Joining word for essays

Linking words and phrases are used to show relationships between ideas. They can be used to join two or more sentences or clauses.

We can use linking words to give a result, add information, summarize, give illustrations, emphasize a point, sequence information, compare or to contrast idea.

In this article, you will learn about the most common linking words and phrases:

Useful Linking Words and Phrases

Giving a Result

Usage: To provide the result of what has been stated or has occurred

Linking Words:

  • As a result
  • As a consequence
  • Therefore
  • Thus
  • Consequently
  • Hence
  • For this reason
  • Due to

Examples:

  • His wife left him. As a result, he became very depressed.
  • She has lived in France, and as a consequence she speaks French fluently.
  • We do not have enough money. Therefore we cannot afford to buy the new car.
  • We do not own the building. Thus, it would be impossible for us to make any major changes to it.
  • There has been a great deal of rain and consequently the reservoirs are full.
  • The customer was displeased with her meal, hence the chef prepared a replacement.
  • For this reason, they are not a good choice for exterior use.
  • Due to a broken wing, this bird can’t fly.

Useful Linking Words and Phrases

Adding Information

Usage: To add to what has been previously stated

Linking Words:

  • Additionally / an additional
  • Furthermore
  • Also
  • Too
  • As well as that
  • Along with
  • Besides
  • In addition
  • Moreover
  • In addition to this
  • Apart from this

Examples:

  • Additionally, the bus service will run on Sundays, every two hours.
  • He said he had not discussed the matter with her. Furthermore, he had not even contacted her.
  • We are unable to repair this watch. Also, this is the fourth time this has happened.
  • I love wearing earrings. I design and make them too.
  • We went to the park today. As well as that, we did some shopping.
  • Along with parties and parliaments, elections have lost their charm.
  • I can’t afford to go to the concert. Besides, I don’t really like classical music.
  • You haven’t paid the rent yet.  In addition, you owe me money.
  • The report is badly presented. Moreover, it contains inaccuracies.
  • John’s grades are terrible because he has been so lazy these days. In addition to this, his relationship to his parents got worse.
  • Apart from this paragraph, the report contains a number of sensible initiatives.

Adding information

Summarizing

Usage: To sump up what has been previously stated

Linking words:

  • In conclusion
  • To summarize
  • Altogether
  • In short
  • To sum up
  • In summary
  • Briefly
  • To conclude

Examples:

  • In conclusion, walking is a cheap, safe, enjoyable and readily available form of exercise.
  • To summarize, this is a clever approach to a common problem.
  • The food was good and we loved the music. Altogether it was a great evening.
  • His novels belong to a great but vanished age. They are, in short, old-fashioned.
  • To sum up, there are three main ways of tackling the problem…
  • In summary, this was a disappointing performance.
  • Briefly, our team is now one of the best in the world.
  • To conclude, I want to wish you all a very happy holiday season.

Giving Examples

Usage: To provide examples

Linking words:

  • For example/ For instance
  • Such as
  • Including
  • Namely
  • In this case
  • Proof of this
  • Like

Examples:

  • There are many interesting places to visit in the city, for example/ for instance, the botanical garden or the art museum.
  • I prefer to wear casual clothes, such as jeans and a sweatshirt.
  • Including Christmas Day and Boxing Day, I’ve got a week off work.
  • We need to concentrate on our target audience, namely women aged between 20 and 30.
  • I think I would have made a difference in this case.
  • This building are a living proof of this existence, so we must preserve it.
  • I also make other jewellery like rings and bracelets.

Emphasizing a Point

Usage: To put forward a point or idea more forcefully

Linking words:

  • Undoubtedly
  • Indeed
  • Obviously
  • Particularly / in particular
  • Especially
  • Clearly
  • Importantly
  • Absolutely
  • Definitely
  • Without a doubt
  • Never
  • It should be noted
  • Unquestionably
  • Above all
  • Positively

Examples:

  • Undoubtedly, the story itself is one of the main attractions.
  • I don’t mind at all. Indeed, I would be delighted to help.
  • Obviously, we don’t want to spend too much money.
  • I love silver earrings, in particular ones from Mexico
  • The car is quite small, especially if you have children.
  • Clearly, this will cost a lot more than we realized.
  • More importantly, can he be trusted?
  • He’s an absolutely brilliant cook.
  • definitely remember sending the letter.
  • We still believe we can win this series without a doubt.
  • I’m never surprised at what I do.
  • It should be noted that if you have something to note, then note it
  • Unquestionably, teaching has been a paramount part of his career.
  • Above all, this forest is designed for wear and tear.
  • This is positively the worst thing that I can even imagine.

