Conclusion Transition Words: Definition and Useful Examples

Transitions, in general, are parts of a speech that link one idea to another to achieve a smoother connection. They’re essential in presenting a logical relationship between concepts in a text. Transitional words can either be additive, adversative, causal, or sequential. A type of transition that falls under the sequential category is the conclusion transition words. When writing an essay or article, ending the whole text with a powerful conclusion creates an impact on the readers. It helps you summarize the entire essay clearly and concisely. It provides closure to the readers and reminds them of the key points that they have to remember. To effectively write a conclusion, you’ll need appropriate conclusion transition words. This helps you deliver the take away of the content in a polished manner.

Conclusion Transition Words
Definition of conclusion transition words.
Conclusion transitions are typically used to introduce a summarized text or restate the whole point of the previous ideas. Since summaries are meant to be brief, correct use of helpful transitional words is needed. These types of transitions allow you to put together the mentioned ideas in a generalized form. They are most likely written at the beginning of a sentence or paragraph. But occasionally, some are found in the middle or at the end of a statement. There’s a long list of conclusion transition words and phrases that you may use to effectively create your conclusion. A broad vocabulary of such terms is beneficial to avoid redundancy and monotony . The next section shall enumerate the most common transitions used in writing a conclusion.
Examples of Conclusion Transition Words
Conclusion transitions most often come in phrases. However, some single words can also be used. All of which aim to start or accompany a statement that expresses a generalized or final thought. Feel free to go through the succeeding list of transition words and phrases. Sample sentences are also provided to show how the conclusion transitions are used.
- In conclusion
- In the final analysis
- In the long run
- To conclude
- For the most part
- Given these points
- Generally speaking
- All things considered
- As has been noted
- As a final point
- You sang from the heart, and you have a lovely voice. You had your own technique, and you nailed it. Overall , you’ve shown a fantastic performance.
- Those studies, altogether , indicate that exercise is good for the body.
- Lastly , review all the tips mentioned above and apply them to your workout routines.
- The man, ultimately , has learned from his mistakes.
- Thus , it can be taken that the story is for those who should acknowledge their wrongdoings and apologize for them.
- The bride looked lovely, and the groom was dashing. The reception was well planned. Everyone was giving the newlyweds their best wishes. All in all , the wedding was wonderful.
- After all , there are only two types of people in the world: the one who likes you and the one who doesn’t.
- In summary , the boy in the story became successful despite his financial struggles.
- In conclusion , the experiment has a significant amount of errors.
- In short , the entire project failed to reach its goals.
- Some people get discouraged when they’re in the middle of a challenge. Others get motivated amidst any kind of pressure. In the end , it’s all about how you handle stress.
- To sum up , there are many causes of eye damage. But the ways on how to prevent it are just as many.
- He wasn’t inside the house during the incident. He was working, and his employer has attested to that. There is even a video of him being at this workplace during that time. Given these points , it can be inferred that the man is not guilty.
- The coach could have taken a time-out. The team only needed one successful behind-the-arc shot. Though they weren’t able to do it, the hard work they put into the last quarter was very commendable. It was a good fight, all things considered .
- As has been noted , conclusions should be impactful and concise.
- As a final point , transitions are helpful devices in creating conclusions that effectively generalize everything that has been said.
Conclusion Transition Words | Infographic

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Connecting Ideas Through Transitions
Using Transitional Words and Phrases
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- Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on January 30, 2023.
Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.
The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.
For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.
Table of contents
When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words.
Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.
Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.
Example text with and without transition words
The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.
If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.
Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.
Don’t overuse transition words
While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.
In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.
The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.
There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.
Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.
Additive transition words
Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.
Adversative transition words
Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.
Causal transition words
Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.
Sequential transition words
Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.
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Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.
Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.
Confused use of therefore
“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.
- We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.
The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”
- We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.
Starting a sentence with also , and , or so
While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.
- Also , a second round of testing was carried out.
To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.
- A second round of testing was also carried out.
- Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.
Transition words creating sentence fragments
Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.
The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.
We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.
And vs. as well as
Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.
- Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first.
- Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
- Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.
Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”
- Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
- Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.
Use of and/or
The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.
First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.
- Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
- Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.
Archaic transition words
Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.
- Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.
These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.
- Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.
