Coherence and Cohesion is one of the four essential scoring criteria in the IELTS Writing test. It plays a key role in determining how clearly and logically your ideas are developed and connected throughout your writing.
Let’s explore what Coherence and Cohesion means in IELTS Writing and discover effective tips to achieve a high band score.
1. What is Coherence and Cohesion?
Coherence and Cohesion assess how well your ideas are organized and logically presented in your writing. Although combined into a single scoring criterion, they can be evaluated separately by IELTS examiners.
Coherence refers to the logical flow of ideas. Your paragraphs should be well-structured with clear topic sentences and supporting examples.
Cohesion focuses on how ideas are linked using grammar and vocabulary, especially through the appropriate use of linking devices (also known as cohesive devices).
2. How to Improve Coherence in IELTS Writing
To develop Coherence, make sure each paragraph includes:
A clear topic sentence: Start with the main idea of the paragraph.
Supporting details: Add 3–5 sentences that expand on the main point.
Examples: Provide real-life examples or evidence to strengthen your argument.
Tips to enhance coherence:
Define your main purpose before writing: Identify your key arguments and supporting points clearly.
Use transition phrases effectively: Use linking words such as However, Furthermore, In addition, Moreover to guide the reader through your ideas.
Apply logical sentence structures: Organize your ideas using cause-effect, comparison, and descriptive patterns.
Create a mind map: Outline your ideas before writing to ensure your argument flows logically.
3. How to Improve Cohesion in IELTS Writing
Cohesion involves using linking words and grammatical structures to connect your sentences and paragraphs. Here are common categories of linking words:
Function | Common Linking Words |
|---|---|
Giving examples | for example, for instance, such as, to illustrate |
Adding information | also, moreover, furthermore, in addition |
Emphasizing | indeed, obviously, clearly, above all |
Contrasting ideas | however, on the other hand, whereas, although, yet |
Showing result | so, therefore, thus, consequently, as a result |
Conceding | despite, although, even though, nevertheless |
Sequencing ideas | first, second, next, finally, to begin with |
Use these linking devices moderately and accurately to maintain a natural and academic tone.
4. Common Mistakes with Coherence and Cohesion
Avoid these common errors that can negatively impact your IELTS Writing score:
4.1. Overusing linking words
Using too many connectors can make your writing sound mechanical.
Example:
“To start with, the government needs to act. For example, they could raise taxes. However, this might cause conflict. Therefore, they should...”
→ This overuse makes the writing feel rigid. Use linking words only when they help improve clarity.
4.2. Misusing linking words
Incorrect use of transition words can confuse readers or change the intended meaning.
Example:
“Some politicians suggest increasing police presence in cities. Therefore, this may cause social problems.”
→ “Therefore” implies a cause-effect relationship that may not be appropriate here. Consider using however or on the other hand instead.
4.3. Using informal or outdated language
Avoid informal or old-fashioned expressions in academic writing.
“Last but not least...” → Use: Finally
“To recapitulate...” → Use: In conclusion
Maintain a formal, modern, and professional tone throughout your essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion are key to producing a well-structured and persuasive essay in IELTS Writing. Mastering these elements will help your writing stand out with clarity and impact.
Whether you're taking the IELTS Academic or General Training test, focusing on Coherence and Cohesion will significantly improve your score.
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