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B. Using Transitional Words and Phrases
Transition words and sentences develop a relationship between ideas, connecting topics and helping
the thoughts flow smoothly. They make the reader feel that the concepts are not isolated but tied
together. Transition words make reference both to the idea that precedes and the idea that follows.
The following transition words are categorized for specific needs and places in essays. It is
important to show relationships between ideas within a paragraph, and also to connect the topics as the
reader progresses from paragraph to paragraph.
Location - Among, Throughout, Alongside
Time - About, First, Second, Until, Then, Next, Prior to, Finally
Comparison and Contrast - In the same way, Also, Similarly, But, On the other hand, Although, However,
Counter to, Even so, Nevertheless, As opposed to, Yet
Emphasis - For this reason, In fact
Summarize - As a result, In conclusion, Therefore, Consequently,
Add information - Also, Additionally, As well, For example, Along with
Clarification - That is, In other words, For instance
C. The Basic Five Paragraph Essay
Paragraph 1: Introduction – If possible, open with an attention-getting device to interest the reader
(perhaps a quote or a question). Introduce the topic of your essay in general, and present some context for
this topic, getting more specific in the next few sentences. End with your thesis statement, which is the
road map for the paper, presenting your argument or story to the reader.
Paragraph 2: First Supporting Point – It’s time to support your thesis with specifics. Begin the paragraph
with a topic sentence that introduces your first support point. Then explain in more detail what you mean.
Include examples that illustrate the supporting point and add an explanation of how these connect to the
thesis. Finish the paragraph with a concluding sentence.
Paragraph 3: Second Supporting Point – Continue “backing up” or supporting your thesis with a second
supporting point. Begin the paragraph with a transition from the previous paragraph and introduce your
point in a topic sentence, explain it with more details, give an example, and link the example and reason
back to your thesis.
Paragraph 4: Third supporting point – Again, begin with a transition from the previous paragraph. Finish
making the case for your thesis statement with a third supporting point. Follow the “say it, explain it, give an
example, tie the reason/example back to your thesis” format of your paragraphs above.
Paragraph 5: Conclusion – It’s time to tie up your essay and bring it all together. Restate your thesis
statement. Summarize your supporting points. Finish with a wrap up sentence. REMEMBER: This is not
the time to introduce new ideas.