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Conclusion transition words: Phrases for summarizing and ending
Transition words help us structure our thoughts and guide the reader or listener through what we are saying. When it’s time to summarize your message or end a paragraph, conclusion transition words let you signal this closing.
It’s good to know some alternatives to ‘in conclusion’ and ‘to conclude’, because although these are good examples, they can get repetitive.
Our comprehensive list of transition words for conclusion and summary should give you all the inspiration you need, whether you are writing an essay or speech, or just want to become more confident forming an argument. These signal words can also be helpful for restating ideas, drawing attention to key points as you conclude.
We have included plenty of examples of how you can use these transition words for concluding paragraphs or sentences, so by the end of this article, you should be clear on how to use them properly.

Conclusion transition words with examples
We have grouped these summarizing and concluding transition words according to how and where they can be used. For example, some should only be used when forming a final conclusion, whereas others can be used to summarize sections mid-way through your speech or writing.
First, let’s be clear about the difference between a summary and a conclusion .
Summary vs conclusion
A conclusion comes at the end of a speech, chapter, or piece of text, and it brings together all of the points mentioned. A summary, however, can be placed anywhere (even at the beginning). A summary gives a brief outline of the main points but is not as in-depth as a conclusion.
If you are giving a presentation or writing a blog, you may wish to summarize the main points in your introduction so that people know what you are going to cover. You could also summarize a section part-way thorough before moving on to another angle or topic.
In contrast, the conclusion always comes at the end, and you should only use specific conclusion transition words as you are drawing to a close.
Transition words for conclusion paragraphs
Let’s begin with some discourse markers that signal you are moving to the concluding paragraph in your presentation, speech, essay or paper. These can all be used to start a conclusion paragraph.
- In conclusion
- To conclude
- We can conclude that
- Given these points
- In the final analysis
- As can be seen
- In the long run
- When all is said and done
- I’ll end by
- As we draw to a close
The last three on this list, the ‘closing’ transition words, would generally only be used in spoken discourse.
Some transition words for order and sequencing should also help with structuring what you want to say, including the ending.
Example conclusion sentences
- In conclusion , we can say that plan A will be of greater benefit to the company.
- When all is said and done , it’s clear that we should steer clear of this investment strategy.
- Given these points , I believe the trial was a great success.
- I’ll end by reminding you all that this experiment was just the beginning of a much larger project.
- To wrap up , let’s look at how this learning can be applied.
- In the long run , we will make more profit by investing heavily in new machinery.
- Having analyzed seven of our competitors in detail, we can conclude that our content marketing strategy should be updated.
Transition words for summary
The following summary transition words may be used as part of a conclusion paragraph, but they are especially helpful for concisely drawing together several points.
- To summarize
- On the whole
- Generally speaking
- All things considered
- In a nutshell (informal)
- In any case
Note that although you can insert summary transition words anywhere, the specific phrases ‘In summary’, ‘To summarize’ and ‘To sum up’ are generally only used at the end, similar to conclusion phrases.
Example summary sentences
- In brief , this presentation is going to cover the pros and cons of the device and how we can apply this to our own product development.
- This new technology is, in a word , revolutionary.
- All things considered , we found that Berlin was a great city for a weekend break.
- To summarize , we can say that Shakespeare’s writing continues to have a global influence.
- We can say that the combustion engine was, on the whole , a good invention.
- In any case , we should put the necessary precautions in place.
- Generally speaking , girls are more thoughtful than boys.
Transition words to end a paragraph
You may wish to add ending transition words in the final sentence of a paragraph to conclude the ideas in that section of text, before moving on to another point.
Here are some transition words to conclude a paragraph:
- This means that
- With this in mind
- By and large
- For the most part
Note that some of these could equally be used to begin a new paragraph, so long as that paragraph is summarizing the points previously mentioned.
Cause and effect transition words could also be helpful in this context.
Examples of transition words for the end of a paragraph
- Jamie is a vegan and Sheryl has a lot of allergies. This means that we should be careful which restaurant we choose.
- The weather forecast said it would rain this afternoon. With this in mind , should we postpone our hike?
- Each of the students has their own opinion about where to go for the field trip. Ultimately , though, it’s the teacher who will decide.
