Keep in mind, the kinds of transition words and phrases that work


For example, the following text uses three transition words and jumps back and forth between ideas. This makes it repetitive and difficult to follow.


In general, transition words and sentences are the architects of narrative coherence, ensuring that readers navigate through the text seamlessly. By strategically placing these transitions, writers can guide their audience through shifts in ideas, perspectives, and timelines, creating a harmonious and engaging reading experience. If you are just about to write your paper and want to know how to write a hypothesis, we suggest you take a look at our guide to help you find a good example of topic ideas.

Transition words and phrases are used to make , which either contain two opposing topics in the same sentence or join together the opposing sentences or paragraphs that come before and after the transition sentence.

Categories of Transition Words and Phrases

Essay transition words aren’t necessary for every sentence; you need them only when a shift in topic is so pronounced that it interrupts the writing . For example, consider this example, which doesn’t use transition words:

Essay transition words are no different from other types of transition words. They are often the same words and phrases used in other pieces of writing, just used for all , such as an or a .

Although those two sentences are grammatically correct, the abrupt change in topic is a bit jarring to readers. Some may feel like they need to reread the passage because they’re worried they missed something. That’s where transition words come in handy.

Transition sentences are powerful tools, but their effectiveness depends on strategic placement within a text. Correct usage enhances coherence, while incorrect placement can disrupt the flow. Let's explore where to appropriately position these sentences with examples.


Example 1 (a transition sentence to a new section):

The transition word acts as a signal to the reader to prepare for a change in topic. When the reader sees transition words like this, they know to expect the switch, so it’s not so jarring.

Example 2 (a transition paragraph to a new section):

The type of transition word or phrase signals which type of change is coming. For example, transition words like show a cause-and-effect relationship, while transition words like introduce a summary or wrap-up. Often, work well as transition words.

Here is an inexhaustive list of types of sentence-level transitions:

For a list of 9 creative ways to start your essay, . But if you choose a more creative opening, your transitions may be even more important. Why?

Use Transitional Sentences Between Paragraphs

Even in situations when the connection between topics is obvious, essay transition words can help keep your writing organized and comprehensible. This is especially true with and transition words like ,, and, all of which keep items from a series or sequence in order.

Transitional Words Important for Writing Essays –

Keep in mind that transition words aren’t always . Sometimes essay transition words and phrases like ,, or can come at the end of a sentence, clause, or phrase.

Here are some transition words for essays 1st body paragraph:

Transitions are words and/or phrases used to indicate movement or show change throughout a piece of writing. Transitions generally come at the beginning of a paragraph and can do the following:

Consider using these transition words for essays last body paragraph:

However, most essay transition words work best at the beginning of a sentence, where they can more effectively bridge the gap between two seemingly unrelated topics.