Connect your ideas: linking words (Conecta tus ideas)

Good essays and clear speech are not just about grammar — they are about *glue*. Linking words join your ideas so the reader can follow your reasoning. Without them, writing sounds like a list of short sentences.

Adding and continuing

To build on a point:

**and**, **also**, **too** **moreover**, **in addition**, **furthermore** *(formal)*

«Reading improves vocabulary. **Moreover**, it reduces stress.»

Contrasting

When you want to show a difference or an unexpected turn:

**but** (neutral), **however** (formal), **although**, **even though** **on the one hand… on the other hand…**

«**Although** it was late, we kept talking. **However**, we had to leave.» Notice that *however* usually starts a new sentence, followed by a comma.

Cause and result

To explain *why* something happens and *what follows*:

cause: **because**, **since**, **due to** result: **so**, **therefore**, **as a result**, **that's why**

«It rained all day; **therefore**, the match was cancelled.»

Ordering and concluding

To structure an argument: **first**, **then**, **next**, **finally**, and to close: **in conclusion**, **to sum up**.

Using them with rhythm

Do not stuff every sentence with connectors — one or two per idea is enough. Punctuation matters: a comma after *however*, *therefore*, or *moreover* at the start of a sentence. Take a short opinion you wrote before and add three linking words: one to contrast, one to give a result, and one to conclude.