Restating points as you conclude
Conclusion transition words can also signal that you are restating a point you mentioned earlier. This is common practice in both writing and speaking as it draws the reader or listener’s attention back to something you want them to keep in mind.
Here are some helpful transition words for concluding or summarizing by restating points:
- As mentioned previously
- As stated earlier
- As has been noted
- As shown above
- As I have said
- As I have mentioned
- As we have seen
- As has been demonstrated
You may switch most of these between the passive and active voice, depending on which is most appropriate. For example, ‘As has been demonstrated’ could become ‘As I have demonstrated’ and ‘As shown above’ could become ‘As I have shown’.
Examples sentences to restate a point in conclusion or summary
- As I stated earlier , the only way we can get meaningful results from this survey is by inclucing at least a thousand people.
- As has been demonstrated throughout this conference, there are exciting things happening in the world of neuroscience.
- As shown from this study, the trials have been promising.
If you were researching these transition words for concluding an essay, you might find it helpful to read this guide to strong essay conclusions . Of course, there are many ways to use summary transition words beyond essays. They may be a little formal for casual conversation, but they certainly can be used in speech as part of a presentation, debate, or argument.
Can you think of any other phrases that should be on this list? Leave a comment below to share them!
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10 Good Transitions for a Conclusion Paragraph
The Importance of a Conclusion
Why transitions are necessary, 10 ideas for concluding transitions, writing strong transitions between paragraphs, other times to use transitions, 5 overused conclusion sentences, how to start a conclusion paragraph, how to write your conclusion, how to write a concluding sentence.
Writing a proper conclusion paragraph to an essay is something you've probably spent significant time learning about, whether you're in grade school or college. It's especially important to learn how to write a conclusion with strong transitions as well as having good transitions between body paragraphs. This skill ensures that the essay will flow nicely, ultimately forming a cohesive paper.
Though writing strong transitions for a concluding paragraph can be a challenge for both beginner writers and even seasoned writers, it just takes some constructive feedback to make sure you are on the right track.
When writing a paper, whether it is a persuasive essay, a research paper, a news article or even a portfolio essay, there is a specific format that all writers must follow. Though there is never a wrong way to write an essay, there is a standard that is accepted worldwide and across different languages. Essays must be organized, well composed, include key points, and most of all, a strong conclusion.
While it is always important to begin your essay with a strong and engaging introduction, many writers tend to neglect the ending of their work. After all, writing is undoubtedly an exhausting process. However, it is necessary to keep the reader engaged until the very last sentence.
If your reader somehow is not convinced after reading your paper, the conclusion is the final chance for persuasion.
Though a conclusion can be written differently depending on the essay type, its main purpose is to bring the key ideas of the text to the surface. This is done by rephrasing the thesis as well as reiterating information discussed in the body paragraphs.
The most important aspect of a conclusion paragraph is to not introduce new topics to the reader. Mention of a new idea at the end of a paper reveals that it should have received its own paragraph earlier on. This also may distract from the thesis, ultimately meaning that new information does not belong in the conclusion.
Most people write or speak in transitional phrases without even realizing that they are doing it. For example, using words and phrases such as "then," "after that" and "anyway" in basic conversations. Without transitions, there is a lack of word flow, making it challenging for the reader or listener to grasp what you are attempting to say.
Due to the fact that transitions often come easier while speaking, writers need to be more aware of including transitions while constructing their essay. Without a transition word or a transitional phrase, the reader may not understand why you are suddenly going from one idea to the next. Transitions help guide readers through the piece with ease as they read it in their head or out loud. Think of transitions as the glue that holds the different parts of your essay together.
If you want to get away from the overused conclusion statements, then there are several options to choose from. Of course, you also have to be mindful of how much you use those in your paper as well. If your teachers notice that you are using the same transitions repeatedly, it is likely they will advise you to use something else. Thankfully, there are tons of "In conclusion" replacements you can resort to instead:
- By and large
- Generally speaking
- In any event
- Given these points
- All things considered
Before writing the conclusion, body paragraphs will be included that must be written cohesively. This means that the information is written in a logical order, making the essay flow nicely. You know how long a paragraph should be, how it should start and what sentences to put inside. But one thing that several college students struggle with is how to implement transitions between paragraphs. If your professor tells you that your writing is "too abrupt" or asks you "how do these things relate?" then it probably means you neglected the use of strong transitions between paragraphs.
