Different Types of Transition Words
According to an article by sharkpapers.com, there are four basic types of transition words that can be used when creating an essay:
- Additive transitions - using words to signify the addition or referencing of information
- Adversative transitions - words being used to indicate conflict and disagreement
- Causal transitions - these are words that are used to show the relationship between two points
- Sequential transitions - words used to clarify the order and sequence of information
It’s not uncommon for a high-scoring academic essay to feature a multitude of each category when it comes to the wording used. For example, a writer may use “also,” “but,” “as,” and “initially” within one piece of text. Each of these words represents each category, and when used correctly, they can be impactful.
How Does Using Transition Words Help Improve the Score of an Academic Essay?
As noted, transition words play a crucial role in high-scoring academic essays by enhancing coherence, logical flow, and overall readability. Given their importance, it’s no surprise many students decided to participate in personalized English classes online before undertaking essay writing tasks, as learning about these words and how they should be used correctly can make an incredible difference to the quality of their work.
Using the examples mentioned above, transition words can help the argument that is being presented flow within essay writing. The writer can use terms like “therefore” or “in addition” to help emphasize the point they are trying to make. By using the transition, the reader will instantly recognize the next sentence or section is a continuation of the point that had just been made.
Simultaneously, a transition word can also allow the writer to move on in a different direction with their writing. The usage of “however”, for example, can identify that they have a counterpoint that they are making. The reader will be able to see this and understand why the statement is being made without being left confused or feeling the essay is going off on a tangent.
Using these types of words can help indicate ideas and the relationships between them. They can help the writer connect two sentences or views together. For instance, a writer may use the word “similarly” if they are trying to make a comparison or use a word like “consequently” if they are trying to highlight what may happen if one thing takes place. The use of these words will immediately provide the reader with an insight into what the writer is trying to convey, as the readability of the piece remains clear and concise.
Persuasion and Coherence are Improved
Academic writing is usually designed to build arguments. Essays are created to explore and dissect a topic, allowing the writer to create a discussion within their answer. To make a compelling argument, points need to be justified, allowing for the reader to be persuaded. Transitional words help to achieve this.
With their correct usage, a higher score can be awarded as the marker will appreciate what they are trying to say. They will recognize the ability that is being shown and how the essay has challenged the student to think about certain things.
If they have been able to create an answer that is concise, makes sense, and flows, then it can be graded highly. The only way this can be achieved is through the effective use of transition words.
