Overview
Formal connectors are transitional words and phrases used in academic and professional writing: furthermore, in addition, consequently, nevertheless, as a result, in contrast, with regard to. They create logical flow and signal relationships between paragraphs and arguments.
Categories
- Contrasthowever, nevertheless, on the other hand, by contrast
- Additionfurthermore, in addition, what is more, additionally
- Cause/Resulttherefore, consequently, as a result, for this reason
- Concessionadmittedly, granted, while it is true that
Placement Rules
- Sentence-initial: Furthermore, the report confirms the findings.
- Mid-sentence: The report therefore confirms the findings.
- After semicolon: Sales fell; consequently, staff were cut.
- Use a comma after sentence-initial connectors.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Furthermore he was late and he forgot → ✅ add comma: Furthermore, he was late…
- ❌ Using 'so' in formal writing → prefer therefore / consequently
- ❌ Consequently used for contrast → it means result, not contrast
When to use
Academic essays
The data is limited. Furthermore, the sample is small.
Business writing
Costs rose. Consequently, prices were adjusted.
Reports
On the other hand, customer satisfaction improved.
Arguments
Admittedly, there are drawbacks to this approach.