Transition Words for Informative Speech (with Examples & Templates)

By Editorial Team · September 22, 2025
Linking Words#transition words#informative speech#public speaking#presentations#linking words

Informative speeches explain, teach, or report. To be memorable, they rely on clear structure and signposting—so listeners can’t “scroll back,” but they can still follow a smooth, logical flow powered by effective transition words.

For the big-picture guide, see Transition Words in Speech. Below is a function-based toolkit you can copy-paste into your notes.

Informative speech with transitions

What Makes an Informative Speech Different

Informative talks prioritize clarity and retention over persuasion. Transitions act as verbal highlights—signaling new sections, recapping key facts, and tying evidence to takeaways.

Key difference from persuasive speeches: lean on neutral, explanatory transitions (for example, as you can see) rather than emphatic ones (therefore, ultimately).

Transition Families for Informative Talks

Signposts (Structure)

  • first / next / finally
  • let's begin with / moving on to / to wrap up
  • at a high level / drilling down / stepping back

Sequencing (Process)

  • initially / then / afterwards / subsequently
  • before / during / after
  • step 1 / step 2 / step 3

Illustrating (Examples)

  • for example / for instance / to illustrate
  • such as / including / let's consider
  • as shown in / take the case of

Cause–Effect (Logic)

  • therefore / as a result / so
  • because / since / which means
  • leading to / resulting in

Comparing (Analysis)

  • similarly / likewise / in the same way
  • however / on the other hand / whereas
  • by contrast / compared to

Recapping (Retention)

  • to recap / in summary / overall
  • as we've seen / to review
  • key takeaways include

The Right Transition for the Job (By Function)

Opening a Section (Orientation)

  • To begin with, let’s define key terms.
  • Today we’ll explore three main concepts.
  • First, an overview of the process.

Sequencing Steps (Process)

  • Initially, install the base unit.
  • Then, connect the lines; afterwards, test for leaks.
  • Subsequently, calibrate the thermostat.

Illustrating a Point (Examples)

  • For example, in mild climates, efficiency hits 400%.
  • To illustrate, consider a standard home: savings average $800/year.
  • As shown in this diagram, the refrigerant flows counterclockwise.

Explaining Cause–Effect (Why/How)

  • Because it uses electricity efficiently, running costs drop.
  • Since no combustion occurs, emissions are near zero.
  • Which means indoor air stays cleaner.

Showing Contrast (Difference)

  • However, performance drops without proper insulation.
  • On the other hand, hybrid systems maintain comfort in cold snaps.
  • Whereas boilers burn fuel, heat pumps relocate heat.

Citing Evidence (Credibility)

  • According to field studies, seasonal efficiency exceeds nameplate ratings.
  • The data show significant emission reductions in mild climates.
  • Research indicates COP remains > 2 at -10°C for many models.

Zooming In/Out (Scope)

  • Drilling down, let’s analyze compressor cycles.
  • At a high level, electrification shifts energy demand from fuel to power.
  • Stepping back, the broader trend is decarbonization.

Summarizing a Section (Recap)

  • To recap, we defined the system and mapped its cycle.
  • In summary, efficiency stems from moving—not making—heat.
  • Overall, viability depends on climate, insulation, and rates.

Sentence Templates You Can Steal

  • Definition-first: First, we’ll define X. Next, we’ll examine how it works. Finally, we’ll review examples.
  • Process/How-it-works: Initially, prepare A. Then, apply B. Afterwards, verify C. As a result, you should see D.
  • Compare/Contrast overview: In the same way, Model 1 scales; however, Model 2 plateaus.
  • Evidence-led: According to the dataset, X increased; therefore, Y follows.
  • Zoom out → Summary: Stepping back, the pattern is clear. In summary, three factors drive the outcome.

Mini Informative Speech (Transitions Highlighted)

Topic: How Heat Pumps Work (120 seconds)

To begin with, a heat pump moves heat instead of generating it. At a high level, it uses a refrigerant loop to shuttle energy.

First, the refrigerant evaporates outdoors and absorbs ambient heat—even in cold air. Next, the compressor increases pressure; therefore, temperature rises.

For example, when pressure doubles, the refrigerant’s temperature climbs, so the indoor coil can release heat into your home. Meanwhile, the outdoor coil cools and resets the cycle.

However, performance depends on insulation and sizing. On the other hand, cold-climate models maintain output well below freezing.

According to field studies, seasonal efficiency can exceed nameplate ratings; as a result, operating costs often drop.

In summary, heat pumps shift energy rather than create it—therefore, with proper design, they deliver efficient comfort across seasons.

Slides, Delivery & Notes

  • Speaker notes: script one transition per slide change to prevent filler.
  • Voice & pacing: add a ½–1s pause around major signposts.
  • Visual callouts: pair as you can see with a laser/cursor highlight.
  • Ethos cues: use according to / the data show when citing sources.

Common Pitfalls (and Easy Fixes)

  • Over-stuffing transitions: pick one strong signpost + pause.
  • Vague bridges: name the destination (e.g., Moving on to data quality).
  • All examples, no recap: close each section with a one-sentence summary.
  • Evidence with no implication: add therefore / as a result to state what it means.

10-Minute Practice Plan

  1. 2 min: outline three sections (first / next / finally).
  2. 4 min: add one example and one cause–effect bridge per section.
  3. 2 min: rehearse with speaker-note signposts.
  4. 2 min: record & check clarity.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a signpost and a transition word?

Signposts are structural cues (first, next, finally); transition words are the language that delivers them. In speech, you need both phrase and pause.

How many transitions per minute?

Roughly 1–2 light signposts per minute, plus stronger ones at section breaks. Use fewer, clearer phrases instead of stacking three in a row.

What are strong openers for an informative speech?

Try: To begin with…, Today we’ll explore…, or First we’ll look at… These orient listeners to topic, scope, and structure immediately.

How do I transition smoothly between slides?

Script one signpost per slide change (Next, turning to X…), pause ½–1s, then name the destination (In this section…). Keep voice steady and gestures consistent.

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