Useful Linking Words and Phrases

Sequencing Ideas

Usage: To indicate the order of what is being said

Linking words:

  • First/ firstly (Second/ secondly, Third/ thirdly, Finally)
  • At this time
  • Following
  • Previously
  • Before
  • Subsequently
  • Above all
  • Lastly and most importantly
  • Last but not least
  • First and foremost

Examples:

  • Firstly, I prefer the train because I can see the landscape.
  • At this time, the young man leapt into the air and flew off towards sunset.
  • They arrived on Monday evening and we got there the following day.
  • I had visited them three days previously.
  • Your name is before mine on the list.
  • Subsequently, new guidelines were issued to all employees.
  • Above all, keep in touch.
  • Lastly, and most importantly, you should be optimistic.
  • Last but not least, I find I seriously cannot relate to women.
  • We will continue to focus on our players first and foremost.

Sequencing Ideas

Comparing Ideas

Usage: To show how things are similar

Linking words:

  • Similarly
  • Equally
  • Likewise
  • Just as
  • Just like
  • Similar to
  • Same as
  • Compare / compare(d) to(with)
  • By the same token
  • In the same way
  • Correspondingly

Examples:

  • Similarly, the basketball and hockey games draw nearly full attendance.
  • Equally, not all customers are honest.
  • Her second marriage was likewise unhappy.
  • She’s just as smart as her sister.
  • Working with housecats is just like working with lions or tigers.
  • Some people say I have a running style similar to him.
  • Having a power is not the same as using the power.
  • He gets the ball off quickly compared to two years ago.
  • Teenagers should be more respectful; by the same token, parents should be more understanding.
  • Alex enjoys telling jokes; in the same way/similarly/likewise,his son adores funny stories.
  • Correspondingly, the roles each of them played were soon different.

Contrasting Ideas

Usage: To show how things are different

Linking words:

  • Unlike
  • Nevertheless
  • On the other hand
  • Nonetheless
  • Despite / in spite of
  • In contrast (to)
  • Alternatively
  • Conversely
  • Even so
  • Differing from
  • Contrary to

Examples:

  • Unlike most systems, this one is very easy to install.
  • There is little chance that we will succeed in changing the law. Nevertheless, it is important that we try.
  • Laptops are convenient; On the other hand, they can be expensive.
  • The problems are not serious. Nonetheless, we shall need to tackle them soon.
  • Despite/ In spite of the rain, I went for a walk.
  • In contrast to the diligent bee, the butterfly flies hither and yon with no apparent purpose.
  • The agency will make travel arrangements for you. Alternatively, you can organize your own transport.
  • Northern European countries had a great summer. On the contrary/conversely, Southern Europe had poor weather.
  • Even so, many old friends were shocked at the announcement.
  • Differing from his white colleagues, he preferred instructing his scholars to the ambition of acquiring personal renown.
  • The situation in Ireland is quite contrary to this principle.

Useful Linking Words and Phrases

Transition Words and Phrases

It is essential to understand how transition words, as a part of speech, can be used to combine ideas in writing — and thus ensure that ideas within sentences and paragraphs are elegantly connected — for the benefit of the reader. This will help to improve your writing (e.g. essay, comment, summary (scientific) review, (research) paper, letter, abstract, report, thesis, etc.).

It is also fundamental to be aware of the sometimes subtle meaning of transition words within the English language.

List of Transition Words

This structured list of commonly used English connecting words — approximately 200, can be considered as quasi complete. It can be used (by students and teachers alike) to find the right expression. English transition words are essential, since they not only connect ideas, but also can introduce a certain shift, contrast or opposition, emphasis or agreement, purpose, result or conclusion, etc. in the line of argument.

The transition words and phrases have been assigned only once to somewhat artificial categories, although some words belong to more than one category.

There is some overlapping with preposition and postposition, but for the purpose of clarity and completeness of this concise guide, I did not differentiate.

