75 linking words for academic writing (+examples)
Linking words play an important role in academic writing: They connect different paragraphs, sections or ideas in a text. Therefore, they considerably improve the readability and argumentation of academic texts such as a thesis, dissertation, essay or journal publication. This list of 75 linking words includes examples of how they can be used in academic writing.
Linking words expressing order and sequence in academic writing
Example: First, I review the existing literature on cross-border collaboration. Second, I explain the methodology …
Example: The event increased public awareness of this issue. Afterwards, politicians debated it more openly.
Example: Before scientists discovered the role of neurons in information processing, they assumed that…
Linking words expressing additions in academic writing
Example: Additionally, the interviewee lamented a lack of attention to his work.
Example: The financial compensation was also appreciated by the study participants.
Linking words expressing cause and effect in academic writing
Example: As the number of studies increases, better conclusions can be drawn.
Example: The literature highlights the importance of age and physical fitness. Consequently, these factors will be investigated further.
Linking words expressing contrasts and comparisons in academic writing
Example: Many scholars have explored this issue. Yet, to date, no inclusive framework exists to explain…
Example: People often stated that they are aware of the rules whereas they behaved as if they did not.
Example: E qually important, however, is the role of personal beliefs in decision-making processes.
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Linking words expressing emphasis in academic writing
Example: Indeed, motivation turned out to be a defining factor of academic success.
Example: More importantly, the findings underscore the importance of conflict resolution.
Linking words expressing illustrations in academic writing
Example: Many interviewees were nervous. For example, when asked to describe the event, some of them started to stutter.
Linking words expressing summaries and conclusions in academic writing
Example: In conclusion, the reviewed literature highlights a clear research gap.
Example: In short, scholars call for more research on climate change mitigation.
Linking words expressing conditionality in academic writing
Example: As long as the conditions do not change, the results should remain stable.
Example: Even if more experiments are conducted, human behaviour remains hard to predict.
Linking words expressing generalisations in academic writing
Linking words expressing concessions in academic writing.
Example: Regardless of their genetic makeup, mice showcased the same symptoms.
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