What is a transition word?

Transition or transitional words, also known as linking words, are words that
connect ideas, sentences, or paragraphs. They help create a logical flow in
the text and can indicate sequence (first, second, third), contrast (however,
on the other hand), cause and effect (therefore, as a result), addition (also,
moreover), and a variety of other relationships.
Here are some examples of transitional words and phrases:
Addition: also, moreover, in addition, furthermore, besides, similarly,
likewise, and, too, not only... but also
Contrast: however, on the other hand, in contrast, nevertheless,
nonetheless, even so, though, whereas, despite, instead, conversely
Cause: while, because of, as, since, while, lest, in case, provided that, given
that
Effect: therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, hence, for this reason, so,
because, since
Example and Illustration: for example, for instance, to illustrate, specifically,
in particular, namely, such as
Summary and Conclusion: in conclusion, to sum up, in summary, in short, in
brief, overall, thus, therefore, hence
Time and Sequence: first, second, third, next, then, finally, meanwhile,
subsequently, eventually, previously, before, after, soon, later, while, during,
until, when, as soon as
Location and Direction: above, below, beyond, near, opposite, adjacent,
here, there, in front, in back, nearby, wherever, around, between, beside
As a writer, I find them tremendously helpful in communicating concepts in
one sentence instead of long paragraphs.
I suspect that our readers prefer clear writing too.
8 types of transitional words and examples
As you can tell, the use of transition words can help make arguments and
discussions easier to follow and understand for readers.
If you are feeling overwhelmed when deciding which transition words to use
when writing, don't worry.