Transition Words for Procedural Writing (Clear & Concise Instructions)

Quick reference: transitions by function

Sequencing & order

first, next, then, after that, subsequently, finally, beforehand, previously, meanwhile

Timing & duration

immediately, gradually, eventually, during, while, until, once, in the meantime, thereafter

Addition & continuation

also, in addition, additionally, continue, proceed, followed by

Cause & result

therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, so that, in order to

Conditions & branches

if, unless, provided that, otherwise, either…or

Clarification & precision

specifically, namely, in particular, exactly, precisely, to be specific

Warnings & emphasis

Note:, Caution:, Warning:, Avoid…, Do not…, Ensure…, Make sure…

Alternatives & options

otherwise, instead, either, if applicable

Verification & checks

check, confirm, verify, ensure, validate, observe

Closing & cleanup

finally, once complete, power off, dispose of, store, clean up

How to choose the right transition (3-step mini-framework)

1. Identify the step type: action, wait, check, or branch.
2. Pick the function: sequence, time, condition, or result.
3. Keep verbs parallel and use measurable language (e.g., “wait 5 minutes,” not “wait a bit”).

Sentence frames & patterns

• Sequencing: First, [imperative]. Then, [imperative]. Finally, [imperative].
• Timing: Once X is complete, next do Y. Meanwhile, prepare Z.
• Condition: If the status light stays red, then reset the device; otherwise, contact support.
• Result: Press “Build”; as a result, the app compiles with updated assets.
• Warning: Caution: Do not touch the blade while power is connected.
• Verification: Verify that the reading is between 5.0–5.5; otherwise, repeat Step 3.

For contrast moves inside procedures, use the dedicated set here: transition words for contrast.

Examples by domain

Cooking & recipes

1. Before you begin, preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. Meanwhile, whisk the eggs for 30 seconds.
3. Then fold in the flour until no dry spots remain.
4. Finally, bake for 18–20 minutes; check for a clean skewer.

Science experiments

1. Note: Wear goggles and gloves.
2. First, measure 50 mL of solution A; then add 5 mL of indicator.
3. After that, swirl until the color is uniform; observe any temperature change.
4. Finally, record the pH; dispose of liquids as instructed.

Craft & DIY

1. Beforehand, gather glue, clamps, and sandpaper.
2. Next, apply a thin coat; then clamp for 20 minutes.
3. If any squeeze-out appears, wipe immediately; otherwise, sand after curing.
4. Finally, verify joints are flush before finishing.

Software & tech setup

1. First, back up settings; then run the installer.
2. Once installation completes, restart.
3. After that, open Preferences and select the target profile.
4. Finally, confirm the app launches without errors.

Cleaning & maintenance

1. Note: Put on PPE.
2. Apply disinfectant and wait 10 minutes (dwell time).
3. Then wipe surfaces; verify no residue remains.
4. Finally, store chemicals and wash hands.

Punctuation & placement tips

1. Coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS) join two independent clauses with a comma; don’t comma-splice a compound predicate.
2. Conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover, meanwhile): use semicolon + adverb + comma between independent clauses, or start a new sentence and follow with a comma.
3. Introductory phrases like For example, usually take a comma.
4. Parallel sequences: keep form consistent (first, second, third).

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

• Overuse: Use transitions where logic needs a cue, not every line.
• Misuse: Don’t swap cause/effect for contrast. Use the proper set for transition words for contrast.
• Vagueness: Replace “wait a bit” with measurable timing.
• Inconsistency: Keep imperatives parallel across steps.

Master list: transitions for procedures (by purpose)

Sequence / time

first, second, third, next, then, after that, previously, subsequently, meanwhile, once, until, thereafter, finally

Addition / continuation

also, in addition, additionally, continue, proceed, followed by

Cause / effect / purpose

therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, so that, in order to, which leads to

Condition / branch

if, unless, provided that, otherwise, either…or, in case

Clarification / precision

specifically, namely, exactly, precisely, to be specific

Warnings / emphasis

Note:, Caution:, Warning:, Avoid…, Do not…, Ensure…, Make sure…, Double-check…

Verification / checks

check, confirm, verify, ensure, validate, observe, acceptance criteria

Closing / cleanup

finally, once complete, clean up, dispose of, store, power off

Printable cheat sheet & worksheet

Download a one-page list by function plus two practice tasks (reorder steps; improve transitions).