Reading and Writing · 27 · Transitions and Style
Transition Words
Notes
Key points
- A transition shows the logic between two sentences — read both first.
- Contrast: however, nevertheless, by contrast, still, on the other hand.
- Addition: moreover, furthermore, additionally. Similarity: similarly, likewise.
- Result: therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, hence.
- Example: for example, for instance. Sequence: then, subsequently, finally.
- Restatement: in other words, that is. Concession: admittedly, granted.
Rules
Contrast: the second sentence goes against the first.
The drug worked in mice. However, it failed in humans.
The drug worked in mice. Therefore, it failed in humans.
Result: the second sentence follows from the first.
The bridge was unsafe. Therefore, the city closed it.
The bridge was unsafe. Nevertheless, the city closed it.
Example: the second sentence is a case of the first.
Some birds use tools. For example, crows bend wire into hooks.
Some birds use tools. In contrast, crows bend wire into hooks.
Common traps
- Choosing from the sentence before the blank alone; the logic links both sentences.
- Two choices from the same category (thus / therefore)? Both are wrong.
- Picking an impressive word whose logic you haven't checked.
SAT tip
Cover the choices, name the relationship in one word — contrast, result, example, addition — then pick that category.
Test yourself
10 official SAT questions on Transition Words, easiest first.