner

in similar fashion here in the same way

likewise wherever

Other kinds of transitional words and phrases Clarification

i.e., (from a Latin abbreviation for “that is”) in other words

that is that is to say to clarify to explain

to put it another way to rephrase it

granted it is true

naturally of course

finally lastly

in conclusion in the end

to conclude

Intensification

in fact indeed no

of course surely to repeat

undoubtedly without doubt yes

for this purpose in order that

so that to that end

to this end

in brief in sum

in summary in short

to sum up to summarize

Improving Your Writing Style

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Clear, Concise Sentences

Use the active voice

Put the action in the verb

Tidy up wordy phrases

Reduce wordy verbs

Reduce prepositional phrases

Reduce expletive constructions

Avoid using vague nouns

Avoid unneccessarily inflated words

Avoid noun strings

Connecting Ideas Through Transitions

Using Transitional Words and Phrases

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Linking Words To Use In An Essay

Table of Contents

Linking words are those words that showcase a connection between sentences. Linking words help in forming the uniformity in the essay. These words are also known as transition words and used to show a relation among paragraphs or different sections in an essay. As the name suggests, Linking words bridge the gap between the ideas or concepts written in the essays. Your text seems to be more cohesive with the usage of linking words. Use proper linking words to reduce the reading efforts of the readers. Readers don’t want to take mental stress in understanding your essay. Therefore, it is necessary to make things easy for them.

Different types of linking words in an essay

It is not an easy task to compose a compelling essay. If you want to make your essay more appealing and expressive, then focus on three things, first is research, presentation and persuasion. If you don’t have a knack for writing, then you will fail miserably in forming a cohesive essay with judicial use of linking words.

Linking words play an important role in any type of essay. Without linking words, the information presented in an essay is just a dump of words. If you don’t want your essay to be clunky and disjointed one, use linking words and phrases correctly.

There are various categories of linking words one can use while writing an essay. Today in this blog, you will read 8 main categories and linking words list to be used while framing an essay. So here are 8 types of linking words to be used in an essay:

Linking words list for order and sequence

Flow is necessary for any type of essay. If there is an absence of flow of ideas, thoughts or logic in your essay, it will lose its glory. Here is a linking words list that helps by showing a sequence order in the essay.

First/ Second/ Third or Firstly/ secondly/ Thirdly
Primary/ Secondary
At the same time
At this point of time
Concurrently
First of all
Following this
In the first place
The next step
In the beginning
It all started when
Once upon a time
To begin with/ To start with

Linking words list to show a comparison

In various types of essays such as argumentative essay writing, compare and contrast essay writing, you might need to show comparison. Read different comparative essay examples to understand the role of these words in making a comparison. Therefore, you can follow the following words to make the comparison more clear. Here is a linking words list to show comparison:

Just as … so too
In the same time
By the same token
In the same way

Linking words list for contrasting

Just like the way you need linking words to show comparison, there are words that are used to show the contrast as well. Here is a of linking words list to show contrast:

However/ Nevertheless
Alternatively
Despite this
On the contrary
In spite of

Illustrating an example linking words list

Almost all types of essays require evidence or some examples to prove a specific point of view. But just telling an example may sound blunt. That is why we use linking words to show examples in a beautified manner. Have a look at the linking words list:

For example
For instance
In other words
An instance
As revealed by
To show that
In the case of
As an example
For one thing

Linking words list for additions

If you want to add some more information you can use addition linking words to convey the right meaning. Using “also” or “and” everywhere in the essay can take the charm away. So here is a linking words list you can use to while adding new information.

Furthermore
In addition
Specifically
To illustrate
To demonstrate
In line manner
Not only … but also
What’s more
By the same

Cause and effect linking words list

In any essay, if you want to draw a rational conclusion, you need to use cause and effect words. This makes a good connection of the whole essay with a conclusion. Use these linking words in an essay to show the cause and effect relationship.

Consequently
As a result of
As a consequence of
Contributes to
For this reason
Results from
Is the result of
Is the consequence of
Is caused by

Linking words list to Conclude

A good essay is one that is having a good conclusion. While most of the students use almost the same words to conclude their essays, here you have the chance to conclude the essay with some good words. Look at the linking words list for an excellent conclusion:

To conclude
In conclusion
On the whole
Summarising
By and large
All things considered
In the long run
For the most part
By the large
As a result

As you can see there are 8 main types of linking word categories that can be used while writing an essay. For more understanding visit smartwords.org .

But just using these words is not enough. You need to adjust and position them correctly or else, they will fail to tempt the readers.

In the next paragraph, I will be showing how to use these words in the sentences.

