Connectors of consequence (alors, donc)

Expressing "Therefore" with "Donc"

To draw a logical conclusion from a cause, use donc (therefore, so). It connects a cause directly to its result, making it the perfect connector for stating facts or summarizing research.

therefore, so
donc
The results are good, therefore the method is perfect.
Les résultats sont bons, donc la méthode est parfaite.
The study confirmed the result, therefore it is a fact.
L'étude a confirmé le résultat, donc c'est un fait.

Expressing "So" or "Then" with "Alors"

You can also use alors to link a cause to an effect. While it often translates to "so" just like donc, alors is slightly more conversational. It is frequently used to express a practical consequence, a reaction, or to prompt a question based on a situation.

The researcher is tired, so he is going to sleep.
Le chercheur est fatigué, alors il va dormir.
The hypothesis was false, so we are analyzing the data.
L'hypothèse était fausse, alors nous analysons les données.
This study is interesting, so what is your conclusion?
Cette étude est intéressante, alors quelle est votre conclusion ?

Discussing Research and Data

When describing the scientific method, you will rely heavily on these connectors to logically link your hypotheses, data, and conclusions.

We see the results, therefore the theory and the hypothesis are true.
Nous voyons les résultats, donc la théorie et l'hypothèse sont vraies.
The researcher analyzes the data, so the study is scientific.
Le chercheur analyse les données, alors l'étude est scientifique.

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