GV

Linking Words: Sequence

Ordering ideas: first, then, next, after that, finally, in conclusion

beginner

When to Use Linking Words: Sequence

  • •Starting: First, Firstly, To begin with, First of all.
  • •Continuing: Then, Next, After that, Secondly, Subsequently.
  • •Adding: In addition, Furthermore, Moreover.
  • •Ending: Finally, Lastly, In conclusion, To sum up.
  • •Instructions, processes, essays, narratives.

How to Form Linking Words: Sequence

Affirmative (+)

Sequence word + comma + sentence

Negative (-)

Same structure with negation

Question (?)

What happens first/next/then?

💡 Usually followed by comma when at start of sentence.

Examples of Linking Words: Sequence

✓First, preheat the oven. Then, mix the ingredients.

✗First preheat the oven. Then mix the ingredients.

Comma after sequence words.

✓Finally, we reached the summit.

✗At finally, we reached the summit.

Finally doesn't need 'at'.

✓After that, she went home.

✗After, she went home.

After that (not just after) for sequence.

Common Mistakes with Linking Words: Sequence

💡 Practice Tips for Linking Words: Sequence

  • • First → Then/Next → After that → Finally.
  • • Comma after sequence words at start of sentence.
  • • Be consistent: first/second/third OR firstly/secondly/thirdly.
  • • At first ≠ first (at first = initially, implying change).
Quick Quiz
  1. 1. , preheat the oven. Then, mix the ingredients.
  2. 2.We climbed for hours.  , we reached the summit.
  3. 3.Which is consistent in style? 
  4. 4.I cooked dinner.  , we ate.
  5. Question 5: Add the comma: Finally blank we reached the top.
    5.Add the comma: Finally we reached the top.
  6. Question 6: Choose 'first' or 'at first': blank, I cooked. Then I ate. (start of a list)
    6.Choose 'first' or 'at first': , I cooked. Then I ate. (start of a list)
  7. Question 7: Replace with the right last-step word: In the end, mix well. → blank, mix well. (last step in a recipe)
    7.Replace with the right last-step word: In the end, mix well. → , mix well. (last step in a recipe)
Grammar sorted. Now grow your vocabulary.

Save the words you meet, review on a smart schedule. Free to start.

Practice this with a real tutor

Just finished Linking Words: Sequence? Don't let it stay theoretical — book a lesson on Tuton.