Glossary
Addition (Transition Type)
Transitions used to introduce more information or expand on a previous point.
Example:
The student aced the math test; furthermore, they also excelled in the science exam.
Cause and Effect (Transition Type)
Transitions used to show a relationship where one event or action leads to another.
Example:
The city implemented new recycling policies; consequently, the amount of landfill waste decreased significantly.
Coherence
The quality of writing where all parts are logically connected and flow together smoothly, making the text easy to understand.
Example:
Effective use of transitions greatly enhances the coherence of an argumentative essay.
Comparison (Transition Type)
Transitions used to show similarities between two or more ideas, concepts, or items.
Example:
Studying regularly improves grades; similarly, consistent practice enhances athletic performance.
Contrast (Transition Type)
Transitions used to highlight differences or introduce an opposing idea.
Example:
The first experiment yielded positive results; nevertheless, the second trial showed no significant change.
Emphasis (Transition Type)
Transitions used to highlight important points or stress the significance of an idea.
Example:
The new policy will, indeed, have a profound impact on the local economy.
Examples (Transition Type)
Transitions used to introduce specific instances or illustrations that support a general statement.
Example:
Many fruits are rich in Vitamin C; for instance, oranges and strawberries are excellent sources.
Inconsistency (in transition use)
A common error where transitions are used erratically or without a clear pattern, leading to confusion for the reader.
Example:
Switching between formal and informal transitions within the same essay demonstrates inconsistency in style.
Informal (transitions)
Transitions that are too casual or conversational for academic or formal writing contexts.
Example:
Using phrases like 'so anyway' or 'to sum up' in a research paper would be considered informal transitions.
Logical Flow
The natural and sensible progression of ideas within a text, guided by clear connections and relationships between sentences and paragraphs.
Example:
A well-structured argument demonstrates a clear logical flow from premise to conclusion.
Misplaced (transitions)
A common error where a transition is positioned in a way that confuses readers or disrupts the natural flow of the sentence or paragraph.
Example:
Placing 'consequently' at the very end of a sentence when it should introduce the result at the beginning is an example of a misplaced transition.
Misuse (of transitions)
A common error where a transition word is used incorrectly, failing to accurately reflect the logical relationship between ideas.
Example:
Using 'however' when there is no contrast, or 'therefore' when there is no cause-and-effect, is a clear misuse of transitions.
Omission (of transitions)
A common error where necessary transitions are left out, making it difficult for readers to understand the connections between ideas.
Example:
The omission of a transition between two seemingly unrelated sentences can make a paragraph feel disjointed.
Overuse (of transitions)
A common error where transitions are used too frequently, leading to choppy, redundant, or unnatural-sounding writing.
Example:
Starting every sentence with a transition word can lead to overuse and distract the reader.
Sequence (Transition Type)
Transitions used to indicate the order of events, steps, or ideas.
Example:
First, gather all your materials, then follow the instructions carefully to assemble the model.
Summary (Transition Type)
Transitions used to conclude a discussion, restate main points, or provide a brief overview.
Example:
In conclusion, the evidence strongly supports the hypothesis presented.
Transitions
Words or phrases that connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs, making text easy to follow and creating a smooth flow of information.
Example:
Using the word however helps to smoothly shift from one opposing idea to another in an essay.