How to position linking or transition words in an essay

Using linking words correctly in an essay is not rocket science. You can learn it easily, all you need is the focus while writing an essay. There are three ways or I should say positions where you can fit your connecting words or linking words.

The first position is: At the beginning of the sentence

You can start a sentence with a linking word that provides a reference to the previous point. Have a look at some examples to understand more clearly.

One can have a lot of difficulty in writing creatively. However, creative writing is a useful skill.
I am not a big fan of marvel comics. On the other hand, I like their concept.
I fumble a lot while speaking. As a result, I fail to clear interviews.

The second position is: In the middle of the sentence

In an essay, you can use linkings words in the middle of the sentences as well. Usually, we write it after the subject. Learn how to use through the following examples.

One cannot escape from failures. They are, however, good lessons of life.
I am not good at grammar, as a result, I fail to get good grades in academic assignments.
The correct information is required for a good essay, but ideas too, play an important role.

The third position is: At the end of the sentence

At times you can use the connection or linking words at the end of the essay. It makes sense, you can see that in the following sentences.

Learning grammatical rules is a tough process. It is very useful, however.
I am not a lover of poetry. I love to recite them, on the other hand.
I am not a confident speaker. I get nervous in public speaking, as a result.

I hope the above-mentioned information will help you to understand the correct use of linking words in an essay. For more help, you can visit Englishathome.com and learn more about the words to use in essays.

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Argumentative Essays

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The Modes of Discourse—Exposition, Description, Narration, Argumentation (EDNA)—are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these approaches and students’ need to understand and produce them.

What is an argumentative essay?

The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner.

Please note : Some confusion may occur between the argumentative essay and the expository essay. These two genres are similar, but the argumentative essay differs from the expository essay in the amount of pre-writing (invention) and research involved. The argumentative essay is commonly assigned as a capstone or final project in first year writing or advanced composition courses and involves lengthy, detailed research. Expository essays involve less research and are shorter in length. Expository essays are often used for in-class writing exercises or tests, such as the GED or GRE.

Argumentative essay assignments generally call for extensive research of literature or previously published material. Argumentative assignments may also require empirical research where the student collects data through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments. Detailed research allows the student to learn about the topic and to understand different points of view regarding the topic so that she/he may choose a position and support it with the evidence collected during research. Regardless of the amount or type of research involved, argumentative essays must establish a clear thesis and follow sound reasoning.

The structure of the argumentative essay is held together by the following.

A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.

In the first paragraph of an argument essay, students should set the context by reviewing the topic in a general way. Next the author should explain why the topic is important ( exigence ) or why readers should care about the issue. Lastly, students should present the thesis statement. It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.

Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse. Transitions should wrap up the idea from the previous section and introduce the idea that is to follow in the next section.

Body paragraphs that include evidential support.

Each paragraph should be limited to the discussion of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. In addition, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph. Some paragraphs will directly support the thesis statement with evidence collected during research. It is also important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis ( warrant ).

However, argumentative essays should also consider and explain differing points of view regarding the topic. Depending on the length of the assignment, students should dedicate one or two paragraphs of an argumentative essay to discussing conflicting opinions on the topic. Rather than explaining how these differing opinions are wrong outright, students should note how opinions that do not align with their thesis might not be well informed or how they might be out of date.

Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to support the thesis statement and consider other points of view. Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence. As noted in the paragraph above, a successful and well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis. It is not the student’s job to point out how other positions are wrong outright, but rather to explain how other positions may not be well informed or up to date on the topic.

A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students may begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize the information presented in the body of the essay. Restate why the topic is important, review the main points, and review your thesis. You may also want to include a short discussion of more research that should be completed in light of your work.

A complete argument

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I were to discuss the cause of World War II and its current effect on those who lived through the tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to end the argument in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current effects on those who lived through the conflict. Therefore, the argumentative essay must be complete, and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The five-paragraph essay

A common method for writing an argumentative essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, by no means the only formula for writing such essays. If it sounds straightforward, that is because it is; in fact, the method consists of (a) an introductory paragraph (b) three evidentiary body paragraphs that may include discussion of opposing views and (c) a conclusion.

Longer argumentative essays

Complex issues and detailed research call for complex and detailed essays. Argumentative essays discussing a number of research sources or empirical research will most certainly be longer than five paragraphs. Authors may have to discuss the context surrounding the topic, sources of information and their credibility, as well as a number of different opinions on the issue before concluding the essay. Many of these factors will be determined by the assignment.