Agreement / Addition / Similarity

The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise, add information, reinforce ideas, and express agreement with preceding material.

in the first place

not only … but also

as a matter of fact

in like manner

in addition

coupled with

in the same fashion / way

first, second, third

in the light of

not to mention

to say nothing of

equally important

by the same token

again

to

and

also

then

equally

identically

uniquely

like

as

too

moreover

as well as

together with

of course

likewise

comparatively

correspondingly

similarly

furthermore

additionally

Opposition / Limitation / Contradiction

Transition phrases like but, rather and or, express that there is evidence to the contrary or point out alternatives, and thus introduce a change the line of reasoning (contrast).

although this may be true

in contrast

different from

of course …, but

on the other hand

on the contrary

at the same time

in spite of

even so / though

be that as it may

then again

above all

in reality

after all

but

(and) still

unlike

or

(and) yet

while

albeit

besides

as much as

even though

although

instead

whereas

despite

conversely

otherwise

however

rather

nevertheless

nonetheless

regardless

notwithstanding

Cause / Condition / Purpose

These transitional phrases present specific conditions or intentions.

in the event that

granted (that)

as / so long as

on (the) condition (that)

for the purpose of

with this intention

with this in mind

in the hope that

to the end that

for fear that

in order to

seeing / being that

in view of

If

… then

unless

when

whenever

while

because of

as

since

while

lest

in case

provided that

given that

only / even if

so that

so as to

owing to

inasmuch as

due to

Examples / Support / Emphasis

These transitional devices (like especially) are used to introduce examples as support, to indicate importance or as an illustration so that an idea is cued to the reader.

in other words

to put it differently

for one thing

as an illustration

in this case

for this reason

to put it another way

that is to say

with attention to

by all means

important to realize

another key point

first thing to remember

most compelling evidence

must be remembered

point often overlooked

to point out

on the positive / negative side

with this in mind

notably

including

like

to be sure

namely

chiefly

truly

indeed

certainly

surely

markedly

especially

specifically

expressively

surprisingly

frequently

significantly

in fact

in general

in particular

in detail

for example

for instance

to demonstrate

to emphasize

to repeat

to clarify

to explain

to enumerate

such as

Effect / Consequence / Result

Some of these transition words (thus, then, accordingly, consequently, therefore, henceforth) are time words that are used to show that after a particular time there was a consequence or an effect.

Note that for and because are placed before the cause/reason. The other devices are placed before the consequences or effects.

as a result

under those circumstances

in that case

for this reason

for

thus

because the

then

hence

consequently

therefore

thereupon

forthwith

accordingly

henceforth

Conclusion / Summary / Restatement

These transition words and phrases conclude, summarize and / or restate ideas, or indicate a final general statement. Also some words (like therefore) from the Effect / Consequence category can be used to summarize.

as can be seen

generally speaking

in the final analysis

all things considered

as shown above

in the long run

given these points

as has been noted

in a word

for the most part

after all

in fact

in summary

in conclusion

in short

in brief

in essence

to summarize

on balance

altogether

overall

ordinarily

usually

by and large

to sum up

on the whole

in any event

in either case

all in all

Time / Chronology / Sequence

These transitional words (like finally) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time. They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions.

at the present time

from time to time

sooner or later

at the same time

up to the present time

to begin with

in due time

until now

now that

as soon as

as long as

in the meantime

in a moment

without delay

in the first place

all of a sudden

at this instant

immediately

quickly

finally

after

later

last

until

till

since

then

before

hence

since

when

once

about

next

now

formerly

suddenly

shortly

henceforth

whenever

eventually

meanwhile

further

during

first, second

in time

prior to

forthwith

straightaway

by the time

whenever

instantly

presently

occasionally

Many transition words in the time category (consequently; first, second, third; further; hence; henceforth; since; then, when; and whenever) have other uses.

Except for the numbers (first, second, third) and further they add a meaning of time in expressing conditions, qualifications, or reasons. The numbers are also used to add information or list examples. Further is also used to indicate added space as well as added time.

Space / Location / Place

These transition words are often used as part of adverbial expressions and have the function to restrict, limit or qualify space. Quite a few of these are also found in the Time category and can be used to describe spatial order or spatial reference.

in the middle

to the left/right

in front of

on this side

in the distance

here and there

in the foreground

in the background

in the center of

adjacent to

opposite to

here

there

next

where

from

over

near

above

below

down

up

under

further

beyond

nearby

wherever

around

between

before

alongside

amid

among

beneath

beside

behind

across

Connecting Words

 Transition Words & Phrases

Transition Words are also sometimes called (or put in the category of) Connecting Words.

