A unified paragraph has the right sentences. Transitions show the reader how those sentences connect: which comes next in time, which adds to the last, which turns against it, which follows from it.
| Relationship | Transitions |
|---|---|
| Time or sequence | first, next, then, later, meanwhile, finally |
| Addition | also, in addition, furthermore, moreover |
| Contrast | however, on the other hand, instead, still, in contrast |
| Cause and effect | therefore, as a result, so, consequently |
| Example | for example, for instance, in particular |
| Conclusion | in short, overall, in the end |
Key idea
Choose a transition for the relationship between two ideas: time, addition, contrast, cause and effect, or example. The wrong transition sends the reader the wrong signal.
Why it works
Transitions are road signs. “However” tells the reader to expect a turn; “therefore” tells them a result is coming. When the sign matches the road, the reader follows easily. When it doesn’t, they stop and reread.
Worked example: Choose the signal
“The library closes at six. ___, students who stay late at practice can’t check out books.” Which transition fits?
- The second idea is a result of the first: it closes early, so late students miss it.
- Cause and effect: as a result, therefore, so.
- “However” would signal a contrast, which isn’t there.
Answer: “As a result” (or “Therefore”).
Worked example: A contrast
“Hamsters are easy to care for. ___, they sleep all day and are awake at night.”
- The second sentence is a drawback, against the first.
- That is a contrast: however, on the other hand, still.
Answer: “However.”
Common mistake
Using a transition that signals the wrong relationship (“however” where the idea continues), or starting every sentence with one. Check by reading the two sentences with the transition’s meaning spelled out: “however” means “but in contrast.” Does that make sense? And let some sentences connect without a word, through repeated key terms.
When a transition like however joins two complete sentences, put a semicolon or a period before it and a comma after it. A comma alone makes a comma splice.