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Transition sentences | Tips & examples for clear writing

Transition Sentences | Tips & Examples for Clear Writing

Published on June 9, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

Clear transitions are crucial to clear writing: They show the reader how different parts of your essay, paper, or thesis are connected. Transition sentences can be used to structure your text and link together paragraphs or sections.

… In this case, the researchers concluded that the method was unreliable.

However , evidence from a more recent study points to a different conclusion . …

Transitioning between paragraphs, transitioning to a new section, transitions within a paragraph, other interesting articles.

When you start a new paragraph , the first sentence should clearly express:

What this paragraph will discuss
How it relates to the previous paragraph

The examples below show some examples of transition sentences between paragraphs and what they express.

Placement of transition sentences

The beginning of a new paragraph is generally the right place for a transition sentence. Each paragraph should focus on one topic, so avoid spending time at the end of a paragraph explaining the theme of the next one.

The first dissenter to consider is …

However, several scholars dissent from this consensus. The first one to consider is …

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While transitions between paragraphs are generally a single sentence, when you start a new section in a longer text, you may need an entire transition paragraph. Transitioning to a new section involves summarizing the content of the previous section and expressing how the new one will build upon or depart from it.

For example, the following sentences might be an effective transition for a new section in a literary analysis essay.

Having established that the subjective experience of time is one of Mann’s key concerns in The Magic Mountain , it is now possible to explore how this theme facilitates the novel’s connection with World War I. The war itself is not narrated in the book, but rather hinted at as something awaiting Castorp beyond the final pages. In this way, Mann links his protagonist’s subjective experience of time to more than just his illness; it is also used to explore the period leading up to the outbreak of war.

As in academic writing generally, aim to be as concise as you can while maintaining clarity: If you can transition to a new section clearly with a single sentence, do so, but use more when necessary.

It’s also important to use effective transitions within each paragraph you write, leading the reader through your arguments efficiently and avoiding ambiguity.

The known-new contract

The order of information within each of your sentences is important to the cohesion of your text. The known-new contract , a useful writing concept, states that a new sentence should generally begin with some reference to information from the previous sentence, and then go on to connect it to new information.

In the following example, the second sentence doesn’t follow very clearly from the first. The connection only becomes clear when we reach the end.

By reordering the information in the second sentence so that it begins with a reference to the first, we can help the reader follow our argument more smoothly.

Note that the known-new contract is just a general guideline. Not every sentence needs to be structured this way, but it’s a useful technique if you’re struggling to make your sentences cohere.

Transition words and phrases

Using appropriate transition words helps show your reader connections within and between sentences. Transition words and phrases come in four main types:

Additive transitions, which introduce new information or examples
Adversative transitions, which signal a contrast or departure from the previous text
Causal transitions, which are used to describe cause and effect
Sequential transitions, which indicate a sequence

The table below gives a few examples for each type:

Grouping similar information

While transition words and phrases are essential, and every essay will contain at least some of them, it’s also important to avoid overusing them. One way to do this is by grouping similar information together so that fewer transitions are needed.

For example, the following text uses three transition words and jumps back and forth between ideas. This makes it repetitive and difficult to follow.

Rewriting it to group similar information allows us to use just one transition, making the text more concise and readable.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The Ultimate List of Linking Words for Your Essay

Let’s face it: You can’t write an essay (or any other writing piece) without linking words.

Also known as connecting words or transition words, they serve to make your writing flow and help those reading your work follow the flow of your thoughts, ideas , and arguments .

This post is your guide to linking words and their role in writing. Not only will you learn the types of these words, examples, and reasons to use them, but you’ll also get a massive list of transition words and phrases as well as linking words PDF to download and use whenever necessary.

Table of Contents:

What are Linking Words?

Why use transition words in essays, linking words examples, addition/agreement/similarity, contrast/contradiction/limitation/opposition, comparison/concession/condition, clarification, cause/effect/result, emphasis/example, generalization, illustration, location/place/space, reason/reference, time/sequence, summary/conclusion/restatement.

The Ultimate List of Linking Words: Download

Linking words are lexical items (words and phrases) we use to connect ideas in writing and get a reader to the next sentence or paragraph.

They aren’t about essay writing only:

Whether you write a fiction book, marketing content , academic works, autobiography , or poems, you’ll need to connect ideas. That’s what transition words do:

They link your thoughts and arguments into a chain to show how they relate to each other. Also known as transition words, these phrases often start a sentence or a paragraph. However, you’ll also use them in the middle of sentences to bring ideas together.

The most common places for linking words in essays are:

the start of a paragraph
the start of a sentence introducing a new idea or extending an argument
the beginning of a concluding statement

Essay linking words is an integral part of academic writing. Put it simply, you can’t write a paper without using them; otherwise, your writing won’t make any sense for readers.