 Usage of Transition Words in Essays

Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays, papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms).

All English transition words and phrases (sometimes also called ‘conjunctive adverbs’) do the same work as coordinating conjunctions: they connect two words, phrases or clauses together and thus the text is easier to read and the coherence is improved.

Usage: transition words are used with a special rule for punctuation: a semicolon or a period is used after the first ‘sentence’, and a comma is almost always used to set off the transition word from the second ‘sentence’.

Example 1:

People use 43 muscles when they frown; however, they use only 28 muscles when they smile.

Example 2:

However, transition words can also be placed at the beginning of a new paragraph or sentence — not only to indicate a step forward in the reasoning, but also to relate the new material to the preceding thoughts.

Use a semicolon to connect sentences, only if the group of words on either side of the semicolon is a complete sentence each (both must have a subject and a verb, and could thus stand alone as a complete thought). 

When you’re writing an essay or assignment, you need to use every trick in the book to maximise your marks. And one of the best tools for radically improving your writing is the power of connective words.

Used correctly, connective words can give your writing new depth and meaning, improve readability (important for your examiner!) and demonstrate the logic of your arguments.

Luckily for you, we’ve got plenty of categories, definitions and connectives examples to help you get started…

Table Of Contents

  1. What are connective words?
  2. How to use connective words
  3. Types of connective words
  4. The TOP 70 connective words for effective essay writing!
  5. Good luck with your essay!
  6. The Science Of Studying Smart

Psst – this article uses loads of connectives. See if you can spot them in use: we’ve italicised the best examples!

What are connective words?

Simply put, connectives are words – or phrases – that link parts of your writing together.

You’re probably familiar with the most common connective words: and, as, because, but, if, or, so. In fact, I’ve used a few of them already – did you spot them?

Don’t limit your essay writing to the basics though, because there are hundreds of connectives that can help you to demonstrate different ideas, such as cause and effect, or the chronology of events.

We’re going to explore ten types of connectives below, but first, here’s a quick refresher on the grammar behind connective words:  

Definitions: The grammatical bit

Understanding the grammar behind your writing might not be your thing – but bear with me, because remembering these six definitions will help you know which connective to use when, and where to place them!

(If you’re just looking for examples of connectives, feel free to skip straight past this bit!)

Connectives fall into three grammatical categories: conjunctions, prepositions, and adverbs.

  • Conjunctions: are a type of connective BUT they’re not the same. Conjunctions join words, phrases, clauses and sentences together to form longer complex sentences.
    • For example: and, but, for, or, yet.
    • Today, I finished my history assignment but forgot to workout.
  • Prepositions: describe the relative location, place and time between two things. They demonstrate time and space, direction and agency.
    • Such as: at, in, of, on, under.
    • I need to finish the conclusion of my essay before I go to dinner.
  • Adverbs: modify verbs, adjectives and clauses. Adverbs explain how an action is carried out by adding detail, describing manner, and showing the how, when, where and why of the action.
    • For instance: upwards, quickly, fortunately.
    • My deadline is tomorrow. Fortunately, I proofread my thesis chapter already.

Using adverb and preposition connective words adds specific meaning – and thus clarity – to your writing. They are particularly useful for successful essay signposting.

Definitions part 2: Connectives in sentences

When using connectives, it’s also important to remember that not all sentences are created equal in importance. And so, when connecting them into longer sentences, different types of connectives create different results:

  • Co-ordinating connectives: link phrases and clauses of equal importance to create compound sentences.
    • For example: I find French tricky but I love learning Spanish.

On the other hand,

  • Subordinating connectives: connect main clauses and subordinate clauses to create complex sentences.
    • A subordinate clause relies on the main clause to make sense. Therefore, these connectives give information about the relationship between the clauses by specifying an order or place to events, or a cause and effect link.
    • Here’s an example: I need to do my homework if I want to get a good grade.

A useful type of subordinating connective for essay writing is the:

  • Sequencing connective: which will help you establish the logical sequence of events/ideas, or demonstrate a chronological order. Great for signposting!
    • For instance: Firstly, I carried out the experiment, and secondly, I analysed the results.

And that’s your grammar refresh done!

If you’re struggling with essay-writing grammar, a great tool for checking your writing is Grammarly * – we use it at Exam Study Expert because it catches a broad range of mistakes. Their blog is also a great place to learn how to use conjunctions, prepositions, adverbs and more.

