Linking words and phrases can connect ideas within sentences, between sentences and from one paragraph to another. They can indicate the order of ideas, the relationship between ideas, examples, summaries or conclusions.
Examples of links within text
| Within a sentence | Participants in research are considered to be vulnerable so they need to be protected by the use of pseudonyms. |
| Between sentences |
First year students are often uncertain about how to reference their assignments correctly. However, by their second year most students can confidently cite their source. |
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Between paragraphs |
In the previous section several advantages of using quantitative research techniques were outlined. It is also important to consider the disadvantages of these techniques. Perhaps the most significant disadvantage is….. |
Repeating words
Although you’ve probably been taught not to repeat yourself when writing, some repetition helps your writing to flow.
Using pronouns
Pronouns (he, she, it, they, you, this, that, etc.) can be used in the place of other words to avoid repeating words over and over.
Using synonyms
Synonyms, or words with similar meanings, are also useful for linking ideas. When chosen carefully, they can provide variety and interest in your writing.
| Giving examples: | for example, for instance, in this case, to illustrate |
| Showing result: | therefore, consequently, thus, so |
| Showing reasons: | because, due to, so, for this reason |
| Showing order/time relationships: | firstly, secondly, next, then, following, finally, meanwhile, after that, before, after |
| Concluding or summing up: | in conclusion, in summary, in short, to conclude, to sum up, thus, it is clear that |
| Showing contrasts or differences: | however, although, but, yet, while, even though, in contrast, on the one hand …on the other hand, in comparison |
| Showing similarities: | similarly, likewise, like |
| Adding information: | in addition, moreover, and, furthermore, besides, again, and then |