How to write a transition sentence
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Deniz Akcaoglu - March 30, 2023
Transitions show the reader how different parts of your essay, paper, or thesis are connected.
Transition sentences will help you create a well-structured research paper or essay with sentences that flow naturally from one point to the next. So it is essential to learn how to effectively create transition sentences.
What is a transition?
A transition in writing is a word or phrase and a sentence that connects one concept to the next. This link can be made within a paragraph or between paragraphs.
Transitions are an important aspect of academic writing, as they help to create a cohesive and well-structured document that is easy for the reader to follow.
Transition word example
....Many people enjoy playing video games, but there are also those who view them as a waste of time. On the other hand Transition example within a paragraph , some experts argue that video games can actually be beneficial for cognitive development.
In this example, the transition part is “On the other hand”, which signals to the reader that a contrasting viewpoint is about to be presented.
Transition sentence example
Paragraphs from an essay about exercise
There are several benefits to regular exercise, such as improved cardiovascular health and increased strength and endurance ....(paragraph continues)... However, it is important to keep in mind that exercise can also pose certain risks, especially if proper precautions are not taken. Transition sentence: Signals the change of focus for the first sentence of next paragraph
One of the most common risks associated with exercise is injury, which can range from minor sprains and strains to more serious issues like fractures and dislocations The first sentence of the following paragraph
....(paragraph continues)
....(paragraph continues)
In this example, this transition sentence signals to the reader that a shift in focus is occurring and prepares them for the discussion of exercise risks in the next paragraph.
Now that you’ve had a basic introduction to what a transition is, let’s dig deeper into the topic by seeing even more examples.
Transition between paragraphs
With this type of transition, you simply state a hint from the following paragraph to prepare the reader what’s coming. In other words, you create a link between two consecutive paragraphs.
Let’s have a look at the example below.
The paragraph tells the difficulties the company faced, but the last sentence hints the steps taken, and the following starts explaining these steps.
Transitions between paragraphs example
In recent months, the corporation has faced several difficulties. Sales have been declining, and competition has intensified, putting pressure on the company's bottom line. Despite these challenges, the company is taking steps to turn things around. Transition sentence
Management has adopted cost-cutting initiatives to diversify its revenue streams and is seeking new markets. These efforts are projected to provide better financial results in the following quarters....
...paragraph continues.
The transition above shows the reader how the two paragraphs are connected.
In below example, the transition sentence with “However” indicates how it relates to the previous paragraph.
Transitions between paragraphs example 2
...(Paragraph starts)
...(Paragraph continues)
The usage of technology has transformed how we live and work. As a result, we have access to many products that make our lives more accessible and efficient, from cell phones to computers.
However, this increased dependence on technology has also raised concerns about its impact on our well-being. Transition sentence According to research, excessive screen usage has been linked to eye strain, migraines, and poor sleep patterns. It is critical to exercise moderation and create good technology habits to reduce these detrimental consequences.
Now, this transition below connects the two paragraphs by demonstrating that the incident stated in the first paragraph was a result of the event described in the second paragraph.
Transition sentence example 3
A strong storm slammed the city Wednesday night, causing widespread damage and power disruptions. Other trees were uprooted, and several structures were damaged. The storm was the result of the convergence of several weather systems over the region. Transition sentence
Meteorologists had been watching the passage of these weather systems for several days and had issued a severe weather warning. However, despite the notice, the severity of the storm took many inhabitants by surprise.
Choosing transition words
When moving the emphasis from one detail to another, there are literally dozens of transition phrases to select from. Here are some samples of some of the categories and word combinations accessible to you to give you a broad sense of options.
Things to consider when choosing transition words
Your answers to these four fundamental questions should make it easier for you to figure out which types of transition words might work best at the start of each paragraph.
- What exactly is the point of this paragraph? Is it to present, inform, convince, address a different point of view, review or emphasize previously mentioned concepts?
- Is the concept I’m presenting in this paragraph related to or supportive of any other concept or argument presented in the essay so far?
- Is the argument I’m making in this paragraph presenting a new perspective or idea?
- Is the concept I’m presenting different from or dependent on other concepts discussed in the essay?
Transitions within a paragraph
The known-new contract
A valuable writing idea is the known-new contract, which infers that a new sentence should start with reference to information from the prior sentence and then relate it to new information.
The known-new contract transition example
Original paragraph
The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate with one another. It allows us to connect with people all over the world, access a wealth of information, and even shop online. However, with all these benefits come certain risks, such as identity theft, online scams, and cyberbullying.
Paragraph with known-new contract
WhileTransition word the internet has brought about many benefits, includingTransition word the ability to connect with people from all over the world, access to vast amounts of information, and online shopping, it also poses certain risks. These risks Highlighting the known information include identity theft, online scams, and cyberbullying, among others.
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Start by composing a sentence
As seen from the above example, in the first half of the sentence, start with something that the reader already knows. Towards the end of the sentence, tell the reader something new.
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Compose a new sentence
As this information is now known, start with the new information from the previous sentence. Near the end of the sentence, tell the reader something new.
The known-new contract is only a suggestion. It’s not necessary to build every sentence this way, but it’s a good strategy to follow if you’re having trouble keeping your sentences together.
In-depth transition examples
Example 1
- The British were no match for Napoleon and his navy. In fact, Napoleon lost nearly every sea engagement he fought. The French army was a formidable force. It conquered most of continental Europe under Napoleon’s instructions.
- The British were no match for Napoleon and his navy. In fact, Napoleon lost nearly every sea engagement he fought. The French army, on the other hand, was extremely strong and powerful. It conquered most of continental Europe under Napoleon’s instructions.
Example 2
- The historical society held a bake sale, car wash, and book fair in October. The department chair was ecstatic with the student's achievements. The historical society does not have sufficient funds to travel to Ottawa. The students are all highly dissatisfied.
- The historical society held a bake sale, car wash, and book fair in October. The department chair was ecstatic with the students’ achievements. Despite their best efforts, the historical organization was unable to raise enough funds to travel to Ottawa. The students are all highly dissatisfied.
Example 3
- In Book A, the characters are faced with the moral dilemma of a disputed inheritance, which is a large sum of money. The inheritance in Book B is an ancient house. The characters in Book B are confronted with a similar issue.
- In Book A, the characters are faced with a moral dilemma: a disputed inheritance. Despite the fact that the inheritance in Book B is an ancient house rather than a large sum of money, the essence of the situation is very similar.
Transition best practices
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Only use a transition sentence when discussing two different concepts
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Avoid excessive use of transition words
While transition words like “in addition,” “however,” and “also” can be highly useful, they should be used in moderation. Otherwise, the paper will come out as pretentious.
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Don’t try connecting two ideas forcefully
If two concepts are placed next to each other in your paper but do not appear to be linked, one of them may not belong or should be relocated to a separate part.
Transition sentences are necessary for a well-structured paper as they offer new ideas and assist the reader’s comprehension. If you follow these steps and tips, writing excellent transition sentences won’t be too hard. Before writing, feel free to analyze our sample essays.
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