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WRITING WITH FLOW
student workbook
@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Hey there!
I'm Chelsea.
I'm an online educator and
academic writing expert.
I teach college students how to
succeed in their programs by
leveraging the power of
academic writing.
Welcome to your WORKBOOK

This workbook was created specially for students
who want to take their academic writing skills to
the next level... Students like YOU!
Let's get started!

Here's What to Expect
Monkey's in a Barrel .......................1
Writing with Flow Defined ....................2
Three Components .......................4
Transitions Explained ......................5
Transitions Cheat Sheet ...................10
Paper Organization ......................11
Thesaurus ............................12
Examples Tutorial .......................13
Practice Problems .......................17
Pssst - this is a full lesson from my paid

program the Smart Student Writing Academy
that you get for free... Enjoy!

1
Monkey's in a Barrel
Have you ever played Monkeys in Barrel?
No? Here's the premise.
Inside a small barrel is a handful of random monkeys.

Your job is to connect them all together to form one long
string. Pretty simple, right?
Basically, you are taking a bunch of independent

monkeys and connecting them by the arms to create a
cohesive line from the first monkey to the last.
This is how I like to explain Writing With Flow
When you write with flow you are connecting

independent ideas together in a cohesive and logical
manner to form one piece of writing.
Let's break this down further

2
Writing with Flow

Some of you are familiar with the concept of
Writing with Flow... while some of you are not. For
those of you that aren't, here's a few situations
you might be able to relate to instead.
You tend to write the way you think.. And when you think,
your brain jumps between ideas quickly.
You've received comments about your writing from your

professor like “choppy,” “jumpy,” “abrupt,” “flow,” or “how is
this related?” "what is the purpose of this?"
When people read your writing they tell you that they had
trouble following your train of thought.
You like to write your paper in separate “chunks” and then

paste them together.
You are working on a group paper and the draft you are
editing was created by pasting pieces of several peoples
writing together.

3
Writing with Flow

Let's build a proper definition
The concept of writing with flow is probably

becoming more clear to you - let's make it crystal
clear with a proper definition.
Writing With Flow is...
Writing that optimizes the readers

understanding by using transitional language
to draw logical connections between ideas
and clarify meaning.
I like to say that FLOW is what puts the

GOOD in good academic writing
Now let's talk about HOW to write with flow

4
Three Components
In order to write with flow effectively, three
components should always be present
#2
#1
Easy to
Logical Order
Understand
#3
Proper use of
Transitions
The ideas in your writing are presented in a cohesive

#1
logical order that is easy for readers to follow.
The words within your writing use simple language and

#2
anything that isn't common knowledge is defined.
Appropriate transitions are used to draw clear connections

#3
between different ideas in your writing.

5
Transitions Explained
Transitions are the "links" or bridges" that connect ideas
together to form a unified whole
Thought Links Thought Bridges
Your goal as a writer is to convey information clearly and

concisely. Transitions help you achieve that by providing logical
links between ideas, paragraphs, and sections in a paper.
Remember Monkeys in a Barrel? Think of a transition as the

arm of one monkey reaching out to meet the arm of another
monkey.
If those monkeys weren't attached by the arms, they would lose

their connection and the line would break.
Likewise, when there aren't transitional words and phrases

linking ideas together in a paper, readers aren't able to form
connections which hinders their understanding.
When choosing the right transitions for your writing,

there are two factors to consider
Let's Discuss!

6
Factor 1 -Type
What type of transition fits the situation?
A transition can be a single word, a phrase, a sentence, or an
entire paragraph. In each situation, transitions function the
same way - To help the reader anticipate or comprehend
the new information you present.
Let's discuss common situations
Transitions Linking Ideas

Transitions that link different ideas together are typically located
within a paragraph as a single word or short phrase. These
transitions act as cues that help the reader anticipate what's
coming next.
Transitions Linking Paragraphs

If you properly arranged your paragraphs so that the content of
one leads logically to the next, the transition will highlight a
relationship that already exists by summarizing the previous
paragraph while hinting to the content of the paragraph that
follows. Transitions linking paragraphs can be a single word, a
phrase, or a full sentence. They can be located at the end of the
first paragraph, at the beginning of the second paragraph, or in
both places.
Transitions Linking Sections

This is most appropriate for longer works where it may be
necessary to include transitional paragraphs that summarize and
specify the relevance of the information previously covered to the
information in the next section.

