1. Using Transition Words and Transitional Phrases
with Subordinating Conjunctions

2. Complex Sentences
A complex sentence adds a subordinate clause to a simple sentence.
The subordinate clause is called a dependent clause, while the simple sentence is called the independent clause.

3. Subordinating Conjunctions
Adjective clauses begin with these words:
who, whom, which, that, whose, when, where
Adverb clauses begin with these words:
time: before, after, as soon as, since, until
while, whenever
reason: as, because, since
condition: as if, even if, if, unless
contrast: although, even though, despite the fact
that, whereas
purpose: in order that, so that
manner: as if, as though

4. Complex Sentences
Robert wanted to study at San Diego State. His parents preferred UCSD.
While Robert wanted to study at San Diego State, his parents preferred UCSD.
We ate a large lunch. We had skipped breakfast.
Since we had skipped breakfast, we ate a large lunch.
Computers are an important part of life. Some people in the world have never seen one.
Even though computers are an important part of life, some people in the world have never seen one.

5. Transition Words
A transition word can be used with a semicolon (;) to make clearer the relationship between the two sentences.
Use to Show
Transition Word
result
as a result, consequently, therefore, thus
contrast
however, on the other hand, nonetheless, nevertheless
time
before that, after that, meanwhile, afterward, first
addition
moreover, furthermore, in addition
condition
otherwise
example
for example, for instance

6. Transition Words
You must use a semicolon (;) before the transition word and a comma (,) after the transition word to join one independent clause to another independent clause.
For example:
His first class begins at 8 AM; therefore, he leaves home at 7:30 AM to get there on time.

7. Practice
I would like to take a geometry class. I haven’t met the prerequisites yet.
Although I would like to take a geometry class, I haven’t met the prerequisites yet.
Working part-time gives you more free time. You don’t earn as much money as full time workers do.
Even though working part-time gives you more free time, you don’t earn as much money as full time workers do.

8. Practice I passed the math test. I spent all night studying for it.
As a result of studying all night, I passed the math test.
José didn’t study for the math test. He passed it anyway.
José didn’t study for the math test; however, he passed it anyway.
Use a semicolon!