Using Transitions Transitions are words, phrases, and sentences that guide readers as they move through a text and signal connections among ideas. Transitional words, phrases, and sentences guide the reader in much the same way as road signs guide a motorist.
Writers use transitions both within paragraphs and between paragraphs.
Use only those that are necessary to make your ideas clear. Too many transitions distract the reader from your message and slow down the rhythm of your language. Therefore, use only those that you need. In the following paragraph, transitions, which are boldfaced, are effectively used. Although he was a delinquent in many ways, his mother still loved him.