Sentence connectors or linking words help connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs smoothly. They improve writing quality and make communication clearer and more organized.
1. Subordinating Conjunctions
These connect dependent clauses with independent clauses.
Examples:
That, so that, in order to, whether, though, although, since, as, if, unless, in order that, etc.
2. Coordinating Conjunctions
These join words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance.
Examples:
And, but, or, therefore, as well as, both, yet, still, either…or, neither…nor, so, otherwise, while, whereas, not only…but also, both…and, so…that, no sooner had…than
RULE–1: Sequence
Used to show order or steps.
Linkers:
At first, firstly, secondly, thirdly, next, after that, afterwards, finally, lastly, in the end, to conclude
Example:
If you want to do well in the exam, you have to follow some specific steps. Firstly, you have to read attentively. Secondly, you have to memorize important answers. Thirdly, you should write them after memorizing. Finally, revise them frequently.
RULE–2: Similarity
Used to show similar ideas.
Linkers:
Similarly, in the same way, in the same manner
Example:
Shadin got a scholarship for his outstanding result. Similarly, if you study properly, you can also achieve success.
RULE–3: Difference / Opposite
Used to show contrast or opposite ideas.
Linkers:
On the other hand, on the contrary, instead of, in lieu of
Example:
Vietnam is developing rapidly. On the contrary, our country is still underdeveloped.
RULE–4: Additional Information
Used to add extra information.
Linkers:
Besides, moreover, furthermore, in addition to
Example:
Zuhair is a regular student of Class X. Besides his studies, he also runs a fast-food shop.
RULE–5: Opposite Result
Used when the result is unexpected.
Linkers:
Though, although, but, despite, in spite of, nevertheless
Example:
Though Alam studied attentively, he could not get his desired result.
RULE–6: Giving Examples
Used to provide examples.
Linkers:
For example, for instance, such as, like, as for example
Example:
Many fruits are rich in vitamins, such as mangoes, oranges, and bananas.
RULE–7: Result / Consequence
Used to show the result of something.
Linkers:
So, therefore, hence, consequently, as a result
Example:
He worked very hard; therefore, he succeeded in life.
RULE–8: Summary / Conclusion
Used to summarize ideas.
Linkers:
In short, in conclusion, to conclude, in brief, to sum up
Example:
To sum up, everyone should take proper care of their health.
RULE–9: Relative Pronouns
Used to connect clauses and provide more information.
Examples:
Who, whom, what, when, while, whatever, whenever, how, that
RULE–10: Cause of Something
Used to explain reasons.
Linkers:
Because, because of, since, as
Example:
As it was raining, Hasim could not go out to play.
RULE–11: Conditional Statements
Used to express conditions.
Linkers:
If, unless, provided that, providing that
Example:
If you work hard, you will succeed.
RULE–12: Choosing or Comparing
Used to compare or choose between two things.
Linkers:
Or, otherwise, rather, than, rather than
Example:
You should study now; otherwise, you may fail.
RULE–13: Time / Era
Used to indicate time or period.
Linkers:
At present, nowadays, once, ago
Example:
Nowadays, people are becoming more technology-dependent.
RULE–14: Starting Linkers
Used at the beginning of statements.
Linkers:
According to, accordingly, generally, usually
Example:
Generally, honest people are respected by everyone.
RULE–15: Main Theme / Reality
Used to reveal truth or actual facts.
Linkers:
Actually, in fact, the fact is that
Example:
In fact, regular practice is the key to success.
RULE–16: Cause and Reason
Used to explain why something happens.
Linkers:
That is why, that’s why, for this reason
Example:
He was ill; that’s why he could not attend the class.
RULE–17: Doing Two Things at the Same Time
Used to show simultaneous actions.
Linkers:
Meanwhile, at the same time, in the meantime
Example:
The mother was cooking. Meanwhile, the children were studying.