Transition words for essay serve to:

connect ideas in writing
create a flow of thoughts and arguments for readers to understand what you want to say
guide readers from one idea to another, demonstrating how they relate to each other
hook readers and encourage them to read the next sentence or paragraph
add more information
support or contrast a point
show the result, conclude, demonstrate an effect of this or that point

Using essay maker and connecting words, each sentence and paragraph must pass readers on to the next one. These connecting words serve as an instrument to guide readers from one thought or point to the next.

Linking words examples are many, and it’s clear why: every piece of writing contains tons of connecting and transition words. Let’s take an essay sample from Bid4Papers writers to see the example of linking words in academic writing:

This one was an essay introduction .

Now, why not take a step further and look for essay linking words in essay conclusions ?

Types and List of Linking Words to Use in Essays

Below you’ll find the ultimate list of transition words for essays by categories. Choose the role you need a word to play (reason, contrast, emphasis, restatement, etc.) and consider the corresponding table of transitions.

If you need the whole transition words list in one place, jump to the next category of this post to find the downloadable linking words pdf.

And now, for connecting words categories:

These words serve to add info to what you’ve previously stated, demonstrate the commonality between arguments, and support your thoughts.

Linking words for contrast is your instrument to show how things are different and provide counterarguments. They work best in persuasive and critical essays.

These lexical items will help you if you need to provide conditions to your statements, show how things are different/similar, or accept a point with reservation.

These words will help you with personal or narrative essays: They are linking words in opinion writing that indicates you’re going to explore ideas in more detail.

Expository essays will win with these words too.

Cause and effect connecting words do what their name says exactly: demonstrating a cause of some point and providing the result of what has been done or started.

These words are for putting forward your point more forcefully, providing examples.

Perfect transition words for hypothesis essays , generalization lexical items serve to make a general statement you’ll then specify and prove in detail.

These words and phrases are for you to provide examples in essays.

Use these words to provide order and reference or clarify spatial relationships between your points or ideas.

These transitional words will help you demonstrate relationships between ideas and provide reasons for what and why has started or occurred.

Use these words in your essay when you need to indicate the time and order of what you say.

Restatement words will help you express an alternative to what you previously stated. They work for all essay types, including rhetorical precis and dialectic essays .

Use summary and conclusion transitional phrases to sum up your points and come up with the final paragraph of your writing.

The Ultimate List of Connecting Words: Download

And now, for the most interesting and practical part:

Below you can find the linking words worksheet that gathers all the most commonly used transitional words in essays. Feel free to download this linking words PDF and refer to it every time you write an essay and experience writer’s block:

Do you need more guides and worksheets like this to assist you with academic writing? Please share your ideas in the comments, and our writers will be happy to help!

Our Writing Guides

Linking Words for Essay Writing: Useful Paragraph Phrases

Importance of Linking Words in Essay Writing

An essay is an important piece of writing when a student is seeking college admission. It needs to have a clear flow so that the readability is perfect. Rightly so, the sentences you construct need to flow and lead to each other seamlessly.

Linking or transition words come in handy to make your essay have comprehensible sentences. The words act as the ideal connectors and bridges that eliminate sentence isolation.

Factually, both writing and speaking need linking words that will help the audience form a clear relationship between ideas. Listeners and readers are able to comprehend responses when the right linking words are in place.

What are Linking Words in Essay Writing?

Linking words are the uniformity basis of an essay. When these words are in an essay, they showcase a connection between sentences. As usual, a typical essay consists of different sections and paragraphs.

If there are no transition words, the sentences will appear incoherent and messy. The use of linking words clearly show the relationship existing between all sections and paragraphs in an essay.

When writing your essay, make use of linking words as a bridge between the concepts you are writing and ideas in your essay. The readers will enjoy a cohesive piece of essay with texts that are flowing smoothly.

The assessment team has a lot of essays to read and you can make their work easy by using your linking words appropriately. If this is not the case, your professor will have to go through a lot of stress in trying to understand your essay.

Basically, if you want to impress your readers and consequently improve your scores, practice the best linking words skills.

Reasons for Using Linking Words in Essay Writing

Only proper usage of linking words will help you come up with a compelling essay. After toiling to conduct research for your essay, improper structure of sentences will make your efforts go to waste.

Good students endeavor and strive to create an appealing and expressive essay. A thorough use of the right linking words will make your presentation and persuasion of ideas flow perfectly.

Linking words are very crucial in any type of essay . If you do not want your texts to appear clucky, transition words ought to be in place.