The transitions you use between two paragraphs will be different than the transitions you use in your conclusion. Transitions can occur at the end of the previous paragraph, the beginning of the next paragraph or both and include words or phrases such as:
- For example
- In addition to or additionally
- Nevertheless
- Even though
- Despite this
- As mentioned before
- Nonetheless
- That being said
- Due to this
The more you practice the incorporation of transitions, the more you will naturally have the ability to select which phrases work. Younger students may use other types of transitions between paragraphs, which are to demonstrate their basic understanding of sequencing events:
In addition to using transitions between paragraphs and as part of your conclusion paragraph, you will also be required to use transitions in other parts of your writing. This includes using transitions within the actual paragraphs themselves, as well as between sections if you are writing a much longer, in-depth piece.
When incorporating transitions within a paragraph, you may use short words or phrases to bring together sentences. This helps readers expect what's to come before they read the next sentence, even if that happens quickly. Sometimes, you may not even notice this transition as it is subtle, but present.
Likewise, you will also need to use transitions between sections in a larger piece of writing. These will need to be more explicit because you are coming off a whole other section that may not be as easily connected to the next one. Think of it as a recap of the previous season of a television series, that catches you up on all the events you may have forgotten about. You do this before pressing play on the next season in the series. The two sections must be connected in some way, and a transition helps achieve that.
Two sections must be connected in some way, and a transition helps achieve that.
Oftentimes, students tend to rely on certain conclusion sentences and transitions more so than others. Most teachers would advise that if they had a dime for every time a student used the transition "In conclusion" to start their concluding paragraph, that they'd be rich. But this is not the student's fault. However, students should try to stay away from the overused conclusion sentences as much as possible:
- In conclusion
- As you can see
Once you've decided on a concluding transition that has not been overused, you will have to start to think of your beginning conclusion sentence.
- Sometimes, the transition phrase you have chosen is enough to have a solid start to your conclusion, but other times, you may need to also take a few words or a sentence to transition between the most recent paragraph and the conclusion.
- You may also need to write two concluding paragraphs instead of just one, which will, of course, involve using more than one transition sentence starter.
After beginning your conclusion paragraph, it's time to write the rest of the conclusion. This can be tricky, but good conclusions come after practice, persistence and careful use of words and vocabulary.
Your conclusion is your last opportunity to tell the reader why you feel the way you do about whatever you're talking about, whether it's an opinion or closing statement based on factual research. Here, you should reiterate the main points of your paper without getting too repetitive, and if applicable, leave the reader with something to think about.
You can always ask a friend to read over your conclusion to see if you've succeeded.
The only part of your essay with the most potential to influence the reader more so than the introduction of your paper, is the closing sentence of your paper .
If you're wondering whether or not you can end a conclusion with a question, the answer is, it depends. If you're writing a research paper that discusses some controversial topics, then it's absolutely a great idea to end your conclusion with a question. This can be a rhetorical question or it can be directed straight to the reader, but either way, it should be somewhat open-ended and ultimately be a conversation starter.
At the same time, though, a persuasive essay is meant to convince the reader of your opinion, so leaving them with a question instead of a strong, believable statement, could be a mistake. You'll really need to read over your paper several times to make sure your conclusion and your concluding sentence makes sense with the rest of the piece.
Things to Consider
If you are still wondering, "How can I end my essay without saying, 'in conclusion'?" this is either because the other transition words and phrases do not make sense to you, or you simply cannot think of anything else to say.
Ultimately, if you can include a variety within your transition words and phrases, that will build a strong paper. However, if you are having a hard time with it, just do what you feel comfortable with. In the meantime, ask your teacher or professor if they have any additional advice that may be useful for you, or consult the writing resources at your school for support.
Writing a strong conclusion paragraph with good transitions is the key to a solid essay. Hopefully these tips will help you learn how to write a good conclusion paragraph.

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Conclusion Transition Words to Use (List and Examples)
Conclusion transition words can be used by authors to reaffirm their arguments or ideas and wrap up an article, essay, or presentation. These words help writers to structure their ideas and guide the reader through the sentences. Conclusion transition words enable writers to indicate the completion of a paragraph and condense all the concepts that were discussed in the body of the article into a single concise statement.
