Transition Signals

Transition signals are connecting words or phrases that act like bridges between
parts of your writing. They link your sentences and paragraphs together smoothly so
that there are no abrupt jumps or breaks between ideas.

Transition signals act like signposts to indicate to the reader the order and flow of
your writing and ideas. They strengthen the internal cohesion of your writing. Using
transitions makes it easier for the reader to follow your ideas. They help carry over a
thought from one sentence to another, from one paragraph to another, or from one
idea to another.

There are several types of transition signals. Some lead your reader forward and
imply the building of an idea or thought, while others make your reader compare
ideas or draw conclusions from the preceding thoughts.

Keep in mind that each of these words or phrases may have a slightly different
meaning. Consult a dictionary or writer's handbook if you are unsure of the exact
meaning of a word or phrase.
LOGICAL TRANSITIONAL EXPRESSION
RELATIONSHIP

Similarity also, in the same way, just as ... so too, likewise, similarly
Exception/Contrast but, however, in spite of, on the one hand ... on the other hand, nevertheless,
nonetheless, notwithstanding, in contrast, on the contrary, still, yet
Sequence/Order first, second, third, ... next, then, finally
Time after, afterward, at last, before, currently, during, earlier, immediately, later,
meanwhile, now, recently, simultaneously, subsequently, then

Example for example, for instance, namely, specifically, to illustrate

Emphasis even, indeed, in fact, of course, truly

Place/Position above, adjacent, below, beyond, here, in front, in back, nearby, there

Cause and Effect accordingly, consequently, hence, so, therefore, thus

Additional Support or additionally, again, also, and, as well, besides, equally important, further,
Evidence furthermore, in addition, moreover, then
Conclusion/Summary finally, in a word, in brief, briefly, in conclusion, in the end, in the final
analysis, on the whole, thus, to conclude, to summarize, in sum, to sum up,
ultimately, in summary
Example

During [1] the early twentieth century, Australian society

experienced a transformation of the domestic ideal. At
this time [1] families were subject to an increasing array
of government and 'professional' programs and advice
aiming to manage and regulate family life. Some of
these programs were designed to counter social
changes, others were designed to engineer them; [1] Indicating……
ultimately [2] each heralded a growing expert
encroachment into the private sphere. [2] Indicating …

Intervention and influence took three forms. Firstly [3] ,

techniques designed to maximize efficiency were
introduced into the home and scientific principles were
[3] To indicate …
applied to its design. In addition [4], housework and
parenting methods were scrutinized and subject to
unprecedented standards. Secondly [3], all aspects of [4] Indicating

reproduction attracted increasing intervention from

government and the medical profession. Thirdly [3], [5] Indicating
state, professional and philanthropic groups began to
usurp the parental role within the family through
instruction and policy. Consequently [5], the
development of 'modern' social ideals brought
regulation, intervention and ever-increasing unrealistic
standards.