good closing transitions for essays

Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Change will not be effected, say some others, unless individual actions raise the necessary awareness.

While a reader can see the connection between the sentences above, it’s not immediately clear that the second sentence is providing a counterargument to the first. In the example below, key “old information” is repeated in the second sentence to help readers quickly see the connection. This makes the sequence of ideas easier to follow.  

Sentence pair #2: Effective Transition

Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Other experts argue that individual actions are key to raising the awareness necessary to effect change.

You can use this same technique to create clear transitions between paragraphs. Here’s an example:

Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Other experts argue that individual actions are key to raising the awareness necessary to effect change. According to Annie Lowery, individual actions are important to making social change because when individuals take action, they can change values, which can lead to more people becoming invested in fighting climate change. She writes, “Researchers believe that these kinds of household-led trends can help avert climate catastrophe, even if government and corporate actions are far more important” (Lowery).

So, what’s an individual household supposed to do?

The repetition of the word “household” in the new paragraph helps readers see the connection between what has come before (a discussion of whether household actions matter) and what is about to come (a proposal for what types of actions households can take to combat climate change).

Sometimes, transitional words can help readers see how ideas are connected. But it’s not enough to just include a “therefore,” “moreover,” “also,” or “in addition.” You should choose these words carefully to show your readers what kind of connection you are making between your ideas.

To decide which transitional word to use, start by identifying the relationship between your ideas. For example, you might be

• making a comparison or showing a contrast Transitional words that compare and contrast include also, in the same way, similarly, in contrast, yet, on the one hand, on the other hand. But before you signal comparison, ask these questions: Do your readers need another example of the same thing? Is there a new nuance in this next point that distinguishes it from the previous example? For those relationships between ideas, you might try this type of transition: While x may appear the same, it actually raises a new question in a slightly different way. 
• expressing agreement or disagreement When you are making an argument, you need to signal to readers where you stand in relation to other scholars and critics. You may agree with another person’s claim, you may want to concede some part of the argument even if you don’t agree with everything, or you may disagree. Transitional words that signal agreement, concession, and disagreement include however, nevertheless, actually, still, despite, admittedly, still, on the contrary, nonetheless .
• showing cause and effect Transitional phrases that show cause and effect include therefore, hence, consequently, thus, so. Before you choose one of these words, make sure that what you are about to illustrate is really a causal link. Novice writers tend to add therefore and hence when they aren’t sure how to transition; you should reserve these words for when they accurately signal the progression of your ideas.
• explaining or elaborating Transitions can signal to readers that you are going to expand on a point that you have just made or explain something further. Transitional words that signal explanation or elaboration include in other words, for example, for instance, in particular, that is, to illustrate, moreover .
• drawing conclusions You can use transitions to signal to readers that you are moving from the body of your argument to your conclusions. Before you use transitional words to signal conclusions, consider whether you can write a stronger conclusion by creating a transition that shows the relationship between your ideas rather than by flagging the paragraph simply as a conclusion. Transitional words that signal a conclusion include in conclusion , as a result, ultimately, overall— but strong conclusions do not necessarily have to include those phrases.

If you’re not sure which transitional words to use—or whether to use one at all—see if you can explain the connection between your paragraphs or sentence either out loud or in the margins of your draft.

For example, if you write a paragraph in which you summarize physician Atul Gawande’s argument about the value of incremental care, and then you move on to a paragraph that challenges those ideas, you might write down something like this next to the first paragraph: “In this paragraph I summarize Gawande’s main claim.” Then, next to the second paragraph, you might write, “In this paragraph I present a challenge to Gawande’s main claim.” Now that you have identified the relationship between those two paragraphs, you can choose the most effective transition between them. Since the second paragraph in this example challenges the ideas in the first, you might begin with something like “but,” or “however,” to signal that shift for your readers.  

• picture_as_pdf Transitions

70+ Transition words for essays with examples

Transition words for essays.

Ever stared at a blank page, your thoughts swirling like a disorganized storm? Crafting a compelling essay often hinges on smooth transitions between ideas. Fear not, fellow writer! Here’s your guide to essential transition words , those linguistic gems that bridge the gaps in your essay and create a clear, logical flow.

List of Transition words for essays

• Additionally
• Furthermore
• In addition
• In the same way
• In other words
• That is to say
• For example
• For instance
• Specifically
• To illustrate
• In particular
• Without a doubt
• Essentially
• In conclusion
• To conclude
• On the whole
• Consequently
• Accordingly
• As a result
• For this reason
• Because of this
• Due to this
• In light of this
• Considering that
• Seeing that
• As a matter of fact
• Nonetheless
• Nevertheless
• Even though
• In spite of
• On the contrary

Transition words for essays with examples

Here are examples of sentences using each of the transition words for cause:

• Additionally : “She enjoys playing the piano. Additionally, she is proficient in playing the guitar.”
• Furthermore : “The research indicated a positive correlation between exercise and mental health. Furthermore, it suggested that regular physical activity reduces stress levels.”
• Moreover : “The company reported an increase in sales for the third quarter. Moreover, profits also saw a significant rise.”
• In addition : “He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. In addition, he is passionate about photography.”
• Also : “He enjoys playing tennis. Also, he participates in swimming competitions.”
• Likewise : “She volunteered at the local shelter. Likewise, her brother also dedicated his time to community service.”
• Similarly : “The team implemented new strategies to improve productivity. Similarly, other departments adopted similar approaches.”
• In the same way : “She excels in academics. In the same way, her siblings also achieve high grades.”
• Equally : “Both candidates possess strong leadership skills. Equally, they demonstrate excellent communication abilities.”
• Besides : “She enjoys reading novels. Besides, she also enjoys writing short stories.”
• In other words : “The product received mixed reviews due to its functionality issues. In other words, customers experienced difficulties with its performance.”
• That is to say : “She loves traveling to exotic destinations. That is to say, she prefers exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.”
• Namely : “The research focused on several key areas, namely, customer satisfaction, product quality, and market trends.”
• For example : “Many countries have implemented strict environmental policies. For example, Denmark has achieved significant progress in renewable energy.”
• For instance : “Some popular social media platforms, for instance, Facebook and Instagram, have millions of active users.”
• Specifically : “The training program focuses specifically on enhancing leadership skills and fostering teamwork.”
• To illustrate : “To illustrate the concept further, let’s consider a real-life example.”
• In particular : “The company aims to expand its operations globally. In particular, it plans to target emerging markets in Asia.”
• In fact : “Contrary to popular belief, exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. In fact, it has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.”
• Indeed : “The company’s efforts to promote diversity have yielded positive results. Indeed, diversity has been linked to increased innovation and creativity.”
• Actually : “Contrary to what many people believe, the situation is actually quite different.”
• Truly : “She was truly dedicated to her work and always gave her best effort.”
• Certainly : “The results of the study certainly support the hypothesis.”
• Of course : “Of course, you are welcome to join us for dinner.”
• Without a doubt : “Without a doubt, she is one of the most talented musicians I’ve ever met.”
• In essence : “The policy change, in essence, aims to improve customer satisfaction.”
• Essentially : “The project, essentially, involves redesigning the user interface.”
• In summary : “In summary, the findings suggest a need for further research in this area.”
• In conclusion : “In conclusion, it is evident that climate change poses significant challenges.”
• To sum up : “To sum up, the main points of the argument are as follows.”
• In brief : “In brief, the report highlights key areas for improvement.”
• To conclude : “To conclude, let’s consider the implications of these findings.”
• Overall : “Overall, the project was a success.”
• All in all : “All in all, it was a memorable experience.”
• On the whole : “On the whole, the feedback has been positive.”
• Therefore : “The traffic was heavy; therefore, they arrived late to the meeting.”
• Thus : “The factory implemented new safety measures; thus, the number of accidents decreased.”
• Hence : “The flight was canceled; hence, they had to make alternative travel arrangements.”
• Consequently : “He missed the deadline; consequently, he faced disciplinary action.”
• Accordingly : “The instructions were unclear; accordingly, many participants made mistakes.”
• As a result : “The market demand increased; as a result, prices rose.”
• For this reason : “She forgot her umbrella; for this reason, she got wet in the rain.”
• Because of this : “He missed the train because of this, he couldn’t attend the meeting.”
• Due to this : “Due to this unforeseen circumstance, the event had to be postponed.”
• In light of this : “In light of this new information, we need to reconsider our strategy.”
• Since : “Since it was raining heavily, they decided to stay indoors.”
• Because : “He didn’t study for the exam because he was feeling unwell.”
• For : “He received a promotion for his outstanding performance.”
• As : “As the temperature dropped, people bundled up in warm clothing.”
• Owing to : “Owing to his persistent efforts, he achieved success.”
• Given that : “Given that she had prior experience, she was appointed as the team leader.”
• Considering that : “Considering that it was his first attempt, he performed exceptionally well.”
• Seeing that : “Seeing that the store was closing soon, they hurried to finish their shopping.”
• In view of : “In view of the current situation, we need to take immediate action.”
• As a matter of fact : “As a matter of fact, he was the first to arrive at the party.”
• Regardless : “He continued with the project regardless of the challenges he faced.”
• Nonetheless : “The weather was unfavorable; nonetheless, they decided to go ahead with the outdoor event.”
• Nevertheless : “The plan faced criticism; nevertheless, it was implemented successfully.”
• However : “She forgot her passport; however, she managed to board the flight with a temporary permit.”
• Although : “Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.”
• Though : “Though she was tired, she continued working late into the night.”
• Even though : “Even though he was warned about the risks, he proceeded with the plan.”
• Despite : “Despite the challenges, they remained committed to their goal.”
• In spite of : “In spite of the obstacles, they persevered and succeeded.”
• On the contrary : “The results were contrary to expectations; on the contrary, they were favorable.”
• Conversely : “He expected to feel relieved; conversely, he felt even more anxious.”
• But : “The weather was sunny, but they decided to cancel the picnic due to other commitments.”
• Yet : “He had a busy schedule, yet he managed to find time for his hobbies.”
• Whereas : “She preferred coffee, whereas her sister preferred tea.”

By mastering the art of transition words, you’ll transform your essay from a disjointed collection of ideas into a powerful and persuasive piece of writing. So, the next time you sit down to write, remember these transition words and watch your essay flow majestically!

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35 Transition Words for Conclusions

When transitioning to conclusions, we can simply use the term “In conclusion”, but over time, this word starts to feel tedious and repetitive. There are better ways to do it.

Transition words help your essays flow more easily and act as signposts for your reader so they know when you’re moving from one part of an essay to another.

So, for your next essay conclusion , consider the following transition words which can help you to improve your vocabulary and academic writing skills .

I’ve saved five bonus transition words for the very end which are my personal favorites. These are for advanced students who really want to demonstrate an academic tone – don’t miss them! They’re at the very end.

Transition Words for Conclusions

1. in conclusion.

This phrase is typically used to signal the final remarks in a piece of writing. It helps summarize the main points or findings that have been discussed throughout the text. It is still generally appropriate to use, but can sometimes appear rudimentary use of the English language.

Sample Sentences:

“ In conclusion , implementing green technology in our daily lives can significantly reduce carbon footprints.”

“The research findings were quite revealing. In conclusion , more emphasis should be put on early childhood education.”

2. To sum up

This is often used to encapsulate the main points of a discussion or argument in a succinct way. It is used almost as frequently as ‘in conclusion’.

“ To sum up , a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

“The evidence points towards the need for more environmental protections. To sum up , without immediate action, our natural resources may become irreversibly damaged.”

3. In summary

Similar to “to sum up”, this phrase is used to provide a brief overview of the main points or findings discussed in the writing.

“ In summary , the research suggests a strong correlation between air pollution and respiratory diseases.”

“ In summary , the novel is a fascinating exploration of human resilience in the face of adversity.”

4. All in all

This phrase is used to express a final general statement or judgment considering everything that has been said. It is somewhat more colloquial than the three phrases above, making it potentially less valuable for an essay. However, in reflective pieces, it may be used. See the reflective examples below.

“ All in all , the team performed well despite the challenging circumstances.”

“ All in all , the benefits of recycling outweigh any potential disadvantages.”

5. Ultimately

This word is used to indicate the final result or fundamental reason after considering everything.

“ Ultimately , the success of the project depends on the dedication of the team members.”

“Despite initial hurdles, the venture was successful. Ultimately , perseverance and commitment were key to our success.”

6. Therefore

This word is used to introduce a logical conclusion from the evidence or reasons previously stated. It is used best to conclude a paragraph of sub-section than as the final essay conclusion.

“The cost of production has significantly decreased. Therefore , we can expect an increase in profit margins.”

“He didn’t meet the eligibility criteria. Therefore , his application was rejected.”

This is similar to “therefore” and is used to introduce a conclusion, a result or an implication. As with ‘therefore’, ‘It ‘hence’ is used best to conclude a paragraph of sub-section than as the final essay conclusion.

“He was late for his interview. Hence , he didn’t make a good impression.”

“The data was incomplete. Hence , the results of the study may not be entirely accurate.”

8. Consequently

This word is used to express a result or effect of a previous statement. It is best used mid-paragraph or in the middle of a sub-section, not an overall conclusion.

“There was heavy rainfall throughout the night. Consequently , the match was postponed.”

“The company didn’t adapt to the changing market trends. Consequently , they faced heavy losses.”

This is used to denote the conclusion or summary of something previously stated. It indicates that what follows is a result or inference from what has been stated before. It is best used mid-paragraph or in the middle of a sub-section, not an overall conclusion. While I quite like this term, some teachers see it as a bit old-timey.

“She didn’t study hard. Thus , she failed the exam.”

“The evidence is clearly inadmissible. Thus , the case should be dismissed.”

10. This essay’s final analysis is…

This phrase is used to introduce the ultimate conclusion that has been reached after consideration of all the facts.

“ This essay’s final analysis is that it is the lowest earners in society who have been hit hardest by this economic downturn.”

“ This essay’s final analysis is that it’s clear that the policy has had a positive impact on the community.”

11. On the whole

This phrase is often used when you want to make a general summary statement about a larger body of information or arguments. It implies that the statement accounts for all the details and complexities discussed previously. Generally, this is more colloquial so should only be used in less formal essay styles.

“On the whole” can help to simplify complex arguments, and it can signal that the writer has given due consideration to different perspectives or evidence before arriving at their conclusion.

“ On the whole , the company’s strategy has been effective, leading to an increase in profits and customer satisfaction.”

“Despite some negative feedback, on the whole , the policy has received wide public approval.”

12. To conclude

Similar to “In conclusion,” this phrase is a clear signal that the writer is about to wrap up their argument or findings.

“To conclude” can provide a sense of closure for the reader and it reaffirms the significance of the arguments or findings that have been presented.