Conclusion transition words for concluding paragraphs
These words indicate that the author is transitioning to the final paragraph of the article or essay. These can be used as introductions to closing paragraphs. Some conclusion transition words for concluding paragraphs include:
- To conclude
- In conclusion
- It can be concluded that
- When all is said and done
- In the long run
- In the final analysis
- Given these facts
- I will end by
Example sentences
- In conclusion, it can be said that this year’s budget will bring high economic development to the country.
- I will end by saying that this year’s carnival was a huge success.
- To wrap up, let us examine how this technology can be implemented in the market.
- Given these facts, the committee has decided to implement plan A for the next financial year.
- In the long run, the disease has proven to be too debilitating.
- From the analysis results, it can be concluded that the patient was losing too much blood.
- When all is said and done, the only thing that matters is that Jenna is happy.
Conclusion transition words for writing a summary
These words can be incorporated into a conclusion paragraph. However, they work especially well for succinctly bringing together a number of ideas. Some common words include:
- To summarize
- In any case
- All things considered
- Generally speaking
- On the whole
Though these transition words can be used anywhere, “to summarize” and “in summary” are often used only at the ending,
- In brief, today’s presentation will briefly examine the advantages and disadvantages of the new product and the changes that can be made to improve it.
- Generally speaking, boys are more muscular than girls.
- We can conclude that the discovery of fire, on a whole, was the most significant development in human history.
- To summarize, one can argue that Shakespeare’s works continue to exert an impact on society at large.
- In short, it can be seen that this plan was a complete failure.
- In essence, his situation is not so different from hers.
Conclusion transition words for ending any paragraph
In some cases, before proceeding to a different topic, a writer may want to close a paragraph using conclusion transition words. It will bring the concepts in that paragraph to a close. Some common words include:
- For the most part
- With this in mind
- This means that
- By and large
These words could also serve as the introduction to a paragraph if it summarizes the earlier arguments.
- For the most part, the reception was a laid-back affair.
- All in all, the trip was really wonderful.
- This means that the company has to rethink its policies for the next fiscal year.
- We can say that, by and large, the student camp was extremely fruitful.
- Ultimately, it was his decision to end the marriage.
Restating ideas when concluding
Conclusion transition words are also helpful in rehashing a subject already discussed by the author. This is a popular speaking and writing technique because it calls attention to a point the author wants the reader or audience to remember. The following transition words can be used to wrap up or summarize by restating key points:
- As has been demonstrated
- As I have mentioned
- As stated above
- As has been noted
- As mentioned previously
- As we have seen
- As I have said
- As shown earlier
Based on which one is more appropriate, you can use either the passive or active voice for these words.
- As has been demonstrated, this technique can be successfully used in the resuscitation of patients in the emergency wards.
- As we have seen, the success of this program entirely depends on the market conditions.
- As mentioned previously, the company should try expanding its investment to other core sectors.
Are conclusion and summary the same?
Since conclusion transition words are used for both summary and conclusion, it is necessary to understand the difference between the two.
A conclusion is generally used while ending an essay, speech, or article, combining all the arguments that were made in the body. But a summary can be written anywhere in an article. The summary can also be written in the introduction to let the readers know the topic that is about to be covered. The conclusion is more detailed than a summary, which provides a succinct rundown of the important ideas.
Are conclusion transition words necessary?
They are necessary to effectively conclude a document and to improve its readability.
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- Smart Words – Transition Words
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54 Best Transition Words for Paragraphs

Good transition words for starting a paragraph include addition phrases like ‘furthermore’, cause and effect words like ‘consequently’, and contradiction words like ‘however’. Scroll down for a full table of transition words.
Using transition words in your writing can help you improve the readability and flow of your paragraph to the next.
These words help your text flow seamlessly into the next idea, which shows your readers the relationship between paragraphs and phrases.
What are Transition Words?
Transition words for beginning paragraphs help writers to introduce a shift, opposition, contrast, agreement, emphasis, purpose, result, or conclusion from what was previously written. They are essential in argumentative essays.
Transition words are like bridges between the different paragraphs in your pieces. They serve as the cues that help your reader understand your ideas. They carry your ideas from one sentence to the next and one paragraph to the next.
