Before we focus on the first way to use linking words, let's look at all the ways linking words can help you make smooth transitions: Linking Words: Create a logical flow between ideas Compare, contrast, add, agree, or refute Maintain cohesion Act as signposts to guide listeners through each idea0. 33764. At the beginning of each paragraph, you should aim to provide a clear topic sentence that tells the reader what the paragraph is about and also connects the paragraph to the previous paragraph or the main topic of the assignment. The following words and phrases are frequently used as paragraph openers and, The Ultimate List of Connection Words: Download. And now for the most interesting and practical part: below you will find the linking words worksheet which collects all the most commonly used transition words in essays. Feel free to download this linking words PDF and refer to it whenever you are writing an essay and experiencing writer's block: