Master Para Completion Connectors
25 essential logical connectors that signal contrast, continuation, cause-effect, and conclusion. Transform pattern recognition from guessing to systematic accuracy in CAT para completion.
🔗 Para Completion Connectors
Master 25 logical transition words with functions and examples
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🎯 Test Your Connector Recognition
5 questions testing your ability to identify implied connectors
🎯 Test Complete!
Digital currencies promise decentralized financial systems independent of government control. Proponents argue this autonomy protects against currency manipulation and enables truly global transactions.
Which sentence best completes this paragraph? (Implied connector: However)
✓ Correct! Option C is the answer.
Why C is correct: The stem presents proponents’ positive view of digital currencies. The paragraph structure signals contrast is needed—presenting benefits sets up acknowledgment of drawbacks. Option C performs the contrast function with “However” introducing vulnerabilities.
Option A (conclusion) — draws a conclusion when contrast is needed
Option B (addition) — adds more benefits when we need counterpoint
Option D (example) — illustrates benefits rather than contrasting
Urban green spaces improve mental health by providing natural environments for relaxation. They reduce air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and particulate matter.
Which sentence best completes this paragraph? (Implied connector: Additionally/Moreover)
✓ Correct! Option B is the answer.
Why B is correct: The stem lists two benefits of green spaces (mental health, air pollution reduction). The accumulation pattern signals continuation—another benefit should follow. Option B performs the addition function with “Furthermore” introducing heat island mitigation.
Option A (contrast) — introduces drawback when we’re accumulating benefits
Option C (conclusion) — concludes prematurely; more evidence expected
Option D (example) — illustrates rather than continuing the list
Studies show remote work reduces commute time by an average of 52 minutes daily. It lowers office overhead costs by 30% for companies. Employee satisfaction scores increase 18% with flexible work options.
Which sentence best completes this paragraph? (Implied connector: Therefore/Thus)
✓ Correct! Option D is the answer.
Why D is correct: The stem provides three pieces of evidence (time savings, cost reduction, satisfaction increase). Three data points signal the paragraph is “full” and ready for synthesis. Option D performs the conclusion function, interpreting the evidence as “substantial mutual benefits.”
Option A (addition) — adds more evidence when synthesis is needed
Option B (example) — illustrates rather than concluding
Option C (contrast) — introduces limitation when conclusion is needed
Climate adaptation strategies vary significantly based on local geographic and economic conditions. Coastal cities face fundamentally different challenges than inland agricultural regions.
Which sentence best completes this paragraph? (Implied connector: For instance/For example)
✓ Correct! Option C is the answer.
Why C is correct: The stem makes a general claim (strategies vary by geography) and contrasts coastal vs. inland challenges. The abstract claim needs concrete illustration. Option C performs the example function with “For instance” showing specific cities (Miami vs. Phoenix) with different strategies.
Option A (conclusion) — draws conclusion from insufficient evidence
Option B (addition) — adds new factor rather than illustrating
Option D (contrast) — introduces unrelated contrast about cooperation
The 2020 pandemic disrupted global supply chains severely. Manufacturing hubs shut down for extended periods. International shipping costs increased by 300-400%.
Which sentence best completes this paragraph? (Implied connector: Consequently/As a result)
✓ Correct! Option C is the answer.
Why C is correct: The stem describes causes (disruption, shutdowns, cost increases). These conditions logically produce consequences. Option C performs the cause-effect function with “As a result” stating the outcome (availability decline, price increases).
Option A (time) — describes simultaneous event, not consequence
Option B (addition) — adds more causes rather than showing effect
Option D (example) — illustrates one specific case rather than stating overall result
🔗 How to Master Para Completion Connectors
Strategic approaches for systematic connector recognition and function matching
The Six Connector Categories
Master these six functional categories and you’ll recognize 90%+ of connector patterns in CAT para completion:
Focus on category understanding rather than memorizing individual words. Once you grasp the contrast function, you’ll recognize it whether signaled by “however,” “yet,” or “despite.”
Reading for Implied Connectors
Most CAT paragraphs use implicit logical relationships without explicit connector words. Learn to feel which connector would fit:
The “Insert One Word” Test
Ask yourself: “If I had to add one word before the missing sentence, what would it be?”
