Transitions Guide

Transitions Guide There are two kinds of transitions: (a) transitional words and phrases that are used at the start of a sentence to show how the sentence connects with the previous sentence, and (b) transitional sentences that are used at the start of a paragraph to show how the paragraph logically connects with the previous paragraph. This handout covers only transitional words and phrases. • Transitional words and phrases serve two purposes: ° They clarify the relationship between sentences (e.g., whether a sentence elaborates on or gives an example of an idea discussed in the previous sentence, whether a sentence is starting a new idea). ° • They help sentences in a paper flow more smoothly so the text does not sound abrupt or choppy. Although transitional words and phrases can be very helpful, they can also be overused. ° Make sure you are not overusing the same three or four transitions throughout your paper. ° Even if you use a variety of transitions, it is possible to overdo it. If you have transitions at the beginning of every (or nearly every) sentence, look for places to remove some. This guide provides suggestions for possible words and phrases to use for specific types of transitions. These are examples of only some, but not all, of the transitional words and phrases you can use in an APA Style paper. Check with your instructor for specific guidelines for your course paper or assignment. To explain in a different way To illustrate • Specifically, • That is, • For example, • Interestingly, • In other words, • As one example, • It is interesting that • In particular, • Surprisingly, • It is surprising that • Importantly, • It is important that To emphasize a point/ finding To present your own idea/ argument • It seems plausible that • It seems reasonable that • It seems logical that • It could be argued that To show cause/ consequence To show contrast • By contrast, • As such, • Conversely, • Similarly, • In short, • Consequently, • However, • In a similar manner, • In sum, • Therefore, • Although, • In addition, • Overall, • Thus, • Nevertheless, • Additionally, • In general, • Nonetheless, • Moreover, • • _____ notwithstanding, • Furthermore, Taken together, these findings • On the one hand, ... On the other hand, • Another study To show a sequence of events To relate hypotheses to • Consistent with • First, • Contrary to • Next, • As predicted, • Then, • As expected, • Finally, • In agreement with • In accordance with • Congruent with To show additional examples To summarize/ conclude