What are cohesive devices?
Cohesive devices are words, phrases, or clauses that connect several sections of your content. They provide logical connections between sentences and paragraphs, allowing the reader to effortlessly follow your thoughts. Even the most well-developed concepts can appear disorderly in the absence of effective cohesiveness, lowering your Task Achievement, Coherence, and cohesiveness ratings.
How Cohesive Devices Affect IELTS Scores
The IELTS Writing Band Descriptors place a strong emphasis on cohesiveness and coherence. If your work is disjointed, lacks organization, or has repeating linking phrases, it will most certainly receive a lower grade. Band 7 and above require the efficient usage of cohesive devices without overuse—so variety and appropriateness are essential.
Categories of Cohesive Devices and When to Use Them
1. Additive Cohesive Devices (Adding Information)
These words and phrases allow you to add similar or supporting information to a previous idea. They are especially handy for expanding your argument or presenting additional examples.
Examples:
• and, also, in addition, moreover, furthermore, besides, what’s more
• Example Sentence:
Public transportation reduces traffic congestion. Furthermore, it helps to lower pollution levels.
When to Use:
Use these devices to add information that is directly relevant or complementary. Avoid repetition by ensuring that every new idea offers significant value.
Common Mistakes:
Excessive use of connectors like “and” or “also” can lead to repetitious writing. Instead, use more formal terms such as “moreover” or “in addition”.
2. Adversative Cohesive Devices (Showing Contrast or Opposition)
These devices introduce conflicting ideas or points of view, allowing you to construct balanced arguments. They are vital for discussing counterarguments in Task 2 essays.
Examples:
• however, on the other hand, in contrast, yet, although, whereas, nevertheless, despite
• Example Sentence:
Online education offers flexibility. However, it may lack the social interaction that traditional classrooms provide.
When to Use:
Use adversarial methods to acknowledge opposing viewpoints or impose constraints. They are useful for writing “Discuss both views” or “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” essays.
Common Mistakes:
Avoid saying “however” at the beginning of each new paragraph; it becomes predictable. Instead, use “nevertheless” or “on the other hand for variety”.
3. Causal Cohesive Devices (Showing Cause and Effect)
These are used to show the relationship between a cause and its consequence. They are especially useful in argumentative and opinion-based essays for defending your perspective.
Examples:
• because, therefore, thus, consequently, as a result, since, owing to, due to
• Example Sentence:
Many young people prefer remote work. As a result, companies are adapting their policies to offer more flexible working arrangements.
When to Use:
Use these devices to clarify the cause-and-effect linkages between your ideas. They are also useful for writing about the advantages and disadvantages or discussing the repercussions of specific acts.
Common Mistakes:
Avoid overusing “therefore” or “thus” after every statement. Only use them when there is a clear cause-effect relationship between your ideas.
4. Sequential Cohesive Devices (Indicating Order or Sequence)
These allow you to organize your ideas in a logical order, making your essay easier to read. They are especially critical for IELTS Task 1 (describing processes or trends) and Task 2, which requires proper body paragraph organization.
Examples:
• firstly, secondly, next, then, finally, in conclusion, to begin with
• Example Sentence:
Firstly, governments should improve public transportation to reduce urban congestion. Secondly, they should promote cycling by building dedicated bike lanes.
When to Use:
Use these devices to direct your reader through a series of steps, ideas, or arguments. They are perfect for articles that require several arguments or sequential analysis.
Common Mistakes:
Avoid overusing “firstly, secondly, thirdly”—try varying them with alternatives like “to begin with” or “in addition”.
5. Example Markers (Introducing Examples)
Providing relevant examples enhances your arguments. These indicators let you introduce illustrations easily.
Examples:
• for example, for instance, to illustrate, such as, in particular
• Example Sentence:
Governments can encourage recycling. For example, they can offer financial incentives to households that recycle their waste.
When to Use:
Use these devices sparingly when providing relevant examples. Avoid using numerous examples in each sentence; one well-explained example per paragraph is sufficient.
Sample IELTS Task 2 Essay with Cohesive Devices
Topic: Some believe that technology has improved people’s social lives, while others argue that it has led to social isolation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample Essay:
Technology has undoubtedly transformed the way people connect with each other. For instance, social media platforms allow individuals to maintain relationships across great distances. Moreover, video calls enable face-to-face interaction, even from different time zones. However, some argue that technology has reduced the quality of in-person interactions. In particular, excessive use of smartphones during social gatherings can lead to a sense of isolation among participants. Therefore, while technology offers convenience, it is essential to balance its use to maintain meaningful social connections. In conclusion, both perspectives are valid, and a moderate approach is necessary to enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising human interaction.
Cohesive devices are essential for enhancing the structure and clarity of your IELTS essays. By learning and applying a range of linking terms, you may ensure that your writing flows easily and logically. Remember that it’s not enough to simply incorporate coherent devices; you must also use them naturally and meaningfully to properly convey your ideas. With experience, planning, and thorough editing, you will be able to get excellent cohesion and coherence scores.