SAT Reading and Writing / Expression of Ideas
SAT topic
Transitions
Match the relationship between ideas.
Learning goals
- Name the logical relationship before picking a transition word.
- Test contrast, cause, continuation, and example as four possible jobs.
Explanation
Ask what relationship exists between ideas: contrast, cause and effect, continuation, or example. Then select the transition that matches that relationship.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a transition that sounds formal but reverses the logic.
- Reading only the sentence with the blank and ignoring the sentence after it.
Practice
A paragraph presents a claim and then introduces evidence that contradicts it. Which type of transition is most likely appropriate between the claim and the evidence?
Original Marlow Works item — not a College Board question.
Take your time—this is practice, not a test.
Quick review
- 01Cover the transition and say 'same,' 'opposite,' 'because,' or 'for example.'
- 02Read the sentence after the blank.
- 03Plug the remaining choice back in out loud.
Related resources
External links with reuse status. Marlow Works is independent and does not copy restricted exam or textbook material.
Official / link only
Official SAT practice hub
College Board SAT practice landing page, including links to tests and tools.
College Board · All rights reserved · accessed 2026-10-01
Open sourceOfficial / link only
Bluebook full-length practice
Official digital SAT practice tests in the Bluebook app.
College Board · All rights reserved · accessed 2026-10-01
Open sourceOfficial / link only
Student Question Bank
Official SAT practice questions hosted by College Board.
College Board · All rights reserved · accessed 2026-10-01
Use as an external link. Do not republish question stems.
Open sourceOfficial / link only
Official SAT Prep on Khan Academy
College Board describes this as free Official SAT Prep with lessons, hints, and walkthroughs.
Khan Academy / College Board · All rights reserved · accessed 2026-10-01
Open source