Linking Words, Sorted by the Job They Do

Linking words (also called connectors or transitions) show how ideas relate: one idea adds to another, contrasts with it, causes it, follows it in time. Choosing the right one makes your writing easier to follow. Choosing the wrong one confuses the reader more than using none at all.

Adding an idea

• The hotel was cheap. It was also close to the beach.
• In addition, the course includes two trips.
• The plan is expensive. Moreover, it would take years to complete.

Showing contrast

• but (joins two parts of one sentence): It was cold, but we went swimming.
• however (starts a new sentence, followed by a comma): It was cold. However, we went swimming.
• although / even though (+ subject + verb): Although it was cold, we went swimming.
• despite / in spite of (+ noun or -ing): Despite the cold, we went swimming. / Despite feeling tired, she finished.
• whereas / while (comparing two things): My brother loves maths, whereas I prefer art.
• on the other hand (the other side of an argument)

Giving reasons

because (+ clause), because of / due to (+ noun), since / as (+ clause, often at the start).

• We stayed inside because it was raining.
• The match was cancelled because of the rain.
• As it was late, we took a taxi.

Showing results

so (informal, joins two clauses), as a result, therefore, consequently (formal).

• I missed the bus, so I was late.
• Prices rose sharply. As a result, many shops closed.

Ordering and sequencing

For instructions and arguments: firstly, secondly, finally. For stories: first, then, after that, later, eventually, in the end.

Giving examples

for example, for instance (start or middle of a sentence), such as (before a noun list), like (informal).

• Some sports, such as tennis and squash, are expensive to learn.

Concluding

In conclusion, to sum up, overall, all in all, on balance (when weighing two sides).

Three common traps

1. Starting every sentence with a linker. Two or three per paragraph is enough. Sometimes the connection is clear without one.
2. Using "on the other hand" without a first hand. It must follow a contrasting idea.
3. Mixing registers. Moreover, the party was awesome sounds odd. Match the linker to the text type.