Transitions

People today try to be more aware of the causes of global warming. In addition, many of these people take small steps to fight it.

To signal an example

for example, for instance, thus, in other words, to illustrate, that is, in particular

The more specific you can be the better. In other words, provide enough detail to make your argument sound.

To compare

similarly, likewise, in this manner

Curriculum development plays a role in the success or failure of online instruction. Similarly, student background and computer accessibility may affect its outcomes as well.

To emphasize

indeed, truly, as a matter of fact, to repeat, even

I always wanted to do my internship in Europe. As a matter of fact, I specifically applied to companies that had their branch offices there. I even did research in my last year of school on these companies.

To signal sequence

again, also, and, and then, besides, finally, first... second... third, furthermore, last, next, still

This book is a great resource on ancient civilizations. Furthermore, the reason I particularly like this book is that it presents a factual account of events.

To contrast

in contrast to, however, but, still, nevertheless, yet, on the one hand / on the other hand, on the contrary, at the same time, while this may be true

On the one hand, there are countless advantages to online delivery of instruction; on the other hand, there are also some limitations that need to be considered.

To signal time

before, now, afterwards, subsequently, later, earlier, meanwhile, in the meantime, while, as long as, so far

Presidential hopefuls have received a lot of publicity lately. In the meantime, the media seem silent on a few crucial proposals being debated currently in the House.

To generalize

in general, for the most part, as a general rule, on the whole, usually, typically

For the most part, this project has been a success.

To signal cause and effect

accordingly, as a result, because, consequently, for this purpose, hence, so, then, therefore, thereupon, thus, to this end

The price of gas has been rising steadily over the last few years. As a result, people are buying more fuel-efficient cars.

To signal concession

although it is true that, I admit that, it may appear that, naturally, of course, granted that

Although it is true that the study is extensive, we cannot say that its results are conclusive.

To summarize, repeat, or conclude

as a result, as has been noted, as mentioned earlier, as we have seen, in conclusion, in other words, on the whole, to summarize

As has been noted, the word "would" is used more often in general fiction while the word "used to" is much more frequent in public conversation.

(Hult and Huckin, The New Century Handbook, 117).
(Lunsford, The Everyday Writer, 51-52)

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