Sentence linking words, also known as transition words, are words or phrases that connect one idea to another in a sentence or paragraph. They help to create cohesion and coherence in writing by signaling the relationship between ideas and connecting them smoothly.
In English, there are many different types of sentence linking words that serve different purposes. Some common examples include conjunctions, such as "and," "but," and "or," which connect clauses or phrases within a sentence. For example: "I went to the store, but they were out of milk."
There are also subordinating conjunctions, such as "because," "although," and "while," which introduce a subordinate clause that provides additional information or context. For example: "I didn't go to the party because I was feeling sick."
Transitional phrases, such as "on the other hand," "in contrast," and "similarly," can be used to show a comparison or contrast between ideas. For example: "On the one hand, I love the beach, but on the other hand, I hate the sand."
In addition to these linking words, there are also adverbs, such as "however," "nevertheless," and "therefore," which can be used to indicate the relationship between ideas and to show cause and effect. For example: "I was tired, however, I stayed up late to finish my project."
Using sentence linking words effectively can help to improve the clarity and coherence of your writing. They help to guide the reader through your ideas and create a logical flow in your writing. It is important to use a variety of linking words in your writing to avoid repetition and to keep the reader engaged.
In conclusion, sentence linking words are an important tool for creating coherence and cohesion in writing. They help to connect ideas and guide the reader through the text, making it easier to understand and follow. By using a variety of linking words, you can improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.