How to use connective words

So how do you go about using connectives?

In this section, we’re going to discuss the where, what and how

Where to add connectives:

As we’ve seen, connective words are often found in the middle of a sentence, joining two clauses. But don’t forget you can also use them at the beginning of a sentence to link two consecutive sentences – OR two ideas within your paragraphs (did you see what I did there?).

Some of your connectives will even be linking entire paragraphs and sections – these are often examples of signposting to guide the reader through your section or argument.

What’s more, many connectives are not just single words but phrases. These connectives are particularly useful for essay writing and academic vocabulary. For example: as well as, for an example of this, for instance, in addition to, on the other hand, such as.

What to use connectives for:

When you’re writing an essay or assignment there are plenty of tasks you need to achieve: presenting evidence, making arguments and more.

Happily, connectives can help you achieve all these tasks by clarifying your meaning. You can use connectives for:

  • Reinforcing or emphasising a point
  • Exemplifying and showing results
  • Comparing and discussing points of view
  • Constructing a timeline or sequence of events
  • Listing points (and signposting them)
  • Explaining your argument
  • Drawing together conclusions

It’s a long list! So master using connectives and you’ll drastically improve the readability of your writing across all sections of your essay.

How to add in useful connective words:

You’re probably already using basic connectives in your writing.

But if you want to get serious about the benefits to your grades, make sure you’re systematic about how you add them during your essay construction – and (later) proofreading to check they make sense on a large(r) scale!

From experience, I would suggest that the best method for choosing and adding effective connectives is to:

  1. Sketch out a rough draft of your paragraph or essay section
  2. Separate out the points you’re making and identify how these arguments relate to each other
    • Are they separate arguments for the same thing? Or opposite points of view? Do they follow on logically (cause and effect) or chronologically?
  3. Mark where you want to add signposting connectives to indicate structure
  4. Check your examples of connective word types and choose options that convey the meaning you need…

And for that purpose, we’ve compiled four lists of connective words for you – including the TOP 70 connectives for effective essay writing! So read on…


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    Types of connective words

    So let’s get down to the really useful stuff: examples of connectives you can use in different situations in your essays!

    There are three main types of connectives that we’re going to explore in turn:

    • Comparative, Causal, and Temporal

    Comparative connective words

    These helpful words and phrases are perfect both for comparing similarities in data and arguments, and for pointing out their differences and oppositions. Use them to compare, discuss and argue.

    When comparing points, you’ll often be adding to your argument, so these connectives are used for “addition”. The most common connectives for addition are: and, also, furthermore, moreover.

    Here are some examples in practice:

    • Leonardo Da Vinci was an artist and inventor, and also an influential Renaissance humanist.
    • Exam Study Expert’s psychologist William offers expert one-on-one exam coaching. Furthermore, you can sign up for a free introductory session!
    • My empirical data demonstrates that … ; similarly, theoretical models projected …

    On the other hand, you might need to demonstrate and contrast your argument with the opposing point of view with a connective for “opposition”. The most commonly used are: alternatively, except, however, unless.

    connectives examples

    These examples all demonstrate opposition:

    • Winston Churchill is best known for his wartime leadership of the United Kingdom, yet he was already in his 60’s when he took office.
    • Some students find great study motivation from starting the day with their hardest task. In contrast, others find getting the ball rolling with smaller tasks more effective.
    • Our first questionnaire was comprised of six questions. However, for our second questionnaire we …

    Causal connective words

    Causal connectives are effective for discussing cause and effect – relationships that have logical links that you want to point out and prove.

    As such, academic writing is often full of causal connectives, and many of them demonstrate a very academic vocabulary (great for bonus points in your assignment!).

    Most essays and assignments have a section (or several sections!) where you need to draw together your facts, ideas and arguments and point out the connections. These are the connectives to turn to at those moments!

    The most commonly used are: as such, as a result (of), because, consequently, therefore, thus.

    connective words

    Here are some examples:

    • The brains of London taxi drivers have a larger than usual area that deals with memory because they are required to memorise and navigate thousands of streets.
    • Flashcards are a highly effective learning and memory tool, provided that you use them correctly.
    • This study surveyed over 3,000 students. As a result, we were able to …

    Temporal connective words

    Whether you’re explaining the sequence of events that led to a historical battle, or demonstrating the steps in your experiment, temporal connectives are a highly valuable tool.