“ To conclude , the study revealed that regular exercise can significantly reduce stress levels.”

“ To conclude , it is evident from the data that our marketing strategies have significantly boosted sales.”

13. To recap

This phrase is used when the writer wants to summarize the key points of their argument or discussion.

“To recap” can help to reinforce the importance of these points for the reader and it also serves as a quick reference or summary.

“ To recap , our findings suggest that the new drug can effectively alleviate symptoms in 80% of patients.”

“ To recap , our team achieved all project milestones on time and under budget.”

14. In essence

This phrase is often used when the writer wants to encapsulate the fundamental nature or core idea of their argument or discussion.

“In essence” can help to distill complex ideas or arguments down to their most basic and important elements.

“ In essence , the concept of freedom is at the heart of democratic societies.”

“ In essence , our project aims to develop sustainable solutions for waste management.”

15. In retrospect

This phrase is typically used when the writer wants to look back on a situation, decision, or period of time and make a summary statement or conclusion about it. Use it in reflective essays.

“In retrospect” can be useful for conveying a sense of learned wisdom or insight gained after the fact. It often suggests that the writer’s perspective has evolved or deepened over time.

“ In retrospect , investing in renewable energy technologies was a wise business decision.”

“ In retrospect , we could have implemented additional measures to ensure the safety of our staff during the pandemic.”

16. Overall

This is commonly used to indicate a consideration of all factors or an assessment of the situation in its entirety.

“Overall” is often used to summarize complex scenarios involving multiple elements. It represents a comprehensive viewpoint that takes into account all the variables discussed.

“ Overall , our company’s performance this year has been exceptional, with growth in nearly all sectors.”

“While the program faced some obstacles initially, overall , it has been successful in achieving its main objectives.”

17. Finally

This word is often used to indicate the last point or idea in a list or sequence.

“Finally” is a transition word that suggests the end of a discussion. It can also indicate the final and often most important point in an argument or discussion.

“ Finally , the most compelling evidence for climate change is the consistent rise in global temperatures over the past century.”

“ Finally , it’s worth mentioning the commitment and dedication of our team, which played a significant role in the project’s success.”

18. Accordingly

This word is used to express the idea that something is a logical result of something else.

“Accordingly” signifies that the statement that follows is based on what was previously mentioned. It reflects a cause-effect relationship between two points or arguments.

“We have noticed a significant increase in demand for our product. Accordingly , we have decided to increase our production capacity.”

“The weather forecast predicts heavy snowfall. Accordingly , we have postponed the event.”

19. As a result

Similar to “accordingly”, this phrase is used to indicate that something is a consequence of a previous action or situation.

“As a result” introduces the outcome of a given circumstance or set of circumstances, signifying a cause-effect relationship.

“Our competitors have lowered their prices. As a result , we have also decided to adjust our pricing strategy.”

“The new policies were not well received. As a result , the company faced significant backlash from the public.”

20. In short

This phrase is used when you want to summarize a complex idea, argument, or discussion in a concise way.

“In short” helps to condense complex or lengthy explanations into a simpler and shorter summary. It indicates a concise conclusion.

“ In short , the environmental benefits of renewable energy make it a vital component of our fight against climate change.”

“ In short , the project was a success, meeting all its goals and objectives within the allocated time and budget.”

21. In brief

This phrase is used to provide a concise summary of information or to draw a quick conclusion.

“In brief” helps to distill longer discussions or complex arguments into their most critical points. It aims to convey the gist of the matter succinctly.

“ In brief , adopting sustainable practices is not just beneficial for the environment, but it also makes economic sense.”

“ In brief , our research findings confirm the hypothesis that regular exercise can improve mental health.”

22. To summarize

This phrase helps encapsulate the key points discussed in the conversation or writing.

“To summarize” allows the writer to highlight the most important points or findings, reaffirming them for the reader. It reinforces the primary arguments or conclusions.

“ To summarize , we believe investing in renewable energy is a strategic decision that will yield long-term benefits.”

“ To summarize , the data clearly shows an upward trend in consumer demand for eco-friendly products.”

This word is often used to introduce a conclusion or a result based on the previous discussion.

“So” is a simple and effective way to link cause and effect, or problem and solution. It leads the reader directly to the outcome or conclusion.

“The experiment failed to produce the expected results, so we’ll need to revise our approach.”

“Our marketing campaign has been highly successful, so we plan to increase our advertising budget.”

24. Clearly

This word is often used to express that something is obvious or noticeable, especially after analyzing the data or arguments presented.

“Clearly” can emphasize the strength of the evidence or arguments, and it signals confidence in the conclusion.

“ Clearly , our efforts to improve customer service have resulted in higher client satisfaction rates.”

“After reviewing the data, it’s clearly evident that our sales have significantly increased since launching the new product line.”

25. After all

This phrase can be used to emphasize a decisive argument or fact that should be considered.

“After all” often introduces a compelling reason or justification that supports the conclusion. It can help stress the importance of the points previously mentioned.

“We should move forward with the merger, after all , it presents a unique opportunity to expand our market reach.”

“The committee decided to fund the project, after all , it aligns with our goals and has significant potential.”

26. As mentioned earlier

This phrase refers back to something that was stated previously in the conversation or text.

“As mentioned earlier” can be used to re-emphasize an important point or piece of evidence that supports the conclusion. It can reinforce the argument by reminding the reader of what has been discussed previously.

One downside of this is it seems redundant – why are you repeating what you said earlier rather than doing what a conclusion should do: summarizing and synthesizing your points.

“ As mentioned earlier , the correlation between the variables is strong, indicating a significant relationship.”

“ As mentioned earlier , our success is largely due to our dedicated and talented team.”

27. As has been noted

This phrase is often used to restate something important that has been pointed out in the discussion.

“As has been noted” functions similarly to “as mentioned earlier,” serving to underscore a significant point or detail previously discussed. It strengthens the conclusion by referencing crucial information.

As with the phrase “as mentioned earlier”, this one may come across as a redundant phrase and could even signal that you’re repeating yourself rather than adding value through an evaluation or revision exercise.

“ As has been noted , the high turnover rate in the company is a significant concern that requires immediate attention.”

“ As has been noted , the initiative has resulted in substantial benefits for our community.”

28. As has been shown

This phrase is used to reference evidence or arguments that have been presented earlier.

“As has been shown” emphasizes the proof or reasoning that led to the conclusion. It reaffirms the legitimacy of the conclusion based on the presented evidence.

This can also come across as redundant, though.

“ As has been shown , our new marketing strategies have significantly boosted our brand visibility.”

“ As has been shown , the new policy has had a substantial positive impact on our employees’ work-life balance.”

29. As we have seen

Similar to the above, this phrase refers to the evidence or arguments discussed earlier in the text.

“As we have seen” serves to revisit important details or arguments that have been presented. It strengthens the conclusion by directly linking it to the evidence discussed.

“ As we have seen , the implementation of stricter environmental regulations has led to significant improvements in air quality.”

“ As we have seen , investing in staff training and development leads to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.”

30. Given the above points

This phrase is used to draw a conclusion from the arguments or points that have been presented.

“Given these points” signals that the following statement is based on the information discussed earlier. It helps establish a logical connection between the conclusion and the supporting points.

“ Given the above points , it’s clear that we must take immediate action to address the climate crisis.”

“ Given the above points , our company should continue to prioritize customer service as a key aspect of our business strategy.”

31. By and large

This phrase is often used to indicate a general conclusion, considering all the information.

“By and large” is used to sum up general trends or themes that have been discussed. It signals that the conclusion takes into account all the points made, rather than focusing on one particular point.

However, it can come across as a bit informal.

“ By and large , our team’s performance this quarter has exceeded expectations.”

“ By and large , customer feedback about our new product line has been positive.”

32. For the most part

Similar to “by and large”, this phrase indicates that the conclusion drawn applies broadly but allows for exceptions.

“For the most part” suggests a nuanced conclusion that covers the majority of situations or cases but acknowledges that there may be exceptions. It indicates a balanced and fair summary.

This one’s formality level is also quite low

“ For the most part , the new legislation has been successful, though there are a few areas that require further refinement.”

“ For the most part , our employees have embraced the new remote working arrangements, though a small number have experienced challenges.”

33. As has been demonstrated

This phrase refers to the evidence or arguments presented in the body of the text that support the conclusion.

“As has been demonstrated” underscores the points or evidence that have been made and connects them directly to the conclusion. It is a way of affirming the strength of the presented arguments or evidence.

“ As has been demonstrated , the innovative design features of our product set us apart from the competition.”

“ As has been demonstrated , implementing green initiatives in our operations has both environmental and economic benefits.”

34. With this in mind

This phrase suggests that the conclusion follows logically from the information or arguments that have been presented.

“With this in mind” sets up the conclusion as a direct response or reaction to the evidence or points made. It indicates that the conclusion is informed by these considerations.

“ With this in mind , we propose an expansion of our research and development department to drive future innovation.”

“ With this in mind , it’s crucial that we continue our efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices.”

35. Taking everything into account

This phrase is used to express a comprehensive conclusion that considers all the arguments, evidence, or factors presented.

“Taking everything into account” shows a thorough and thoughtful conclusion that takes into account all aspects of the discussion. It signifies a balanced and careful consideration of all the relevant information.

“ Taking everything into account , we recommend a strategic pivot towards digital marketing in order to reach a broader audience.”

“ Taking everything into account , our analysis suggests that investing in renewable energy sources would be beneficial for our long-term growth.”

Advanced Transition Phrases for Conclusions

The following are five phrases I personally use in my own academic conclusions, especially for argumentative essays. They’re for advanced students aiming to show depth of knowledge!

36. Based on the available evidence

This phrase is demonstrating that you’re about to sum up the essay’s key arguments. You are saying that you’re making an evaluation after examining all of the evidence and research on the topic. It helps to show your argument is based on evidence , which is good to show in an academic paper.

“ Based on the available evidence , it appears that the best path forward for addressing AI in the workplace is to allow it but regulate it to prevent unwanted negative externalities such as job losses.”

“ Based on the available evidence , teachers should be paid more than they currently are, given that they contribute significantly to social and economic development of societies.”

37. According to the key literature outlined in this paper

Similar to the above example, this one demonstrates that your final decision and thesis statement in your argumentative essay is based on real evidence and research, not just your opinion. So, you could begin your conclusion like this!

“ According to the key literature outlined in this paper , it appears that the best path forward for addressing AI in the workplace is to allow it but regulate it to prevent unwanted negative externalities such as job losses.”

“ According to the key literature outlined in this paper , teachers should be paid more than they currently are, given that they contribute significantly to social and economic development of societies.”

38. From an evaluation of the above arguments

This point doesn’t lean on evidence for your conclusion directly, but it does lean on the culminated evidence of the arguments you’ve put forward. You’re saying that you have put forward a range of arguments, and now, you’re going to powerfully sum them up and present your final thesis statement.

“ From an evaluation of the above arguments , the most compelling argument is that students should still be given homework, despite the fact there is evidence on both sides of the homework argument.”

“ From an evaluation of the above arguments , it is the position of this paper that schools should start later to allow children to sleep in and therefore be more rested when it is time to study.”

39. The balance of evidence finds

This statement highlights that you have looked at both the pros and cons of your topic before coming to a position. The metaphor of ‘balance’ makes us think of someone holding the points for one side of the argument in one hand, the opposing points in the other hand, and they’re weighing each up before deciding which is heavier.

“ The balance of evidence finds that essays help students to reinforce their knowledge, learn more deeply, and develop academic skills.”

“ The balance of evidence finds that taxation should be lowered in order to stimulate economic growth which, on balance, will lead to a more prosperous and thriving society.”

40. The research compellingly indicates

Lastly, the phrase “the research compellingly indicates” can be used in a transition to a conclusion because it demonstrates that you’re about to sum up all the research you’ve just made and you’re going to make a final evaluation.

“ The research compellingly indicates that visiting the doctor for a yearly check-up saves money overall, prevents backlog in hospitals, and prolongs life.”

“ The research compellingly indicates that essay writing helps students to learn their topics more deeply, develop critical thinking skills, and improve long-term retention of knowledge.”

Other Types Of Transition Words

• Compare and Contrast: In comparison, In contrast, However, Despite this, Other researchers argue, Unlike the above point, Conflicting research finds
• Cause and Effect : Therefore, Thus, As a result, This has led to, As a result, Because, Consequently, For that reason, Hence, For that reason
• List Order: First, Second, Third, Forth, In the first instance, In the second instance, Firstly, Secondly, Next, Lastly, Finally
• Time Order: Afterwards, Concurrently, Later, Meanwhile, Following, In the meantime, Simultaneously, Concomitantly, Subsequently
• Evidence Transition Words : As can be seen in, To demonstrate, Evidence of this fact can be seen in, Proof of this point is found in, For instance, For one thing, Compelling evidence shows
• Transitioning to examples : For example, for instance, as illustrated by, take the following case in point.
• Emphasis and addition : In fact, Indeed, Furthermore, Particularly, Surely, Undeniably, Indesputably, Confirms, Certifies, Proves
• Similarity: Similarly, In a similar way, Concurring research finds, likewise, equivalently, also, significantly

Well, how would someone conclude an article about how to write a good conclusion? I’ll finish up like this: every conclusion is unique. Work on your own writerly voice, come up with your own transition words for conclusions, and be creative with it. The biggest challenge you will face is staying within the formal guidelines of an academic essay. For this, rely on your teacher. Keep asking for feedback, and even specifically ask for feedback on your transition words. This will help you learn what your teacher prefers and help you to keep refining your writing style.

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190 Good Transition Words for Essays

August 23, 2023

Essay writing consists of two primary procedures: coming up with the content we want to include and structuring that content. These procedures might take place in either order or they could occur simultaneously. When writing an essay it is important to think about the ways that content and structure complement one another. The best essays join these two elements in thoughtful ways. Transition words for essays (including for college essays) are some of our most primary tools when it comes to structuring a piece of writing.

When beginning an essay it is often recommended to begin with a messy first draft. The purpose of this draft is to get everything out on the page. You should put down as many ideas and trajectories as you can without worrying too much about phrasing or whether they will make it into the final draft. The key here is to be loose—to get ahead of our self-editors and expel everything we can from our minds.

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (Continued)

While this is a good strategy for beginning an essay it will likely leave you unsure how everything fits together. This is where transition words come in. As you will see in this list (which is necessarily incomplete) the range of transition words for essays is vast. Each transition word implies a different relation, often in subtle ways. After accumulating content, the next step is to figure out how the elements fit together towards an overall goal (this could be but is not necessarily an “argument”). Consulting this list of transition words for essays can provide a shortcut for determining how one piece might lead into another. Along with transition words, rhetorical devices and literary devices are other tools to consider during this stage of essay writing.

