There are many features of texts that help the reader understand how the information in the text is organised. One of these features refers to linking words. They covers a wide range of words and phrases which make text easier to understand.
Here you are a brief selection depending on your goal:
• Adding a point
As well as the obvious dangers, there was the weather to be considered.In addition to the obvious dangers, there was the weather to be considered. Not only were there the obvious dangers, but there was also the weather to be considered.
• Developing a point
Besides/furthermore/in addition/moreover/what's more/on top of that/to make matters worse, smoking has been directly linked to lung cancer.
• Contrast
The identity of the attacker is known to the police. However/nevertheless no name has been released.The identity of the attacker is known to the police. No name has, however/all the same, been released.
(Al)though/while/even though/despite the fact that the identity of the attacker is known to the police, no name has been released.The identity of the attacker is known to the police. A name has nevertheless/none the less/still not been released.
No, I didn't say the President got it wrong. On the contrary, I think he's handled the affair superbly.I prefer city life as opposed to country life.I prefer city life, whereas John prefers country life.
Donahue established his reputation as a novelist. In contrast, his new book is a non-fiction work.
• Explaining reasons
The government does not intend to cause any further provocation.As a result/'accordingly'/thus/hence/'consequently'/for that reason, all troops have been withdrawn.
The employers have promised to investigate these complaints, and we in turn have agreed to end the strike.
• Making generalisations
Broadly speaking, generally speaking, on the whole, by and large, to a large/some/a certain extent, this has been an encouraging year for the company.
• Starting
That's absolute rubbish! For a start/first of all/in the first place/for one thing, it was Rod who said that, not me. And secondly ...
• Giving new information
She then turned to Henry, who incidentally/by the way is now about two meters tall, and said ...By the way/incidentally, do you remember an old friend of ours called Ransom?
• Concession/qualification
OK, so you two have had a few problems. Even so/all the same, I don't see why you need to split up.Lancaster is a man of great personal integrity. Having said that/even so/all the same, I don't think he'd make a good chairman.
• Reality
What did you think of “Death in Action”? To be (perfectly) honest/to tell the truth, I can't stand films like that.
As you can see, there is a wide range of linking words that can improve your writing. If you feel like practicing a little bit, click here.
Hope you find it useful and interesting !
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