Connecting words are words or phrases that are used to connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs together. They help to create a smooth flow of information and make the text more coherent. Connecting words can be used to show contrast, cause and effect, addition, and many other relationships between ideas.

Without linking words, your writing can feel disjointed and confusing. Some common examples of linking words include “however,” “therefore,” “in addition,” “moreover,” “nevertheless,” and “consequently.” These words can be used to show contrast, add information, provide examples, or indicate a cause and effect relationship, among other things.

Examples of linking words include words for addition (e.g., in addition, furthermore, etc.), for contrast (e.g., however, but, etc.), for cause and effect (e.g., because, since, etc.), for purpose (e.g., so that, in order to, etc.), and for summarizing (e.g., in summary, in a nutshell, etc.).

As a "part of speech" transition words are used to link words, phrases or sentences. They help the reader to progress from one idea (expressed by the author) to the next idea. Thus, they help to build up coherent relationships within the text.