Transition Words for College Essays

While this list will be a useful tool for all types of essay writing it will be particularly helpful when it comes to finding the right transition words for college essays . The goal of a college essay is to give a strong overall sense of its author in the tight space of 650 words. As you might imagine, it’s not easy to encompass a life or convey a complex personality in such a space. When writing a college essay you are working with a huge amount of potential content. Students often want to squeeze in as much as they can. To this end, transition words for college essays are essential tools to have at our disposal.

Here is our list of transition words for college essays and other essays. It is organized by the different types of transition words/phrases and their functions. While this organization should be convenient, keep in mind that there’s plenty of overlap. Many of these words can function in multiple ways.

1) Additive Transitions

These words function in an additive manner, accumulating content to build upon what has already been stated. They can be used to construct an argument or establish a scene through the accumulation of details.

• Additionally
• In addition to
• Furthermore
• Not to mention
• In all honesty
• To tell the truth
• Not only…but also
• As a matter of fact
• To say nothing of
• What’s more
• Alternatively
• To go a step further

 2) Comparative Transitions (Similarity)

  These transition words draw a parallel or bring out a similarity between images or ideas. They can be used not only in a straightforward sense but also to establish relations of similarity between objects or ideas that might appear to be dissonant.

• In the same way
• In a similar vein
• Along the lines of
• In the key of

 3) Comparative Transitions (Difference)

  While also functioning comparatively, the following words demonstrate difference between ideas or images. These transition words are useful when it comes to establishing contrasting points of view, an important component of any argument.

• On the other hand
• On the contrary
• In contrast to
• In contradiction
• Nevertheless
• Nonetheless
• In any event
• In any case
• In either event

4) Sequential Transitions

  The following are particularly effective transition words for college essays. They will allow you to order ideas chronologically or in a sequence, providing a sense of continuity over time. This is particularly useful when an essay leans into something more creative or involves telling a story.

• Subsequently
• At the same time
• Concurrently
• In the beginning
• At the start
• At the outset
• Off the bat

5) Spatial Transitions

Rather than organizing ideas or images in regards to sequence, these transitions indicate spatial relationships. They are particularly useful when it comes to painting a scene and/or describing objects, but they can also be used metaphorically. Consider, for example, how you might use the transition, “standing in […’s] shadow.”

• Standing in […’s] shadow
• In front of
• In the middle
• In the center
• To the left
• To the right
• On the side
• Adjacent to
• Around the bend
• On the outskirts
• In the distance
• On the horizon
• In the foreground
• In the background
• Underground
• Through the grapevine

 6) Causal Transitions

These transition words for essays indicate cause and effect relationships between ideas. They will be particularly useful when you are structuring a logical argument, i.e. using logos as a mode of persuasion . Causal transitions are an important element of academic, legal and scientific writing.

• Accordingly
• Resultingly
• As a result
• Consequently
• In consequence
• As a consequence
• For this reason
• So much that
• Granting that
• That being the case
• Under those circumstances
• With this in mind
• For the purpose of
• For all intents and purposes
• In the event that
• In the event of
• In light of
• On the condition that
• To the extent that

7) Examples/Illustration/Supporting Transition

  These transition words for college essays can be used to introduce supporting evidence, emphasis, examples, and clarification. There is some overlap here with additive transitions and causal transitions. These transitions are also useful when it comes to building an argument. At the same time, they can signal a shift into a different linguistic register.

• For example
• For instance
• In other words
• As an illustration
• To illustrate
• To put it differently
• To put it another way
• That is to say
• As the evidence illustrates
• It’s important to realize
• It’s important to understand
• It must be remembered
• To demonstrate
• For clarity’s sake
• To emphasize
• To put it plainly
• To enumerate
• To speak metaphorically

8) Conclusory Transitions

These transition words for essays serve to bring an idea or story to a close. They offer a clear way of signaling the conclusion of a particular train of thought. They might be followed by a summary or a restatement of an essay’s argument. In this way they also provide emphasis, setting the reader up for what is about to come.

• In conclusion
• To summarize
• To put it succinctly
• To this end
• At the end of the day
• In the final analysis
• By and large
• On second thought
• On first glance
• That’s all to say
• On the whole
• All things considered
• Generally speaking

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (Final Thoughts)

Even when elements appear to be disparate on first glance, transition words are a great tool for giving your essay a smooth flow. They can also create surprising juxtapositions, relationships, and equivalences. The way a reader will understand a transition word depends on the context in which they encounter it.

Individual words and phrases can be used in a wide variety of ways, ranging from the literal to the figurative to the colloquial or idiomatic. “Through the grapevine” is an example of the colloquial or idiomatic. When we encounter this phrase we don’t interpret it literally (as hearing something “through” a grapevine) but rather as hearing news secondhand. There are, of course, a vast number of idioms that are not included in this list but can also function as transitional phrases.

This list of transition words for college essays (and really any form of writing you might be working on) is a resource that you can return to again and again in your life as a writer. Over years of writing we tend to fall into patterns when it comes to the transition words we use. Mixing things up can be exciting both as a writer and for your readers. Even if you don’t choose to stray from your trusted transitions, considering the alternatives (and why they don’t work for you) can offer a deeper understanding of what you are trying to say.

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (An Exercise)

As an exercise in self-understanding, you may want to try highlighting all of the transition words in a piece of your own writing. You can then compare this to the transition words in a piece of writing that you admire. Are they using similar transitions or others? Are they using them more or less often? What do you like or dislike about them? We all use transition words differently, creating different tonal effects. Keeping an eye out for them, not only as a writer but also as a reader, will help you develop your own aesthetic.

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Emmett Lewis

Emmett holds a BA in Philosophy from Vassar College and is currently completing an MFA in Writing at Columbia University. Previously, he served as a writing instructor within the Columbia Artists/Teachers community as well as a Creative Writing Teaching Fellow at Columbia, where he taught poetry workshops. In addition, Emmett is a member of the Poetry Board at the Columbia Journal , and his work has been published in HAD , Otoliths , and Some Kind of Opening , among others.

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Transitions

What this handout is about.

In this crazy, mixed-up world of ours, transitions glue our ideas and our essays together. This handout will introduce you to some useful transitional expressions and help you employ them effectively.

The function and importance of transitions

In both academic writing and professional writing, your goal is to convey information clearly and concisely, if not to convert the reader to your way of thinking. Transitions help you to achieve these goals by establishing logical connections between sentences, paragraphs, and sections of your papers. In other words, transitions tell readers what to do with the information you present to them. Whether single words, quick phrases, or full sentences, they function as signs that tell readers how to think about, organize, and react to old and new ideas as they read through what you have written.

Transitions signal relationships between ideas—relationships such as: “Another example coming up—stay alert!” or “Here’s an exception to my previous statement” or “Although this idea appears to be true, here’s the real story.” Basically, transitions provide the reader with directions for how to piece together your ideas into a logically coherent argument. Transitions are not just verbal decorations that embellish your paper by making it sound or read better. They are words with particular meanings that tell the reader to think and react in a particular way to your ideas. In providing the reader with these important cues, transitions help readers understand the logic of how your ideas fit together.

Signs that you might need to work on your transitions

How can you tell whether you need to work on your transitions? Here are some possible clues:

• Your instructor has written comments like “choppy,” “jumpy,” “abrupt,” “flow,” “need signposts,” or “how is this related?” on your papers.
• Your readers (instructors, friends, or classmates) tell you that they had trouble following your organization or train of thought.
• You tend to write the way you think—and your brain often jumps from one idea to another pretty quickly.
• You wrote your paper in several discrete “chunks” and then pasted them together.
• You are working on a group paper; the draft you are working on was created by pasting pieces of several people’s writing together.

Organization

Since the clarity and effectiveness of your transitions will depend greatly on how well you have organized your paper, you may want to evaluate your paper’s organization before you work on transitions. In the margins of your draft, summarize in a word or short phrase what each paragraph is about or how it fits into your analysis as a whole. This exercise should help you to see the order of and connection between your ideas more clearly.

If after doing this exercise you find that you still have difficulty linking your ideas together in a coherent fashion, your problem may not be with transitions but with organization. For help in this area (and a more thorough explanation of the “reverse outlining” technique described in the previous paragraph), please see the Writing Center’s handout on organization .

How transitions work

The organization of your written work includes two elements: (1) the order in which you have chosen to present the different parts of your discussion or argument, and (2) the relationships you construct between these parts. Transitions cannot substitute for good organization, but they can make your organization clearer and easier to follow. Take a look at the following example:

El Pais , a Latin American country, has a new democratic government after having been a dictatorship for many years. Assume that you want to argue that El Pais is not as democratic as the conventional view would have us believe.

One way to effectively organize your argument would be to present the conventional view and then to provide the reader with your critical response to this view. So, in Paragraph A you would enumerate all the reasons that someone might consider El Pais highly democratic, while in Paragraph B you would refute these points. The transition that would establish the logical connection between these two key elements of your argument would indicate to the reader that the information in paragraph B contradicts the information in paragraph A. As a result, you might organize your argument, including the transition that links paragraph A with paragraph B, in the following manner:

Paragraph A: points that support the view that El Pais’s new government is very democratic.

Transition: Despite the previous arguments, there are many reasons to think that El Pais’s new government is not as democratic as typically believed.

Paragraph B: points that contradict the view that El Pais’s new government is very democratic.

In this case, the transition words “Despite the previous arguments,” suggest that the reader should not believe paragraph A and instead should consider the writer’s reasons for viewing El Pais’s democracy as suspect.

As the example suggests, transitions can help reinforce the underlying logic of your paper’s organization by providing the reader with essential information regarding the relationship between your ideas. In this way, transitions act as the glue that binds the components of your argument or discussion into a unified, coherent, and persuasive whole.

Types of transitions

Now that you have a general idea of how to go about developing effective transitions in your writing, let us briefly discuss the types of transitions your writing will use.

The types of transitions available to you are as diverse as the circumstances in which you need to use them. A transition can be a single word, a phrase, a sentence, or an entire paragraph. In each case, it functions the same way: First, the transition either directly summarizes the content of a preceding sentence, paragraph, or section or implies such a summary (by reminding the reader of what has come before). Then, it helps the reader anticipate or comprehend the new information that you wish to present.

• Transitions between sections: Particularly in longer works, it may be necessary to include transitional paragraphs that summarize for the reader the information just covered and specify the relevance of this information to the discussion in the following section.
• Transitions between paragraphs: If you have done a good job of arranging paragraphs so that the content of one leads logically to the next, the transition will highlight a relationship that already exists by summarizing the previous paragraph and suggesting something of the content of the paragraph that follows. A transition between paragraphs can be a word or two (however, for example, similarly), a phrase, or a sentence. Transitions can be at the end of the first paragraph, at the beginning of the second paragraph, or in both places.
• Transitions within paragraphs: As with transitions between sections and paragraphs, transitions within paragraphs act as cues by helping readers to anticipate what is coming before they read it. Within paragraphs, transitions tend to be single words or short phrases.

Transitional expressions

Effectively constructing each transition often depends upon your ability to identify words or phrases that will indicate for the reader the kind of logical relationships you want to convey. The table below should make it easier for you to find these words or phrases. Whenever you have trouble finding a word, phrase, or sentence to serve as an effective transition, refer to the information in the table for assistance. Look in the left column of the table for the kind of logical relationship you are trying to express. Then look in the right column of the table for examples of words or phrases that express this logical relationship.

Keep in mind that each of these words or phrases may have a slightly different meaning. Consult a dictionary or writer’s handbook if you are unsure of the exact meaning of a word or phrase.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Transitional Words and Phrases

One of your primary goals as a writer is to present ideas in a clear and understandable way. To help readers move through your complex ideas, you want to be intentional about how you structure your paper as a whole as well as how you form the individual paragraphs that comprise it. In order to think through the challenges of presenting your ideas articulately, logically, and in ways that seem natural to your readers, check out some of these resources: Developing a Thesis Statement , Paragraphing , and Developing Strategic Transitions: Writing that Establishes Relationships and Connections Between Ideas.

While clear writing is mostly achieved through the deliberate sequencing of your ideas across your entire paper, you can guide readers through the connections you’re making by using transitional words in individual sentences. Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between your ideas and can help your reader understand your paper’s logic.

In what follows, we’ve included a list of frequently used transitional words and phrases that can help you establish how your various ideas relate to each other. We’ve divided these words and phrases into categories based on the common kinds of relationships writers establish between ideas.

Two recommendations: Use these transitions strategically by making sure that the word or phrase you’re choosing matches the logic of the relationship you’re emphasizing or the connection you’re making. All of these words and phrases have different meanings, nuances, and connotations, so before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely, and be sure that it’s the right match for your paper’s logic. Use these transitional words and phrases sparingly because if you use too many of them, your readers might feel like you are overexplaining connections that are already clear.

Categories of Transition Words and Phrases

Causation Chronology Combinations Contrast Example

Importance Location Similarity Clarification Concession

Conclusion Intensification Purpose Summary

Transitions to help establish some of the most common kinds of relationships

Causation– Connecting instigator(s) to consequence(s).

accordingly as a result and so because

consequently for that reason hence on account of

since therefore thus

Chronology– Connecting what issues in regard to when they occur.

after afterwards always at length during earlier following immediately in the meantime

later never next now once simultaneously so far sometimes

soon subsequently then this time until now when whenever while

Combinations Lists– Connecting numerous events. Part/Whole– Connecting numerous elements that make up something bigger.

additionally again also and, or, not as a result besides even more

finally first, firstly further furthermore in addition in the first place in the second place

last, lastly moreover next second, secondly, etc. too

Contrast– Connecting two things by focusing on their differences.

after all although and yet at the same time but

despite however in contrast nevertheless nonetheless notwithstanding

on the contrary on the other hand otherwise though yet

Example– Connecting a general idea to a particular instance of this idea.

as an illustration e.g., (from a Latin abbreviation for “for example”)

for example for instance specifically that is

to demonstrate to illustrate

Importance– Connecting what is critical to what is more inconsequential.

chiefly critically

foundationally most importantly

of less importance primarily

Location– Connecting elements according to where they are placed in relationship to each other.

above adjacent to below beyond

centrally here nearby neighboring on

opposite to peripherally there wherever

Similarity– Connecting to things by suggesting that they are in some way alike.

by the same token in like manner

in similar fashion here in the same way

likewise wherever

Other kinds of transitional words and phrases Clarification

i.e., (from a Latin abbreviation for “that is”) in other words

that is that is to say to clarify to explain

to put it another way to rephrase it

granted it is true

naturally of course

finally lastly

in conclusion in the end

to conclude

Intensification

in fact indeed no

of course surely to repeat

undoubtedly without doubt yes

for this purpose in order that

so that to that end

to this end

in brief in sum

in summary in short

to sum up to summarize

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Connecting Ideas Through Transitions

Using Transitional Words and Phrases

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• Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2023.

Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.

The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.

For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.

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Table of contents

When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words, other interesting articles.

Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.

Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.

Example text with and without transition words

The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.

If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

Don’t overuse transition words

While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.

In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.

The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.

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There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.

Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.

Additive transition words

Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.

Adversative transition words

Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.

Causal transition words

Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.

Sequential transition words

Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.

Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.

Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.

Confused use of therefore

“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

Starting a sentence with also , and , or so

While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.

• Also , a second round of testing was carried out.

To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.

• A second round of testing was also carried out.
• Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.

Transition words creating sentence fragments

Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.

The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.

We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.

And vs. as well as

Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .

In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first. Note that we add a comma before “as well as” but not before “and.”

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
• Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.

Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”

• Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
• Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.

Use of and/or

The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.

First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.

• Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
• Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.

Archaic transition words

Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing

With the use of certain tools, you can make your writing clear. One of these tools is a paraphrasing tool . One thing the tool does is help your sentences make more sense. It has different modes where it checks how your text can be improved. For example, automatically adding transition words where needed.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or writing rules make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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Conclusion transition words: Phrases for summarizing and ending

Transition words help us structure our thoughts and guide the reader or listener through what we are saying. When it’s time to summarize your message or end a paragraph, conclusion transition words let you signal this closing.

It’s good to know some synonyms for ‘in conclusion’ and ‘to conclude’, because although these are good examples of concluding words, they can get repetitive.

Our comprehensive list of transition words for conclusion and summary should give you all the inspiration you need, whether you are writing an essay or speech, or just want to become more confident forming an argument. These signal words can also be helpful for restating ideas, drawing attention to key points as you conclude.

We have included plenty of examples of how you can use these transition words for concluding paragraphs or sentences, so by the end of this article, you should be clear on how to use them properly.

Conclusion transition words with examples

We have grouped these summarizing and concluding transition words according to how and where they can be used. For example, some should only be used when forming a final conclusion, whereas others can be used to summarize sections mid-way through your speech or writing.

First, let’s be clear about the difference between a summary and a conclusion .

Summary vs conclusion

A conclusion comes at the end of a speech, chapter, or piece of text, and it brings together all of the points mentioned. A summary, however, can be placed anywhere (even at the beginning). A summary gives a brief outline of the main points but is not as in-depth as a conclusion.

If you are giving a presentation or writing a blog, you may wish to summarize the main points in your introduction so that people know what you are going to cover. You could also summarize a section part-way through before moving on to another angle or topic.

In contrast, the conclusion always comes at the end, and you should only use specific conclusion transition words as you are drawing to a close.

Transition words for conclusion paragraphs

Let’s begin with some discourse markers that signal you are moving to the concluding paragraph in your presentation, speech, essay, or paper. These can all be used to start a conclusion paragraph.

• In conclusion
• To conclude
• We can conclude that
• Given these points
• In the final analysis
• As can be seen
• In the long run
• When all is said and done
• I’ll end by
• As we draw to a close

The last three on this list, the ‘closing’ transition words, would generally only be used in spoken discourse.

Some transition words for order and sequencing should also help with structuring what you want to say, including the ending.

Example conclusion sentences

The following sentences show how to use conclusion words correctly:

• In conclusion , we can say that plan A will be of greater benefit to the company.
• When all is said and done , it’s clear that we should steer clear of this investment strategy.
• Given these points , I believe the trial was a great success.
• I’ll end by reminding you all that this experiment was just the beginning of a much larger project.
• To wrap up , let’s look at how this learning can be applied.
• In the long run , we will make more profit by investing heavily in new machinery.
• Having analyzed seven of our competitors in detail, we can conclude that our content marketing strategy should be updated.

Transition words for summary

The following summary transition words may be used as part of a conclusion paragraph, but they are especially helpful for concisely drawing together several points.

• To summarize
• On the whole
• Generally speaking
• All things considered
• In a nutshell (informal)
• In any case

Note that although you can insert summary transition words anywhere, the specific phrases ‘In summary’, ‘To summarize’ and ‘To sum up’ are generally only used at the end, similar to conclusion phrases.

Example summary sentences

• In brief , this presentation is going to cover the pros and cons of the device and how we can apply this to our own product development.
• This new technology is, in a word , revolutionary.
• All things considered , we found that Berlin was a great city for a weekend break.
• To summarize , we can say that Shakespeare’s writing continues to have a global influence.
• We can say that the combustion engine was, on the whole , a good invention.
• In any case , we should put the necessary precautions in place.
• Generally speaking , girls are more thoughtful than boys.

Transition words to end a paragraph

You may wish to add ending transition words in the final sentence of a paragraph to conclude the ideas in that section of text, before moving on to another point.

Here are some transition words to conclude a paragraph:

• This means that
• With this in mind
• By and large
• For the most part

Note that some of these could equally be used to begin a new paragraph, so long as that paragraph is summarizing the points previously mentioned.

Cause and effect transition words could also be helpful in this context.

Examples of transition words for the end of a paragraph

• Jamie is a vegan and Sheryl has a lot of allergies. This means that we should be careful which restaurant we choose.
• The weather forecast said it would rain this afternoon. With this in mind , should we postpone our hike?
• Each of the students has their own opinion about where to go for the field trip. Ultimately , though, it’s the teacher who will decide.

Restating points as you conclude

Conclusion transition words can also signal that you are restating a point you mentioned earlier. This is common practice in both writing and speaking as it draws the reader or listener’s attention back to something you want them to keep in mind. These are, therefore, also examples of transition words for emphasizing a point .

Here are some helpful transition words for concluding or summarizing by restating points:

• As mentioned previously
• As stated earlier
• As has been noted
• As shown above
• As I have said
• As I have mentioned
• As we have seen
• As has been demonstrated

You may switch most of these between the passive and active voice, depending on which is most appropriate. For example, ‘As has been demonstrated’ could become ‘As I have demonstrated’ and ‘As shown above’ could become ‘As I have shown’.

Example sentences to restate a point in conclusion or summary

• As I stated earlier , the only way we can get meaningful results from this survey is by including at least a thousand people.
• As has been demonstrated throughout this conference, there are exciting things happening in the world of neuroscience.
• As shown by this study, the trials have been promising.

If you were researching these transition words for concluding an essay, you might find it helpful to read this guide to strong essay conclusions . Of course, there are many ways to use summary transition words beyond essays. They may be a little formal for casual conversation, but they certainly can be used in speech as part of a presentation, debate, or argument.

Can you think of any other concluding words or phrases that should be on this list? Leave a comment below to share them!

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Essay Writing Guide

Transition Words For Essays

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

220 Best Transition Words for Essays

By: Nova A.

15 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jul 9, 2019

Writing essays can be hard, and making sure your transitions are smooth is even harder. 

You've probably heard that good essays need good transitions, but what are they? How do you use them in your writing? Also, your essays are assessed according to particular criteria and it is your responsibility to ensure that it is being met.

But don't worry, we are here to help. This blog will give you transition words for essays, including how to choose the right ones and where to place them for maximum impact. Essay writing is a technical process that requires much more effort than simply pouring your thoughts on paper.

If you are new to the concept of transition words and phrases, deep dive into this article in order to find out the secret to improving your essays.

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What Are Transition Words 

Transition words are essential elements in essay writing that create smooth transitions between ideas. 

Think of a transition as a conjunction or a joining word. It helps create strong relationships between ideas, paragraphs, or sentences and assists the readers to understand the word phrases and sentences easily.

As writers, our goal is to communicate our thoughts and ideas in the most clear and logical manner. Especially when presenting complex ideas, we must ensure that they are being conveyed in the most understandable way.

To ensure that your paper is easy to understand, you can work on the sequencing of ideas. Break down your ideas into different sentences and paragraphs then use a transition word or phrase to guide them through these ideas.

Why Should You Use Transitions

The purpose of transition words goes beyond just connectivity. They create a cohesive narrative , allowing your ideas to flow seamlessly from one point to another. These words and phrases act as signposts and indicate relationships. 

These relations could include:

• Cause and Effect
• Comparison and Contrast
• Addition and Emphasis
• Sequence and Order
• Illustration and Example
• Concession and Contradiction
• Summary and Conclusion

They form a bridge and tie sentences together, creating a logical connection. In addition to tying the entire paper together, they help demonstrate the writer’s agreement, disagreement, conclusion, or contrast.

However, keep in mind that just using or including transitional words isn’t enough to highlight relationships between ideas. The content of your paragraphs must support the relationship as well. So, you should avoid overusing them in a paper.

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Types of Transitions

Transitions in essays can be classified into different types based on the relationships they indicate between ideas. Each type serves a specific purpose in guiding readers through your arguments. 

Let's explore some common types of transitions and their examples:

Additive Transitions 

These transitions are used to add information or ideas. They help you expand on your points or provide additional supporting evidence. Examples:

• In addition
• Furthermore
• Additionally
• Not only... but also
• Coupled with

Adversative Transitions

Adversative transitions show contrast or contradiction between ideas. They are used to present opposing viewpoints or highlight differences. Examples:

• Nevertheless
• On the other hand
• In contrast

Causal Transitions

Causal transitions explain cause-and-effect relationships. They help you establish the reasons behind certain outcomes or actions. Examples:

• As a result
• Consequently
• Resulting in
• For this reason

Sequential Transitions

Sequential transitions indicate the order or sequence of events or ideas. They help you present your thoughts in a logical and organized manner. Examples: 

• Subsequently
• In the meantime
• Simultaneously

Comparative Transitions

Comparative transitions highlight similarities or comparisons between ideas. They help you draw connections and illustrate relationships. Here are some transition words for essays examples: 

• In the same way
• Compared to
• In comparison
• Correspondingly
• By the same token
• Equally important
• Analogous to

Getting started on your essay? Check out this insightful read on essay writing to make sure you ace it!

List of Good Transition Words for Essays

As mentioned above, there are different categories of transitions that serve a unique purpose. Understanding these different types will help you pick the most suitable word or phrase to communicate your message.

Here we have categorized the best transition words for essays so you can use them appropriately!

Transition Words for Argumentative Essays

In argumentative essays , the effective use of transition words is essential for presenting a well-structured and coherent argument. 

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essays

In compare and contrast essays , transition words play a crucial role in highlighting the similarities and differences between the subjects being compared. 

Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in compare and contrast essays:

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essays

In cause and effect essays , transition words help illustrate the relationships between causes and their corresponding effects. 

Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in cause-and-effect essays:

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essays

Transition words are valuable tools that can be used throughout different parts of an essay to create a smooth and coherent flow. By understanding the appropriate transition words for each section, you can logically connect your ideas. 

Introduction Transition Words for Essays

Introductions are one of the most impactful parts of the essay. It's important that it connects logically with the rest of the essay. To do this, you can utilize different transition words for essays to start. Here are some starting transition words for essays:

Transition Words for Essays Body Paragraph

In an essay, body paragraphs play a crucial role in presenting and developing your ideas. To ensure a logical flow within each body paragraph, the strategic use of transition words is essential.

Here are lists of transitions for essays for different body paragraphs:

Transition Words for Essays for First Body Paragraph

Here is a list of transition words that you can use for the first body paragraph of an essay:

Transition Words for Essays Second Body Paragraph

Here is a list of transition words for the second body paragraph of an essay:

Transition Words for Essays Third Body Paragraph

Transition words for essays last body paragraph, transition words for essays conclusion .

Here is a list of ending transition words for essays:

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Essay Transitions

When it comes to using transitions in your essay, there are certain do's and don'ts that can help you effectively enhance the flow of your writing. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

• Add transitions only when introducing new ideas.
• Go through the paper to make sure they make sense.
• Start by creating an outline, so you know what ideas to share and how.
• Use different transitions for each idea.
• Don’t overuse them.
• Don’t keep adding transitions in the same paragraph.
• Don’t completely rely on transitions to signal relationships.
• Don’t incorporate it into your content without understanding its usage.

By now, you have probably understood how transition words can save you from disjointed and directionless paragraphs. They are the missing piece that indicates how ideas are related to one another. You can also generate more essays with our AI powered essay writer to learn the art of transitioning smoothly from one paragraph to another. 

If you are still unable to distinguish transitions to open or conclude your essays, don’t be upset - these things require time and practice.

If you are looking for the perfect essay-writing service, get in touch with the expert writers at 5StarEssays.com. We will include the right transitions according to the type of paper, ensuring a coherent flow of ideas.

Just say ‘ write my essay ’ now and let our essay writer create quality content at the most pocket-friendly rates available.

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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10 Good Transitions for a Conclusion Paragraph

The Importance of a Conclusion

Why transitions are necessary, 10 ideas for concluding transitions, writing strong transitions between paragraphs, other times to use transitions, 5 overused conclusion sentences, how to start a conclusion paragraph, how to write your conclusion, how to write a concluding sentence.

Writing a proper conclusion paragraph to an essay is something you've probably spent significant time learning about, whether you're in grade school or college. It's especially important to learn how to write a conclusion with strong transitions as well as having good transitions between body paragraphs. This skill ensures that the essay will flow nicely, ultimately forming a cohesive paper.

Though writing strong transitions for a concluding paragraph can be a challenge for both beginner writers and even seasoned writers, it just takes some constructive feedback to make sure you are on the right track.

When writing a paper, whether it is a persuasive essay, a research paper, a news article or even a portfolio essay, there is a specific format that all writers must follow. Though there is never a wrong way to write an essay, there is a standard that is accepted worldwide and across different languages. Essays must be organized, well composed, include key points, and most of all, a strong conclusion.

While it is always important to begin your essay with a strong and engaging introduction, many writers tend to neglect the ending of their work. After all, writing is undoubtedly an exhausting process. However, it is necessary to keep the reader engaged until the very last sentence.

If your reader somehow is not convinced after reading your paper, the conclusion is the final chance for persuasion.

Though a conclusion can be written differently depending on the essay type, its main purpose is to bring the key ideas of the text to the surface. This is done by rephrasing the thesis as well as reiterating information discussed in the body paragraphs.

The most important aspect of a conclusion paragraph is to not introduce new topics to the reader. Mention of a new idea at the end of a paper reveals that it should have received its own paragraph earlier on. This also may distract from the thesis, ultimately meaning that new information does not belong in the conclusion.

Most people write or speak in transitional phrases without even realizing that they are doing it. For example, using words and phrases such as ​ "then," "after that" ​ and ​ "anyway" ​ in basic conversations. Without transitions, there is a lack of word flow, making it challenging for the reader or listener to grasp what you are attempting to say.

Due to the fact that transitions often come easier while speaking, writers need to be more aware of including transitions while constructing their essay. Without a transition word or a transitional phrase, the reader may not understand why you are suddenly going from one idea to the next. Transitions help guide readers through the piece with ease as they read it in their head or out loud. Think of transitions as the glue that holds the different parts of your essay together.