7
Factor 2 - Connection
Effectively creating appropriate transitions is dependent on
the type of relationship you want to convey between points.
This is where "thought links" and "thought bridges" become relevant

because you are essentially linking one idea to another... AKA -
creating a bridge (or link) between two points.
When your writing does not flow naturally, you can ask yourself...
What is the purpose of the point I'm making?

How does the first idea relate to the second idea?
What logical connection am I trying to express here?
What am I telling the reader with this information?
Helpful Transition Tip
If you're stuck, try to explain the concept out loud as if you were
speaking with another person. When you talk to other people, you don't
use much thought when transitioning between topics because it's
second nature to you.
Even though transitions used in conversation are often different than

transitions you would use in writing, it's a great strategy to uncover
connections that you can then edit to fit your writing.
Pssst - There is no "right" or "wrong" transition as long as

you clearly convey the meaning of your writing.

8
Factor 2 - Connection
Thought Links or Thought Bridges
First Idea ? Second Idea
Similar to speaking, once you gain a voice for your writing, transitions will
come naturally to you. Until then, when you're trying to link points together,
imagine a venn diagram containing those ideas. Where do those two points
overlap? Specifically, how do they connect?
For instance, the first idea may simply elaborate on the topic presented in
the previous paragraph, or perhaps it introduces a related topic.
You might be writing a chronological narrative and the next topic is simply
the next point in the timeline.
Oftentimes, a proceeding point is an example or a demonstration of the

previous.
You might be strengthening an argument with supportive ideas to a main

purpose. (These are a few examples of the VERY many that exist)
Questions to Ask
Do they contradict each other?
Does one provide an example of the other?
Are they comparing or contrasting each other?
Does the section summarize the previously made point?
Is the statement a conclusion to the previous topic?
Is this idea an effect of the first idea?

9
Transitions Cheat Sheet

CONTINUATION CONTRADICTION COMPARISON
Additionally However Also
Equally important On the other hand Just as
Moreover On the contrary Similarly
Furthermore Conversely In comparison
Because Nonetheless Comparatively
As well In spite of At the same time
Likewise Rather Likewise
Along Instead In the same way
Also Still
EXAMPLE CONCLUSION/ OF TIME /

For example SUMMARY SEQUENCE
For instance
In conclusion First, second, third,
Such as
In summary First of all, second of all
Therefore Next, then, finally, last
As I have shown
To illustrate Subsequently
Accordingly
To demonstrate Meanwhile
As a result
Namely Previously
Summing up
As a result In the next section
In brief
As indicated Moving on to
In other words
In this case Finally
As previously mentioned
On this occasion
CLARIFICATION CAUSE & EFFECT Note how a few words/

phrases are repeated in
Therefore Therefore different scenarios. This is
Because As a result because their meaning is
To summarize Consequently
versatile and can be
In short, in brief Accordingly
applied interchangeably
As a result For this reason
depending on the
As mentioned In other words
circumstance.
In other words As indicated by
As illustrated

10
Keep in Mind
Placement of the transition
Let's say this is a full sentence... the transition can be placed at the
Beginning Middle End
Beginning
Preliminary research supports the hypothesis. However, the latest test
results were not conclusive.
Middle
Preliminary research supports the hypothesis. The latest test results
however, were not conclusive.
End
Preliminary research supports the hypothesis. The latest test results
were not conclusive, however.

11
Writing with Flow

Pro Tip #1 - Organization of your paper
Since the purpose of transitions is to create logical connections between
points within your writing, it's important to zoom out and evaluate the
structure of your paper. Everything should serve a purpose and it should
be presented in a way that enhances the readers experience.
In order to optimize your writing, you'll want to think critically about

each section and how they contribute to the totality of your paper.
There are two routes you can choose when doing this.
1. Create an outline of your objectives before you start writing

>> Most effective route
2. Summarize the sections of your paper after you're finished writing

>> Least effective but appropriate for certain situations
Introduces your paper and the problem you'll be analyzing
Provides background information and context for the problem
First example/evidence to support the problem
Second example/evidence to support the problem
Third example/evidence to support the problem
Discussion/solution to the problem
Final thoughts/conclusion to your paper
A well organized paper constructs the readers understanding

by revealing information that gradually builds on each other.

