How to Make a Transition Sentence for an Outline

Transition sentences can be thought of as the link between two ideas transitioning from paragraph to paragraph, point to point, or idea to idea. Transition sentences draw logical connections between each point making your argument and paper read fluidly. Transition sentences used in your outline will connect your points; by including transition sentences in your outline you can improve the flow of your writing. You can enhance your readers' experience by incorporating transition sentences in your outline as you develop your writing project.

Choose your medium, if you will write on paper or use a computer.

Determine the subject matter you will write on.

Choose the points you wish to make throughout your work.

Construct an outline for your writing project based on the points you have selected.

Pick the point - or idea - of the paragraph, this idea will carry forward to the next paragraph.

Construct a sentence around the idea or point of your current paragraph, keeping in mind the idea or point you wish to make in the next paragraph. The connection between the two paragraphs, or ideas, creates a transition sentence.

Note

Here is an example of transition words to use: on the contrary, nevertheless, notwithstanding, in contrast, still, nonetheless, (for contrast); thus, consequently, therefore, hence, so (for cause and effect); finally, in a word, in the end, in brief, in conclusion, briefly (for conclusion); meanwhile, during, recently, earlier, now, immediately, later (for time).

Note

Transitional sentences can be used for connecting paragraphs and sections of an outline.

Note

Strong transitional sentences make the transition from point to point unambiguous.

Note

The structure of your outline can include primary and secondary points accompanying your transition sentences.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper
  • Pen
  • Computer (optional)
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