Essential Linking Words for Coherence and Cohesion

Coherence and Cohesion (C&C) is 25% of your IELTS Writing score. Linking words are the glue that holds your essay together, showing relationships between ideas. But use them wisely—too many is just as bad as too few. This guide provides a complete categorized list with examples.

What Are Linking Words?

Linking words (also called connectors or transition words) connect ideas, show relationships, and help your essay flow logically. They signal to the reader how one idea relates to another: does it add to it? Contrast with it? Show a result?

Complete Categorized Cheat Sheet

To Add Information (And)

Use these to add a new point or expand on an idea.

Furthermore,Moreover,In addition,Additionally,What's more,Not only... but also

Example: "Technology improves efficiency. Furthermore, it reduces costs."

To Show Contrast (But)

Essential for "Discuss Both Views" essays.

However,On the other hand,Conversely,Nevertheless,In contrast,WhereasAlthough / Though

Example: "Some argue X. However, others believe Y."

To Show Result (So)

Use these to explain consequences or outcomes.

Therefore,Consequently,As a result,Thus,Hence,For this reason,

Example: "Pollution has increased. Consequently, health problems have risen."

To Give Examples

Support your points with specific examples.

For example,For instance,To illustrate,Such asNamely,

To Conclude

In conclusion,To conclude,To sum up,In summary,

⚠️ Never use "In a nutshell" - it's too informal!

Where to Place Linking Words

Start of Sentence

Most linking words go here, followed by a comma.

"However, there are drawbacks."

"Furthermore, this approach is cost-effective."

Middle of Sentence

Some join two clauses together.

"Prices rose, whereas wages stayed the same."

"The solution is effective although it is expensive."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overuse: Don't put a linker at the start of every single sentence. It sounds mechanical and unnatural. Aim for 1-2 per paragraph.
Wrong Meaning: Don't use "On the contrary" when you mean "On the other hand". "On the contrary" is for direct opposites.
Informal Language: Never use "In a nutshell", "Long story short", or "Bottom line" in academic writing. Use "In conclusion" instead.
Missing Commas: Most linking words at the start of sentences need a comma after them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aim for 1-2 linking words per paragraph. Don't overuse them—every sentence doesn't need a linker. Natural flow is more important than cramming in connectors.

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