If you want to get away from the overused conclusion statements, then there are several options to choose from. Of course, you also have to be mindful of how much you use those in your paper as well. If your teachers notice that you are using the same transitions repeatedly, it is likely they will advise you to use something else. Thankfully, there are tons of ​ "In conclusion" ​ replacements you can resort to instead:

• By and large
• Generally speaking
• In any event
• Given these points
• All things considered

Before writing the conclusion, body paragraphs will be included that must be written cohesively. This means that the information is written in a logical order, making the essay flow nicely. You know how long a paragraph should be, how it should start and what sentences to put inside. But one thing that several college students struggle with is how to implement transitions between paragraphs. If your professor tells you that your writing is ​ "too abrupt" ​ or asks you ​ "how do these things relate?" ​ then it probably means you neglected the use of strong transitions between paragraphs.

The transitions you use between two paragraphs will be different than the transitions you use in your conclusion. Transitions can occur at the end of the previous paragraph, the beginning of the next paragraph or both and include words or phrases such as:

• For example
• In addition to or additionally
• Nevertheless
• Even though
• Despite this
• As mentioned before
• Nonetheless
• That being said
• Due to this

The more you practice the incorporation of transitions, the more you will naturally have the ability to select which phrases work. Younger students may use other types of transitions between paragraphs, which are to demonstrate their basic understanding of sequencing events:

In addition to using transitions between paragraphs ​ and ​ as part of your conclusion paragraph, you will also be required to use transitions in other parts of your writing. This includes using transitions within the actual paragraphs themselves, as well as between sections if you are writing a much longer, in-depth piece.

When incorporating transitions within a paragraph, you may use short words or phrases to bring together sentences. This helps readers expect what's to come before they read the next sentence, even if that happens quickly. Sometimes, you may not even notice this transition as it is subtle, but present.

Likewise, you will also need to use transitions between sections in a larger piece of writing. These will need to be more explicit because you are coming off a whole other section that may not be as easily connected to the next one. Think of it as a recap of the previous season of a television series, that catches you up on all the events you may have forgotten about. You do this before pressing play on the next season in the series. The two sections must be connected in some way, and a transition helps achieve that.

Two sections must be connected in some way, and a transition helps achieve that.

Oftentimes, students tend to rely on certain conclusion sentences and transitions more so than others. Most teachers would advise that if they had a dime for every time a student used the transition ​ "In conclusion" ​ to start their concluding paragraph, that they'd be rich. But this is not the student's fault. However, students should try to stay away from the overused conclusion sentences as much as possible:

• In conclusion
• As you can see

Once you've decided on a concluding transition that has not been overused, you will have to start to think of your beginning conclusion sentence.

• Sometimes, the transition phrase you have chosen is enough to have a solid start to your conclusion, but other times, you may need to also take a few words or a sentence to transition between the most recent paragraph and the conclusion.
• You may also need to write two concluding paragraphs instead of just one, which will, of course, involve using more than one transition sentence starter.

After beginning your conclusion paragraph, it's time to write the rest of the conclusion. This can be tricky, but good conclusions come after practice, persistence and careful use of words and vocabulary.

Your conclusion is your last opportunity to tell the reader why you feel the way you do about whatever you're talking about, whether it's an opinion or closing statement based on factual research. Here, you should reiterate the main points of your paper without getting too repetitive, and if applicable, leave the reader with something to think about.

You can always ask a friend to read over your conclusion to see if you've succeeded.

The only part of your essay with the most potential to influence the reader more so than the introduction of your paper, is ​ the closing sentence of your paper ​.

If you're wondering whether or not you can end a conclusion with a question, the answer is, it depends. If you're writing a research paper that discusses some controversial topics, then it's absolutely a great idea to end your conclusion with a question. This can be a rhetorical question or it can be directed straight to the reader, but either way, it should be somewhat open-ended and ultimately be a conversation starter.

At the same time, though, a persuasive essay is meant to convince the reader of your opinion, so leaving them with a question instead of a strong, believable statement, could be a mistake. You'll really need to read over your paper several times to make sure your conclusion and your concluding sentence makes sense with the rest of the piece.

Things to Consider

If you are still wondering, ​ "How can I end my essay without saying, 'in conclusion'?" ​this is either because the other transition words and phrases do not make sense to you, or you simply cannot think of anything else to say.

Ultimately, if you can include a variety within your transition words and phrases, that will build a strong paper. However, if you are having a hard time with it, just do what you feel comfortable with. In the meantime, ask your teacher or professor if they have any additional advice that may be useful for you, or consult the writing resources at your school for support.

Writing a strong conclusion paragraph with good transitions is the key to a solid essay. Hopefully these tips will help you learn how to write a good conclusion paragraph.

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Hana LaRock is a freelance content writer from New York, currently living in Mexico. She has spent the last 5 years traveling the world and living abroad and has lived in South Korea and Israel. Before becoming a writer, Hana worked as a teacher for several years in the U.S. and around the world. She has her teaching certification in Elementary Education and Special Education, as well as a TESOL certification. Hana spent a semester studying abroad at Tel Aviv University during her undergraduate years at the University of Hartford. She hopes to use her experience to help inform others. Please visit her website, www.hanalarockwriting.com, to learn more.

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Using Effective Conclusion Transitions (With Examples)

If you are a student who wants to improve his GPA, you are probably wondering how you can make your essays more interesting. Or how you can get your professor to give you higher grades on your papers. This is why you are probably reading this post about conclusion transitions and maybe looking for some professional homework writing help . The truth is that you teacher is tired of seeing “in conclusion” after “in conclusion” throughout essays. It sounds repetitive and shows that you don’t have a rich vocabulary. Of course, none of these issues will help you get a better grade. This is why you need to learn everything about conclusion paragraph transitions; and you need to learn it right now. Start using some good conclusion transitions in your upcoming essays and see your grades go up!

Table of Contents

What are conclusion transitions, why the conclusion is important (conclusion paragraph transitions mistakes), examples of words considered to be good conclusion transitions, conclusion transitions examples: full sentences, conclusion tips and tricks for students.

Conclusion transitions are exactly what their name suggests: one of more words that make the transition from the body of your essay to its conclusion. Simple! However, things are not as simple as you think. Otherwise why would students search for effective conclusion paragraph transitions? The reality is that you may come up with some transitions on your own if you do some brainstorming. In addition, you can find several other transitions by reading papers written by established writers. However, finding good conclusion transitions this way requires a lot of time and effort. And let’s face it; students don’t really have much free time on their hands. You need a solution and you need it now.

The conclusion is just as important as the introduction when it comes to an essay (research paper, informative essay , descriptive essay, etc.). No matter what type of academic paper you need to write (yes, especially a thesis or a dissertation), you must end it with a strong conclusion. And this conclusion contains conclusion sentence transitions. Your conclusion summarizes everything: your research, your analysis, your findings, and your opinions. It can be a couple hundred words long. Imagine how it would look if you wouldn’t use any transitions for conclusion. Some people may not even notice that what they are reading is the conclusion of your essay. And don’t ever think that using “in conclusion” all over the place will help either. It will just make your writing repetitive and boring. To provide assistance to students, we decided to put together some of the most effective conclusion paragraph transitions. We will show you the best words for transitions and will then help you with some sentence examples using these words.

Now that you understand why you absolutely need conclusion transitions, it’s time to show you some of the words you can effectively use in your conclusion. In fact, you can use these words anywhere you want to summarize something, including in the body paragraphs of your academic paper. These words (with which we will make full sentences later on in this blog) will make your writing more interesting, more engaging, and a lot less boring. Of course, using some good conclusion transitions will also get your point across that you have a rich and diverse vocabulary. So, without further ado, here are the conclusion transition words you should be using straight away in your academic essays:

• in the final analysis
• in conclusion
• to conclude
• on the whole
• all things considered
• to summarize

Of course, these are just some of the words you can use in your conclusion. What you should not do, obviously, is to use the same transitions for a conclusion in each sentence. Vary the words you use throughout the paper. In addition, note that some of these transition words are more powerful (to sum up, for example) than others (altogether, for example). Also, we want to make sure that you understand that you can use these transitions anywhere in your essay, not just in the conclusion paragraph. Even though they are called conclusion transitions, they can transition from a couple of interesting ideas in a paragraph to a sentence that ends the paragraph and summarizes the most important ideas or aspects that have been discussed so far. It can be used as a way to remind your readers about the most important points of discussion.

Simply knowing which words to use in your transitions is usually not enough. This is why we decided to show you some examples of conclusion sentence transitions using some of the most effective words from the list above:

• In sum, each one of the experiments listed above (experiment 1, experiment 2, and experiment 3) clearly indicates that autonomous driving vehicles are increasingly more efficient and secure than regular vehicles.
• All in all, we can safely conclude that the actions of the Vietcong led to the inevitable entry of the United States into the conflict on the Indochinese Peninsula.
• In essence, what our findings reveal is that the human race is still at least 30 years from a successful colonization of the planet Mars.
• Ultimately, it is my belief that what led to the Second World War was Germany’s rapid military expansion and its clear policy of expansionism.
• To sum up everything, the real cause of the melting of the Polar ice cap is global warming (caused by heavy industry, fossil fuel burning, and intensive farming).
• In a word, we conclude that the sinking of the Bismarck was a “lucky” hit from a torpedo in the rudder area of the German battleship.
• All things considered, it looks like the policy of the Trump administration to keep out aliens at all cost is proving to be ineffective and costly.
• In essence, what my findings suggest is that the Savannah cat is a rare breed of cat that has over 50% genetic material from a Serval feline.
• To summarize everything, studies suggest that repeated concussions of the head that occur during contact sports are responsible for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Altogether, the evidence my research has uncovered clearly points to the conclusion that the Grizzly bear should be included on the endangered species list.
• In short, repeated exposure to radiation emanating from high-SAR mobile phones can lead to severe forms of cancer and other health problems.
• Finally, taking into consideration statements from the three congressmen and realistic data from other relevant studies, we can conclude that the United States war policy is deeply flawed.

Now that you know all of the most effective conclusion transition words and also know how to use them to form transition sentences, it’s time for some tips and tricks for students. Because the conclusion transitions examples above will not manage to improve your grades substantially on their worn. Our professional academic writers suggest you to try to also improve your vocabulary outside the conclusion section. The way you write influences the grade you receive on that essay. Also, you should be careful not to use conclusion words where there is no conclusion to draw. Using transitions for the sake of using transitions will get your paper penalized. Another important tip is to get online assistance when you think your essay does not live to the standards of your professor. Instead of getting a low grade, you can get a top grade simply by getting some help online. Remember that there are hundreds of academic writers who are more than happy to help you polish your writing. They can turn your essay into a masterpiece. And of course, you get the chance to learn from the best writers on the Internet at the same time!

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33 Transition Words and Phrases

Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one.

Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that “this follows logically from the preceding” include accordingly, therefore, and consequently . Words that mean “in addition to” include moreover, besides, and further . Words that mean “contrary to what was just stated” include however, nevertheless , and nonetheless .

as a result : THEREFORE : CONSEQUENTLY

The executive’s flight was delayed and they accordingly arrived late.

in or by way of addition : FURTHERMORE

The mountain has many marked hiking trails; additionally, there are several unmarked trails that lead to the summit.

at a later or succeeding time : SUBSEQUENTLY, THEREAFTER

Afterward, she got a promotion.

even though : ALTHOUGH

She appeared as a guest star on the show, albeit briefly.

in spite of the fact that : even though —used when making a statement that differs from or contrasts with a statement you have just made

They are good friends, although they don't see each other very often.

in addition to what has been said : MOREOVER, FURTHERMORE

I can't go, and besides, I wouldn't go if I could.

as a result : in view of the foregoing : ACCORDINGLY

The words are often confused and are consequently misused.

in a contrasting or opposite way —used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility

Large objects appear to be closer. Conversely, small objects seem farther away.

used to introduce a statement that is somehow different from what has just been said

These problems are not as bad as they were. Even so, there is much more work to be done.

used as a stronger way to say "though" or "although"

I'm planning to go even though it may rain.

in addition : MOREOVER

I had some money to invest, and, further, I realized that the risk was small.

in addition to what precedes : BESIDES —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

These findings seem plausible. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed them.

because of a preceding fact or premise : for this reason : THEREFORE

He was a newcomer and hence had no close friends here.

from this point on : starting now

She announced that henceforth she would be running the company.

in spite of that : on the other hand —used when you are saying something that is different from or contrasts with a previous statement

I'd like to go; however, I'd better not.

as something more : BESIDES —used for adding information to a statement

The city has the largest population in the country and in addition is a major shipping port.

all things considered : as a matter of fact —used when making a statement that adds to or strengthens a previous statement

He likes to have things his own way; indeed, he can be very stubborn.

for fear that —often used after an expression denoting fear or apprehension

He was concerned lest anyone think that he was guilty.

in addition : ALSO —often used to introduce a statement that adds to and is related to a previous statement

She is an acclaimed painter who is likewise a sculptor.

at or during the same time : in the meantime

You can set the table. Meanwhile, I'll start making dinner.

BESIDES, FURTHER : in addition to what has been said —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

It probably wouldn't work. Moreover, it would be very expensive to try it.

in spite of that : HOWEVER

It was a predictable, but nevertheless funny, story.

in spite of what has just been said : NEVERTHELESS

The hike was difficult, but fun nonetheless.

without being prevented by (something) : despite—used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

Notwithstanding their youth and inexperience, the team won the championship.

if not : or else

Finish your dinner. Otherwise, you won't get any dessert.

more correctly speaking —used to introduce a statement that corrects what you have just said

We can take the car, or rather, the van.

in spite of that —used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

I tried again and still I failed.

by that : by that means

He signed the contract, thereby forfeiting his right to the property.

for that reason : because of that

This tablet is thin and light and therefore very convenient to carry around.

immediately after that

The committee reviewed the documents and thereupon decided to accept the proposal.

because of this or that : HENCE, CONSEQUENTLY

This detergent is highly concentrated and thus you will need to dilute it.

while on the contrary —used to make a statement that describes how two people, groups, etc., are different

Some of these species have flourished, whereas others have struggled.

NEVERTHELESS, HOWEVER —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way

It was pouring rain out, yet his clothes didn’t seem very wet.

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50 Transitional Phrases for Conclusions(+ Examples You Can Use)

When writing a conclusion, you want to ensure that your final thoughts are clear and concise. Using transitional phrases can help you achieve this by linking your ideas together and making your writing flow smoothly.

Transitional phrases are words or phrases that connect one idea to another, whether it be within a sentence, paragraph, or the entire text. They signal to the reader that you are moving on to a new point or summarizing the previous one.

