Signal Words and Linking Words: Write Better English with Connectors

Sequence and Chronological Order

When you want to describe a process, list arguments, or present a chronological sequence, you need sequence signal words. These are especially important in instructions, reports, and argumentative texts.

Sequence: First(ly) / Second(ly) / Third(ly) -- To begin with -- Next -- Then -- After that -- Finally -- In conclusion

Cause and Effect: When you want to connect reasons and consequences, use: therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, due to, because of, since, for this reason.

Important for German speakers: Don't confuse "since" as a time word (seit) with "since" as a reason (da/weil). Context makes the difference: "Since you asked, I'll explain" (because) vs. "I've worked here since 2020" (from that time).

Which Register Fits? Formal vs. Informal

Not every signal word fits every context. In a business email or academic essay, you use different transitions than in a WhatsApp message or blog post.

Formal (reports, academic texts, business correspondence):

• Furthermore, Moreover, In addition
• Nevertheless, Nonetheless, However
• Consequently, Therefore, Thus
• With regard to, In light of, Notwithstanding

Informal (emails to colleagues, blogs, conversations):

• Also, Plus, On top of that
• But, Still, Anyway, Though
• So, That's why, Because of this
• By the way, Actually, Basically

Tip: Don't mix formal and informal signal words in the same text. If you use "Furthermore" in one paragraph, don't suddenly switch to "Plus" or "Anyway" in the next.

Comma, Semicolon, or Full Stop? Punctuation Matters

One of the most common mistakes with signal words involves punctuation. English has clear rules that differ from German punctuation rules.

Rule 1: Adverbial connectors at the start of a sentence
After However, Therefore, Moreover, Furthermore, Nevertheless, Consequently at the start of a sentence, always use a comma.

Rule 2: Connecting two main clauses
Use a semicolon before the connector and a comma after:
The data was incomplete; however, we drew preliminary conclusions.

Rule 3: Coordinating conjunctions (but, so, and, yet)
These connect clauses with a comma before them:
The report was long, but it was well-written.

Rule 4: Subordinating conjunctions (although, because, since, while)
Subordinate clause before main clause = comma. Main clause before subordinate clause = no comma.
Although it rained, we went out. vs. We went out although it rained.