How to use transition words for paragraphs

Definition

A transitional paragraph is a paragraph in an essay, speech, composition, or report that signals a shift from one section, idea, or approach to another. Usually, in a short sentence, a transitional paragraph is most commonly used to summarize the ideas of one part of a text in preparation for the beginning of another part.

Bridging Paragraphs

“Many writing teachers use the analogy that transitional paragraphs are like bridges: the first section of the essay is one riverbank; the second section is the other riverbank; the transitional paragraph, like a bridge, links them.”(Randy Devillez, Writing: Step by Step, 10th ed. Kendall/Hunt, 2003)

Functions of Transitional Paragraphs

The transitional paragraphs come into use when we write long essays. Such a paragraph can summarize what has been written. It may hint at what is to be expected by our inquisitive readers who read further on.

Powerful section changes sign to perusers how two successive passages identify with one another. The transition flags the connection between the “new data” and the “old data.” For instance, the new passage may

expound on the thought introduced in the former passage

present a connected thought

proceed with a sequential story

depict an issue with the thought introduced in the first passage

depict an exemption for the thought introduced in the former section

depict a result or ramifications of the thought introduced in the first passage

We should think about a couple of models (drawn from distributed books and articles of passage advances that work. The models beneath replicate section endings and openings. Focus on how each passage opening signs to readers how the section identifies with the one they have quite recently completed the process of perusing. Observe the loss in clarity when transitional signals are removed.

Examples of Transitional Paragraphs

Example 1

Paragraph ending -Once his system was applied to all acts of manual labor, Taylor assured his followers, it would bring about a restructuring not only of industry but of society, creating a utopia of perfect efficiency.

Paragraph Opening with transitional cues - Taylor’s system is still very much with us; it remains the ethic of industrial manufacturing.

Paragraph opening without transitional cues - Taylor’s system is the ethic of present-day industrial manufacturing.

The transitional sentence signals that the new paragraph will seek to demonstrate that the phenomenon described in the preceding paragraph (Taylorism) is ongoing: it is “still” with us and “remains” the dominant workplace ethic. Compare this sentence with the one directly beneath it (“paragraph opening without transitional cues”). With this version, readers are left on their own to figure out the connection.

Example 2:

Paragraph Ending- If the story concerns social crisis or disorder, more frequently than not this response will come from sources of official authority: the police quell the rioting, labor, and management leaders reach an agreement, the State Department approves or condemns the latest coup d’état in South America. The press in this way establishes a subtle relation between narrative order and the perception or representation of political order.

Paragraph opening with transitional cues - Todd Gitlin makes a similar point in commenting on the “orderliness” of television news.

Paragraph opening without transitional cues - Todd Gitlin comments on the “orderliness” of television news.

The transitional sentence signals that the new paragraph will further explore the idea expressed in the earlier paragraph. The phrase “makes a similar point” signals towards this relationship. Without this transitional phrase, the connection between the two paragraphs can still be understood but it is not quite clear. The above examples illustrate, effective paragraph transitions signal relationships between paragraphs.

Let us look at some terms that are often helpful for signaling relationships among ideas.

Chronology before, next, earlier, later, during, after

The comparison also, similarly, likewise, in the same way

The clarity for example, for instance

Source: Writing Commons

Words that add information

The little boy put on her white shirt and mauve overalls.

Dave is on the basketball team this semester at Kendriya Vidyalaya School. In addition, he is on the football team.

We will be here for one more week so we can finish up our work. Another reason we are staying longer is that we do not want to miss the Science conference.

First of all, pour a half-cup of milk in the bowl; second, add three eggs; and third, stir the mixture thoroughly.

I admire Jordan because he is the first deaf president of Gallaudet. Besides that, I admire him because he is a great long-distance runner. Furthermore, he is a dedicated family man. All in all, there is not much to dislike about the man, except he is incredibly perfect!

Harshil likes camping in the mountains. Also, Harshil is an experienced biker.

Jahnavi Vidyapith School for the Deaf is perfectly located. Moreover, it has a strong academic program. For example, the school has a preschool program where both deaf and hearing children learn together.

Words that show conclusion

There were a lot of problems discussed at the conference. Finally, after a few hours, we were able to prioritize the issues in the order we wanted to solve the issues.

Many teachers and parents have been complaining about the program. For example, scores on the end-of-grade tests have gone down from last year; teachers are not very motivated, and everyone is frustrated. To sum up, some improvements in the school program need to be made.

To conclude, I want to wish you all a very happy marriage anniversary.

There was a malfunction in the machinery, the curtains would not open and close properly, and one of the actors fell sick without any replacement. In conclusion, the play was a disaster.

Words that show repetition

That gorge area is very dangerous for you to bike in. To repeat, I warn you not to go there.

Anissa decided not to go to the Solomon Islands. In fact, she told me, “No, way.”

I feel that our last Student-Teacher meeting did not go well. In other words, it was a disaster.

Sharmila has lost an oar on her boat and she is in big trouble. To put it another way, she has to find a different method of rowing or she will sink!

Words that show comparison

At St. Joseph School, a private school, there is a dress code that makes it mandatory how the students are to dress. The boys must wear a pair of pants and white shirts. Similarly, the strict dress code requires plaid skirts and full sleeve blouses for the girls.

Like her grandmother, Harshita loves the St Joseph Homecoming football game.

The news reported that Siliguri would be very cold this week. I said, “Likewise, Darjeeling will be, too.”

