Common Mistakes with ‘in addition’ in Academic Writing
The phrase in addition is one of the most frequently used linking words in academic writing, but it is also one of the most misused. The core problem is that many writers treat it as a simple synonym for and or also without considering its grammatical role, its formal tone, or the logical relationship it creates between ideas. In academic writing, in addition should introduce a new point that supports or extends the previous one, not just repeat it or add an unrelated fact. This guide explains exactly how to use it correctly, where it fits in a sentence, and what common errors to avoid.
Quick Answer: How to Use ‘in addition’ Correctly
Use in addition at the start of a sentence to introduce a supporting point. It is always followed by a comma. For example: The experiment showed a clear correlation. In addition, the results were statistically significant. Do not use in addition to connect two items in a list (use and instead). Do not use it in informal emails or casual conversation unless you want a very formal tone. In academic essays, it works best when you are adding evidence, reasons, or examples that build on your previous argument.
What ‘in addition’ Actually Means
In addition signals that you are providing extra information that is logically connected to what you just said. It is a formal transition word that belongs to the category of Linking Words by Purpose for adding information. Unlike furthermore, which often introduces a stronger or more important point, in addition simply adds another point of equal weight. Unlike moreover, which can sound slightly more persuasive, in addition is neutral and factual.
Formal vs. Informal Contexts
In addition is primarily a formal phrase. You will find it in research papers, business reports, formal letters, and academic essays. In everyday conversation or informal emails, native speakers usually prefer shorter alternatives like also, plus, or and. For example:
- Formal (academic essay): The policy reduced carbon emissions. In addition, it lowered energy costs for households.
- Informal (email to a friend): We saved money on energy. Also, it was better for the environment.
Using in addition in an informal email can sound stiff or overly academic. Save it for contexts where a formal tone is expected, such as Essay Starters or formal reports.
Comparison Table: ‘in addition’ vs. Similar Linking Words
| Linking Word | Tone | Best Use | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| in addition | Formal | Adding a supporting point of equal weight | The study found a link. In addition, the sample size was large. |
| furthermore | Formal | Adding a stronger or more important point | The method is efficient. Furthermore, it is cost-effective. |
| moreover | Formal | Adding a persuasive or emphatic point | The results are clear. Moreover, they confirm our hypothesis. |
| also | Neutral/Informal | Adding any extra information | We need more data. Also, we should check the timeline. |
| plus | Informal | Adding a casual reason or benefit | It is cheaper. Plus, it works faster. |
Natural Examples of ‘in addition’ in Academic Writing
Here are examples that show how in addition works naturally in different academic contexts:
Example 1: Research Paper Introduction
The current study examines the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance. In addition, it explores whether age moderates these effects.
Example 2: Argumentative Essay Body Paragraph
Renewable energy sources reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, they create jobs in manufacturing and installation.
Example 3: Lab Report Discussion
The temperature remained stable throughout the experiment. In addition, no significant fluctuations were observed in the control group.
Example 4: Formal Email to a Professor
I have completed the literature review for my thesis. In addition, I have drafted the methodology section.
Common Mistakes with ‘in addition’
Below are the most frequent errors that English learners and even native speakers make. Understanding these will help you avoid them in your own writing.
Mistake 1: Using ‘in addition’ to connect items in a list
Incorrect: We need to buy paper, pens, and in addition, notebooks.
Correct: We need to buy paper, pens, and notebooks.
Why: In addition is not a conjunction like and. It introduces a whole new sentence or clause, not the last item in a list.
Mistake 2: Forgetting the comma after ‘in addition’
Incorrect: In addition the results were significant.
Correct: In addition, the results were significant.
Why: When in addition starts a sentence, it is a transitional phrase that must be followed by a comma.
Mistake 3: Using ‘in addition’ when the point is not truly additional
Incorrect: The study was conducted in 2020. In addition, it was conducted in 2020.
Correct: The study was conducted in 2020. It was replicated in 2021.
