IELTS Grammar & Vocabulary
IELTS Linking Words and Cohesion
Coherence & Cohesion is a full quarter of your Writing band. Linking words help — but only when used naturally. This lesson shows the connectors that work and how to avoid overdoing them.
Linking words by function
| Function | Linkers |
|---|---|
| Adding | moreover, in addition, furthermore |
| Contrast | however, on the other hand, nevertheless, whereas |
| Cause/effect | therefore, consequently, as a result, thus |
| Example | for instance, for example, such as |
| Conclusion | in conclusion, to sum up, overall |
Cohesion beyond linkers
- Reference words — "this", "these", "such", "it" — connect ideas without repetition.
- Pronouns — replace repeated nouns to keep writing smooth.
- Logical paragraphing — one clear idea per paragraph is itself a form of cohesion.
Starting every sentence with a linker ("Firstly… Secondly… Moreover… Furthermore…") is mechanical and caps your Coherence score. Use them where the logic genuinely needs them.
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Take test →Frequently Asked Questions
How many linking words should I use in an IELTS essay?+
Enough to make the logic clear — usually a few per essay. Natural, varied linking scores higher than cramming a connector into every sentence.
What is cohesion in IELTS?+
Cohesion is how smoothly your ideas connect — through linking words, reference words, pronouns and logical paragraphing — so the reader follows your argument effortlessly.