Transitional words and phrases link an idea from a sentence to the following paragraph, so your work is read smoothly without abrupt jumps or sudden breaks between concepts.
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Types of Transition Words for Starting a Paragraph
Transition words can fall into more than one category based on what type of transition in your paragraph you’re planning to make.
For example, you’d want a different transition word if your second paragraph contradicts your first than if it supports it. Take the following examples:
Here is a list of transition words and what category they fall under.
- Addition – A transition that combines two or more ideas and shows their relationship. Examples include, what’s more, equally important, again, also, and, furthermore, moreover, besides .
- Cause and Effect – When one idea triggers another. This lets the reader know that they are directly connected. Examples include, consequently, hence, therefore, thus, next, as a result .
- Clarification – This is to rephrase what was said to clarify a statement and provide emphasis. Examples include, in other words, that is to say, to clarify.
- Compare and Contrast – This shows a relationship between two ideas that are compared based on differences or similarities. Examples are, after all, although this may be true, in contrast, likewise, on the contrary, similarly, whereas, yet.
- Emphasis (Boosting) – This shows certainty. Examples include, emphatically, in fact, surprisingly, undeniably, in any case, indeed, never, without a doubt.
- Exception or Contradiction – This happens when an action with a pre-conceived notion ends with a different action. Examples are, however, nevertheless, in spite of, of course, once in a while, despite.
- Summarize or Conclude – This signals the reader that they are at the end of the paragraph. Examples are, as this essay has shown, as a result, In conclusion, therefore, thus, hence, in short, in brief.
- Sequential – This expresses a numerical sequence, conclusion, continuation, resumption, or summation. Examples are to change the topic, to conclude with, afterward, incidentally, by the way, initially.
List of Transition Words for New Paragraphs
Transition words to avoid.
I recommend avoiding the following transition words:
Examples in Sentences
The best way to understand transition words is to provide examples. Let’s look at this sentence:
“Amy did not study for her test. Therefore, she did not get a good result.”
When you see the word ‘therefore,’ the reader knows that this is a cause and effect. What happened in the first sentence caused a resulting action.
The transition word provided a seamless flow into the next sentence that describes this effect.
Using the transitional word, ‘therefore,’ shows that the two sentences are part of one idea/process. Even with skimming, the reader can guess what’s the resulting action. This is how transition words hold your ideas together. Without them, it’s like your piece is just a jumble of coherent words.
Transition words don’t have to be placed at the start of a sentence. Let’s look at this sentence:
“Many people came to the event. Cristine, Emily, and David, for instance.”
In this sentence, ‘for instance’ is at the end of the sentence. However, it still gives the reader the necessary information to see how the two sentences are linked.
Why use Transition Words
Proper communication of your ideas through paragraphs is important in writing. In order for your reader to read your piece with a thorough understanding of each idea and point conveyed in the piece, you have to use transition words and phrases.
With the examples provided, you would see that transitions string together your ideas by establishing a clear connection between the sentences and paragraphs.
Without transition words, your work may seem daunting and stressful to read, and the reader will not understand the idea you’re trying to convey.
Transitional phrases are especially important when writing an essay or thesis statement, as each paragraph has to connect ideas effortlessly.
Therefore, when a paragraph ends, the next idea must have some link to the previous one, which is why transition words play an important role.
Where Else to use Transition Words in an Essay
Transition words are important English devices for essays and papers. They enhance the transitions and connections between the sentences and paragraphs, giving your essay a flowing structure and logical thought.
Transition terms may seem easy to remember; however, placing them in the incorrect manner can cause your essay to fall flat.
Here are some places where essays transition words may fit:
- To show a connection between evidence and the ending
- To flow into the next paragraph, use your closing statement at the conclusion of each one
- At the start of the first body paragraph
- At the start of the second body paragraph
- In some of the starting sections of your summary or introductory paragraphs
- In an overview of your opinions/solutions in the conclusion
When adding your transition words and phrases in your essay, make sure not to accidentally form an incomplete or fragmented sentence. This is common with transitions, such as, if, although, and since .
While transition words are important in any writing piece, you have to make sure that the word or phrase you choose matches the logic of the paragraph or point you’re making. Use these words and phrases in moderation, as too much of them can also heavily bring the quality of your work down.

