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SAT Transition Words

Every SAT transition does one of 8 jobs. Learn the jobs and the words that go with each, then practice with 194 official transitions questions.

SAT transition word flashcard with the list of transitions in the deckSAT transition word flashcard with the list of transitions in the deck
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✦8 jobs to learn
8transition groups
63transition words
194official questions
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The 8 Transition Groups

Work out how two ideas connect, then pick a word from the matching group.

  • Subverting ExpectationsThe second idea contrasts with or goes against the first.however, nevertheless, by contrast, instead
  • Zooming InThe second idea gives an example or more detail about the first.for example, for instance, specifically
  • SwappingThe ideas can be swapped without changing the meaning.in addition, additionally, moreover, likewise
  • Cause and EffectThe second idea is caused by the first.therefore, thus, consequently, as a result
  • SequenceThe ideas show events in time order.then, next, subsequently, finally
  • RestatementThe second idea says the first one again in different words.in other words, in summary, in conclusion
  • ConfirmationThe second idea adds information that backs up the first.indeed, in fact, of course
  • FrequencyThe idea shows a trend or something that keeps happening.sometimes, increasingly, often, again and again

Then Learn Every Word

The Transitions deck has 63 cards: see a transition word and name the group it belongs to.

Open the Transitions Flashcards ›
SAT Scholar flashcards page with the Transition Groups, Transitions, Vocab, Prefix, Root and Suffix decksSAT Scholar flashcards page with the Transition Groups, Transitions, Vocab, Prefix, Root and Suffix decks

Common Questions

What are transition words on the SAT?

Words and phrases that show how two ideas connect, like however, therefore and for example. Transitions questions ask you to pick the one that fits the logic between two sentences.

What are the 8 types of SAT transitions?

Subverting Expectations, Zooming In, Swapping, Cause and Effect, Sequence, Restatement, Confirmation, Frequency.

How many transitions questions are on the SAT?

About 6 questions per test. The question bank has 194 to practice.

How do I answer SAT transitions questions?

Read the sentences before and after the blank, decide how they connect, and name that job before you look at the choices. Then pick the word that does that job.

Are these flashcards free?

The Transition Groups deck is free with no account. The 63-card Transitions deck opens with 5 free cards, and members get the rest.

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