Sequencing and Organizing

Master the art of ordering ideas and events in English

Grammar
Examples
Exercises

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Sequencing Words & Phrases

There are a number of words and phrases in English which help to explain the order of events. They can also be used to organize text and make it easier to understand.

Key Sequencing Expressions

first of all
to begin with
then
next
after that
furthermore
for example
for instance
in conclusion
overall
finally
meanwhile

Categories

  • Beginning: first of all, to begin with
  • Adding: furthermore, moreover, in addition
  • Examples: for example, for instance
  • Sequence: then, next, after that
  • Conclusion: in conclusion, overall, finally

Real-World Examples

Baking a Cake

First of all, I find my recipe. Then I switch on the oven and find my ingredients. Next, I put all the ingredients into a bowl and mix them together. After that, I pour the mixture into a baking pan. Finally, put the cake into the oven for about 25 minutes.

Protecting Forests

First of all, forests are home to so many local species. Additionally, they provide employment to many people in the region. Furthermore, many species are in danger of extinction. Meanwhile, the logging companies continue to destroy vast areas. In conclusion, forests are in need of urgent protection.

Choosing a Home

First of all, you should decide where you want to live. Furthermore, what type of house should you choose? For example, do you want to live in an apartment or a house? For instance, does the property have a balcony? In conclusion, think carefully before buying a house.

Practice Exercises

117.1 Fill in the Gaps

Use the words in the panel to complete the expressions.

overall
for example
furthermore
next
first of all
then
to begin with
for instance
in conclusion
moreover
  1. ________ =
  2. ________ =
  3. ________ =
  4. ________ =
  5. ________ =

117.2 Match the Beginnings to the Endings

  1. First of all, I find my recipe
  2. Then I switch on the
  3. Next, I put all the ingredients
  4. After that, I pour the mixture
  5. You can add extra ingredients,
  6. Finally, put the cake into










117.3 Rewrite the Sentences

Rearrange the words to form correct sentences.

  1. First of all
    you should decide
    where you want to live
    you
    of
  2. Furthermore
    what type of house
    should you choose
    want
    house

117.4 Cross Out Incorrect Words

  1. First of all / First of all, forests are home to so many local species.
  2. Additional / Additionally, they provide employment to many people in the region.
  3. Farthermore / Furthermore, many species are in danger of extinction.
  4. Meantime / Meanwhile, the logging companies continue to destroy vast areas.
  5. In conclusion / By conclusion, forests are in need of urgent protection.

Correct forms are shown in bold. Incorrect forms are crossed out.