What are transitions in an essay, and why do they matter?
When we are speaking, we often naturally make transitions that allow the listener to know we are changing topics or focus. We give cues that alert the listener to a change in subject. When we don't, a friend might ask us, "What are you talking about?" or "How did you get that thought?" Then we have to explain how the idea developed.
To get a better idea of some ways transitions are used, please watch this Prezi.
To begin, click on the arrow in the center of the screen; then use the arrows at the bottom of the presentation to advance to the next view, or return to a previous view. By clicking the screen in the bottom right hand corner, you can view the presentation in a full-screen mode. If viewing in full-screen mode, you must click on the escape (ESC) button on your keyboard at the end of the presentation to return to this page. |
In this module, we will consider several types of transitions:
- Topic sentence transitions
- Beginning and ending sentence transitions
- Transitional words within paragraphs
- Transitional paragraphs
- Sentence-level transitions
- Implied transitions
In writing multi-paragraph compositions, make intentional links or transitions as you develop your points and ideas. These transitions provide a flow for the essay and give the reader direction, a compass of sorts.
Click here to begin the lesson on Transitions in an Essay.