There are various types of transitional phrases that can be used in a conclusion. Some examples include:

• Conclusion phrases: These phrases signal that you are wrapping up your thoughts and ending your discussion. Examples include “in conclusion,” “to sum up,” and “finally.”
• Summary phrases: These phrases are used to summarize the main points discussed in the text. Examples include “in summary,” “to summarize,” and “overall.”
• Transition words: These are words that connect two ideas together. Examples include “however,” “therefore,” and “moreover.”

It is important to use transitional phrases appropriately and sparingly. Overusing them can make your writing appear choppy and disjointed. Additionally, not all conclusions require the use of transitional phrases. If your ideas flow naturally from one to the next, you may not need to use them at all.

Transitional Phrases for Conclusions

When writing an essay or a speech, it is important to use transitional phrases to signal that you are reaching the end of your argument or presentation. These phrases help to summarize your main points and prepare your audience for the conclusion.

Here are some transitional phrases that you can use for conclusions:

• In conclusion
• To conclude
• As a result
• Consequently

These phrases can be used to signal that you are about to wrap up your argument or presentation. They help to guide your audience to your final thoughts and summarize the main points you have made throughout your work.

It’s important to note that these phrases should be used sparingly and appropriately. Overusing them can make your writing or speech sound repetitive and amateurish. Use them only when necessary to signal that you are reaching the end of your argument or presentation.

In addition to these phrases, you can also use other techniques to signal the end of your work. For example, you can use a rhetorical question to provoke thought or a call to action to encourage your audience to take action based on your argument.

50  Transition Phrases for Conclusions(+Examples)

• In short, the program has been a huge success.
• In short, we face challenges, but we’re equipped to overcome them.
• In brief, the study covers several key points about environmental impacts.
• In brief, the team has made remarkable progress this quarter.
• To summarize, our findings suggest new approaches are necessary.
• To summarize, the market trends indicate a shift towards sustainability.
• So, we must take immediate action to address these concerns.
• So, this evidence clearly points to the need for reform.
• In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the theory of climate change.
• In conclusion, this study demonstrates the need for more research in this area.
• To sum up, both arguments have their merits, but the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
• To sum up, our team’s success was due to hard work and dedication.
• In summary, the findings suggest a significant correlation between diet and health.
• In summary, this project has shown promising results for future development.
• All in all, the festival was a fantastic experience, despite the minor setbacks.
• All in all, the company’s performance this quarter has been remarkable.
• Ultimately, the decision rests on what is best for the community.
• Ultimately, our goal is to achieve a sustainable future.
• Therefore, it is essential to adopt new policies to address these issues.
• Therefore, we recommend implementing these strategies immediately.
• Hence, the study concludes that more targeted interventions are necessary.
• Hence, the team decided to change its approach.
• Consequently, the species’ population has shown a significant increase.
• Consequently, there has been a noticeable improvement in air quality.
• Thus, the experiment successfully proves our hypothesis.
• Thus, it’s evident that early intervention is key to success.
• This essay’s final analysis is that social factors significantly impact learning.
• This essay’s final analysis is that technological advancements have both pros and cons.
• On the whole, the new policy has been beneficial to the majority.
• On the whole, the conference provided valuable insights into the industry.
• To conclude, further research in this field is absolutely crucial.
• To conclude, our findings support the need for more comprehensive regulations.
• To recap, the main points discussed highlight the need for change.
• To recap, we have covered the historical background and current trends.
• In essence, the theory simplifies a complex set of phenomena.
• In essence, our mission is to empower the community.
• In retrospect, the decision made was the best under those circumstances.
• In retrospect, the project taught us valuable lessons about teamwork.
• Overall, the campaign was a resounding success.
• Overall, the results exceeded our initial expectations.
• Finally, we would like to thank everyone who contributed to this project.
• Finally, after much deliberation, the committee reached a consensus.
• Accordingly, the plan was adjusted to better meet our goals.
• Accordingly, resources will be reallocated to prioritize this initiative.
• As a result, there has been a significant decrease in reported issues.
• As a result, customer satisfaction has improved dramatically.
• Clearly, the data shows a trend that cannot be ignored.
• Clearly, our efforts have had a positive impact on the community.
• After all, the most important thing is the wellbeing of our staff.
• After all, our hard work has led to these remarkable results.
• As mentioned earlier, the strategy needs to align with our objectives.
• As mentioned earlier, these issues have been persistent for some time.
• As has been noted, there are several limitations to this study.
• As has been noted, the company has made significant strides in innovation.
• As has been shown, the new approach yielded positive outcomes.
• As has been shown, community engagement is crucial for success.
• As we have seen, the historical context is essential for understanding this issue.
• As we have seen, technological advancements are rapidly changing the industry.
• Given the above points, it’s clear that a new strategy is needed.
• Given the above points, the benefits of the proposed plan are evident.
• By and large, the feedback on the project has been overwhelmingly positive.
• By and large, trends indicate a growing interest in sustainable practices.
• For the most part, the team’s efforts have been successful.
• For the most part, the data supports our initial hypothesis.
• As has been demonstrated, effective communication is key to success.
• As has been demonstrated, the model accurately predicts market trends.
• With this in mind, we must carefully plan our next steps.
• With this in mind, the focus will be on increasing efficiency.
• Taking everything into account, the decision was not an easy one.
• Taking everything into account, we are confident in our future direction.
• Considering all of these points, the committee decided to revise its approach.
• Considering all of these points, it is evident that our strategy is working.
• Reflecting on these facts, it’s clear that our efforts are having an impact.
• Reflecting on these facts, we see that continuous improvement is necessary.
• Given this evidence, we must reconsider our current policies.
• Given this evidence, it’s apparent that the program is effective.
• Bearing this in mind, our focus should shift towards customer satisfaction.
• Bearing this in mind, we need to adjust our expectations accordingly.
• Considering this, it’s imperative that we act quickly to implement changes.
• Considering this, our plan must be flexible enough to accommodate new data.
• With regard to these points, the data suggests a need for a new approach.
• With regard to these points, our team’s strategy has been largely successful.
• Upon reflecting, it’s evident that teamwork played a crucial role in our success.
• Upon reflecting, the challenges faced were significant but surmountable.
• Taking this into consideration, our next steps should be carefully planned.
• Taking this into consideration, the project’s scope may need to be expanded.
• Drawing from these conclusions, it’s clear that more research is needed.
• Drawing from these conclusions, our approach has proven effective.
• From this perspective, the long-term benefits of the project are clear.
• From this perspective, we can see the importance of continuous innovation.
• Looking back on this, the progress we’ve made is substantial.
• Looking back on this, lessons learned will inform our future strategies.
• Upon examination, the results support the need for more targeted efforts.
• Upon examination, our strategies have been effective in several key areas.
• In light of these facts, a revision of our strategy is advisable.
• In light of these facts, the success of the initiative is undeniable.
• After considering all these factors, the decision was unanimous.
• After considering all these factors, our path forward is clear.
• Having discussed all these points, it’s time to make a decision.
• Having discussed all these points, the direction for the future is set.

Transitional Phrases for Adding Information

When writing a conclusion, it is important to add information that supports your thesis statement. Transitional phrases can help you do this by linking your ideas together and making your writing more coherent. Here are some transitional phrases that you can use to add information to your conclusion:

• First: Use this phrase to introduce the first point that supports your thesis statement. For example, “First, it is important to consider the impact of climate change on our planet.”
• Second: Use this phrase to introduce the second point that supports your thesis statement. For example, “Second, we need to take action to reduce our carbon footprint.”
• Third: Use this phrase to introduce the third point that supports your thesis statement. For example, “Third, we must work together to create a sustainable future for generations to come.”
• Addition: Use this phrase to add more information to support your previous point. For example, “In addition, recent studies have shown that global temperatures are rising at an alarming rate.”
• In addition: Use this phrase to add more information to your previous point. For example, “In addition, we need to invest in renewable energy sources to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”
• Moreover: Use this phrase to add more information that strengthens your argument. For example, “Moreover, the use of electric cars can help reduce air pollution in our cities.”
• Furthermore: Use this phrase to add more information that supports your argument. For example, “Furthermore, investing in public transportation can help reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.”
• Also: Use this phrase to add more information that supports your argument. For example, “Also, we need to educate people about the importance of recycling and reducing waste.”
• Too: Use this phrase to add more information that supports your argument. For example, “We need to reduce our carbon footprint, and we can do so by using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, too.”
• Another: Use this phrase to add another point that supports your thesis statement. For example, “Another way to reduce our carbon footprint is by planting more trees, which absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.”
• For example: Use this phrase to provide an example that supports your argument. For example, “For example, the city of Copenhagen has set a goal to become carbon-neutral by 2025.”
• For instance: Use this phrase to provide an example that supports your argument. For example, “For instance, the use of solar panels can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”
• Especially: Use this phrase to emphasize a point that supports your argument. For example, “Especially in urban areas, we need to invest in green spaces to improve air quality and reduce the urban heat island effect.”
• Particularly: Use this phrase to emphasize a point that supports your argument. For example, “Particularly in developing countries, we need to promote sustainable agriculture practices to reduce deforestation and soil degradation.”
• Indeed: Use this phrase to emphasize a point that supports your argument. For example, “Indeed, the evidence shows that climate change is a real and urgent threat to our planet.”
• In fact: Use this phrase to provide a fact that supports your argument. For example, “In fact, the burning of fossil fuels is the main contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.”

Transitional Phrases for Comparing and Contrasting

When writing an essay or article, it is important to compare and contrast different ideas or concepts. Transitional phrases can help you do this effectively by guiding the reader through your thought process. Here are some transitional phrases that you can use to compare and contrast different ideas:

• Contrast: If you want to highlight the differences between two ideas, you can use transitional phrases such as “on the other hand” or “however”. For example, “The new product is cheaper than the old one. However, it is not as durable.”
• Like/Likewise/Similarly: If you want to show that two ideas are similar, you can use transitional phrases such as “like”, “likewise”, or “similarly”. For example, “Both products are made from organic materials. Likewise, they are both environmentally friendly.”
• On the contrary: If you want to show that two ideas are opposite, you can use transitional phrases such as “on the contrary”. For example, “Some people believe that technology will save the world. On the contrary, others believe that technology is destroying the planet.”
• Despite/Nevertheless: If you want to show that two ideas are contradictory, you can use transitional phrases such as “despite” or “nevertheless”. For example, “Despite the fact that the new product is more expensive, it is still selling well.”
• While/Equally: If you want to show that two ideas are of equal importance, you can use transitional phrases such as “while” or “equally”. For example, “While the new product is more expensive, it is also more durable.”

Using transitional phrases can help you compare and contrast different ideas in a clear and concise manner. By using these phrases, you can guide the reader through your thought process and make your writing more engaging and informative.

Transitional Phrases for Cause and Effect

When writing an article or essay, it is important to use transitional phrases to link ideas and concepts. One of the most commonly used types of transitional phrases is the cause-and-effect transitional phrase. These phrases help to connect two events or actions and describe how one event or action led to another.

Some of the most commonly used transitional phrases for cause and effect include “cause,” “result,” “because,” “as a result,” “consequently,” “hence,” “thus,” and “cause and effect.” These phrases can be used at the beginning of a sentence to indicate the cause of an event or action, or at the end of a sentence to indicate the effect of an event or action.

For example, you can use the transitional phrase “because” to indicate the cause of an event or action. For instance, “Because of the heavy rain, the streets were flooded.” Here, the cause of the flooded streets is heavy rain.

Another commonly used transitional phrase for cause and effect is “as a result.” For example, “The company experienced a loss of profits this quarter. As a result, they are considering cutting back on expenses.” Here, the effect of the loss of profits is the company’s decision to cut back on expenses.

In addition to “cause” and “result,” other transitional phrases that can be used to indicate cause and effect include “consequently,” “hence,” and “thus.” These transitional phrases are useful for indicating the relationship between two events or actions.

Transitional Phrases for Time and Sequence

When you are writing about a sequence of events, transitional words and phrases can help you order things chronologically. Without these time order words, it can be difficult for your reader to logically follow what you are saying. Here are some transitional phrases for time and sequence that you can use in your writing:

• Subsequently

Using these transitional phrases for time and sequence can help you structure your writing in a clear and organized way. For example, if you are writing a process essay, you can use these phrases to describe each step of the process in a logical order.

In addition to using transitional phrases, it’s important to make sure that your writing is clear and concise. Avoid using overly complex sentences or jargon that might confuse your reader. Instead, use simple language that is easy to understand.

Transitional Phrases for Concluding Thoughts

When writing an essay or a speech, it is essential to conclude your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. Transitional phrases can help you achieve this by linking your ideas together and providing a smooth transition to your conclusion. Here are some transitional phrases that you can use for concluding thoughts:

• To conclude: This phrase is a straightforward way to signal that you are about to summarize your main points and reach a conclusion. It is a great transitional phrase to use when you want to wrap up your thoughts.
• To summarize: Similar to “to conclude,” this phrase is an excellent way to signal that you are about to summarize your main points. It is a slightly more formal way to conclude your thoughts.
• In summary: This phrase is a concise way to summarize the main points of your essay or speech. It is a great transitional phrase to use when you want to wrap up your thoughts quickly.
• To sum up: This phrase is another concise way to summarize your main points. It is a great transitional phrase to use when you want to emphasize the most important points of your essay or speech.
• Overall: This phrase is a great way to signal that you are about to provide a general overview of your essay or speech. It is a great transitional phrase to use when you want to emphasize the most important points of your thoughts.
• Finally: This phrase is a great way to signal that you are about to reach a conclusion. It is a great transitional phrase to use when you want to emphasize the finality of your thoughts.
• Hence, thus, therefore: These phrases are all great ways to signal a cause-and-effect relationship between your ideas. They are great transitional phrases to use when you want to emphasize the logical progression of your thoughts. .

Practical Examples of Transitional Phrases

When it comes to writing conclusions, transitional phrases can help you effectively summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your reader. Here are some practical examples of transitional phrases that you can use to make your writing more cohesive and engaging:

• In conclusion: This is a classic transitional phrase that signals the end of your discussion. It helps to summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your reader. For example, “In conclusion, it is clear that climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action from policymakers and individuals alike.”
• To sum up: This transitional phrase is similar to “in conclusion” and can be used to restate your main points. For example, “To sum up, the evidence suggests that regular exercise can have a positive impact on mental health.”
• In summary: This phrase is useful for providing a brief overview of your main points. For example, “In summary, the research indicates that social media use can have both positive and negative effects on mental health.”
• To illustrate: Use this phrase to provide examples that support your main points. For example, “To illustrate, studies have shown that meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety.”
• In other words: This phrase is useful for restating your ideas in a different way. For example, “In other words, the study suggests that there is a strong correlation between sleep deprivation and poor academic performance.”
• As a result: This phrase is useful for discussing the consequences of your main points. For example, “As a result, it is important for individuals to make a conscious effort to reduce their carbon footprint.”

