Time sequencers and connectors

• We use time sequencers and connectors to show the order of events and connect ideas. They help us explain customer problems and solutions clearly.
• Connector
• Function
• Example
• First
• To start an action
• First, I checked the order in Chicago.
• Then / After that
• To show the next action
• Then, we sent a new item from Seattle.
• When / While
• To show actions in time
• While I was waiting, the customer called.
• So / Because
• To show cause and result
• The box was damaged, so we gave a refund.
• Although
• To show a contrast
• Although she was angry, she was polite.
• Remember
• Use 'first' and 'then' to list steps in order.
• Use 'while' for an action in progress when another action happened.
• Use 'because' to explain why something happened and 'so' for the result.
• Use 'although' to join two opposite ideas.
• Examples
• First, Jason checked the receipt.
• The client was angry because the delivery was late.
• Although the chair was broken, she did not complain.
• Common mistakes
• Because the product was damaged, so we gave a refund.
• Because the product was damaged, we gave a refund.
• First I spoke with the manager, then I called Austin.
• First, I spoke with the manager, then I called Austin.

Complete the sentences

• ___ , David checked the customer receipt. (first) ____
• The client was upset ___ the delivery had a delay. (because) ____
• ___ Maria was working in Boston, a buyer called. (while) ____
• The table was broken, ___ we offered a replacement. (so) ____
• ___ the item was wrong, the buyer was very polite. (although) ____
• Kevin spoke to the manager and ___ processed the refund. (then) ____

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