Many writers use the same transitional word or expression over and over without realizing that there are other choices of transition available. First, although some of the add-a-point transitions do just that -- add a point -- others "add" more uniquely. For example, "equally important" gives balance to ideas and allows for points to be compared; "above all" stresses the development of ideas from the least to the most important; "least of all" suggests the lack of importance of a final point in a series.
To write a sequential paragraph or a longer sequential piece such as an essay, choose "first, next, then, after that, and finally" to show transitional addition in time order; or choose "initially, in the second place, subsequently, to add to that, and most of all" to show addition in climactic order. Thus, use add-a-point transition not only to add a single point, but also to structure multiple points for lengthier pieces of writing such as letters, reports, essays, or chapters in a book.
Example
There are several plans of action that your community group can follow. First of all, begin an awareness campaign using the media; following that, set up booths at key shopping centers to attract and enlist new volunteers; finally, demonstrate a commitment for change by beginning and supporting a political action campaign. As a result, your dream of reducing crime will begin to shape itself into a reality.
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