Linking words and expressions for writing in the sciences
Function
Similarity
Contrast
Linking word examples
Examples in sentences
Similarly,
Likewise,
In a similar way,
A similar study…
Similarly, proteins in the endoplasmic
reticulum function as…
In contrast,
Conversely,
On the other hand, (less
formal)
In contrast, Van der Waals forces are much
weaker.
While…, …
Although…., …
….; however,…
….However,…
A similar study also found a correlation
between …
While covalent bonds are very strong, Van
der Waals forces are much weaker and only
allow temporary associations between
molecules.
Although the design was adequate,
insufficient planning had gone into the
implementation stage.
There was an increase in the concentration
of hydrogen ions; however, there was no
change in…
Cause →
Effect
X causes Y
X leads to Y
X results in Y
X leads to Y
X brings about Y
As a result of
Because of X, …Y
happened
Due to X, … Y
happened
Owing to X, … Y
happened
As X happened, Y
happened
Since X happened, Y
happened
Because X happens, Y
happened
Linking word
A reaction of this type causes extensive
damage to the cells.
The build-up of charge leads to an
electrostatic force.
As a result of the storm damage, the site
was no longer suitable for the study.
Due to the small sample size, significant
results were not obtained.
As this behaviour has not been observed in
any other species, further research is needed
to determine…
Since there was no significant effect
detected, it was decided to run the
experiment again using a different sample.
Examples in sentences
Function
Effect →
Cause
examples
X results from Y
X was caused by Y
X may be due to Y
X could be a
consequence of Y
*Moreover,
Furthermore,
In addition,
Additional
point
A buildup of charge results from this
interaction.
The signal noise could be a consequence
of a semiconductor defect.
Moreover, there are no specific advantages
of using this type of pathogen as a model.
In addition, these types of molecules have
the disadvantage of forming aggregates.
* These linking words should be used
infrequently. It is not necessary to have a
linking word between every sentence. It is
also much better to use more specific linking
phrases e.g. “A further disadvantage is…”
First,
Firstly,
After that,
Chronology Then,
(time order) Next,
The sample was first treated with nitric acid
in order to…
After that, the trace metal was extracted
with…
The sample was then analysed using a…
Summary
Example
Purpose
In conclusion,
To sum up,
In summary,
In short,
For example,
To illustrate,
…such as…
In conclusion, no significant difference
between in the reproductive rates of the two
species was found.
To
In order to
So that
So as to
The sample was agitated to ensure an even
distribution of the colloid particles.
For example, subsoil physiochemical
constraints are a major factor limiting crop
productivity.
The sample was agitated in order to evenly
distribute the colloid particles.
The sample was agitated so that the colloid
particles became evenly distributed.