Chris Drew (PhD)
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education.
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Conclusion Transition Words and Phrases: The Most Comprehensive Guide

If you are writing an essay or speech, one of the most important parts is the conclusion because it allows you to summarize your thoughts. To craft your essay’s conclusion like a professional, it is crucial to use the right words and phrases. In this post, we take a deeper look at the best conclusion transition phrases and how to use them to make your work outstanding.
Conclusion Transition Words for Conclusion: What Are They?
As the name suggests, transitions to conclusion are words that you apply within your essay’s conclusion. These words help to tell the reader you have come to the end of the speech or essay and tie the arguments discussed in the body of your work. Some writers also use them to bring together the main ideas in one sentence. There are many good conclusion transition words, and it is important to select only those that make your work more compelling.
Examples of Good Transitions for Conclusion
You have worked so hard on your essay, and now it is time to finish it, but what transition words for the conclusion paragraph? Here is a list of the best transition words to consider for your work:
- Generally speaking.
- As demonstrated above.
- As has been pointed out.
- All the factors considered.
- Given these considerations.
- In the end.
- In summary.
- In conclusion.
- On the whole.
- By and large.
- Given these arguments.
- Given these points.
- It has been pointed out.
- To summarize.
- In essence.
- In the final analysis.
15 Samples of Good Conclusion Transitions in Sentences
Now that you know some of the best conclusion transition words, the next step is to apply them in your essays. To help you out, here is a demonstration of how to transition to a conclusion in your essay. Check the conclusion transition examples below and try to use them as they are or similar words to perfect your skills.
In summary, Emily Daniela had a very painful upbringing but ultimately found happiness after meeting Prince Jeremy.
- It Has Been Noted
It has been noted with a lot of concern that the author of the book “Next Generation on the Rocks” did not have ample knowledge about the weighty subject of “Generation X” and, we can conclude that the book is not appropriate for learning.
In short, the southern part of the park is relaxing and enjoyable for all, while the upper section is risky because of wild animals.
- All Things Considered
All things considered, I found Paris to be a great place for a short getaway.
To sum up, all the kids had an excellent time when growing up, yet they still ended up joining violent gangs in the neighborhood.
Finally, we can conclude that antimalware technology is an impressive discovery in the age of modern cyber threats.
- By and Large
By and large, online learning should be considered an important method of study, regardless of the discipline that a college student is studying.
Jennie’s farm has cut a name for producing high-quality apples in the district, and this is one of the reasons why its products are in high demand both locally and abroad.
- On the Whole
On the whole, beef is much more popular meat compared to pork in the whole country.
- Given These Points
Given these points, it is clear that the time to consider changes in the organization has arrived. In the end, the recommendations will benefit the company by growing sales.
On balance, the organization has had a successful year, and the long-term strategy can help grow sales by 50% in the next financial year.
Overall, the author took a satirical tone in the book.
Usually, when the company advertises a vacant position, it does so only to follow the rules. In the end, most candidates are selected through nepotism.
- In Either Case
In either case, school discipline should be enforced in line with strict adherence to human rights.
Obviously, computer games have both pros and cons.
Tips for Using Conclusion Transition Phrases
To use transition conclusion words and make your work shine, consider it a process that starts when you commence writing the essay. This implies that even as you think of the best conclusion transition phrase to use, the essay also needs to be professionally done. Here are the main tips to help make your work stand out.
- Make Your Essay as Professional as Possible
Long before your readers can get to the last part and note how well it is done, they will have to go through the essay. Therefore, you should make the first part, especially the topic, introduction, and thesis, interesting to grab the reader’s attention. If the first part is not enticing enough, the reader might not reach where you have used the transition words for the conclusion.
You should also do the essay’s body professionally, ensuring the main points flow seamlessly from the begging to the end. This will help readers to easily follow your main arguments and, finally, the conclusion. Take the example of an essay about the growing levels of obesity. In such a paper, you might want to start by looking at the background of obesity, the interventions, and why they appear not to work. Finally, draw the conclusion, indicating why the numbers might probably double in the next decade or two.
- Capture the Main Points that You Want to Highlight in the Conclusion
When writing a conclusion, the best method is identifying the main points and summarizing them. Depending on the length of the essay, you might want to put it into a single sentence or several. So, start by highlighting them.
