In the IELTS Writing test, coherence and cohesion between arguments are among the criteria that determine your score. To achieve a high score in this test, candidates must learn and equip themselves with grammar structures and conjunctions to demonstrate their ability to master the language most proficiently.
This article will summarize and analyze in detail the conjunctions and linking words that can be applied in the IELTS Writing test. You will understand why conjunctions are important not only in the IELTS test but also in the process of using English every day.
1 What Are Linking Verbs?
Linking verbs are essential elements in English grammar used to complete sentences and connect ideas. In IELTS Writing, coherence and cohesion are critical scoring criteria. Mastering linking verbs and transition words is a great way to show strong command of the language.
Why use linking words in IELTS Writing?
To connect incomplete ideas and make paragraphs clearer
To expand ideas or provide supporting examples
To express your opinion or purpose effectively
To build strong and logical conclusions
It is important to use appropriate linking words depending on the context. Some connectors are suitable for IELTS Writing but not for IELTS Speaking. For example, words like like are informal and better suited for speaking, while therefore or hereby are more appropriate in academic writing.
2 Common Types of Linking Verbs in English
a. Linking Verbs with To Be
“To be” is the most common linking verb and appears in various forms:
Present simple: am, is, are
Past simple: was, were
Present perfect: have been, has been
Past perfect: had been
Future: will be
Examples:
She is very intelligent.
He was sick yesterday.
It has been a delightful evening.
b. Linking Verbs Expressing the Senses
Linking Verb | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
Look | You look stunning in that dress. |
Smell | The food smells delicious. |
Sound | That sounds like fun. |
Taste | The wine tastes bland. |
Feel | I feel guilty for forgetting her birthday. |
Note: These verbs can also function as action verbs when followed by a direct object. Example: The chef is tasting the soup to ensure it is seasoned well.
c. Other Common Linking Verbs
Seem: Women seem to find him attractive.
Appear: They appear willing to talk.
Grow: Flowers grow along the wall.
Become: His dream became reality.
Stay / Remain: His beliefs remained the same.
3 Linking Verbs vs Action Verbs
Action verbs express actions and are typically followed by adverbs or direct objects. Linking verbs describe the subject and are followed by adjectives or noun phrases.
Examples:
She is cooking dinner. (Action verb with object)
The cake tastes delicious. (Linking verb with adjective)
4 Common Mistakes with Linking Verbs
Confusing linking and action verbs: Many verbs like look, feel, taste can be either, depending on context.
Using linking verbs in the present continuous: Most linking verbs are not used in continuous tenses unless acting as action verbs.
5 Why Use Linking Words in IELTS Writing
IELTS Writing Task 1
In Task 1, linking words help:
Connect actions and changes over time
Compare data and highlight key trends
Emphasize important details in visuals
IELTS Writing Task 2
In Task 2, linking words help:
Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs
Present opinions and support arguments
Explain causes, effects, or consequences
Structure logical, cohesive essays
6 Essential Linking Words for IELTS Writing
a. Adding Information
Furthermore
Additionally
In addition
Not only... but also
Also
Moreover
As well as
Example: Moreover, polyester demand rose steadily from 5 to 32 million tons.
b. Listing Points
Firstly / Secondly / Thirdly
Next / Finally / Lastly
Likewise
Another key point is
For this reason
Example: Firstly, students learning online may lack holistic development.
c. Giving Examples
For example
For instance
To illustrate
Namely
Such as
In other words
Example: Sales decreased for many items, for example, cars and motorbikes.
d. Emphasizing Ideas
Specifically
Especially
In particular
Obviously
Of course
As a matter of fact
Without a doubt
Example: Sally was, without a doubt, one of the best swimmers at school.
e. Showing Results or Consequences
As a result
Therefore
Thus
Consequently
Hence
For this reason
So
Example: Consequently, demand rose gradually to 31 million tons.
f. Explaining Causes or Reasons
Due to
Because of
On account of
Owing to
Since
As a result
Example: Due to population growth, traffic congestion increased significantly.
g. Expressing Contrast or Opposition
Nevertheless
However
On the other hand
Although / Even though
Despite / In spite of
But
Still
In comparison
By contrast
Example: Although fuel prices rose slightly in 2014, they dropped sharply afterward.
h. Drawing a Conclusion
To sum up / To summarize
In conclusion
In short
Finally
All things considered
Example: To conclude, workplaces can offer more than just professional experiences.
i. Expressing Personal Opinions
I believe / I think
Personally
In my opinion
In my view
From my perspective
It seems to me that
Example: From my perspective, media violence rarely affects real-life behavior.
j. Making Comparisons
Like / Likewise
Just as
Compared to
In comparison to / with
Example: Compared to previous years, company profits have risen sharply.
7 IELTS Writing Practice with Linking Words
Task 1 Practice Example:
Prompt: Describe the trend in computer ownership from 2000 to 2008.
Sample with connectors: To start with, in 2000, just over 70 percent of the population owned computers. However, this number increased to around 78 percent by 2008. Nevertheless, the breakdown by group shows variation. For example, 75 percent of service members had computers in 2000. In contrast, non-high school graduates started at just 12 percent.
Task 2 Practice Example:
Prompt: Parents should not pressure children to choose a specific career. Do you agree?
Sample with connectors:
In my opinion, young people must have the freedom to choose their career path. However, parental pressure can become harmful if it turns into rigid expectations. Nevertheless, parental guidance does not mean interference. For instance, open discussions can help align goals. As a result, children may feel more confident and supported in their choices.
8 Tips for Using Linking Words in IELTS Writing
Do not overuse linking words: Too many transitions can disrupt the flow and make the writing feel forced.
Use them correctly: Choose the right linking word for each context to maintain logical coherence.
Avoid repetition: Vary your vocabulary and sentence structures for a more natural and sophisticated writing style.
Improve Your IELTS Writing with IDP
Linking words are essential for a cohesive and effective IELTS Writing response. When used correctly, they enhance the clarity and structure of your ideas. Practice regularly and refer to trusted IELTS resources to sharpen your skills.
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