    They’re all about discussing time and the chronology of events – what happened before, during and after. Therefore, they make for great signposting words too!

    temporal connective words

    These examples explore each of the four sections in our temporal connectives lists:

    • The law of gravity was not widely understood until it was mathematically formulated by Sir Isaac Newton in 1687.
    • If you’re stressed about your exams, mindful meditation can be a great help. At the same time,an inspirational quote might give you the boost you need!
    • Initially, the experiment was expected to demonstrate … Eventually, we came to the conclusion that …

    The TOP 70 connective words for effective essay writing!

    To make sure that you’ve got the tools you need to improve your grades, we’ve compiled this epic list of all the best connectives to use in academic writing.

    This is just a selection from the hundreds of connective words and phrases available. So there’s no need to make your essay stale by over-using the same one or two!

    If there’s nothing else you grab when you’re ticking off Step #4 from the connectives methodology above – make sure you grab this list!

    It covers all the stages of essay structuring and writing, from introduction to conclusion. And includes lists of connectives for:

    • Signposting and listing
    • Showing your results by:
      • Comparing and contrasting
      • Illustrating your findings
      • Demonstrating cause and effect
    • Emphasising points
    • Qualifying your arguments

    We’ve highlighted the best and most commonly used connectives for each section to ensure you’ve got THE best resource to improve the quality of your essay immediately.

    connective words list

    To finish off, here are some examples to get your essay-writing inspiration flowing:

    • Firstly, it is well-known that retrieval practice is an effective learning method as compared with re-reading study texts and notes.
    • I’m feeling tired tonight. Nevertheless, I must finish my homework and I want to take the dog for a walk.
    • When it comes to …, however, there are several effective methods to …, in particular, …

    Good luck with your essay!

    Now you’ve mastered adding effective connective words to your essay you’re ready for the next step. Be sure to check out our guide on proofreading your assignment before you hand it in. Good luck!

    And for more expert, science-backed study resources, sign up to the Exam Study Expert newsletter right here:


    ** Please note: Grammarly is one of very few products we’re sufficiently enthusiastic about to recommend to our Exam Study Expert readers, and we may earn a small commission if you sign up to Grammarly services through the above link.

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    essay connectives

    50 Persuasive Examples of Essay Connectives In Use Today

    Essay connectors are words or phrases used to show the logical relationship between the points. They help to achieve an essay flow – preventing the essay from appearing as a loose collection of points, among which the reader ‘jumps about’ randomly. An article without essay connectives may lead to a disconnect of the reader from what the writer intended.

    Connectives to use in an essay are carefully assembled and creatively applied to achieve a top-notch piece. The writer should ensure that the sentences make sense to him/her first before settling on special connectors for essays.

    In the following extensive paragraphs, we are going to explore some of these top connective words and phrases. Where possible, a sentence example may be added for each connector to give you an idea of how to use the connectives in speech.

    Connectors Showing Reason and Cause

    They are used when justifying why an action or an event seemed possible or appropriate. Some of the top connector words for reason or cause include:

    • Owing to
    • Consequently
    • As a result
    • Seeing that
    • Thus
    • Because of
    • Hence
    • On account of
    • Since
    • To
    • Because
    • Therefore
    • To
    • Accordingly
    • Due to
    • It suggests that
    • It follows that
    • For this reason

    Example in a Sentence: Because of the government directive, we decided to stay at home.

    Connective Words for Adding Information

    When writing your essay, you can use such paragraph connectors to emphasize a point. The following are some top-class connectives used to add information.

    • For example
    • To illustrate
    • Such as
    • To clarify
    • Besides
    • Further
    • Apart from
    • First, second and third
    • Except for
    • Moreover
    • Typically
    • For instance
    • Namely
    • Also
    • In fact
    • Especially

    Model in a Sentence: Apart from washing hands, we can prevent Corona Virus by using a face mask and social distancing.

    Connectives for Succession

    One can use these transitions for essays when showing the progression of actions or events. They include the following:

    • First of all / firstly
    • To begin with
    • Second / Secondly
    • Then
    • Third / Thirdly
    • After that
    • The next stage
    • Finally
    • In short

    Example in a Sentence: To begin with, you have to get your hands, then apply soap, wash for at least 20 seconds and finally dry your hands.