Here are more reasons why you need linking words in your essay:

1. Flow of order and sequence

An essay needs flow of texts, ideas and thoughts otherwise it will lose its quality. Therefore, writers need to make huge efforts and use the right linking words that will bring a sequence of order in the essay.

Such words include next, then, firstly, secondly, afterwards, finally and afterwards. Other transition words to use include concurrently, at the same time, earlier, first of all, following this and for now.

A good sequence order in your essay is also enhanced when you use words such as lastly, in the end, in the beginning or once upon a time.

2. Showcasing comparison

There are essays that will require the writer to show comparison. Linking words play an important role in contrast and argumentative essays .

If you need to bring out comparison clearly, consider the use of words such as similarly, equally, comparable, in the same time and likewise.

Apart from same as, other words or phrases to use include just like, just as and comparably.

3. Contrasting

Transition words are the best when you want to bring out contrast in a sentence. In most of the cases, place then at the beginning or in the middle of your sentence to create the right contrast.

However, despite this, yet, whereas and alternatively are some of the words you can use.

4. Illustration of examples

There are places in your essay where you will have to give examples. Obviously, most essays will need illustration of evidence with the use of linking words.

Giving examples without these words will make your text to sound blunt.

Linking words such as for instance, in the case of, and for instance will make it easy to introduce your examples.

5. Including additions

You will also need to use linking words when putting additions in your essays. These words will ensure that you have added a txt with the correct meaning to your essay.

Furthermore, also, secondly, in addition and moreover are some of the linking words to use.

6. Introduction of cause and effects

Cause and effects in an essay can help the writer draw a sensible conclusion. In essence, it helps to bring about good connection of the essay when a conclusion is being added. Therefore, the relationship between cause and effect is better shown using the right linking words.

Owing to, thus, since, as a result of and because are some of the transition words you can use. Other words to use include stems from, leads to, results from, for this reason etc.

7. For conclusion purposes

Starting an impressive essay can only be better if the conclusion is attractive. It is good to bring about the conclusion using appropriate linking words that are not common.

You can conclude your essay using words such as finally, in conclusion, summarizing, in summary and briefly.

As a writer, you need to bear in mind that adjusting and positioning these words is a must if you are to impress your readers.

Dos of Using Linking Words

Adjust and position your linking words properly otherwise the reader will not be impressed.
Do mix up the linking words you use. Using one word several times can be very annoying to the reader. Since the transition phrases are many, mix them up in your essay to avoid repetition.
Be accurate in using these words when connecting your ideas in an essay. Know the difference between these phrases to understand the meaning correctly.
You can use these words when you want to accentuate a point. In other words, use them to stress something important in your writing.

30 Examples of Linking Words for Essay Writing

On the flipside
On the contrary
By and large
As a consequence of
In conclusion
Following this
At this point of time
In the same way
As an example
In other words
To put it differently
Under the circumstances
That is to say
With this intention
Subsequently
In order to
Of less importance
What’s more
Furthermore
Alternatively
In spite of
To illustrate
To demonstrate
In the middle of
For the avoidance of doubt

Wrapping Up on Linking words on Essay Writing

You can’t overlook the significance of linking words in essay writing. Transition words are important in bringing ideas together so that they appear as a whole in your essay.

All in all, an essay that flows well must incorporate the right transition words to link arguments and actions. The readers will be able to connect an event that took place because of a consequence of a different action.

Essays need to have a flow of ideas with each one building on the other. Yet still, organization of thoughts in essay writing is valuable and this is where linking words play a critical role.

To sum it up, the more your thoughts are in good organization, the smoother your essay will flow. When you use linking words appropriately, your piece will have a logical structure that is appealing to the reader.

When not handling complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Linking Words, Connecting Words: Full List and Useful Examples

Linking words (connecting words) are something we need to know in any style of writing, because it helps the reader to follow the flow of what you are saying. Whether it’s an argument in an essay , or an epic scene in a fantasy novel, your reader needs to be able to follow what you are saying. So, what are linking words, why should you bother learning them, and what does it look like in practice? Well, this guide will answer all of those questions!

Table of Contents

Linking Words

What are linking words.

Linking words are words that connect ideas together in a piece of writing . It shows that two things are related in some way, or that the point you are making has supporting information. The difference between linking words and simple paragraph starters that we looked at previously, is that linking words can be found at the start of paragraphs, but also in the middle of sentences to connect two ideas together too.

Why Should I Learn Linking Words/Connecting Words?