12
Writing with Flow

Pro Tip #1 - Proper use of a thesaurus
When used correctly a thesaurus is a powerful tool for academic

writing. I actually recommend getting in the habit of using a thesaurus
anytime you write (I always do!) because it will make you a better
writer over time.
For example, a thesaurus
Helps you avoid using repetitive words
Enhances your vocabulary and articulation
Helps you form your thoughts when you're stuck
Can provide meaning to words you don't fully understand
DO Do NOT
Use a variety of words - helps Use a thesaurus to sound
avoid repetitive phrases smart
Keep it simple - use words Use overly complicated words
found in everyday speech Use words you wouldn't use in
Make sure that you're using spoken language
words correctly Use a word if you didn't already
Use a thesaurus while you write know the meaning of it
AND edit
Example Time

13
Let's Give it a Try!

We're going to walk through a few examples together,
then you can work through some on your own.
1 When it's your turn you will see a list of scenarios and a list transitions to
choose from. Your job is to fill in the blanks with the appropriate
transition, as well as choose the scenario that's fitting.
2 Each example will have two answers - The relationship between the
statements and the transition you've selected. Write down your
answers on a separate sheet of paper. Compare to the answers on the
last page.
Pay close attention to relationship between ideas

Can you identify the connection?
What other transition variations would be acceptable?
Can you think of any transitions on your own that aren't listed?
Be sure to read the sentences without the transitions
Some sentences will be more obvious than others, however these
variations are a great way to build your understanding of why
transitions are necessary.
Compare the sentences to the sentences without
transitions
This is how you create an "ear" for transitions which will help you write
with them naturally.
*More than one transition may apply to the scenario*

(Select the one you believe fits best)
Here we go!

14
Example One
Without Transition
The temperature drops at night in Joshua Tree. Campers
should bring adequate firewood and material to keep warm.
With Transition
The temperature drops at night in Joshua Tree, therefore campers

should bring adequate firewood and material to keep warm.
Let's Discuss...
1 When you read the material without transitions, were you able to
recognize how choppy it was? The two sentences technically make
sense BUT they sound "rough." Note how much smoother it sounds
with a transition and how the words FLOW naturally.
2 Can you identify the relationship between these two sentences?
Cause & Effect Clarification
This is an example of both a clarification and cause & effect

relationship. Why? Because the second statement is the effect
of the first. You can also look at this situation as the first
sentences provides clarity to the second statement.
3 Note how "therefore" is provided under these three categories in

your transition cheat sheet.
Let's take a look at another example

15
Example Two
Without Transition
Many lives have been saved due to the discovery of antibiotics.
The average life expectancy has increased by several
decades.
With Transition
Many lives have been saved due to the discovery of antibiotics.
As a result, the average life expectancy has increased by
several decades.
Let's Discuss...
1 Again, these two statements make sense together, however they

do not read smoothly. They read harsh, abrupt, and sound
unnatural overall.
2 You always want to identify the relationship between statements

so you can create the most appropriate connection. Here, we
have two valid connections
Cause & Effect Example
In this example, the second statement is most appropriately

interpreted as the effect or an example of the first statement.
Starting to get the hang of it? Let's go over one more together

16
Example Three
Without Transition
There are many benefits of enrolling your child in dance
classes at a young age. Dance can hinder their development
and trigger stress if forced on them.
With Transition
There are many benefits of enrolling your child in dance
classes at a young age, however dance can hinder their
development and trigger stress if forced on them.
Let's Discuss...
1 This is an important example. When you read the two statements
without a transition it's clear that something isn't right. Not only do
they sound harsh, they don't actually make logical sense together.
2 When two statements don't make sense next to each other, that's
often a good indicator that the relationship between them is a...
Contradiction
The second statement is a clear contradiction to the first.
3 You may be wondering why you would put contradictory material in

your writing to begin with...There are lots of reasons! In this case, the
writer is creating an opportunity to discuss the potential risks
associated with their topic. Perhaps the goal of their paper is to
provide solutions to help people avoid them.
Your turn!

Your Turn! 17
Each example will have two answers - The relationship between the
statements and the transition you've selected. Write down your answers on
a separate sheet of paper. Compare to the answers on the last page.
Relationship
Example Clarification Cause & Effect Contradiction
Conclusion Continuation Comparison Sequence
Transition
Therefore Likewise Consequently First
Additionally Furthermore As indicated As a result
However Nonetheless In conclusion In other words
Because That being said For instance Along with this
As a result As illustrated For example Despite
Example 1
Elon Musk is the richest person alive, ___ his net worth
reached a record setting high of $219 billion in 2022.
Example 2
Mary's new job leaves her tired after work, ___ she always
cooks dinner for her family.
Example 3
___ the disadvantages that come with online learning, Smith
believes the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. ___, most of
the disadvanages can be reduced through organization and
time management.

