Transitions
SAT transition questions ask you to pick a single connecting word or phrase that fits the logic between two sentences. The trick: the right answer depends on the *relationship* between the sentences, not on what they're about.
A transition is a word or phrase like however, therefore, for instance, in addition, or in contrast that connects two ideas. The SAT gives you two sentences and asks which transition fits between them.
The thing students miss: the answer doesn't depend on the topic — it depends on the logical relationship between sentence 1 and sentence 2. Master a small set of relationship types and matching transitions, and these questions become almost mechanical.
Five relationships cover almost every transition question:
| Relationship | What sentence 2 does | Transitions |
|---|---|---|
| Contrast | Reverses or differs from sentence 1 | however, in contrast, yet, nevertheless |
| Cause / effect | Follows logically from sentence 1 | therefore, as a result, consequently, thus |
| Addition | Piles on more of the same kind of point | in addition, moreover, furthermore, also |
| Example | Illustrates with one specific instance | for instance, for example, to illustrate |
| Specification | Narrows / sharpens / breaks down sentence 1 | more specifically, in particular, namely |
The technique: read sentence 1 and sentence 2 separately, then ask "what's the relationship?" Don't pick a transition based on which sounds nice — pick based on the relationship you identified. Once you know the relationship, only one or two choices match.
On transition questions, the right transition matches the logical relationship — not just what sounds right.
Quick check. Read the two sentences and ask: does the second one continue, contrast, conclude, or give an example? Match the transition to the relationship.
Many species of migratory birds navigate using Earth's magnetic field. _______, the Arctic tern travels over 44,000 miles each year between its Arctic breeding grounds and Antarctic feeding areas, relying in part on magnetoreception.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Worked examples
The novelist's early works were praised for their lyrical prose. Her later novels, ____, adopted a more minimalist style that some critics found less engaging.
The museum's collection includes works by both well-known and emerging artists. ____, the permanent gallery features paintings by Monet and Picasso, while the rotating exhibition space showcases local artists who have not yet gained national recognition.
The local restaurant has been understaffed since the holidays. ____, customers have been waiting longer than usual for their orders.
Common pitfalls
The answer doesn't care whether the sentences are about Monet, jellyfish, or restaurants. It cares about whether sentence 2 is contrasting, adding to, specifying, or resulting from sentence 1. Strip the topic and look at the relationship.
For instance introduces ONE example among many. More specifically breaks down the general into its parts. If sentence 2 enumerates the categories sentence 1 mentioned ("both well-known and emerging artists" → "Monet... and local artists"), it's specification.
However is a contrast word. If sentence 2 is not actually reversing sentence 1, however is wrong even if the sentence reads smoothly with it. Verify the relationship is contrast before picking it.
Moreover / in addition signal another similar point. Therefore / as a result signal a logical consequence. Different meanings. If sentence 2 just adds another claim, use addition. If it follows logically, use cause/effect.
Key takeaways
Read both sentences first, then identify the logical relationship before looking at choices.
Five core relationships: contrast, cause/effect, addition, example, specification.
In contrast / however = contrast. Therefore / as a result = cause/effect. In addition / moreover = addition.
For instance = one example. More specifically = breaking down categories.
The topic of the sentences doesn't matter — only the relationship matters.
Watch & learn
Curated Khan Academy walkthroughs on Transitions. They're complementary to this lesson — watch one if a written explanation isn't clicking, or after to reinforce.
Try it yourself
5 practice questions on Transitions, drawn from the question bank. The tutor is one click away if you get stuck.