The answer to this one is fairly straightforward. If you don’t know a variety of linking words to connect ideas together in a piece of writing, then you’re writing won’t make sense. In the very best case here, your reader will become confused and fail to follow the message you are trying to get across in your writing, because the bits of text that should ordinarily fit together, just won’t without the linking words there to connect them.

So, you know what they are and why you need to know them – but what are some examples of linking words? We couldn’t possibly include them all because there are literally hundreds, but hopefully by highlighting some examples and showing their importance in a sentence, you’ll be able to understand the job they do more clearly and focus on learning some other ones for yourself.

Examples of Linking Words

Linking words to add more information.

These words simply add additional information to your sentence or paragraph to show that two ideas are similar. Here are some examples:

It started to rain and I got soaked – ‘and’ is the linking word that connects the two ideas of the individual being in the rain and getting soaked.
It can’t be the dog’s fault nor the cat’s – ‘nor’ connects the idea that neither the cat or dog was at fault.
We could go shopping first then get a bite to eat – ‘then’ shows that both ideas are connected, it also adds some sequence to the sentence by showing the order of things.

Linking Words to Contrast a Point

Sometimes you need to link two ideas together that are actually opposites in terms of what you are trying to say. Here are some words that will help you do that:

Annie could have gone for a run but she decided she was too tired – ‘but’ connects two ideas that are related, but they oppose one another. She could have gone for a run, but she didn’t.
It’s my turn to make dinner tonight although a takeout might be easier – ‘although’ provides an opposite argument again, so it links the ideas in a contrasting way.
Carrots seemed to be the bunnies preferred food. On the other hand , lettuce was chosen second most frequently and the difference was marginal – ‘on the other hand’ shows clearly to the reader that a different point of view is coming.

Linking Words to Support a Point

If you’re trying to prove something or say something happened as a result of something else, then you will need words like the following:

I failed my test because I didn’t study – ‘because’ gets the reader ready to learn why somebody failed their test.
I could have done something differently, in fact we all could have – ‘in fact’ shows that the two ideas are linked together and support one another.
Jack had been sad since his girlfriend broke up with him – ‘since’ is being used here to explain why Jack was sad, so it links the ideas again.

There are many more examples and reasons for using linking words, but if you do some more research into the different linking words that there are, you’ll be able to see how you might use them to connect two ideas together in some way. Remember, they don’t always need to support one another. Sometimes ideas are connected because they oppose one another too.

Learn more with an ultimate guide to transition words and phrases in the English language.

Complete List of Linking Words & Connecting Words

Linking words – result.

Function: To provide the result of what has been stated or has occurred

Accordingly
As a consequence (of)
As a result
Consequently
For this reason

Connecting Words – Emphasis

Function: To put forward a point or idea more forcefully

Importantly
It should be noted
Particularly / in particular
Surprisingly
To emphasize
Undoubtedly
Unquestionably
With attention
Without a doubt

Linking Words – Addition

Function: To add to what has been previously stated

Additionally/an additional
Apart from this
As well as that
Coupled with
Furthermore
In addition
In addition to this
In the same fashion
Not only…but also
Not to mention
Together with

Linking Words – Reason

Function: To provide reasons for what has been stated or has occurred

For the purpose of
Granted that
In order to
Provided that
Seeing that
With this in mind
With this intention
With this purpose

Connecting Words – Illustration

Function: To provide examples

As an example of
For example/ For instance
For one thing
Illustrated by
In another case
In the case of
In this case
In this situation
On this occasion
Proof of this
Specifically
To demonstrate
To demonstrate/ To clarify
To simplify

Linking Words – Contrast

Function: To show how things are different

Alternatively
As opposed to
Contrary to
Despite/in spite of
Differing from
In contrast (to)
In opposition
Nevertheless
Nonetheless
Notwithstanding
On the other hand

Linking Words – Comparison

Function: To show how things are similar

By the same token
Compare / compare(d) to (with)
Correspondingly
In a similar manner
In like manner
In the same way
In the spitting image of
Just as…so too
Most important
Still another

Connecting Words – Order

1. Function: To indicate the order of what is being said

First/ firstly
Second/ secondly
Third/ thirdly
At this time
Subsequently

2. Function: To mark the end of an ascending order

Lastly and most importantly
Last but not least

3. Definition: To mark the beginning of a descending order

First and foremost…

Connecting Words – Summary

Function: To sum up what has been previously stated

All things considered
As demonstrated above
As shown above
As you can see
By and large
Generally speaking
Given these points
In any event
In conclusion
In the final analysis
On the whole
To conclude
To summarise