Why: In addition should introduce new, distinct information, not repeat or rephrase the same idea.
Mistake 4: Overusing ‘in addition’ in one paragraph
Incorrect: The policy reduced costs. In addition, it improved efficiency. In addition, it increased satisfaction. In addition, it saved time.
Correct: Use in addition once or twice per paragraph. Vary with furthermore, also, or moreover.
Mistake 5: Using ‘in addition’ in informal conversation
Incorrect (text message): I will bring pizza. In addition, I will bring soda.
Correct (text message): I will bring pizza. Also, I will bring soda.
Why: In addition sounds unnatural in casual speech. Use also or plus instead.
Better Alternatives to ‘in addition’
Depending on your context, you might choose a different linking word. Here are some alternatives and when to use them:
- Also – Use in neutral or informal writing. It is shorter and less formal. Example: The data supports this. Also, the theory predicts it.
- Furthermore – Use when you want to emphasize that the next point is even more important. Example: The method is simple. Furthermore, it is highly accurate.
- Moreover – Use to add a persuasive or conclusive point. Example: The evidence is strong. Moreover, it is consistent across studies.
- Additionally – A synonym for in addition that is slightly more formal. Example: Additionally, the sample was representative.
- Besides – Use in informal or conversational writing to add a reason. Example: We should go. Besides, it is free.
For more options, explore our Transition Word Examples section.
When to Use ‘in addition’ (and When Not To)
Use ‘in addition’ when:
- You are writing a formal academic essay, report, or research paper.
- You are adding a new point that logically extends the previous sentence.
- You want a neutral, factual tone without persuasion.
- You are writing a formal email to a supervisor, professor, or client.
Do not use ‘in addition’ when:
- You are writing an informal email to a friend or colleague.
- You are having a casual conversation or texting.
- You are listing items (use and or a comma).
- You are repeating the same idea in different words.
- You have already used it in the same paragraph (vary your language).
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Rewrite each sentence correctly. Answers are below.
- Incorrect: We need to revise the introduction in addition the conclusion.
Your correction: ________________________________ - Incorrect: The survey was conducted online. In addition it had a paper version.
Your correction: ________________________________ - Incorrect: She speaks French and in addition Spanish.
Your correction: ________________________________ - Incorrect: The experiment failed. In addition, the experiment failed because of human error.
Your correction: ________________________________
Answers
- Correct: We need to revise the introduction. In addition, we need to revise the conclusion. (Or: We need to revise the introduction and the conclusion.)
- Correct: The survey was conducted online. In addition, it had a paper version.
- Correct: She speaks French and Spanish. (Or: She speaks French. In addition, she speaks Spanish.)
- Correct: The experiment failed because of human error. (Remove in addition because the second part just explains the first.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use ‘in addition’ at the beginning of a paragraph?
Yes, but only if the paragraph logically continues the idea from the previous paragraph. For example, if you are listing reasons, you can start a new paragraph with In addition to introduce the next reason. However, avoid using it to start every paragraph; vary your transitions.
2. Is ‘in addition’ the same as ‘in addition to’?
No. In addition is a transitional phrase that starts a sentence or clause. In addition to is a preposition that is followed by a noun or gerund. Example: In addition to the survey, we conducted interviews. Do not confuse the two.
3. Can I use ‘in addition’ in the middle of a sentence?
Yes, but it is less common. You can use it between two clauses with a semicolon or period. Example: The results were clear; in addition, they were reproducible. Avoid placing it in the middle of a clause without punctuation.
4. What is the difference between ‘in addition’ and ‘also’ in academic writing?
In addition is more formal and is typically used at the start of a sentence. Also is neutral and can be placed before the verb or at the start of a sentence. In academic writing, in addition is preferred for formal essays, while also is acceptable in less formal academic contexts like lab reports or discussion posts.
For more guidance on avoiding similar errors, visit our Common Writing Mistakes section. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us or check our FAQ page.
