Solving Transitions Questions on the SAT

The method: Name the relationship

Transitions are logic, not decoration. Students who skim for a “fancy” connector miss easy points. The winning move is to ignore the blank long enough to name how the second idea relates to the first.

Use Name → Match → Check. Cover the transition. Paraphrase sentence 1 and sentence 2. Label the relationship (contrast, cause/effect, addition, example, sequence, emphasis). Then pick a transition from that family and reread. If another family also “sounds okay,” you mislabeled the relationship.

The transition families to know

Keep a short mental roster. Contrast: however, nevertheless, still, by contrast, on the other hand. Cause/effect: therefore, thus, as a result, consequently, accordingly. Addition: furthermore, moreover, also, in addition. Example: for example, for instance, specifically. Concession: granted, admittedly (often paired later with a “but/however”). Same family members are usually interchangeable; different families are not.

Spot the traps in the choices

Wrong answers are almost always the right word for a different relationship. “Therefore” on a contrast item; “however” on a pure continuation; “for example” when the second sentence is a consequence, not an illustration.

When the signal is subtle

Sometimes both sentences look “positive” but the second narrows or undercuts the first (“The plan is popular. ______, it remains unfunded.”). That’s still contrast. Likewise, “in other words” restates; “meanwhile” shifts to a parallel scene. Read for job, not vibe.

Practice until it’s automatic

Practice questions

Here are five practice problems that help you hone your skills. Use the same method we learned earlier above to solve these problems. Remember, practice makes perfect.