Transition Every paragraph and most sentences should easily transition to the next, no matter the topic, to eliminate choppiness and awkwardness within writing.

Transitions in Writing Also Again As well as Besides Furthermore In addition Likewise For example However Transitions in your writing are like bridges from one idea to the next. They help your writing to flow smoothly.

Like everything in writing, VARY your transitions. If you are unsure how to use one, don’t use it. Put them at the beginning, middle, or the end of each sentence. Vary this, too! Don’t put them in every sentence, like a robot. Reread paragraphs ALOUD to help with flow.

Paragraph without transitions: Some deaf people may struggle to lead normal lives and are often misunderstood. It can cause problems at work and in social life. Deaf people may become withdrawn. Beethoven describes this when he says, “I am obliged to live like an outcast” (Beethoven Quotes). Technology and sign language have made deaf people’s lives easier. Flashing lights can replace smoke alarms, alarm clocks, and doorbells. Close captioning has allowed deaf people to watch T.V. since 1972 (“Living with Deafness”). What do we notice?

Paragraph with transitions TO BEGIN, some deaf people may struggle to lead normal lives and are often misunderstood. It can cause problems at work and in social life. STRUGGLING TO COMMUNICATE, deaf people may become withdrawn. Beethoven describes this when he says, “I am obliged to live like an outcast” (Beethoven Quotes). SINCE THEN, technology and sign language have made deaf people’s lives easier. FOR INSTANCE, flashing lights can replace smoke alarms, alarm clocks, and doorbells. ALSO, close captioning has allowed deaf people to watch T.V. since 1972 (“Living with Deafness”). What is the difference?

Let’s fix a paragraph in small groups: This paragraph needs a lot of help! Put the sentences in an order that makes sense. Add transition phrases or words to help make it flow. Use the handout if you need ideas. You will have to be creative. Sometimes the transition that makes the most sense, doesn’t come from a list.

Revision Goal: Read your piece all the way through. Consider where you should have transitions. Add at least 3 transitions and highlight these in yellow.