Common Mistakes with ‘on the other hand’ in Academic Writing
The most common mistake with on the other hand in academic writing is using it to introduce a completely unrelated point rather than a genuine contrasting perspective on the same topic. This phrase is not a general filler for adding information; it signals a balanced, two-sided argument. When you write on the other hand, you are promising the reader that you will now present the opposite side of the same coin, not a different coin altogether.
Quick Answer: Use on the other hand only when you are presenting a contrasting viewpoint on the same subject you just discussed. It is not a synonym for also, furthermore, or in addition. If you are adding a new, separate point, choose a different linking word.
Why This Mistake Happens
Many learners treat on the other hand as a simple transition that can be used anywhere they want to change direction. In reality, it carries a specific logical function: it introduces a counter-argument or an alternative perspective that directly opposes the previous statement. Academic readers expect this precise relationship. Using it loosely weakens your argument and confuses your reader.
The Core Rule: Two Sides of One Issue
Think of a physical hand. You have one side, and then you have the other side of the same hand. The phrase works the same way. You must be discussing one central issue, and then you flip to its opposite perspective.
Correct Use
- Topic: Working from home
- Side A: Working from home increases flexibility and reduces commute time.
- Side B (on the other hand): It can lead to feelings of isolation and difficulty separating work from personal life.
Both points are about the same topic (working from home), and they present contrasting views.
Incorrect Use
- Point A: Working from home increases flexibility.
- Point B (incorrectly using on the other hand): The company is planning to hire more staff next quarter.
These are two separate topics. The second point is not a contrast to the first; it is a new, unrelated piece of information.
Comparison Table: On the other hand vs. Similar Phrases
| Phrase | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| On the other hand | Introduces a direct contrast to the previous point on the same topic. | “Solar energy is clean. On the other hand, the initial installation cost is high.” |
| In addition | Adds a supporting or similar point. | “Solar energy is clean. In addition, it reduces electricity bills.” |
| However | A general contrast, often used to show a limitation or exception. | “Solar energy is clean. However, it is not always reliable in cloudy regions.” |
| Conversely | A formal, direct opposite. Often used in academic writing. | “Urban areas offer many jobs. Conversely, rural areas have fewer employment opportunities.” |
Natural Examples in Academic Contexts
Here are examples that show how on the other hand works naturally in essays, reports, and formal discussions.
Example 1: Essay on Technology in Education
“Integrating tablets into classrooms can significantly increase student engagement through interactive learning apps. On the other hand, this reliance on technology may widen the digital divide for students who lack access to reliable internet at home.”
Example 2: Business Report on Remote Work
“A fully remote model allows companies to reduce overhead costs associated with office space. On the other hand, it can make team collaboration and spontaneous problem-solving more challenging.”
Example 3: Argumentative Essay on Public Transport
“Investing in public transportation reduces traffic congestion and lowers carbon emissions. On the other hand, the initial financial outlay for new infrastructure is substantial and may require tax increases.”
Common Mistakes with On the other hand
Below are the most frequent errors learners make, along with corrections.
Mistake 1: Using it to add a similar point
Incorrect: “The new policy will improve efficiency. On the other hand, it will also reduce paperwork.” (Both points are positive and similar.)
Correct: “The new policy will improve efficiency. In addition, it will also reduce paperwork.”
Mistake 2: Using it to introduce a completely new topic
Incorrect: “The experiment showed a significant increase in temperature. On the other hand, the lab will be closed for renovations next month.” (The second sentence is a new topic.)
Correct: “The experiment showed a significant increase in temperature. Meanwhile, the lab will be closed for renovations next month.”
Mistake 3: Forgetting the comma
Incorrect: “The results were positive on the other hand the sample size was small.”
Correct: “The results were positive. On the other hand, the sample size was small.”
Mistake 4: Using it without a clear first side
Incorrect: “On the other hand, the cost of living is rising.” (The reader does not know what the first side is.)