By incorporating these transitional phrases into your writing, you can effectively summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your reader. Whether you are writing an essay, paper, or discussion post, these practical examples can help you elevate your writing and make it more cohesive and engaging.

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Transition Words For Essays

Transition Words for Essays - An Ultimate List

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Published on: Jan 1, 2021

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you tired of reading essays that feel disjointed and difficult to follow? Do you find yourself struggling to connect your ideas smoothly and effectively? 

If so, then you're in luck, because today we're going to take a closer look at the magic of transition words.

In this blog, we'll cover different types of transition words and their precise usage, and how they can elevate your writing. By the end, you'll have the tools to captivate your readers and leave a lasting impression. 

Let's dive in!

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What are Transition Words?

Transition words are linking words used to connect sentences and ideas in the content. They help the audience move from one idea to another, building a coherent relationship within the document.

When  writing an essay , it is essential to make sure that the information provided is readable and understandable by the readers. For this purpose, explicit language, transition words, and phrases are used.

Moreover, these words set a base for the idea that is going to be discussed next.

Transition words can either make or break the entire essay. It is mandatory to keep in view that not every sentence in your essay needs a transitional phrase. 

Types of Transitions

Generally, there are three types of transitions that are used while drafting a piece of document. Depending on the length, complexity, and kind of text, transitions can take the following form:

• Transition Between Sections - When your document is lengthy, transition paragraphs are used to summarize a particular section for the readers. In addition to this, it also links the information that is to be shared next.

For example:

"In the following section..." "Moving on to..." "Now, let's explore..." "Turning our attention to..." "To delve deeper, we will now examine..."

• Transition Between Paragraphs -  The transition between paragraphs is when you logically connect the two paragraphs. This connection summarizes the paragraph’s primary concern and links it to the next idea of the other paragraph.

"Furthermore..." "On the other hand..." "Similarly..." "In contrast..." "Moreover..." "Additionally..." "In addition to..." "Conversely..." "Likewise..." "In a similar vein...

• Transition Within Paragraphs -  They act as cues for the readers to prepare them for what is coming next. They are usually single words or small phrases.

"For instance..." "In particular..." "To illustrate..." "Additionally..." "Moreover..." "Furthermore..." "On the contrary..." "However..." "In contrast..." "In other words..."

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Types of Transition Words

Here's a table showcasing different types of transition words and their corresponding functions:

Transition Words For Different Types of Essays

Transitional words depend on the relationship you want to convey to the audience about the ideas and paragraphs. Below is a list of words and phrases that can be used to link different sentences, paragraphs, and sections.

Identify which transition expression you want to share for your logical relationship.

Transition Words for Argumentative Essay

• In the same way
• Equally important
• Furthermore
• Comparatively
• Additionally
• In addition
• Not only...but also

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essay

• In contrast
• Different from
• On the contrary
• In spite of

Transition Words for Informative Essay

• Provided that
• With this in mind
• For the purpose of
• In the hope that
• In order to
• With this intention

Transition Words for College Essays

• In other words
• By all means
• To demonstrate
• As in illustration
• To put it another way

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essay

• As a result
• For this reason
• Because the
• Under those circumstances
• Accordingly
• Consequently

Transition Words for Expository Essay 

• Not long after that
• Specifically
• To begin with
• Without doubt
• Undoubtedly
• Due to circumstances
• In similar fashion

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essay

Here's a table listing transition words for different parts of an essay:

How Transitions work

Transitions work by creating a bridge between ideas, sentences, paragraphs, or sections in your essay. They help to establish logical connections and guide the reader through the flow of your writing. 

Here's how transitions work:

• Coherence : Transitions create smooth connections between ideas, ensuring a coherent flow in your writing.
• Signal Relationships: Transitions clarify how ideas are related, such as cause and effect, comparison, contrast, or sequence.
• Guide the Reader: It acts as signpost, guiding readers through your essay and indicating the direction of your thoughts.
• Enhance Clarity: Transitions improve clarity by organizing ideas and helping readers understand logical progression.
• Improve Flow: It ensures a seamless flow between sentences, paragraphs, and sections, preventing choppiness.
• Emphasize Key Points: Transitions can be used strategically to highlight important ideas and make them more impactful.

Let's consider an example:

In the above example, transitions like " one such source " connect the idea of solar power to renewable energy sources. " Similarly " then introduces the concept of wind power, creating a logical progression. These transitions help readers follow the flow of ideas and understand the relationships between different energy sources.

Tips to Use Transition Words in your Essay

Here are some tips to effectively use transition words in your essay:

• Understand the Purpose: Familiarize yourself with the different types and functions of transition words, phrases, or sentences. Recognize how they connect ideas, provide structure, and indicate relationships between different parts of your essay.
• Plan your Essay Structure: Before you start writing, outline the main sections, paragraphs, and points you want to cover. Consider where transition words can be used to improve the flow and coherence of your essay.
• Use Transition Words Appropriately: Ensure that the transition word you choose accurately reflects the relationship between ideas. Don't force a transition where it doesn't fit naturally.
• Vary Transition Words: Avoid repetitive or excessive use of the same transition word throughout your essay. Use a variety of transition words to maintain reader interest and enhance overall readability.
• Pay Attention to Placement: Place transition words at the beginning, middle, or end of sentences, depending on the desired effect. Consider the logical flow of your ideas and choose the appropriate placement for each transition word.
• Use Transitional Phrases: Instead of using single transition words, consider incorporating transitional phrases or clauses. These can provide more context and clarity, strengthening the connection between ideas.
• Revise and Edit: After completing your essay, review it for the effectiveness and smoothness of transitions. Ensure that they serve their purpose in guiding the reader and enhancing the overall coherence of your writing.
• Seek Feedback: Share your essay with others and ask for feedback, specifically on the use of transition words. Others' perspectives can help you identify any areas that need improvement or where transitions could be strengthened.

To sum it up! While mastering transition words may require time and practice, it is a skill well worth developing. These words are crucial for creating coherence and flow in your essays. Throughout this blog, we have explored various transition words and phrases that can greatly enhance your writing.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to apply these newfound skills in your future essays. You can utilize an AI essay writer to enhance and refine your writing skills.

If you still need assistance or have further inquiries, our team at CollegeEssay.org is available to provide legit essay writing service . 

Contact us today, and let us be a part of your journey toward academic excellence!

Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Conclusion Transition Words: Definition and Useful Examples

Transitions, in general, are parts of a speech that link one idea to another to achieve a smoother connection. They’re essential in presenting a logical relationship between concepts in a text. Transitional words can either be additive, adversative, causal, or sequential. A type of transition that falls under the sequential category is the conclusion transition words. When writing an essay or article, ending the whole text with a powerful conclusion creates an impact on the readers. It helps you summarize the entire essay clearly and concisely. It provides closure to the readers and reminds them of the key points that they have to remember. To effectively write a conclusion, you’ll need appropriate conclusion transition words. This helps you deliver the take away of the content in a polished manner.

Conclusion Transition Words

Definition of conclusion transition words.

Conclusion transitions are typically used to introduce a summarized text or restate the whole point of the previous ideas. Since summaries are meant to be brief, correct use of helpful transitional words is needed. These types of transitions allow you to put together the mentioned ideas in a generalized form. They are most likely written at the beginning of a sentence or paragraph. But occasionally, some are found in the middle or at the end of a statement. There’s a long list of conclusion transition words and phrases that you may use to effectively create your conclusion. A broad vocabulary of such terms is beneficial to avoid redundancy and monotony . The next section shall enumerate the most common transitions used in writing a conclusion.

Examples of Conclusion Transition Words

Conclusion transitions most often come in phrases. However, some single words can also be used. All of which aim to start or accompany a statement that expresses a generalized or final thought. Feel free to go through the succeeding list of transition words and phrases. Sample sentences are also provided to show how the conclusion transitions are used.

• In conclusion
• In the final analysis
• In the long run
• To conclude
• For the most part
• Given these points
• Generally speaking
• All things considered
• As has been noted
• As a final point
• You sang from the heart, and you have a lovely voice. You had your own technique, and you nailed it.  Overall , you’ve shown a fantastic performance.
• Those studies,  altogether , indicate that exercise is good for the body.
• Lastly , review all the tips mentioned above and apply them to your workout routines.
• The man,  ultimately , has learned from his mistakes.
• Thus , it can be taken that the story is for those who should acknowledge their wrongdoings and apologize for them.
• The bride looked lovely, and the groom was dashing. The reception was well planned. Everyone was giving the newlyweds their best wishes.  All in all , the wedding was wonderful.
• After all , there are only two types of people in the world: the one who likes you and the one who doesn’t.
• In summary , the boy in the story became successful despite his financial struggles.
• In conclusion , the experiment has a significant amount of errors.
• In short , the entire project failed to reach its goals.
• Some people get discouraged when they’re in the middle of a challenge. Others get motivated amidst any kind of pressure.  In the end , it’s all about how you handle stress.
• To sum up , there are many causes of eye damage. But the ways on how to prevent it are just as many.
• He wasn’t inside the house during the incident. He was working, and his employer has attested to that. There is even a video of him being at this workplace during that time.  Given these points , it can be inferred that the man is not guilty.
• The coach could have taken a time-out. The team only needed one successful behind-the-arc shot. Though they weren’t able to do it, the hard work they put into the last quarter was very commendable. It was a good fight,  all things considered .
• As has been noted , conclusions should be impactful and concise.
• As a final point , transitions are helpful devices in creating conclusions that effectively generalize everything that has been said.

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The TransAlta Centralia Generation station pictured on March 8, 2024. Mount Rainer is visible to the left of the plant. (Jeremy Long - WITF)

Centralia, Wash.’s coal plant has to close next year. Can Pa. communities learn from Centralia’s transition?

Under pressure from climate activists to close, the plant agreed to a deadline and put millions in a transition fund. that’s giving centralia a chance.

This story was produced as part of Climate Solutions , a collaboration focused on community engagement and solutions-based reporting to help Central Pennsylvania move toward climate literacy, resilience and adaptation. StateImpact Pennsylvania convened the collaboration; WITF is a Climate Solutions partner. Other Climate Solutions partners are Franklin & Marshall Center for Public Opinion, La Voz Latina, Sankofa African American Theatre Company, Shippensburg University, Q’Hubo News, and the York Daily Record. 

Edna Fund remembers what Centralia, Washington was like in the 1960s, before the coal mine and power plant opened. 

She and a friend drove to the site a few miles from the city, where they were going to college. 

It was all farmland. Owners were selling their land to make way for industry.

Years later, she would visit the site again as an elected official.

Edna Fund, a former Lewis County commissioner and Centralia city councilor, during coffee and breakfast with business owners at Dawn’s Delectables on March 8, 2024. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

“ And I remember looking out at the area, like, this was farming land. And now we’re having all this coal being mined, and there’s a train coming in and out,” Fund said. “Pretty amazing to see the transformation. ”

The land ultimately became a nearly 10,000-acre open pit mine with a 1,340-megawatt power plant. 

It became Lewis County’s highest-paying employer, she said, and “people drove from long ways to get here to work there.”

A half-century later, climate change brought focus on polluting power plants. Environmental groups and some state lawmakers started pushing to shut down the plant. Fund was on Centralia city council at the time.

“It was packed, packed in the halls of the legislature. And you would see pipefitters and union folks up there in their uniforms. And then you’d see the environmentalists there–and they’re on two sides,” Fund said.

After a few years of lawsuits, proposals and protests, then-Gov. Christine Gregoire gathered members of each group – government, environmental, labor, and the coal company – and asked them to figure out a deal. 

It took the task force only a few days to reach an agreement. The plant would close by 2025. To soften the blow, the company, TransAlta, would set up a $55 million community transition fund .

A countdown clock inside the control room of TransAlta’s Centralia Coal Plant on March 8, 2024 shows how much time is left until the plant has to close. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Centralia – about the size of Johnstown, Pennsylvania – has now been cited as a model for how to successfully transition away from coal. 

The fund didn’t change the city overnight. But it did mark Centralia as open to new ideas and opportunities.

“It’s not a soft landing, but it’s a better landing than it could have been,” Fund said.

Why StateImpact Pennsylvania went to Centralia, Wa

Bob Guenther is a member of the ‘71 club – the group of people who started working at the Centralia coal plant in 1971, when it opened. He was the second mechanic hired, and he stayed for 34 years. 

As a foreman in the mid-90s, he and other employees worked with environmental groups, state government, the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service to decide how to lower pollution at the plant. The Associated Press reported they settled on a scrubber system to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions from 65,000 to 10,000 tons per year.

TransAlta bought the plant from Pacific Power and Light in 2000, and took on the then-estimated $200 million in costs for the upgrades. 

About a decade later, environmentalists concerned with climate change were ramping up pressure to close the plant. It was the state’s largest polluter, and they blamed it for haze in and around Mount Rainier National Park, about 50 miles away. 

The Chronicle, Centralia’s newspaper, reported that the coal plant emitted an annual average of 9,850,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from 2001 to 2009, according to statistics provided by TransAlta. Those emissions equal 2.3 million gas-powered cars driven for one year.

The plant generated about 10% of the state’s power in 2011. 

Environmentalists wanted it closed as soon as possible – 2015 at the latest. 

Guenther had retired from the plant by then, but was lobbying for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, which represented the roughly 300 workers at the time.

Guenther made it a point to take green groups and politicians to see “the enormity” of the plant. 

“I think they left with a little better understanding of what we were trying to do,” he said. “And so from that point on, we really had some good conversations about how we were going to see if we couldn’t come to a resolution to where nobody really got hurt too bad in this shutdown.”

Guenther’s goal was to give workers and the community time and resources to get ready for whatever was next.

“I believed in our community. I believed in the workers. I believed in our government,” he said. “We believed that we could do something better than just turning the switch off.”

Guenther wasn’t in the room for the actual negotiations. But people such as Richard DeBolt, who Guenther described as a former political rival, give him a lot of credit for the final deal.

“I think the one thing you can take away from all this is you’re going to have to have local champions that stand up for your community and that are willing to do what’s right,” DeBolt said. 

DeBolt was a Republican lawmaker in the state’s Democratically-controlled part-time legislature. He knew how a final vote would go.

“It was a very humbling experience. And I always will carry that with me that, you know, we were doing something to people. We weren’t doing something for people,” DeBolt said. “My community paid the price for climate change here.”

The area had suffered before. Timber took a major hit after the northern spotted owl was listed as endangered in 1990. TransAlta closed the coal mine in 2006, laying off about 600 workers. 