- Paragraph presents common view → Implicit “however” (contrast coming)
- Paragraph lists reasons/evidence → Implicit “moreover” (continuation)
- Paragraph provides 3+ data points → Implicit “therefore” (conclusion needed)
- Paragraph makes general claim → Implicit “for example” (illustration needed)
- Setup-contrast structure signals implicit “however” even without the word
- Accumulation structure (Factor A… Factor B…) signals implicit “moreover”
- Evidence structure (Study A… Research B…) signals implicit “therefore”
- General claim structure signals implicit “for instance” for illustration
Do 15 questions where you write down the implied connector before reading options. Check if you predicted correctly. After 15, your connector intuition becomes automatic.
Function Verification Process
Once you’ve identified the required connector function, systematically check which options perform that function:
Step-by-Step Function Matching
- Step 1: Identify implied connector in stem (contrast? addition? conclusion?)
- Step 2: Read each option and tag its logical role
- Step 3: Reject options that perform wrong functions
- Step 4: If multiple options perform right function, use secondary criteria
Key Insight: Options that perform wrong functions fail regardless of topic relevance. An option might discuss the right subject but provide continuation when contrast is needed. Topic fit without function fit = wrong answer.
When two options both perform the correct function, check: (1) lexical links to stem, (2) scope consistency, (3) tone match. But function match is always the primary filter.
Common Connector Mistakes
Avoid these systematic errors that kill accuracy even when you know the connector categories:
Mistake 1: Forcing “however” when contrast isn’t set up
You see problems and assume “however” leads to solutions. But if the paragraph is accumulating problems, it needs continuation (more problems), not contrast.
Mistake 2: Reading “also” when paragraph wants conclusion
The stem provides multiple pieces of evidence and you think “another piece would fit.” But sufficient evidence has been given—the paragraph wants synthesis, not more examples.
Mistake 3: Picking examples without general claims
An option starts “For instance, Tokyo implemented…” You pick it because it sounds specific. But the stem never made a general claim needing illustration.
Mistake 4: Confusing “finally” with “for example”
“Finally” signals conclusion or last point in sequence, not illustration. Check whether the context is closing or exemplifying.
After identifying your predicted connector, verify the stem actually supports it. Ask: “Does this paragraph set up contrast?” or “Does this provide enough evidence for conclusion?” If no, reconsider your connector prediction.
Understanding Para Completion Connectors
You’ve learned the 25 key connectors. Now understand why connector-based pattern matching works—and how to apply it systematically to any para completion question.
Understanding Connector Words in Para Completion
Connector words signal the logical role of the next sentence in para completion questions. They tell you whether the missing sentence should contrast with what came before, continue in the same direction, provide an example, state a conclusion, show a result, or mark time sequence. Even when the connector itself is missing from options, you must feel which connector fits and choose the sentence that plays that role.
These logical signals are the key to para completion accuracy. Without recognizing connectors, you’re reduced to picking sentences that sound good rather than sentences that complete the logical move. CAT options often include multiple topically relevant sentences, so connector-based pattern matching separates correct from plausible.
Key Insight: Most test-takers underutilize connectors because they focus on topic continuity alone. They verify an option discusses the same subject but don’t verify it performs the logical function signaled by the paragraph’s structure.
Pause & Reflect
Think about the last para completion question you got wrong. Did you pick an option that was topically relevant but performed the wrong logical function?
This is the #1 cause of para completion errors. An option discusses the right subject but provides continuation when contrast is needed, or examples when conclusions are required.
The fix: Before reading options, identify the implied connector. Ask “What word would I insert before the missing sentence?” Then match options to that function.
Topic fit without function fit = wrong answer. Function match is primary; topic match is secondary.
The Six Major Connector Categories
Connectors fall into six functional categories, each serving distinct logical purposes. Understanding these categories lets you predict what type of sentence must come next.
Category 1: Contrast Connectors
These signal turning or qualifying an earlier idea. The paragraph establishes something, then pivots to opposition, exception, or limitation. Major contrast connectors: however, nevertheless, yet, but, although, though, despite, in spite of, while, whereas.
Pattern: “Traditional view says X. However, [MAIN IDEA challenges X].”
When a paragraph presents one view, common belief, or apparent solution, watch for contrast setup. The completion likely introduces opposing evidence, reveals limitations, or qualifies the claim.