    Showing Comparison and Contrast

    Connectives in speech used here show either differences or similarities expressed in a particular essay. Examples include:

    • But
    • Alternatively
    • Though
    • In contrast
    • However
    • Although
    • Conversely
    • Nevertheless
    • On the other hand
    • Instead
    • Instead of
    • Yet
    • Whereas
    • On the contrary
    • Despite
    • All the same

    Model in a Sentence: Although he stayed indoors, he still contracted the dreaded COVID-19 and died.

    Connectives for Expressing Personal Opinion

    These are essay connectives used to show a personal view or attitude towards a particular subject. They include:

    • Personally
    • According to my understanding
    • As far as I am concerned
    • I think that
    • I disagree
    • In my view
    • I agree
    • in my opinion
    • To tell the truth
    • It is true that
    • To be honest
    • From my point of view

    Example in a Sentence: As far as I am concerned, wearing a sweater on a cold day may not be practical as wearing a trench coat.

    Connectors for Explaining

    Such transition words are used when making an essay idea clear to the reader. One may opt to use the following transition words list.

    • All in all
    • Basically
    • In general
    • More or less
    • In other words:
    • In short
    • On the whole
    • Especially
    • To a certain extent
    • That is
    • Above all
    • At least
    • Essentially
    • In particular

    Example in a sentence: Basically, different types of face masks need a doctor’s authorization before use.

    Summarizing Essay Connectors

    They are used to mark the conclusion of your essay. The readers can ascertain the finality in your article when such a summarizing connector is used. They include:

    • To sum up
    • In conclusion
    • In short
    • On the whole
    • All in all
    • In brief

    Connective words ensure clarity and conciseness as much as possible. It can only be achieved when the right words are used to convey your argument.

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    Linking words are those words that showcase a connection between sentences. Linking words help in forming the uniformity in the essay. These words are also known as transition words and used to show a relation among paragraphs or different sections in an essay. As the name suggests, Linking words bridge the gap between the ideas or concepts written in the essays. Your text seems to be more cohesive with the usage of linking words. Use proper linking words to reduce the reading efforts of the readers. Readers don’t want to take mental stress in understanding your essay. Therefore, it is necessary to make things easy for them.

    Different types of linking words in an essay

    It is not an easy task to compose a compelling essay. If you want to make your essay more appealing and expressive, then focus on three things, first is research, presentation and persuasion. If you don’t have a knack for writing, then you will fail miserably in forming a cohesive essay with judicial use of linking words.

    Linking words play an important role in any type of essay. Without linking words, the information presented in an essay is just a dump of words. If you don’t want your essay to be clunky and disjointed one, use linking words and phrases correctly.

    There are various categories of linking words one can use while writing an essay. Today in this blog, you will read 8 main categories and linking words list to be used while framing an essay. So here are 8 types of linking words to be used in an essay:

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    Linking words list for order and sequence

    linking-word-list

    Flow is necessary for any type of essay. If there is an absence of flow of ideas, thoughts or logic in your essay, it will lose its glory. Here is a linking words list that helps by showing a sequence order in the essay.

    • First/ Second/ Third or Firstly/ secondly/ Thirdly
    • Next
    • Then
    • Finally
    • Primary/ Secondary
    • Afterwords
    • After
    • At the same time
    • At this point of time
    • Concurrently
    • Earlier
    • First of all
    • Following this
    • For now
    • Hence
    • Meanwhile
    • In the first place
    • Previously
    • Thus
    • While
    • The next step
    • Lastly
    • In the end
    • By the end
    • In the beginning
    • It all started when
    • Once upon a time
    • To begin with/ To start with

    Linking words list to show a comparison

    linking-words-list

    In various types of essays such as argumentative essay writing, compare and contrast essay writing, you might need to show comparison. Read different comparative essay examples to understand the role of these words in making a comparison. Therefore, you can follow the following words to make the comparison more clear. Here is a linking words list to show comparison:

    • Similarly
    • Equally
    • Likewise
    • As with
    • Just as … so too
    • A similar
    • Comparable
    • In the same time
    • Just as
    • Same as
    • By the same token
    • In the same way
    • Just like

    Linking words list for contrasting

    Just like the way you need linking words to show comparison, there are words that are used to show the contrast as well. Here is a of linking words list to show contrast:

