SAT Grammar 7: TransitionsSAT Grammar 7: Transitions

S A T R E A D I N G A N D W R I T I N G · GRAMMAR

Transitions

SAT Grammar Guide 7

Goal: Pick the transition that matches the logical relationship between two ideas.

Original study notes on standard SAT grammar and punctuation rules, with original examples. Not copied from any prep book.

Big Picture

Transition questions are logic questions. Decide how the second idea relates to the first before looking at the answer choices.

Method

Read the sentence before the blank and the sentence after it.

Name the relationship in your own words: more of the same, a contrast, a result, an example, a time order, or a summary.

Then choose the transition that matches. Eliminate any choice with the wrong relationship. Relationships and Common Transitions

Relationship Transitions Meaning

Addition also, additionally, furthermore, moreover, in addition Another point in the same direction Contrast however, but, yet, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, in contrast, on the

other hand, conversely

The second idea goes against the first

Cause and

effect

therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, hence, accordingly The second idea is a result of the first Example for example, for instance, specifically, in particular A specific case of the first idea Similarity similarly, likewise, in the same way The second idea parallels the first

Sequence /

time

first, next, then, afterward, subsequently, meanwhile, previously, finally Order of events or steps Emphasis indeed, in fact, above all Strengthens the previous point

Concession admittedly, granted, of course Acknowledges a point that weakens

the argument

Restatement in other words, that is Says the same thing again, more

clearly

Replacement instead, rather Names what happened in place of

something else

Summary in short, overall, in conclusion Wraps up the whole passage

Punctuation with Transitions

At the start of a sentence: "However, the results varied."

Between two independent clauses: "The results varied; however, the trend held."

In the middle of a clause: "The results, however, varied."

Short words like "but" and "so" follow a comma when joining two ICs and do not take a semicolon. Common Traps

Therefore vs. however: do not pick a result word when the second idea contradicts the first. Also / additionally are not contrast words, even if the sentences discuss different things. Instead needs a replacement, not just a difference.

For example needs a specific example of what was just said.

Key Terms

Term / Actor What it is and why it matters

Transition A word or phrase showing how two ideas relate.

Contrast However, but, yet: the second idea goes against the first.

Cause and effect Therefore, thus, as a result: the second idea results from the first. Example For example, for instance: gives a specific case.

Making This Essay-Ready

Habit: Cover the answer choices, write a relationship word in the margin, then match it to a choice. SAT Grammar Guide 7 · Original SAT grammar study notes