Academic Writing Cheat Sheet: Transition Words

Transitions are the glue that turns a list of sentences into an argument. Here are the useful ones, grouped by what they actually do.

Adding a point

furthermore · moreover · in addition · also · similarly · likewise

Contrasting

however · nevertheless · on the other hand · in contrast · whereas · yet · although

Cause and effect

therefore · consequently · as a result · thus · hence · because of

Giving an example

for example · for instance · specifically · in particular · to illustrate

Concluding

in conclusion · in summary · ultimately · on the whole · to sum up

The rule that keeps them from feeling mechanical

Don't start every paragraph with the same transition. Pick the one that actually matches the relationship — "however" for a real contrast, "furthermore" for a genuine addition — and if no transition fits, leave it out. A missing transition is better than a forced one.

And a note from experience: "in conclusion" is the most overused phrase in student writing. Your reader already knows it's the conclusion because it's the last paragraph. Just make the point.