Transition words are important in academic essays to signal changes in ideas. Choosing the right words depends on whether the next point supports or opposes the previous idea. Overuse can confuse, but using a variety of words can keep the paper interesting. Different words signal different relationships between ideas, such as support, contradiction, or illustration.
Transition words are used in academic essays to signal to the reader that the author is about to deepen a point, offer a different set of ideas, or move in an entirely new direction. Unless transition words are used, these changes of position can seem sudden or even illogical. Choosing the best essay transition words depends on whether the next point in the essay will support or oppose the previous idea, explore a cause or effect, or provide an illustration of the previous point.
Transitional phrases and words work a bit like a road map; there may be instances where they aren’t absolutely necessary, but providing them helps the reader feel more confident about where the paper is going. Unfortunately, when transitional words or phrases are used unnecessarily, they can muddy the waters rather than clarify. There are a number of transition words that mean the same thing; it’s best to use a variety to keep the paper from looking repetitive or flat.
To introduce a transition that supports the idea under discussion, use words like “more or less the same,” “also,” or “furthermore.” Words that indicate similar ideas include “as well as,” “correspondingly,” and “in comparison.” If the author plans to elaborate on an idea, a good choice of essay transition words might include “adds to,” “in addition,” or “equally important.”
To signal a negative relationship to the idea under discussion, such as a contradiction or limitation, include essay transition words such as “although,” “on the other hand,” or “contrasting.” If the author’s intention is to make a point that only seems valid, transitional words such as “but really” or “that’s not the case” are appropriate. On the other hand, if the point is valid but there is an equally valid opposing position, using transitional words such as “yet” or “be that as it may” will help the reader realize that the point under discussion is complex.
Some transitional phrases or words are limited to specific conditions or causes. Using a phrase such as “with this in mind,” “in order to,” or “leads to” lets the reader know that the particular topic hinges on a situation. “Consequently” or “consequently” are transitional words that signal a result or effect.
Another category of essay transition words are those used to introduce a specific illustration or example of an idea. “For example” is both clear and direct; “demonstrate” tells the reader that a cartoon or other exhibit will be used to validate the point. Other illustrative transition words include “how,” “to clarify,” and “should be remembered.”
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