In writing effectively, transitions help a lot in making sentences and paragraphs flow smoothly. However, some writers tend to neglect the importance of transitions in making essays more effective through the use of transitions of sign posts. While there are sentences and paragraphs that naturally flow smoothly, transitions are usually necessary to connect them. They are important since readers, subconsciously, will be directed to where the article is going. There are no readers who want to remain clueless in reading an essay or article.

Repeating keywords can help. Pick up a key word from the previous sentence. Such a word (in this sentence, it is “word”) helps sentences sew sentences together.

A common way of doing without being wordy is to use pronouns that recall the previous sentence:

“This is why we must…”

“Because of this man…”

“It is a problem…”

Or you may opt to use specific transition words:

Time Transitions: now, then, meanwhile, before this happened, afterwards

Space Transitions: on the other side of the room, farther down the trail

Contrast Transitions (to highlight opposition): however, despite this, although, on the other hand

Example Transitions (when giving evidence): for example, in fact, for instance

Addition Transitions (amplifying a point): in addition to, besides, on top of this

Concluding Transitions (to end a section or essay): thus, therefore, or finally

Place Marker Transitions (to move the reader from point to point): second, next, lastly

All of these serve as trail marker for the readers. They serve as sign posts giving the readers on what to expect next. Transitions are essentially invisible just like punctuations. Do not fear that you might bore your readers with them. Oftentimes, transitions will just flow naturally and will connect each sentence effectively.

However, do not overcrowd your essay with transitional phrases as it will make your essay or story look dull. After writing your output, you may want to read it aloud to find out whether your transitions are smooth enough and effective enough that your readers will not even notice it.

In drafting your next essay required in your class, transitions are of great help in achieving that grade of A+ you have always wanted. If you practice this in all of your writing, you’ll be surprised on how well you have improved after a certain period of time! Do not neglect the power of transitions in improving you essay!