    • However/ Nevertheless
    • Alternatively
    • Despite this
    • On the contrary
    • Yet
    • Whereas
    • Apart from
    • Even so
    • Although
    • In spite of
    • While

    Illustrating an example linking words list

    Almost all types of essays require evidence or some examples to prove a specific point of view. But just telling an example may sound blunt. That is why we use linking words to show examples in a beautified manner. Have a look at the linking words list:

    • For example
    • Such as
    • For instance
    • In other words
    • An instance
    • As revealed by
    • To show that
    • In the case of
    • As an example
    • For one thing

    Linking words list for additions

    linking-words-list

    If you want to add some more information you can use addition linking words to convey the right meaning. Using “also” or “and” everywhere in the essay can take the charm away. So here is a linking words list you can use to while adding new information.

    • Furthermore
    • Also
    • Too
    • Next
    • Secondly
    • Second
    • And
    • Or
    • Nor
    • First
    • Last
    • Lastly
    • Further
    • Again
    • In addition
    • As well
    • Then
    • Moreover
    • Besides
    • Specifically
    • To illustrate
    • For example
    • To demonstrate
    • Such as
    • For instance
    • As revealed by
    • Finally
    • Along
    • By the same token
    • Uniquely
    • Like
    • And all
    • In line manner
    • Still
    • Likewise
    • Along with
    • Not only … but also
    • What’s more
    • Except for
    • By the same

    Cause and effect linking words list

    In any essay, if you want to draw a rational conclusion, you need to use cause and effect words. This makes a good connection of the whole essay with a conclusion. Use these linking words in an essay to show the cause and effect relationship.

    • Because
    • Since
    • For
    • So
    • Consequently
    • Therefore
    • Thus
    • Hence
    • Owing to
    • As a result of
    • Causes
    • As a consequence of
    • Leads to
    • Contributes to
    • For this reason
    • Stems from
    • Comes from
    • Results from
    • Is the result of
    • Is the consequence of
    • Is due to
    • Is caused by

    Linking words list to Conclude

    A good essay is one that is having a good conclusion. While most of the students use almost the same words to conclude their essays, here you have the chance to conclude the essay with some good words. Look at the linking words list for an excellent conclusion:

    • To conclude
    • In conclusion
    • Finally
    • Evidently
    • To sum up
    • On the whole
    • Summarising
    • In closing
    • All in all
    • By and large
    • All things considered
    • In summary
    • In sum
    • In brief
    • Briefly
    • In short
    • In outline
    • In the long run
    • For the most part
    • After all
    • In essence
    • On balance
    • Overall
    • By the large
    • Consequently
    • Hence
    • So
    • Then
    • Therefore
    • Thus
    • As a result

    As you can see there are 8 main types of linking word categories that can be used while writing an essay. For more understanding visit smartwords.org.

    But just using these words is not enough. You need to adjust and position them correctly or else, they will fail to tempt the readers.

    In the next paragraph, I will be showing how to use these words in the sentences.

    How to position linking or transition words in an essay

    Using linking words correctly in an essay is not rocket science. You can learn it easily, all you need is the focus while writing an essay. There are three ways or I should say positions where you can fit your connecting words or linking words. 

    The first position is: At the beginning of the sentence

    You can start a sentence with a linking word that provides a reference to the previous point. Have a look at some examples to understand more clearly.

    • One can have a lot of difficulty in writing creatively. However, creative writing is a useful skill.
    • I am not a big fan of marvel comics. On the other hand, I like their concept.
    • I fumble a lot while speaking. As a result, I fail to clear interviews.

    The second position is: In the middle of the sentence

    In an essay, you can use linkings words in the middle of the sentences as well. Usually, we write it after the subject. Learn how to use through the following examples.

    • One cannot escape from failures. They are, however, good lessons of life.
    • I am not good at grammar, as a result, I fail to get good grades in academic assignments.
    • The correct information is required for a good essay, but ideas too, play an important role.

    The third position is: At the end of the sentence

    At times you can use the connection or linking words at the end of the essay. It makes sense, you can see that in the following sentences.

    • Learning grammatical rules is a tough process. It is very useful, however.
    • I am not a lover of poetry. I love to recite them, on the other hand.
    • I am not a confident speaker. I get nervous in public speaking, as a result.

    I hope the above-mentioned information will help you to understand the correct use of linking words in an essay. For more help, you can visit Englishathome.com and learn more about the words to use in essays.

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