DeBolt said the mine closure came with important lessons.

“If you take care of your employees, even if they have lost their jobs, they’ll still be faithful to the community, it won’t hurt the community economically, and those families can recover,” he said.

DeBolt took that lesson to the plant closure negotiations. He was on the task force because of his day job – director of external relations for TransAlta.

Across the table sat people like Nancy Hirsh, who was policy director at the Northwest Energy Coalition at the time. She represented more than 100 groups from utilities, environmental and civic sectors in the negotiations. 

“ A lot of the environmental constituents felt like, 2025? Are you kidding? That’s forever,” Hirsh said. 

But she said having a set closure date gave all the parties certainty. 

In the meantime, environmental groups had the victory of getting more pollution controls at the plant and money to invest in clean energy.

DeBolt said the company agreed to the deal because it allowed the plant to continue operation until 2025, and it allowed the company to keep claiming tax credits for pollution reduction efforts, such as using cleaner-burning coal from Wyoming. With that in place, TransAlta agreed to make payments into the $55 million transition fund.

“Companies, if you’re willing to work with them on their closure ramp, then they’re willing to step up and help their communities and do more,” DeBolt said. “But if you just mandate it and say, ‘give us money too,’ it’s not going to work like that, right?”

The transition fund is unusual. No such account has been announced for Pennsylvania’s remaining large coal generators, which employ around 400 people between two plants in Indiana and Armstrong counties. 

In Centralia, the fund has attracted interest from some new companies, but Hirsh had hoped for more. The city still hasn’t landed one big employer that can replace TransAlta. 

“I kind of had that fantasy that was going to happen,” she said, “with this economic development money, we were going to be able to bring in a bunch of new industrial companies. That’s hard and more complicated than I knew.”

TransAlta says it wants to keep supplying power to the area. 

“We are open to several different technologies and fuels to make that happen, and the future will likely involve this diversity rather than single large units we’ve operated in the past,” said spokesperson Katie Duke.

It’s not clear how many jobs the company might have.

The company will have to decommission the plant, if they cannot find a way to reuse it. Reclamation work at the former mine site is ongoing. TransAlta is a part-owner in a wind energy project near the coal plant. 

City in transition

The Fox Theatre on Tower Avenue in Centralia, Washington on March 7, 2024. The theater got a weatherization grant from the Coal Transition Board to replace it’s 1930s furnace with a new and efficient heating and cooling system. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Centralia Mayor Kelly Smith Johnston said the fund is helpful, but it’s not the only solution.

“Our problem is much bigger than that. And it takes incredible vision of what’s next, not just trying to replace what was lost,” Johnston said

There are prospects. Centralia is part of Washington’s federal hydrogen hub, powered by renewable energy. Some hydrogen companies are eyeing the area. A nuclear fusion startup is considering setting up next to the coal plant. 

DeBolt, who now directs the Lewis County Economic Alliance, sees these as positives. 

“Think about the evolution of this community and how impactful that is to the future for our kids. It’s kind of like we went from natural resources and fossil fuels to the future of energy and the future of fuel. It’s pretty amazing,” he said. 

Some are worried there won’t be enough electricity on the grid to meet demand after the coal plant shuts down and before the new energy sources ramp up. 

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s most recent long-term assessment found that the Northwest could be at risk of shortfalls during extreme summer heat after 2026. NERC said with expected fossil-plant retirements, there may not be enough generation that can be called up when electricity demand is high. 

The Bonneville Power Administration, which oversees electric transmission in the Pacific Northwest, has been planning for the effects of the plant closure. 

Spokesman Doug Johnson said the shutdown may affect congestion on the grid, meaning an overload of electricity on some lines could keep it from reaching homes. But Johnson said BPA recently added resources that should keep power flowing smoothly. 

Some people worry that new industries won’t create the same quality of life as the coal plant.

Gene Potter, seen here at McMenamin’s Olympic Club on March 6, 2024, has been a machinist at the Centralia Coal Plant for decades. He’s concerned new industries won’t offer the same wages or quality of life as the coal plant. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Gene Potter has worked as a machinist there for more than 20 years. 

“If you live in Lewis County and you’re a guy that likes to work with his hands or has a mechanical background, that is top notch the best job,” he said.

His wife was able to stay at home and raise their kids. He’s helped his kids with college. The couple own several rental properties. 

He’s concerned new industries might bring only temporary construction jobs.

“ Pipefitters, boilermakers are going to come in, laborers, those sort of trades. But how long is that really going to last? That’s not going to pump a ton of money,” Potter said. 

As part of the fund, each worker can get $15,000 to get new training. So far, 16 employees and 10 spouses of employees have taken advantage.

But for Potter, who’s 58, going to school isn’t that appealing.

“We’re asking, can we use it to start a business or further a business? And we’re waiting to see what the answer is on that,” he said.  

Employment at the plant has been falling gradually. One unit shut down in 2020. Now about 100 people work at the second unit, down from 300 at the whole plant a decade ago. 

Because the shutdown is spread out, it doesn’t have as much of a shock as past closures. 

TransAlta’s mine closure in 2006 was sudden. And it was followed by a major flood and then the Great Recession. 

Levi and Sarah Althauser, seen here on March 7, 2024, applied for a grant to help them replace the roof and heating system at the Juice Box Public House in Centralia, Wash. Without the money, they said they likely would have had to give up on their idea for a new kind of community space. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Levi Althauser, owner of the Juice Box Public House restaurant and music venue, said the coming final phase of the plant closure won’t have nearly the impact of those events.

He said jobs were slow to come back, and too many are low-paying. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates more than 20% of people in the city live in poverty, compared to 10% statewide. 

But he’s encouraged to see other small businesses that have clawed their way back.

Sarah Althauser, city council member and Levi’s wife, said she hopes the attention will create a ripple effect.

“ I think we have a lot of amazing momentum going on right now in our community,” she said. 

Looking ahead

TransAlta was a big source of taxes for Centralia’s school district, and donations to the community college and nonprofits. 

Johnston, who moved to the area around 2000, said long-time city residents tell her the plant provided a thriving middle class.

“And what they tell me is they see that eroding now, where there’s less of a middle class in Centralia,” she said.  

That has an effect on other businesses that might not be obvious at first. 

Pine Street Plaza, a project of the Centralia Downtown Association, offers the chance for events such as live music at East Pine Street and North Tower Avenue in Centralia, Washington. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Twelve years ago, Dawn Merchant opened Dawn’s Delectables, a cafe where nearly everything is made from scratch, from soups to baked goods. 

It’s a community space in downtown, but catering for employee retirement parties and other celebrations at TransAlta made up a big part of Merchant’s income.

She said that work has slowly dwindled in the last couple of years.

The city’s population is also growing and changing. It’s home to nearly 19,000 people now, compared to about 15,000 in 2000. Some people have left to find new jobs. New people are moving here from larger, more expensive cities, enabled by remote work. That creates new challenges for small businesses.

MacKenzie McGee, executive director of the Centralia Downtown Association (standing) chats with local business owners during coffee and breakfast at Dawn’s Delectables pictured on March 8, 2024. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Rebecca Staebler opened the gift and craft boutique HUBBUB about 20 years ago. Her customer base was people in their 40s and older. Now, she said, she’s constantly trying to figure out who her customers are and what they want. 

Despite the challenges, she said it’s also an exciting time for Centralia. 

“We have the potential to be the place; I want to be the best little city in the state of Washington,” Staebler said. 

In addition to the clean energy startups eyeing the area, new small businesses are opening. 

Alliyah Perry moved to Centralia, Wash., in 2020. She started farming and opened local food store Farm+Flourish in 2023. She talks about her love of farming during coffee and breakfast with other business owners at Dawn’s Delectables as Rebecca Staebler, owner of HUBBUB gift and craft boutique, listens on March 8, 2024. (Jeremy Long – WITF)

Alliyah Perry moved from the Seattle area in 2020 and bought a farm near town, where she grows produce such as tomatoes and garlic.

Last year she opened Farm + Flourish, a local food store. She said it’s like living in a dream; she can’t imagine not farming anymore. 

“ That’s how much I love it. The store is going crazy. I’m going to have to hire a person so I can continue to farm,” she said. 

People in town know the plant is closing and what kinds of effects it might have. But it’s not the first thing they bring up in conversation. They’re more likely to focus on what’s going well. 

The community has had time to prepare–exactly what labor organizers hoped to get in negotiations about the closure.

Why we went to Centralia, Wa.

StateImpact Pennsylvania went to Centralia, Washington to look at how it prepared itself for a coal-plant shutdown, establishing a long timeline for closure and a transition fund.

It’s a different formula than in Pennsylvania, where dozens of Pennsylvania coal plants have closed in the last few decades as the Marcellus Shale boom sent a wave of cheaper natural gas into the market, making it harder for coal to compete. Some companies have decided new environmental regulations are too costly.

The Homer City plant closed last year, with 90 days notice. The handful of remaining coal plants are converting to natural gas or will close by 2028 , citing the expense of complying with new wastewater regulations. 

State lawmakers who want to address climate change or preserve coal jobs have been at odds. 

In 2019, former Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, proposed joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative–which charges power plants for their emissions. Some of the money raised would help communities that have lost energy jobs. The effort is stalled in court. 

Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed his own version of a cap-and-trade program that would be tailored to Pennsylvania, but his office hasn’t said how proceeds could be used to help energy communities.  

Republicans who control the state Senate dismissed the idea. 

We wanted to see if Centralia’s story could have lessons for Pennsylvania as the energy-rich state sees a decline in coal and pressure builds to contain emissions from all fossil fuel.

Back To The Story

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StateImpact Pennsylvania is a collaboration among WITF , WHYY , and the Allegheny Front . Reporters Reid Frazier , Rachel McDevitt and Susan Phillips  cover the commonwealth’s energy economy. Read their reports on this site, and hear them on public radio stations across Pennsylvania.

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The much-anticipated solar eclipse will finally enshroud thousands of miles of North America today in its long, narrow shadow. By now, those who plan to witness it should have their plans in place .

Travel has been completed. Schedules have been coordinated around the anticipated moment of totality. And proper eyewear is, of course, in your possession. Right?

We at USA TODAY have published no shortage of articles guiding you away from scam eclipse glasses and to the safest, most reliable options – some of which were even free. But if you need a last-minute refresher – or a crash course to catch you up on a topic you entirely missed – we're happy to oblige.

If you don't have your eclipse glasses by now, it may be too late. But some vendors, including Warby Parker , and even public libraries, have offered eclipse glasses giveaways , so be sure to check your local area before the historic event rolls into town.

And if you do have your eyewear to take in Monday's eclipse – the last one of these incredible astronomical events in North America for 20 years – here are some last-minute things to consider to ensure you're in good shape.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

Can you go blind by looking at the solar eclipse?

Staring at the sun is  unlikely to completely blind you , but its powerful rays can still burn and  damage your retinas if you don't take proper safety precautions to view  solar eclipses .

That's why eyewear is recommended if you plan to look up at the sun Monday to witness the solar eclipse, which most of the country will be able to experience in some way.

In the face of the sun's powerful rays, regular sunglasses made of cheap plastic and polycarbonate material just aren't going to cut it. Astronomers and other experts instead emphasize that skygazers intent on viewing the upcoming total solar eclipse do so with  specialized eyewear  crafted to  protect their sensitive retinas  from permanent damage.

Even viewing any part of the bright sun through camera lenses, binoculars and telescopes without a specialized solar filter  could instantly cause severe eye injury , according to the American Astronomical Society.

Often made with a polyester film coated in aluminum, the glasses are highly specialized . Compared to regular sunglasses, proper eclipse glasses are 100,000 times darker to block nearly all visible, infrared and ultraviolet light and protect our sensitive retinas when looking skyward.

As another point of safety, don't look up while driving , please.

How to know when it's safe to view the eclipse without glasses

A  total solar eclipse  offers the unique opportunity for skygazers to  witness the spectacular astral display  with the naked eye – but only when the time is right.

Hundreds of cities in  13 states are along the path of totality  for the eclipse, which will move across North America from southwest to northeast . When the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light for a brief period of time, you'll know it's safe to fully take in the dazzling display.

That moment is what is called "totality," whereby uncharacteristic darkness falls and all but the sun's outermost layer known as its corona makes a rare appearance to us here on Earth,  according to NASA .

How to make sure your eclipse glasses aren't fake

In the rush to acquire  some coveted eclipse glasses  before April 8 , you may have inadvertently fallen victim to the  fakes and imitators proliferating online retailers .

While plenty of legitimate certified eyewear was widely available – and may still be – less-scrupulous manufacturers try all sorts of methods and tricks to get your attention and make you believe the product you're about to buy is the real deal.

For instance, many vendors began making the grand (and entirely made-up) claim that their products are endorsed by NASA.

As the space agency  reiterated to USA TODAY , NASA highly recommended that skygazers get a pair of certified eclipse glasses before the total solar eclipse  charts a 115-mile-wide path of totality  blanketing much of North America in  uncharacteristic darkness . But it does not approve  any particular brand of solar viewers, despite what many vendors may claim.

The responsibility of guiding American consumers to the safest eclipse glasses is largely left to the American Astronomical Society.

The organization maintains  a curated list of approved vendors  of solar eclipse glasses that it updated to give priority to North American manufacturers ahead of the total solar eclipse. Products you purchase that are listed on that site are guaranteed to be  in compliance with  the highest international safety standards.

Those standards are set by the International Organization for Standardization, which only vouches for solar eclipse glasses that are dark and strong enough to filter out a certain amount of the sun's harmful light.

The astronomical society also provides some  helpful tips  for how to spot counterfeit glasses.

No eclipse glasses? Welding lenses, pinhole projectors among alternative viewers

While certified solar eclipse glasses are the preferred method for viewing the eclipse, alternative methods do exist that don't necessarily sacrifice one's safety.

Many people, particularly blue-collar workers, may be tempted to turn to those welding lenses they have sitting in their workshop.

But beware: The most common welding goggles and helmets aren't typically strong enough to adequately withstand the sun's powerful rays and protect your vulnerable eyes.

Any welding lenses weaker than a Shade 12 filter – a number that indicates the level of protection offered – just aren't going to cut it when it comes to gazing upward in anticipation of the moon blocking all but the sun's outermost layer.

It's also not too late to buy some welding lenses, which Tractor Supply is promoting for sale at its 282 stores along the path of totality as a viable option for viewing the eclipse.

Another simple method is to create your own pinhole projector to project the sun onto a nearby surface. The American Astronomical Society offers helpful  instructions  to set them up.

And one final note: As you make your eclipse-viewing plans,  these interactive maps  should help you chart the time and duration for when totality would occur in cities along the path.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]