- Use Transitions for Conclusions to Interweave the Main Points
Before you can use transition words for conclusions, ensure to evaluate them and select the most appropriate for your work. Try different strong conclusion transition words to establish how effectively they can help you tie the main points. You might want to check other several conclusion transitions examples to see how experts did it.
- Confirm the C onclusion Transition Phrases Help to Improve Your Work
As we mentioned earlier, the conclusion transition sentences cannot work in isolation. Instead, they must be viewed as part of the whole essay. Therefore, read through the entire essay to ensure the main points are clear and the transition words for the conclusion give it a perfect finish.
- Consider Writing the Conclusion as the Last Item and Together with the Introduction
When readers go through the introduction of an essay, they should be able to understand your stand and get highlights of the conclusion. This is why it would be a great idea to work on your conclusion and introduction as the last items for greater harmony of your work.
Conclusion Transition Phrases: Summary
Selecting the right conclusion transition words makes it easy for the writer to tie up the main arguments and close the write-up. They make the work look professional and easy for the reader to follow and understand your arguments. This post has demonstrated how to transition into a conclusion more effectively. Consider doing some practice with different conclusion transition words to build your skills further.
Can transitions for conclusion help me get a better grade on my essay?
Yes, they can. When you use a good transition for the conclusion, it makes the essay look professional, and your teacher will be persuaded to give you a better mark. Make sure that the entire essay is also written professionally for better grades.
How do you use conclusion transition words to trigger the end of a paper or essay?
To prepare your audience that it is the end of the speech or essay, you need to select the right trigger words, such as “in summary” or “In conclusion.” Then use them at the start of the conclusion or in some of the concluding sentences.
What is a good conclusion transition phrase?
This is a phrase that can help to make a clear connection between the main essay and the conclusion paragraph. It signals the reader that the essay, speech, or that piece of writing is getting wrapped up. Besides, it helps the writer to summarize the main points professionally.
In addition to transition conclusion words, what else should you do to make your work outstanding?
The conclusion is indeed only one part of your essay, and it alone is not enough to win you top marks. Therefore, in addition to crafting the conclusion well, your work needs to be well researched and formatted professionally.
Should I always use transitions for conclusion in all writing tasks?
If your work, such as an essay or speech, requires you to write a conclusion, it is a great idea to use transition words. They make the work easy to ready, look professional, and increase your chances of getting a better grade.
What transition words or phrases people use to indicate a conclusion?
Finally and therefore.

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Transitional words can either be additive, adversative, causal, or sequential. A type of transition that falls under the sequential category is the conclusion transition words. When writing an essay or article, ending the whole text with a powerful conclusion creates an impact on the readers.
Categories of Transition Words and Phrases Causation Chronology Combinations Contrast Example Importance Location Similarity Clarification Concession Conclusion Intensification Purpose Summary Transitions to help establish some of the most common kinds of relationships Causation– Connecting instigator (s) to consequence (s). accordingly as a result
Types and examples of transition words There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions. Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable.
Here are some transition words to conclude a paragraph: This means that All in all Ultimately With this in mind By and large For the most part Note that some of these could equally be used to begin a new paragraph, so long as that paragraph is summarizing the points previously mentioned.
The transitions you use between two paragraphs will be different than the transitions you use in your conclusion. Transitions can occur at the end of the previous paragraph, the beginning of the next paragraph or both and include words or phrases such as: For example Afterward However In addition to or additionally Nevertheless Although Even though
Some conclusion transition words for concluding paragraphs include: To conclude In conclusion It can be concluded that When all is said and done To close In the long run In the final analysis Given these facts I will end by Example sentences In conclusion, it can be said that this year’s budget will bring high economic development to the country.
Transition words for beginning paragraphs help writers to introduce a shift, opposition, contrast, agreement, emphasis, purpose, result, or conclusion from what was previously written. They are essential in argumentative essays. Transition words are like bridges between the different paragraphs in your pieces.
As the name suggests, transitions to conclusion are words that you apply within your essay’s conclusion. These words help to tell the reader you have come to the end of the speech or essay and tie the arguments discussed in the body of your work. Some writers also use them to bring together the main ideas in one sentence.