Connecting Ideas

There are a number of stylistic strategies that can connect ideas within an essay.

Linking

· Main idea followed by supports

· Supports linked by transitions and order

· Skim for linkages

Transitions (Signal Phrases)

· Show relationship between sentences, paragraphs and sections

· Show comparison/contrast, logical relationship, examples, summary or conclusion

· Topic sentences linked between paragraphs

Key Words

· Repetition (to create recognition)

· Variation (to prevent boredom)

Parallel Structures

· Similar info presented in similar ways (narratives, lists, quotes, etc.)

· Expected by reader, prevents confusion

Consistent Styles

· Between paragraphs (diction, grammar, punctuation)

· Subject identity (pronouns match subjects)

· Perspective (person and tense)