Connectives and transition words: link your ideas smoothly
Use linking words to connect ideas within and between paragraphs so your writing flows, with examples for each type.
KS3GCSEMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolCurriculum fit: GCSE English Language (organisation of writing: cohesion and paragraphing). US: Common Core ELA Writing standards (transitions, grades 6-12).
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What is it?
Cohesion is how well the parts of a text link together. Connectives (also called transitions) are words and phrases that show the relationship between ideas, such as addition, contrast, cause or sequence.
Good cohesion makes writing easy to follow. It comes from connectives, from clear paragraphing and from repeating key words or using pronouns that refer back to them.
Key formulas and ideas
- Addition: also, furthermore, in addition.
- Contrast: however, but, on the other hand, although.
- Cause and result: because, therefore, as a result, consequently.
- Sequence: firstly, next, finally.
- Example: for instance, such as.
Worked examples
Example 1: Choose the connective
Question: Complete: 'The park was crowded. ___, we found a quiet corner.'
- The second sentence contrasts with the first.
- Use a contrast connective.
Answer: However
Example 2: Show cause
Question: Join using a cause connective: 'It rained. The match was cancelled.'
- The rain caused the cancellation.
- Use 'so' or 'therefore'.
Answer: It rained, so the match was cancelled.
Example 3: Link paragraphs
Question: How can the first sentence of a paragraph link to the previous paragraph?
- Start with a transition that refers back to the previous idea.
- For example: 'In contrast to this,...' or 'Building on this point,...'.
Answer: Begin with a linking phrase that refers back
Common mistakes
- Overusing the same connective, such as 'also'.
- Using a connective that does not match the relationship between ideas.
- Starting every sentence with a connective.
- Forgetting the comma after an introductory connective like 'However'.
Practice questions
Frequently asked questions
Are 'and' and 'but' allowed at the start of a sentence?
In careful formal writing it is usually better to avoid them, but in less formal writing they can be effective.
What is a pronoun reference?
A pronoun such as 'this' or 'it' that links back to a noun already mentioned.
Related guides
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KS3GCSEMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolSemicolons, colons and dashes: how to use them correctly
Link ideas with semicolons, introduce lists with colons and add emphasis with dashes, with clear rules and examples.
GCSEHigh SchoolAPSources and review
- DfE: National curriculum in England, English programmes of study
- Common Core State Standards: English Language Arts and Literacy
Reviewed by StudyMorrow editorial review on 5 Nov 2026.