All words and phrases that help join sentences and ideas called cohesive devices. In IELTS writing, using cohesive devices very important to get high scores. Some common examples are however, moreover, like, and, but, because, in conclusion. You should use them natural, not too much, just enough to connect ideas.
Cohesive devices, also called linking words, are very important for making coherence and cohesion. This is big part in IELTS Writing section. They help student put ideas in order and make essay simple to read and score. Using cohesive devices in IELTS writing also help create clear text.
When you use cohesive devices in IELTS writing, it connect idea in logic way, so writing easy to follow and understand. That why knowing these devices is must for anyone planning to write IELTS exam, because they affect your writing score. Try to learn how to use different types with real examples, and also see role in both IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2.
- What Are Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing?
- Why Are Cohesive Devices Important in the IELTS Exam?
- Common Types of Cohesive Devices for IELTS Writing
- 1. Reference Words
- 2. Substitution in IELTS Writing
- 3. Conjunctions
- 4. Repetition
- 5. Collocation
- 6. Discourse Markers
What Are Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing?
Cohesive devices are just words or phrase that connect idea inside sentence and also between sentences. They make writing flow better, because they show how idea link together and give reader easy way to follow thought of writer.
Some common IELTS cohesive devices are conjunctions (like and, but, because), reference words (like this, that, these), and discourse marker (like however, therefore, in conclusion).
Why Are Cohesive Devices Important in the IELTS Exam?
In IELTS Academic Test, specially writing part, cohesive devices very important if you want high score. Task 1 and Task 2 check for coherence and cohesion, it makes 25% of total score.
Use cohesive devices in IELTS writing correct way help your writing logical. It help reader understand your idea better and also show your English proficiency. But too much or wrong use can make confusion and lower your score.
Good use of cohesive devices in IELTS writing can:
- Clarify Relationships: Show how ideas connect, like add more info, contrast, or give example.
- Improve Flow: Make smooth link between sentences and paragraph, easy to read.
- Show Language Proficiency: Using many types of cohesive devices show your vocabulary and grammar skill.
Common Types of Cohesive Devices for IELTS Writing
The Cohesive devices list for IELTS is mentioned in the table below with easy examples. One can check the Cohesive devices examples for better IELTS preparation for the test.
| Cohesive Device Type |
Cohesive Device Words |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Reference Words |
this, that, it, they, these, those |
The report was detailed. It provided valuable insights. |
| Substitution |
one, do, so |
I prefer coffee to tea; I usually drink one in the morning. |
| Conjunctions |
and, but, or, so, because |
I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining. |
| Repetition |
(repeating key nouns) |
Education is vital for success. Education opens many doors. |
| Synonyms |
significant, important, crucial |
The results were significant; the findings were also noteworthy. |
| Antonyms |
contrast (e.g., rich/poor) |
Some people prefer city life, while others enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. |
| Collocation |
make a decision, take a break |
We need to make a decision by the end of the week. |
| Discourse Markers |
firstly, however, therefore |
In conclusion, the benefits of |
1. Reference Words
Reference words are pronouns or phrases that refer back to previously mentioned ideas. They help avoid repetition.
- Examples: This, that, it, they
| Reference Word |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| This |
Pronoun |
The new policy was implemented last year. This has led to significant improvements. |
| That |
Pronoun |
The report highlighted several issues. That was a major concern for the management. |
| It |
Pronoun |
The weather was unpredictable. It changed several times during the day. |
| They |
Pronoun |
The students completed their assignments on time. They showed great dedication. |
| These |
Demonstrative |
The results were impressive. These results indicate a positive trend. |
| Those |
Demonstrative |
Many people prefer online shopping. Those who do enjoy the convenience. |
| Such |
Determiner |
Many cities face pollution issues. Such problems require immediate attention. |
| One |
Pronoun (substitution) |
I enjoy reading novels. A good one can transport you to another world. |
| The former |
Reference (comparison) |
In the study, two methods were compared: Method A and Method B. The former proved to be more effective. |
| The latter |
Reference (comparison) |
Two options were presented: attending the seminar or watching it online. The latter is more convenient for many. |
2. Substitution in IELTS Writing
Substitution means replacing a noun or verb with another word so you don’t repeat same words. It helps make your writing smooth.
Examples: One, do, so, such, that, it, this, them, those, the same
| Substitution Word |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| One |
Noun substitution |
I like cricket more than hockey; I play one every morning. |
| Do |
Verb substitution |
Some students study hard; others do too. |
| So |
Conjunction substitution |
The weather was bad, I was late. I took a taxi, so reached on time. |
| Such |
Noun substitution |
He has a special way to solve problems, and such creativity is rare. |
| That |
Pronoun substitution |
There are many options. You can choose any of that. |
| It |
Pronoun substitution |
The book was interesting. I couldn’t put it down. |
| This |
Pronoun substitution |
I found a solution. This will help us. |
| Them |
Pronoun substitution |
Students finished projects on time. I was impressed with them. |
| The same |
Noun phrase substitution |
I visited Paris last year. This year I will do the same in London. |
3. Conjunctions
They are words that join two things. This show relationships.
| Conjunction |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| and |
join things |
She likes tea and coffee. |
| but |
show difference |
I am tired but I will work. |
| or |
choice |
Eat now or you get hungry. |
| so |
result |
It rained so I eat. |
| because |
reason |
He left early because he was sick. |
| although |
contrast |
Although I study, I forget things. |
4. Repetition
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Repetition means you use the same word again for making things clear.
| Word |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| school |
My school is big. School has a playground. |
| money |
Money is important. Money helps us buy food. |
| family |
I love my family. Family is always with me. |
| mobile |
My mobile is old. I use my mobile for games. |
5. Collocation
Collocation is when two words always go together. They sound natural.
| Collocation |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| take a bath |
I will take a bath after school. |
| make friends |
It is good to make friends in college. |
| catch a bus |
I need to catch a bus at 8 am. |
| save money |
Try to save money every month. |
| do homework |
Please do homework before dinner. |
6. Discourse Markers
Discourse markers are words for starting, joining, or ending ideas.
| Discourse Marker |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| First |
order |
First, open your book. |
| Next |
order |
Next, read the page. |
| However |
contrast |
I wanted to play. However, it rained today. |
| For example |
example |
I like fruit. For example, apple and mango. |
| In the end |
conclusion |
In the end, we finished all homework. |
| So |
result |
I was hungry. So I made noodles. |
Regular practice with IELTS sample essays will help integrate these Cohesive devices naturally into your writing style, making your arguments clearer and more persuasive during the exam.
Cohesion refers to the way in which ideas in writing are linked together logically during IELTS exam. It involves the use of cohesive devices to ensure that the text flows smoothly, making it easier for readers to follow the argument or narrative.
The difficulty of IELTS exam is not same for everyone. It depends on your English level and how much you prepare. Many students find IELTS Writing and IELTS Speaking little hard because you need good ideas and fluency.
But if you do practice and know the test format, the exam becomes easy. Focus more on your weak areas and you can get a good band score.
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Cohesion in IELTS writing is very important for making writing clear and easy to follow. It help connect ideas smooth. Here some way to use cohesion in IELTS writing: