Connecting Evidence to Claims with Transitional Words An argument is certain to be ineffective if the reader cannot follow the writer’s reasoning. Transitional words help to explain relationships among ideas and make the writing smooth and easy to follow for the reader. This is particularly important for argumentative writing because evidence needs to be explained or warranted. In other words, evidence is not always convincing by itself; the writer needs to connect the evidence to the claim with warrants or reasoning related to assumptions about what is just or beneficial for others. When revising an argumentative text, writers should reconsider not only the order of the sections but also the manner in which the ideas relate to one another. Writers often improve the use of transitions during their later drafts. A peer can check for places where transitions need to be made for further explanation.
Transitional Words Grouped by Function
Comparison:
Difference:
likewise similarly equally by comparison
less/more/most difficult less/more/most obvious less/more/most harmful less/more/most unfair
A related idea:
Causal
furthermore additionally in addition in the same way
therefore hence as a result consequently because
Contrast: however on the other hand but yet nevertheless although in contrast despite even though whereas
Qualification: admittedly certainly granted some people may think
Conclusion: undoubtedly unquestionably in final analysis in conclusion indeed Dr. Nancy Mack Multigenre Research Projects Teachers College Press