Mastering Linking Words for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Different types of linking words perform different jobs in your essay. Learning to choose the right one for each situation will greatly improve your cohesion score.

Use these to present additional points or expand on your argument.
Examples: moreover, furthermore, in addition, also, besides, what is more, besides, similarly, equally important, not only … but also

Band 7 Example:
Public transport systems are often overcrowded; moreover, they are not always accessible to residents in rural communities.

Tip: Use one or two per paragraph; too many additive connectors can make your writing sound mechanical.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Essential for balanced essays where opposing ideas or limitations are discussed.
Examples: however, nevertheless, nonetheless, on the other hand, although / even though, though, whereas, while, despite / in spite of, alternatively

Band 7 Example:
Online education provides more flexibility; however, not all students are disciplined enough to study effectively without supervision.

Tip: Try not to begin every paragraph with “On the other hand.” Alternatives like “Nevertheless” or “Despite this” sound more advanced.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Perfect for “cause → effect” or “problem → solution” essays.
Examples: therefore, consequently, as a result, as a consequence, hence, thus, because / since / as, for this reason, due to / owing to

Band 7 Example:
Many graduates struggle to find employment; as a result, they accept jobs that are unrelated to their fields of study.

Tip: Use causal links carefully—avoid repeating long cause‑and‑effect chains that make your reasoning unclear.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Make your arguments easy to follow by showing order or progression.
Examples: firstly / first of all, secondly, next, then, subsequently, after that, afterwards, finally / lastly, to begin with, to start with, at the same time, meanwhile, in conclusion

Band 7 Example:
Firstly, governments should invest more in teacher training, and secondly, update outdated curricula to meet modern job demands.

Tip: These work best in advantage/disadvantage or discussion essays where you move through clear points.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Support your arguments with relevant examples or illustrations.
Examples: for example, for instance, such as, namely, in particular, specifically, to illustrate

Band 7 Example:
For instance, Singapore has successfully decreased its carbon emissions through strict waste‑management laws.

Tip: Even hypothetical examples can strengthen your point when used clearly.

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These connect similar ideas or signal the essay’s end.
Examples:

• similarity: similarly, likewise, in the same way, just as, equally
• conclusion: in conclusion, overall, to sum up, in short

Band 7 Example:
In conclusion, encouraging public transport use will not only reduce pollution but also improve citizens’ quality of life.

Tip: Avoid adding new arguments in your conclusion—summarise what you’ve already explained.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Useful for suggesting possible outcomes or discussing alternatives.
Examples: if, unless, provided that, in case, even if, on condition that

Band 7 Example:
Citizens are more likely to recycle if proper facilities are provided in every neighbourhood.

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Use these when linking actions with results or goals.
Examples: so that, in order to, for this purpose, with the aim of, to this end

Band 7 Example:
Governments should invest in renewable energy in order to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

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Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Indicate conclusions, implications, or end-of-paragraph summaries.
Examples: in conclusion, to conclude, to sum up, in summary, overall, on the whole, to summarise, in short, taking everything into consideration

Band 7 Example:
In conclusion, stricter environmental regulations are necessary to ensure sustainable economic development.

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Perfect when redefining or restating a complex point for emphasis or clarity.
Examples: in other words, that is to say, to put it simply, namely, simply put

Band 7 Example:
Some people argue that technology isolates users; in other words, it reduces real human interaction.

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Used to signal a shift in perspective or introduce a new argument.
Examples: turning to, regarding, with respect to, as far as … is concerned, when it comes to

Band 7 Example:
When it comes to education reform, teacher training is the most critical factor.

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Many students assume that adding a linking word between every sentence ensures a high cohesion score. In fact, examiners penalise mechanical overuse, because it makes writing sound memorised.

Compare:

Band 6 Example:
Firstly, education is important. Secondly, it helps people find jobs. Thirdly, they earn money. Therefore, society develops.