Category 2: Addition Connectors
These signal more of the same type of point—adding another reason, another example, another piece of evidence in the same direction. Major addition connectors: moreover, furthermore, additionally, also, besides.
When a paragraph lists reasons, provides evidence, or builds a case, watch for continuation signals. The completion likely parallels earlier structure.
Category 3: Cause-Effect Connectors
These signal results, inferences, or consequences from stated causes or conditions. Major cause-effect connectors: therefore, thus, hence, consequently, as a result.
When a paragraph describes causes, trends, conditions, or establishes premises, watch for result signals. The completion likely states what follows logically or causally.
Test Your Understanding
A paragraph provides three statistics about remote work benefits. What connector function should the completion perform: addition (more stats) or conclusion (synthesis)?
Conclusion. Three data points typically signal the paragraph is “full” and ready for synthesis, not more evidence.
This is one of the most common mistakes: seeing evidence accumulating and thinking “more evidence would fit” when actually sufficient evidence has been provided.
1-2 points → probably wants continuation. 3+ points → probably wants conclusion. Context matters, but “fullness” usually indicates synthesis is needed.
Category 4: Example Connectors
These signal illustration of general ideas with specific cases. Major example connectors: for example, for instance, consider, take the case of, such as.
When a paragraph makes general claims, describes theories, or outlines principles, watch for illustration signals. The completion likely provides concrete cases demonstrating the abstract point.
Category 5: Conclusion Connectors
These signal wrap-up, overall judgment, or final takeaway. Major conclusion connectors: in sum, in short, ultimately, finally, in conclusion, overall.
When a paragraph accumulates evidence, weighs factors, or builds an argument, watch for synthesis signals. The completion likely interprets what’s been presented at a higher level.
Category 6: Time Connectors
These signal temporal sequence, often in narrative or historical contexts. Major time connectors: meanwhile, subsequently, previously, afterwards, before, during.
When a paragraph describes events, changes over time, or historical developments, watch for temporal signals. The completion likely continues the timeline.
Reading for Implied Connectors
Explicit connectors make pattern recognition mechanical—”however” clearly signals contrast, “therefore” clearly signals conclusion. But many paragraphs use implicit logical relationships without connector words. You must feel what connector would fit.
Strategy in Action
Read this stem: “Traditional economic models assume rational actors making decisions based on complete information. These models successfully predict market behavior in stable conditions.” No connector appears. What’s the implied connector?
The implied connector is “however” (contrast).
The paragraph is clearly building toward “but what about unstable conditions?” or “but behavioral research shows…” The setup—presenting a view and its success in limited context—signals challenge is coming.
How to identify: Ask “If I had to add one word before the missing sentence, what would it be?” Your instinct about what connector would fit identifies the required logical function.
The structure itself signals the connector even when the word is absent. Setup-contrast structure → implicit “however.”
Matching Options to Connector Functions
Once you’ve identified the required connector function—contrast, addition, result, example, or conclusion—systematically check which options perform that function.
Function verification process: Read each option and tag its logical role. Does it contrast with the stem? Continue the stem? Conclude from the stem? Illustrate the stem? Show results of the stem? Match tags to the required function.
Options that perform wrong functions fail regardless of topic relevance. An option might discuss the right subject but provide continuation when contrast is needed. It discusses the topic correctly but completes the logic incorrectly.
Reality Check
When you’re stuck between two options, do you rely on “which sounds better” or do you systematically check which performs the required function?
Most students rely on intuition about what “sounds right.” High scorers match functions systematically.
When two options seem plausible, the systematic approach asks: “Does Option A perform contrast/addition/conclusion? Does Option B?” One will match the required function; one won’t.
When stuck: (1) Reconfirm the implied connector, (2) Tag each remaining option’s function, (3) Pick the function match. If both match, use secondary criteria (lexical links, scope, tone).
Common Connector Mistakes to Avoid
Understanding what not to do prevents systematic errors that kill accuracy even when you know the connector categories.
Mistake 1: Forcing “however” when contrast isn’t set up. You see a paragraph about problems and assume it needs “however” leading to solutions. But if the paragraph is accumulating problems, it needs continuation (more problems) not contrast (solutions). Check whether the stem actually sets up opposition before assuming contrast.