Priyanjali bought a new Alto car, so in a similar manner, the rest of her friends did the same thing.

By comparison, Darjeeling. is much smaller than Kolkata is.

The kitten acts as if he is the boss of the house.

The bird is as proud as a feathered queen.

Ayush loves to go to parties. In comparison, Pundhir loves to stay at home with his animals.

Compared to two years ago when the printer worked well, it has been malfunctioning a great deal of the time in recent weeks.

Words that show differences

I am not able to go to hiking with you. Nevertheless, thanks for asking me.

Bandana’s cat, Salem is so unlike Twilight. Twilight likes to nap a lot and Salem likes to play a lot.

The idea of attending the play at the theatre is nice. However, the Science and Astronomical Research conference is scheduled at the same time.

He prefers to attend the play rather than attending the conference.

Though I eat salad because they are healthy, I secretly hate them.

Although Harsh was extremely tired, he washed the car.

The play was great, nonetheless, I was sick of seeing it after the third time.

Shreya, Ankita, and Bandana went to Connaught Place for the day. In spite of the chilly weather, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Words that show the relationship of time

Ayush went to pick up Irene before he stopped by McDonald’s for dinner.

Manpreet was out with his friend last night.

We need to wash our clothes, after that, we can go to the new theatre on Ring road.

I can’t wait to watch “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” it is coming on soon.

Finally, I will get to see Priyanjali. She has not been acting much since she was out of college.

The beginning of the movie was sadder than the ending.

After so much time waiting in the long line, the boys finally got their gelatos.

The Tarun Tahilini exhibit was shown earlier this month in Mumbai.

Words that limit example

Not all birds eat berries. For example, vultures eat dead animals.

Palak is an interesting person to know. To illustrate, she knows a lot about the art of writing and SEO.

There are things that need to be done to improve the company. For instance, we can begin by organizing the files.

I have a few things to take care of such as paying bills, cleaning the house, and going to the parlor.

Words that show cause

Manpreet was not able to move around well because his legs were fractured. He broke them when he fell off from the high tool.

Did you see the tragic accident on Sector 19? It was caused by a drunk driver.

Because it is raining today, the homecoming game and the food stalls will be canceled.

I was late to work because of the unexpected guests.

Words that show effect

It is raining today thus we are not going to the long drive.

The weather is supposed to be drizzly and chilly today; as a result, the Art Festival will be cancelled.

I was too tired; therefore I decided not to go to the moonlight party last night.

Ways to improve transitions

Changes show how your passages cooperate and work off one another. In any case, when you neglect to utilize changes, your article could wind up inclination rough and leave the reader attempting to follow your line of reasoning. Along these lines, it’s critical to utilize passage advances in each exposition. Utilize these four hints to assist you with improving the passage changes in your composition.

1. Progress Words

Transition words sign the readers to understand the connections between your thoughts, particularly for a difference in thoughts. A few instances of change words you can utilize include:

First

In addition

In contrast

Then

However

Obviously

Therefore

Consequently

In conclusion

For example

Try to shift the change words that you use. Utilizing “in any case” all through your paper will sound tedious and confound the peruser. Accordingly, set aside the effort to consider which changes will work best to help you travel through your thoughts, and assist your readers with understanding the point that you need to make in your composition.

4 Ways to Improve Paragraph Transitions

Advances show how your sections cooperate and work off one another. Notwithstanding, when you neglect to utilize changes, your article could wind up inclination rough and leave the peruser attempting to follow your line of reasoning. Along these lines, it’s imperative to utilize passage advances in each paper. Utilize these four hints to assist you with improving the passage advances in your composition.

1. Change Words

Progress words prompt the reader to find connections between your thoughts, particularly for a difference in thoughts. A few instances of change words you can utilize include:

First

What’s more

Conversely

At that point

Notwithstanding

Clearly

Subsequently

Therefore

All in all

For instance

Try to fluctuate the change words that you use. Utilizing “in any case” all through your paper will sound monotonous and befuddle the peruser. Thusly, set aside the effort to consider which changes will work best to help you travel through your thoughts, and assist your perusers with understanding the point that you need to make in your composition.

Take your composition to the following level!

2. Point Sentences

Toward the start of each supporting passage, start with a point sentence. This is an approach to present the thoughts that you will examine in that section. You can raise your point sentence by utilizing a progress word or expression to show that you’re changing to a novel thought.

3. Association

The association of your paper can likewise help support the section changes. As you consider the supporting thoughts in your body passages, figure out which request you should introduce them in. Consider how the thoughts in each passage can work off one another. Is there a coherent request that you could utilize? Take a moment at rearranging the ideas to locate the right order for your ideas.

4. Connections

Alongside getting sorted out your exposition, you can improve section changes by examining the connection between thoughts. For instance, toward the finish of your first supporting section, you could examine how that thought leads into the following body passage. Assist your readers with understanding why you requested the thoughts the way that you did.

Topics to practice by readers

1. Convenient with a blade.

2. A day with a fisherman.

3. In the old shack.

4. The morning guest.

5. Father’s pet pastimes.

6 .The narrative of a carpet.

7. Along the rail fence.

8. The runaway.

9. An ambitious beginning.

10. My auntie’s treats.

Conclusion

Taking everything into account, it’s critical to utilize passage transition words to help lead your readers to understand your thoughts. By utilizing progress words, subject sentences, association, and connections, you can improve passage changes and keep your readers following your perspective beginning to end.