Relationship 18
Example Clarification Cause & Effect Contradiction

Conclusion Continuation Comparison Sequence
Transition
Therefore Likewise Consequently First
Additionally Furthermore As indicated As a result
However Nonetheless In conclusion In other words
Because That being said For instance Along with this
As a result As illustrated For example Despite
Example 4
Enrolling in online classes is often a difficult decision for
college students to make. ___ students may not attend
college if that's their only option.
Example 5
The ___ and perhaps most obvious disadvantage of
online classes is the lack of face to face interaction, ___
teachers cannot gauge their students’ nonverbal
reactions.
Example 6
___, students miss out on the teachers non-verbal cues
such as tone of voice, pauses, and gestures. They
cannot spontaneously ask a question or volunteer an
answer. ___ they have less opportunity to get
acquainted with their fellow students.

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Answer Bank
Example 1
Elon Musk is the richest person alive, for instance his net
worth reached a record setting high of $219 billion in 2022.
Scenario Transition
Example For instance
Example 2
Mary's new job leaves her tired after work, nonetheless she
always cooks dinner for her family.
Scenario Transition
Contradiction Nonetheless
Example 3
Despite the disadvantages that come with online learning,
Smith believes the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. For
example, most of the disadvantages can be reduced
through organization and time management.
Scenario Transition
Contradiction Despite
Example For example

Answer Bank
Example 4
Enrolling in online classes is often a difficult decision for
college students to make. As a result, students may not
attend college if that's their only option.
Scenario Transition
Cause & effect As a result
Example 5
The first, and perhaps most obvious, disadvantage of online
classes is the lack of face to face interaction, because
teachers cannot gauge their students’ nonverbal reactions.
Scenario Transition
Sequential For instance
Cause & effect/ Because
continuation
Example 5
Along with this, students miss out on the teacher’s non-
verbal cues such as tone of voice, pauses, and gestures.
They cannot spontaneously ask a question or volunteer an
answer. Consequently they have less opportunity to get
acquainted with their fellow classmates.
Scenario Transition
Continuation Along with this
Cause & effect Consequently

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WRITING WITH FLOW

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Welcome to your WORKBOOK

Let's get started!

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Writing with Flow Defined ....................2

Three Components .......................4

Transitions Explained ......................5

Transitions Cheat Sheet ...................10

Paper Organization ......................11

Examples Tutorial .......................13

Practice Problems .......................17

Pssst - this is a full lesson from my paid

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

No? Here's the premise.

Inside a small barrel is a handful of random monkeys.

Basically, you are taking a bunch of independent

This is how I like to explain Writing With Flow

When you write with flow you are connecting

Let's break this down further

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Writing with Flow

You've received comments about your writing from your

You like to write your paper in separate “chunks” and then

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Writing with Flow

The concept of writing with flow is probably

Writing With Flow is...

Writing that optimizes the readers

I like to say that FLOW is what puts the

Now let's talk about HOW to write with flow

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

The ideas in your writing are presented in a cohesive

The words within your writing use simple language and

Appropriate transitions are used to draw clear connections

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Thought Links Thought Bridges

Your goal as a writer is to convey information clearly and

Remember Monkeys in a Barrel? Think of a transition as the

If those monkeys weren't attached by the arms, they would lose

Likewise, when there aren't transitional words and phrases

When choosing the right transitions for your writing,

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Let's discuss common situations

Transitions Linking Ideas

Transitions Linking Paragraphs

Transitions Linking Sections

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

This is where "thought links" and "thought bridges" become relevant

What is the purpose of the point I'm making?

Helpful Transition Tip

Even though transitions used in conversation are often different than

Pssst - There is no "right" or "wrong" transition as long as

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

First Idea ? Second Idea

Oftentimes, a proceeding point is an example or a demonstration of the

You might be strengthening an argument with supportive ideas to a main

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Transitions Cheat Sheet

EXAMPLE CONCLUSION/ OF TIME /

CLARIFICATION CAUSE & EFFECT Note how a few words/

@ Smart Student Inc. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Beginning Middle End

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More than one transition may apply to the scenario