Linking Words – Condition

Function: To provide a condition to what has been stated

Although this may be true
In that case
In the event that
On the condition that

Connecting Words – Concession

Function: Connecting words and phrases to accept a point or idea with reservation

All the same
Although/Even though
Be that as it may
Even though
In spite of
Regardless of this
Up to a point

Connecting Words – Generalisation

Function: To make a general statement

Broadly speaking
For the most part
In general/ Generally
In most cases
More often than not
Predominately

Connecting Words – Restatement

Function: To express an alternative to what has been previously stated

Alternatively stated
Expressed simply
In a nutshell
In other words
In simple language
In simple terms
In summation
Otherwise stated
Put differently
Put in another way
Said differently
That is to say
To put it differently

Connecting Words – Reference

Function: To a relationship between continuing ideas presented in your essay.

As applied to
Considering
In connection to
Pertaining to
Some examples of these might be:
Speaking about/of
The fact that
With regards to
With respect to

Connecting Words – Clarification

Function: To indicate that you will be exploring your ideas in more detail.

In explanation
In lay terms
Simply stated
To break it down
To clearly define
To make plain
To put it clearly
To put it in another way

Connecting Words – Space/ Location

Function: To clarify spatial relationships/ provide spatial order and reference.

At the rear
Surrounding
To the left

Linking Words & Connecting Words Chart

Linking Words and Phrases | Video

Learn transition words video with American English pronunciation.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/STiQ4BEV8ug

Last Updated on April 2, 2021

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208 Best Transition words for Argumentative essay

Wondering “transition words for argumentative essay”? Want some good collection of these words to make your essay top-notch? Seeking an expert guide? Couldn’t find the best sources for it? Deadline approaching but still in the middle of nowhere? Ensure to read this exciting article before you type write my Essay request.

In an Argumentative Essay Writing Service , the writer tends to make his stance clear by giving sufficient evidences and using strong vocabulary to convince the audience. Hence, the most important pillar of such essay is to add transition words that make it top-notch and ensure flowy transition from one sentence and idea to another without creating ambiguity. So, to give you what is most important in your essay, here we are with the perfect essay writing guide. Let’s move to it.

Table of Contents

What Are Transition Words?

These words are often used in the essay writing and essay service to create, show, or build a relationship between phrases, words, sentences, paragraphs, and even ideas. Consider these words as one way to make it easier for the writer, especially when utilizing essay service, to push thoughts and ideas in a way that is most understandable and does not create ambiguity. These words are very important when moving from one idea to another, especially in the context of essay service, as they ensure a flowy transition in ideas. Lacking transitions can distract the audience and make them lose direction easily.

These words, in addition to above, make the audience prepared for what is coming ahead, immediately after one thought or idea. But as we know “with power comes great responsibility”, so we have to ensure the balance of using it. Using these words too much is harmful, just as using these words less will make the essay clumpy and ambiguous. Hence, moderation is necessary and important as well.

An easier way to understand these words is that they are simply joining words or conjunctions that join two sentences, ideas, thoughts, and paragraphs together.

It also has to be ensured that these words used have strong relationship with the writing, paragraphs, sentences etc. Irrelevancy should be avoided.

What Is The Purpose Of Transition Words?

The purpose of such words is to:

Tie the entire paper together
Help demonstrates the writer’s:
Disagreements
Convey the thoughts and ideas with rationality and clarity
Help readers understand phrases, words, sentences and the entire piece of writing easily.
Present complex ideas in most understandable way.
Ensure smooth flow of writing by forming a bridge and integrating logic into it.
Help add rigor into the essay and make it enjoyable to read.

How To Use Transition Words?

The use of transition words, although complex, can become spontaneous when use frequently and practicing them in writing. This is how to use it generally:

These words generally appear at the start of any paragraph, sentence, and clause in an essay followed by a comma. This purpose as a connection between the previous sentence and the following clause. Example: the presence of her mother in the function was a big trouble. However, she still was a blessing in disguise.
These words can also be used in the middle of any clause or sentence but it has to be ensured that it make sense with the idea. Example: she was, however, a blessing in disguise.
Do not use these words too often. Example: whereas, close people are blessing in disguise, however, the presence of some people make us irritated. Although, not always, but, it happens usually. See, the sentence involving overuse of these words become too clumpy.
Compare sentences and paragraphs with and without these transitions, and then decide the importance and use of them. Such as, mothers are always supportive. Fathers are more rational and harsh. Family is made of both. Decide how to keep the balance.

This sentence can be best presented as “Although, mothers are always supportive. Father, however, are more rational and harsh. As, family is made of both. So, decide how to keep the balance”.

Which Transition Words Or Phrases Indicate A Time Relationship?

