The Power of Connectivity: The Science and Art of Transitions

18 Legal Comm. & Rhetoric: JALWD 65 (2021)

Arizona Legal Studies Discussion Paper No. 20-36

16 Pages Posted: 31 Jul 2020 Last revised: 18 Nov 2021

See all articles by Diana Simon

Diana Simon

James E. Rogers College of Law, The University of Arizona

Date Written: November 13, 2021

Abstract

Transitions matter, yet they are an underrated aspect of legal writing. This article argues that legal writers should pay more attention to transitions and use them to make the connections between ideas more transparent to readers. First, the article uses the cognitive science behind transitions to show that transitions can speed processing time and improve comprehension, and to explain why some transitions work better than others. Second, the article explores the art of transitions such as point headings and rhetorical questions with the help of a Justin Timberlake song and a stand-up comedy act. Finally, the article explains how substantive and linking transitions help improve flow and readability in legal writing, especially through the use of first, second, and third (and no more).

Keywords: transitions, science behind transitions, legal analysis and writing, legal professions, rhetoric, trial and appellate advocacy

Suggested Citation

Simon, Diana, The Power of Connectivity: The Science and Art of Transitions (November 13, 2021). 18 Legal Comm. & Rhetoric: JALWD 65 (2021), Arizona Legal Studies Discussion Paper No. 20-36, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3664846

Diana Simon (Contact Author)

James E. Rogers College of Law, The University of Arizona ( email )

P.O. Box 210176
Tucson, AZ 85721-0176
United States

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