Cohesion

Words and phrases can control and order the logic within a paragraph's argument. You can link ideas using words that show a logical relationship: therefore, however, but, consequently, thus, even so, conversely, nevertheless, moreover, in addition, and many more. Whatever its form, an intra-paragraph transition should be unobtrusive, shifting readers easily from one topic to the next. Some lists of possible words to use in this way are presented below.

Words and phrases for developing cohesion

Words and phrases can control and order the logic within a paragraph's argument. A list of possible words to use in this way is presented below.

To list, or show 'time' relationships

Time relationships
First/second/third etc.PreviouslyNow
After thatLast/finallyAfterwards
WhenNext/My next pointMeanwhile
BeforePresently or currentlyEarlier
ContemporaneouslyPrior to ...Beyond X ...

To add information

Adding information
FurthermoreIn additionAs well
MoreoverAlsoSimilarly
Another reason/ factor/ point isBesidesAdditionally

To show a logical relationship

Logical relationships
SoSince this is soTherefore
ConsequentlyHenceDue to
ThusBecause of thisAs a result...
It follows thenForIf X is the case, then it follows that ...

To draw a 'conclusion'

Conclusive language
In summaryTo summariseIt can be concluded that
It can be inferred thatIn conclusionTo sum up
This implies/suggests/indicates/shows/establishes/demonstratesUltimately, ...Overall

To clarify a previously stated idea

Clarifying ideas
In other words (Or simply restate the idea in a different way)By this I meanThat is
Put succinctlyTo put this another wayIn effect

To introduce a 'contrasting' or 'qualifying' idea

Contrasting ideas
In contrastConverselyBut
AlthoughEven soOn the other hand
AlternativelyHoweverNevertheless
YetWhereas ... (then contrast)Unlike

To provide an 'example'

Providing examples
For exampleFor instanceTo illustrate
..., including..., such asOne explanation for this is...

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