Importance of transition sentences in essays
The key to clear writing is the proficient and effective use of transitions in sentences. Transition sentences help to show the connection between the different parts of your paper, thesis or essay. Paragraphs and sections can be easily connected with the help of transition sentences.
Starting a paragraph requires the use of a transition sentence. Here is an example
….. in this case, the method was proven unreliable by researchers.
However, results and evidence from a recent study proves the contrary. …
Transitioning between paragraphs:
Whenever you are starting with a new paragraph, ensure of two characteristics which include:
- A clear idea of what will be discussed in the paragraph
- How it is related to the previous one
Here are some examples of transition sentences and how they can be placed among paragraphs and their meaning.
|
Transition sentences |
This paragraph… |
|
Smith provides further evidence supporting this hypothesis. |
Builds upon the idea of the previous section and adds more to support the idea. |
|
However, his say is not final in the matter. |
Presents new evidence to contradict the previous statement. |
|
Having been able to establish the relationship between these factors, we can analyse the results. |
Treats the previous statement as a base and builds upon it by providing general arguments. |
The placement of transition sentences:
Transition sentences are generally placed at the beginning of a new paragraph. Focus on a single topic or idea for a paragraph to avoid noting the context of the next one at the end of the current paragraph.
Example of an incorrect transition sentence:
These quotations make the consensus view quite clear. The following paragraph will discuss comprehensively the scholars who do quite not agree with the consensus.
The first dissenter we are considering is…
Example of a correct transition sentence:… The quotations make the consensus quite clear.
However, dissent is quite evident in many scholars. The first one to consider is…
How to transition to a new section:
While paragraph transitioning can be done using a single sentence, transition paragraphs might be necessary when starting a new section, which is a much larger text. The transition paragraph usually contains a summary of the preceding paragraph and how the new section will build on or in going to depart from the ideas introduced in the previous one.
Here is an example of the effective use of transition when starting a new section to analyse an academic essay.
After having established the primary idea of Mann’s key concerns in the story of The Magic Mountain is the subjective experience of time, it now becomes possible to explore the different avenues of how the theme can facilitate the connection of the Great War with the novel. Though readers never hear about the war, it hints at its inevitability for Castorp beyond those final pages of the novel. Therefore, Mann successfully can link the subjective experience of time of the protagonist to something much bigger than his illness, which is also used to explore the period which led to the war.
Academic writing often aims for clarity to be concise as possible. Use a single transition sentence if it helps you make a clear transition; however, ensure to use more sentences whenever necessary.
Transitions within a paragraph:
Using transitions within your paragraphs is equally important to preserve readability and avoid ambiguity.
The known-new contract
Maintaining cohesion in your text is aided by maintaining the proper order of information in the text. One of the most useful writing concepts, the known-new contract, states that a reference from the previous one should be present at the beginning of a new sentence and then build on it by connecting new information.
Here is an example of a sentence that does not follow its previous sentence quite clearly. The connection is made clear only after reading its entirety.
The industrial revolution has quite an impact on the population. Urbanisation and mobility of masses from rural areas to urban centres and industrial towns occurred due to industrialisation.
By reordering the previous sentence, we are able to deliver information to the readers more cohesively.
There were several effects on the population due to the industrial revolution. One of the major effects was the growing urbanisation, which caused a huge rural population to settle in industrial towns.
However, not every sentence should be needed to structure in such a way, and the known-new contract is not obligatory and can be considered a general guideline. Nevertheless, if you are struggling to cohere your sentences, this can be a great technique.
Transition words and phrases:
Readers are better able to follow since appropriate transitions help them connect the different sections of the text. There are four major types of transition words and phrases. These include
- Additive transition: These help to introduce new ideas or information.
- Adversative transitions: These help to contradict or refute the previous statement.
- Causal transitions: These help to describe the cause and effect.
- Sequential transitions: These help to indicate a sequence.
Here are a few examples of different types of transition words and transition phrases.
|
Type |
Example sentence |
Transition words and phrases |
|
Additive |
The herb was found to be effective. Moreover, it also possessed several other effects that were not anticipated. |
Moreover, also, for example, similarly etc. |
|
Adversative |
The connection seemed to be a good deal for the whole family; however, there were connectivity issues around the house. |
However, regardless, although, above all etc. |
|
Causal |
Because we forgot to bring sunscreen to the beach, we had a severe tan. |
Because, so that, to, therefore, subsequently etc |
|
Sequential |
There have been several consequences historically: First, the conflict has not received much attention from the media like the previous ones. Second, the cause of the conflict is seriously debatable. |
Initially, first, second, finally, lastly, concluding etc. |
Grouping of similar information:
Though the importance of transition sentences cannot be overseen, excessive use or implorer placement should be avoided. Grouping similar information together is a great way to ensure lesser transitions.
In the following example, the text has three transitions that are used to jump between different ideas, which might be confusing for the audience.
Smith argues in favour of the hypothesis. However, Jones speaks against the motion. David, on the other hand, agrees with Smith. Also, Baldwin is against the hypothesis.
By rewriting the text by grouping similar information and using minimal transition, sentences make the text much easier to follow.
Smith, Baldwin and Davies agree with the hypothesis; however, Jonas disagrees with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do we need to introduce transition sentences in texts?
Transitions are required to be introduced every time a new idea or information is presented to the reader. Transition sentences help to link the connection between different sections of the text, making it far easier to follow.
Is it ok to avoid transitions altogether?
Though it can be achieved, it is not recommended as this will decrease the readability of the text, and the readers might lose themselves in the flow of the text.
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