Mistake 2: Reading “also” when paragraph wants conclusion. The stem provides multiple pieces of evidence and you think “another piece of evidence would fit.” But sufficient evidence has been given—the paragraph wants synthesis, not more examples.
Mistake 3: Ignoring existing contrasts. The paragraph already used “however” to make one contrast. Adding another “however” completion over-tilts the logic. Most paragraphs make one major logical turn, not multiple turns.
Mistake 4: Picking examples without general claims. An option starts “For instance, Tokyo implemented…” You pick it because it sounds specific and concrete. But the stem never made a general claim needing illustration.
Final Self-Assessment
Can you now name the six connector categories and give one example connector for each without looking back?
If you can name all six with examples, you’ve internalized the framework. Here’s the check:
1. Contrast: However, But, Yet
2. Addition: Moreover, Furthermore, Additionally
3. Cause-Effect: Therefore, Thus, Consequently
4. Example: For instance, For example, Consider
5. Conclusion: In sum, Ultimately, Overall
6. Time: Meanwhile, Subsequently, Previously
If you missed any category, review the flashcards focusing on that category. Category understanding transfers better than memorizing individual words.
Fix Strategy: After identifying the implied connector in the stem, explicitly check each option: “Does this option perform [contrast/continuation/conclusion/example/result] function?” Reject any that don’t perform the identified function before evaluating other criteria.
Master connector recognition and your para completion accuracy jumps significantly. Know the six major categories, recognize them even when implied rather than explicit, match options to the connector function required, and avoid forcing wrong connector types onto paragraphs that don’t support them.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about para completion connectors answered
Connectors transform pattern recognition from subjective to systematic. Instead of asking “which option sounds good,” you ask “which option performs the logical function this connector signals?” This eliminates 2-3 options immediately.
When a paragraph uses “however,” you know the completion must contrast. All continuation or conclusion options fail automatically regardless of topic fit. This mechanical filtering brings accuracy from 60% to 85%+ because you’re matching logical function, not guessing based on content appeal.
Most paragraphs use implicit logical relationships. Read the structure to infer which connector would fit. Three patterns help:
- Setup-contrast structure → signals implicit “however”
- Accumulation structure → signals implicit “moreover”
- Evidence structure → signals implicit “therefore”
Ask: “If I had to add one word before the missing sentence, what would it be?” Your instinct identifies the required function. Then find the option that performs that function whether or not it explicitly uses the connector word.
Yes. The option must perform the connector’s function, not necessarily use its word. A contrast completion might start with “Critics argue…” instead of “However…” Both provide opposition. Function matters more than vocabulary.
The connector word in your prediction tells you what logical role is needed. Options can fulfill that role through content alone. “Recent evidence challenges this view” performs contrast function without saying “however.”
Check whether the paragraph actually sets up the connector you think it needs:
- Contrast requires establishing something to contrast against
- Continuation requires starting a list or pattern
- Example requires making a general claim
- Conclusion requires providing enough evidence to synthesize
Don’t assume “problems need solutions” so every problem paragraph needs “however” leading to solutions. Some problem paragraphs need more problems (continuation), some need problem implications (conclusion), some need specific cases (example).
Confusing continuation with conclusion. Test-takers see evidence or reasons accumulating and think “more evidence would fit” (continuation logic). But often sufficient evidence has been provided and the paragraph wants synthesis (conclusion logic).
The fix: Count how many supporting points exist. If the paragraph gives 1-2 points, it probably wants continuation. If it gives 3+ points, it probably wants conclusion. Context matters—some topics need more evidence before concluding than others.
Time connectors (meanwhile, subsequently, previously) operate on temporal logic rather than argumentative logic. They’re less common but appear in narrative or historical contexts. Miss them and you create chronological incoherence.
- “Meanwhile” indicates simultaneity—something happening at the same time
- “Subsequently” indicates sequence—what happened next
- “Previously” references earlier states
Understand the six categories deeply rather than memorizing individual connectors. Once you grasp contrast function, you’ll recognize it whether signaled by “however,” “yet,” “but,” or “despite.” Category understanding transfers; word lists don’t.
Focus on: (1) Contrast, (2) Addition, (3) Cause-Effect, (4) Example, (5) Conclusion, (6) Time. Within each category, learn 3-5 common connectors. That covers 90% of questions. Memorizing all 30+ connectors adds little value beyond category mastery.
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