Correct: “Salaries have remained stagnant for several years. On the other hand, the cost of living is rising.”
Better Alternatives for Common Situations
If you find yourself unsure whether on the other hand is correct, consider these alternatives based on what you actually want to say.
When you want to add a point
- Use: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition
- Example: “The study is comprehensive. Furthermore, it uses a large sample size.”
When you want to show a limitation or exception
- Use: However, Nevertheless, Nonetheless
- Example: “The drug is effective. However, it can cause side effects in some patients.”
When you want to show a formal, direct opposite
- Use: Conversely, In contrast
- Example: “The north of the country is densely populated. In contrast, the south is mostly rural.”
When you want to show a different perspective on the same issue
- Use: On the other hand (this is the correct time to use it!)
- Example: “Strict regulations protect the environment. On the other hand, they can slow down economic growth.”
Formal vs. Informal Tone
On the other hand is perfectly acceptable in both formal academic writing and informal conversation. However, in very formal academic papers, you might see conversely or in contrast used more frequently. In emails or everyday conversation, on the other hand is natural and common.
Formal email example: “The proposal offers a clear path to cost reduction. On the other hand, it requires significant upfront investment.”
Conversation example: “I love the location of this apartment. On the other hand, the rent is way too high.”
Mini Practice: Check Your Understanding
Read each sentence. Decide if the use of on the other hand is correct or incorrect. Then check the answers below.
- Question 1: “The new software is very fast. On the other hand, it is also quite expensive.” (Correct or Incorrect?)
- Question 2: “The company reported strong profits this quarter. On the other hand, the marketing team launched a new campaign.” (Correct or Incorrect?)
- Question 3: “Living in a big city offers many cultural opportunities. On the other hand, it can be very noisy and crowded.” (Correct or Incorrect?)
- Question 4: “The first theory suggests that climate change is driven by natural cycles. On the other hand, the second theory points to human activity as the main cause.” (Correct or Incorrect?)
Answers
- Correct. The two points (fast vs. expensive) are contrasting views on the same topic (the software).
- Incorrect. The first point is about profits, and the second is about a marketing campaign. These are not contrasting perspectives on the same issue.
- Correct. The two points (cultural opportunities vs. noise and crowding) are contrasting aspects of living in a big city.
- Correct. The two theories offer contrasting explanations for the same phenomenon (climate change).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I start a sentence with On the other hand?
Yes, you can. It is common and grammatically correct to start a sentence with On the other hand. Just make sure the previous sentence has established the first side of the argument. For example: “The policy has clear benefits. On the other hand, it also presents some risks.”
2. What is the difference between on the other hand and on the contrary?
On the contrary is stronger. It is used to directly deny or contradict the previous statement. On the other hand simply presents a different perspective without denying the first point. For example: “He is not lazy. On the contrary, he works very hard.” (This denies the idea of laziness.) “He works hard. On the other hand, he sometimes misses deadlines.” (This presents a different perspective without denying his hard work.)
3. Is it okay to use on the other hand in an essay conclusion?
It is possible, but it is often better to use a summarizing phrase like in conclusion or overall in a conclusion. If your conclusion is weighing two final contrasting points, on the other hand can work, but use it sparingly.
4. Can I use on the other hand twice in one paragraph?
It is best to avoid using it more than once in a single paragraph. Using it twice can confuse the reader about which points are being contrasted. If you need to show multiple contrasts, consider using however or in contrast for the second contrast.
Final Advice
Mastering on the other hand is about understanding logical relationships, not just memorizing a phrase. Before you write it, ask yourself: “Am I showing the opposite side of the same topic I just mentioned?” If the answer is yes, you are using it correctly. If you are adding a new point, showing a limitation, or introducing a separate idea, choose a different linking word. For more guidance on using transitions correctly, explore our Common Writing Mistakes section or review other Transition Word Examples to strengthen your academic writing.