Following are these words for indicating a time relationship:

In the meantime
Meanwhile
To begin with
During
Later
At first
Ending with
Immediately
Following
Since
Subsequently
Consequently
Simultaneously
Recently

How To Start A Paragraph Transition Words?

To start a paragraph , use following of these words:

Generally speaking
Furthermore
Additionally
Moreover
First of all
As seen
Basically
To put it differently
Earlier
The in the next step
To be sure
In addition
Once and for all
By the way
As you can see
Firstly

151 Transition Words For Argumentative Essays

Here is the list of 151 of these words:

In contrast
To put differently
To show it,
On the contrary
In another way
While
At the same time
Chiefly
Generally speaking
Alternatively
One alternative is…
To clarify
As a result
Another thing is to
Even if this view is true
Mainly
Nevertheless
That is
Despite the fact
Likewise
On the other hand
As an illustration
In spite of
In a similar fashion
In the same way
Under these circumstances
Henceforth,
In the effect
As a result
Therefore
Afterwards
Hence
Due to
For this reason
If…then
Otherwise
Accordingly
Because
In order to

For conclusion

To sum up,
On the whole
To summarize
Taking everything in account
By and large
All things considered
In short
Ultimately
At the end
Overall
To restate
Everything considered
As stated previously

For adding quotations

As shown in
As declared in
As rightly said
Expresses
As mentioned
This acknowledges
This states that
As confirmed
As stated

For analysis

According to
Primarily
To demonstrate
Subsequently
with this in mind
this is to say that

For synthesis

In this regard
This leads to
Another thing
As noted earlier
Besides
The underlying concept

For college essay

All in all
Above all
For instance
Even though
As well as
Although
The next step
Such as
Wherefore
No doubt
Especially
In the long run
Certainly
At the very first
At the first glance
Corresponding to
Specifically
To be precise
Ensuring all
To stick to the point
generically
In the similar fashion
Not to beat about the bush
Ensuring this,
Revolving around this
To stay around
Not moving forward with
In the same manner
To be on the same page
To touch the extremes,
To not be so high

Writing and integrating transition words into an essay might not be an easy task. Several important stuff have to be kept in mind to begin with it. However, with this writing guide, pro essay writers ensure that they have made clear how to implement and use such kind of words and phrases.

But if you are still trying to find and seek help of some experts, never forget that perfect essay writing services are always here to help. We move hand in hand with our help seekers/clients. So, don’t get late. Hurry up, get your perfect services right away.

The transition words that goes against an arguments are:

In contrast
Alternatively
To put differently
On the contrary
In another way

A good transition sentence in an essay are:

In addition to
Importantly
Not only but also

Some examples of transition words are:

One alternative is...
These words generally appear at the start of any paragraph, sentence, and clause in an essay followed by a comma.
These words can also be used in the middle of any clause or sentence but it has to be ensured that it make sense with the idea.
Do not use these words too often.
Compare sentences and paragraphs with and without these transitions, and then decide the importance and use of them.
Use these words generally at the start of any paragraph, sentence, and clause in an essay followed by a comma.

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40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

This article is suitable for native English speakers and those who are learning English at Oxford Royale Academy and are just taking their first steps into essay writing.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , politics , business , medicine and engineering .

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linking words in an argumentative essay

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Linking/transition words: Things you need to know...

Linking/Transition Words

Linking words: conjunctions

Conciseness / redundant words

Need to know more...

Connecting ideas in writing

Connectives used in and between sentences

A note about presentation and style

Connecting paragraphs

Example (from beginning of previous paragraph):

Checking for paragraph links in your own work

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Linking Words – Full List, Examples & Worksheet

What Are Linking Words?

List of Transition Words

Agreement/Addition/Similarity

Negative Ideas

Opposition/Limitation/Contradiction

Cause/Condition/Purpose

Examples/Support/Emphasis

Effect/Consequence/Result

Conclusion/Summary/Restatement

Time/Chronology/Sequence

Space/Location/Place

Common Mistakes With Transition Words

Starting a Sentence With So, And, and Also

Combination of Transition Words And/Or

Using As Well As as Alternative to And

Archaic Words

Linking Words Summary

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Linking Words To Use In An Essay

Different types of linking words in an essay

Linking words list for order and sequence

Linking words list to show a comparison

Linking words list for contrasting

Illustrating an example linking words list

Linking words list for additions

Cause and effect linking words list

Linking words list to Conclude

How to position linking or transition words in an essay

The first position is: At the beginning of the sentence

The second position is: In the middle of the sentence

The third position is: At the end of the sentence

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