Remember that the word "this" or a repetition of a key word can be just as (more?) effective than one of the suggestions below.
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Transitions within paragraphs | Transitions between paragraphs
Overview
One of the goals when writing is to keep readers focused -- keep the train of thought consistent so they can follow your line of argument.
Let's start with an example:
| One aspect of Puritanism in Bradford and Wigglesworths work is the obedience, conviction, and fear of God. From The Day of Doom, Wigglesworth comments on his fathers death by saying, "the death of the righteous unlamented, forerunner of evil to come." As well as in Bradfords work, Of Plymouth Plantation , he wrote "But it pleased God before they came over seas, to smite this young man with a grievous death, of which he died in a desperate manner, for they noted it to be the just hand of God upon him." These two direct quotes from their writings help better understand their omnipotent God. Also the TULIP acronym helps explain their belief system. No one is safe from the Lord. They believed in total depravity, in which all men were born as sinners, and should all fear the wrath of God. Puritans also believed that Christ only gave limited atonement, in which, He did not die for all, only for the chosen ones. The two writers seem to obey and love their Lord, but out of fear more than any other reason. |
While the point of this paragraph is kinda/sorta clear ("fear of god?), can you follow the writer's argument? I had trouble. The reason? Too many jumps in topic and not enough repetition.
Remember that when moving from sentence to sentence, readers must be able to follow your logic. This is accomplished by using transitions. The "This" in the previous sentence illustrates one way of knitting together your thinking/writing -- and is an important word to keep in mind. By referring back to "follow your logic," the "This" acts as a bridge, a connection between the two points you're making in your sentences. Another way to make a connection is to use words like "another" (for a list of such words, see below). Connections can also be made by repetition, as in this sentence where I repeat the word "connection" from the previous sentence. Using repetition and transition words keep readers focused on the main topic of your paragraph/idea, which in turn makes it easier for readers to follow your logic.
By now you should be wondering, "well, how do I come up with effective transitions?" Easy. Working one paragraph at a time, use the suggestions noted above. How about another tip? Develop/brainstorm a list of synonyms or words/phrases associated with the focus of that paragraph (Example? In a paragraph on "providence" you might include words like providence, omnipotent, all controlling, all knowing, etc.). Keep this list handy as you revise /proofread , and be sure to insert these words throughout the paragraph.
Remember that the word "this" or a repetition of a key word can be just as (more?) effective than one of the suggestions below.
Adding a point : furthermore, besides, finally, in addition to
Emphasis : above all, indeed, in fact, in other words, most important
Time : then, afterwards, eventually, next, immediately, meanwhile, previously, already, often, since then, now, later, usually
Cause and Effect : as a result, therefore, thus
Examples : for example, for instance
Contrast : but, however, in contrast, instead, nevertheless, on the other hand, though, still, unfortunately
Similarity : like, also, likewise, similarly, as
Between paragraphs, the best technique is to repeat a word or idea from the previous paragraph. As usual, this is best illustrated with an example. Take a look at the following topic sentence.
Their view of themselves as "the chosen" is not only suggested by the punishment meted out to those who criticize Puritans, but their belief that all rewards stem from their covenant with God. |
Without even reading the preceding paragraph, you can tell the subject of it was "the punishment meted out to those who criticize Puritans." And you can tell this new paragraph will shift from that to rewards coming from god.
This kind of handing off makes for a smoother read, a seamless flow of ideas. That's the advantage of repetition between paragraphs: you keep reminding the reader of your focus which means you keep reminding the reader of your argument, which means you keep your reader happy.
© 2007 David Bordelon