Band 7 Example:
Education is one of the most powerful tools for social progress. It not only enhances job prospects but also raises living standards within communities.

• While the first version uses the linking words mechanically, the second version flows naturally because it relies on logic and pronouns rather than fixed connectors every sentence.

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Typical Coherence and Cohesion Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

You can use linking words inside sentences, not just between them. Compare these two approaches:

• “People should recycle. However, many of them do not understand why it matters.”
• “Many people do not recycle because they fail to understand its importance.”

Both express contrast or cause, but the second sounds smoother and more concise. IELTS examiners reward this kind of natural use.

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Typical Coherence and Cohesion Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Using a broader word range will help you sound more academic and confident.

• Also → moreover, in addition
• But → however, nevertheless
• So → therefore, as a result
• Like → for instance, such as
• Finally → in conclusion, overall

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Typical Coherence and Cohesion Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

• Over‑signposting: Don’t start every sentence with a connector. Combine ideas smoothly with reference words or conjunctions.
• Inappropriate register: Avoid informal connectors like “plus” or “anyway.” Stick to academic ones such as “moreover,” “however,” “therefore.”
• Repetition: Using the same linking word repeatedly (especially “on the other hand”) reduces flexibility.

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Typical Coherence and Cohesion Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Reference Words for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Substitution for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Ellipsis for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Lexical Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Linking words are not decorations — they are the framework that holds your essay together. When you use them naturally, your writing feels connected, logical, and persuasive. Focus on purposeful use rather than memorisation. Remember: Strong linking leads directly to stronger coherence and cohesion. Mastering this skill is one of the easiest ways to push your IELTS Writing Task 2 score to Band 7 or higher.

An Introduction to IELTS Academic Test

Everything You Need to Know about IELTS Academic Writing Test

An Overview of IELTS Writing Task 2

How IELTS Writing Task 2 is Assessed

What is Task Response in IELTS Writing Task 2 and how to reach Band 7+

Typical Task Response Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

How to Generate Ideas for 5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types with WH- Questions

How to Stay on Topic in IELTS Writing Task 2

How to Develop Your Position in IELTS Writing Task 2

Writing Thesis Statements for IELTS Writing Task 2 Essays

What is Coherence and Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2 and how to reach Band 7+

Typical Coherence and Cohesion Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Upgrading Coherence in IELTS Writing Task 2

How to Apply 5 Introduction Approaches to 5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

Paraphrasing in IELTS Writing Task 2 for Introduction

Practical Topic Sentence Writing Skills for Better Coherence in IELTS Writing Task 2

Practical Body Paragraph Writing Skills for Better Coherence in IELTS Writing Task 2

How to Apply 5 Conclusion Approaches to 5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

Summarizing IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay in Conclusion

Upgrading Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Reference Words for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Substitution for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Ellipsis for Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

Mastering Lexical Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2

What is Lexical Resource in IELTS Writing Task 2 and how to reach Band 7+

Typical Lexical Resource Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Vocabulary Strategies for IELTS Writing Task 2

Collocation Strategies for IELTS Writing Task 2

Spelling Strategies for IELTS Writing Task 2

Paraphrasing Strategies for IELTS Writing Task 2

What is Grammatical Range and Accuracy in IELTS Writing Task 2 and how to reach Band 7+

Typical Grammatical Range and Accuracy Pitfalls in IELTS Writing Task 2

Common Sentence Structure Problems and How to Fix Them for IELTS Writing Task 2

Common Grammar Problems and How to Fix Them for IELTS Writing Task 2

Common Punctuation Problems and How to Fix Them for IELTS Writing Task 2

An Introduction to the 5 Question Types in IELTS Writing Task 2

An Introduction to 14 Common Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2

General Test Skills for IELTS Writing Task 2

Time Management Skills for IELTS Writing Task 2

Proofreading Skills for IELTS Writing Task 2

Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2

An Overview of IELTS Writing Task 1

How IELTS Writing Task 1 is Assessed

What is Coherence and Cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 1 and how to reach Band 7+