Here are some examples of connecting words and their uses:
Coordinating Conjunctions:
* and: joins similar ideas (The cat sat *and* slept.)
* but: shows contrast (I wanted pizza, *but* we had pasta.)
* or: presents alternatives (Do you want tea *or* coffee?)
* so: shows consequence (He was tired, *so* he went to bed.)
* yet: shows contrast (It was raining, *yet* we had a good time.)
* for: shows reason (He couldn't sleep, *for* his mind was racing.)
* nor: joins negative statements (He didn't eat breakfast *nor* did he have lunch.)
Subordinating Conjunctions:
* because: shows reason (He was sad *because* he lost his dog.)
* although: shows contrast (We went to the beach *although* it was raining.)
* since: shows time or reason (I've been studying *since* morning.)
* while: shows contrast or time (He was reading a book *while* she was watching TV.)
* if: shows condition (We'll go to the park *if* it doesn't rain.)
* unless: shows exception (We'll go to the park *unless* it rains.)
* before: shows order (He ate breakfast *before* he left for work.)
* after: shows order (He went to bed *after* he finished his homework.)
Conjunctive Adverbs:
* however: shows contrast (He worked hard; *however*, he didn't succeed.)
* therefore: shows consequence (He studied hard; *therefore*, he passed the exam.)
* moreover: adds more information (He is smart; *moreover*, he's also kind.)
* besides: adds additional information (I like pizza; *besides*, I also enjoy pasta.)
* also: adds similar information (He's a good student; *also*, he's a talented musician.)
Connecting words play a vital role in making your writing clear, concise, and engaging. By understanding their functions and using them correctly, you can improve the overall flow and understanding of your writing.