Transition Words for a New Paragraph

Updated 2026-10-12 · Synonyms List editorial team

Quick answer: Transition words for a new paragraph help connect your ideas smoothly, guiding readers from one thought to the next. Using these phrases ensures your writing flows logically, making it easier to follow complex arguments or narratives. Select the right word based on the tone and relationship between your sentences.

Best Transition Words for a New Paragraph

First: Use this to begin a sequence of events or points. Example: First, we will review the data.
Next: Indicates the following step in a process. Example: Next, the team analyzed the results.
Subsequently: Formal alternative to next for chronological order. Example: Subsequently, the report was filed.
Then: Simple word for what comes after. Example: Then, they moved to the next room.
Following this: Connects an action to its immediate consequence. Example: Following this, the meeting was adjourned.
After that: Casual way to show sequence. Example: After that, she went home.
In the following: Refers to what comes later in a text. Example: In the following section, we discuss costs.
Consequently: Shows a direct result or effect. Example: Consequently, the project was delayed.
As a result: Common phrase for cause and effect. Example: As a result, sales increased.
Therefore: Formal connector for logical conclusions. Example: Therefore, the decision was made.
Thus: Concise word for showing a conclusion. Example: Thus, the hypothesis was proven.
Hence: Formal term meaning for this reason. Example: Hence, we must act quickly.
In addition: Adds information without implying sequence. Example: In addition, the budget was cut.
Furthermore: Adds a point of equal or greater importance. Example: Furthermore, the data supports this view.

More Transition Words for a New Paragraph by Purpose

however: introduces a contrast as the sky was dark however it did not rain
in conclusion: marks the end of thoughts for example in conclusion the project was a success
meanwhile: shows simultaneous actions like meanwhile she made coffee while he cleaned the room
nevertheless: indicates a contrast despite difficulties the team won nevertheless
on the other hand: presents an opposing view like on the other hand cats prefer indoors
similarly: draws a comparison since both dogs enjoy chasing balls similarly birds love flying
otherwise: suggests an alternative outcome otherwise you will miss the bus
in summary: restates main points in summary the trip was fun but tiring
likewise: expresses equality of situations likewise my sister likes reading books
for the same reason: explains parallel motives I stayed home for the same reason you did

Transition Words for a New Paragraph in Example Sentences

Subsequently, the team arrived at the conclusion.
Consequently, the results showed a clear pattern.
Moreover, additional data was collected.
Furthermore, the study expanded its scope.
Additionally, several interviews were conducted.
Specifically, the survey targeted local residents.
In essence, the main argument remains valid.
Finally, the project reached its completion.
Last but not least, funding was secured.
Nonetheless, challenges persisted throughout.
Nevertheless, progress was still made.
In contrast, the second group performed differently.
On the other hand, alternative solutions were considered.

Weak Choices and Better Ones

so: is too informal and conversational for formal writing, making 'consequently' a superior option for indicating a clear cause-and-effect relationship between ideas
and: acts as a basic connector that fails to distinguish new ideas from the last one, so using 'furthermore' adds necessary weight to the addition of new information
now: creates a sense of immediate urgency that can distract from the argument, while 'currently' grounds the discussion in the present state of affairs without undue pressure
because: introduces a reason that belongs in the same paragraph as the effect, but 'hence' properly transfers the explanatory element to a new paragraph starting with its consequences

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best transition words for a new paragraph?

Top choices include first, next, subsequently, then, and consequently. These words help guide the reader through your logic clearly. For more formal writing, use therefore or hence instead of simple connectors like then.

Are there formal and informal transition words?

Yes, words like consequently and therefore are more formal, while then and after that are casual. Choose based on your audience and the context of your writing to maintain the appropriate tone throughout.

How many transition words should I use per paragraph?

Using one or two is usually sufficient for clarity. Too many can make your writing feel forced or cluttered. Focus on placing them where they naturally fit to enhance readability without overwhelming the reader.