All of the words and phrases used in writing to connect sentences and ideas are known as cohesive devices. In IELTS writing tasks, cohesive devices are crucial for achieving high scores. However, moreover, like and, but, because and in conclusion, are some common examples of Cohesive devices for IELTS.
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
- 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
Substitution involves replacing a noun with another word to avoid redundancy.
- Examples: One, do
| Substitution Word |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| One |
Noun substitution |
I prefer coffee over tea; I drink one every morning. |
| Do |
Verb substitution |
Some students study hard; others do as well. |
| So |
Conjunction substitution |
The weather was terrible, and I was late. I had to take a taxi, so I arrived just in time. |
| Such |
Noun substitution |
He has a unique approach to problem-solving, and such creativity is rare. |
| That |
Pronoun substitution |
There are many options available. You can choose any of that. (referring back to options) |
| It |
Pronoun substitution |
The book was fascinating. I couldn't put it down. |
| This |
Pronoun substitution |
I found the solution to the problem. This will help us move forward. |
| Them |
Pronoun substitution |
The students completed their projects on time. I was impressed with them. |
| Those |
Pronoun substitution |
I have two pets: a dog and a cat. I love both, but I find that I spend more time with those. |
| The same |
Noun phrase substitution |
I visited Paris last year, and this year I'm going to do the same in London. |
3. Conjunctions
Conjunctions are used to connect clauses or sentences.
- Examples: And, but, so, because
| Conjunction |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| And |
Coordinating |
I enjoy reading novels, and I also like watching movies. |
| But |
Coordinating |
She studied hard for the exam, but she still felt unprepared. |
| Or |
Coordinating |
You can choose to study in the morning, or you can study at night. |
| So |
Coordinating |
He was feeling tired, so he decided to take a nap. |
| Because |
Subordinating |
I stayed home because it was raining heavily. |
| Although |
Subordinating |
Although it was late, we decided to continue the discussion. |
| While |
Subordinating |
While I enjoy traveling, I also appreciate staying at home. |
| Since |
Subordinating |
Since the project deadline is approaching, we need to work faster. |
| Unless |
Subordinating |
You won’t succeed in your exams unless you study regularly. |
| Whereas |
Subordinating |
My brother prefers action movies, whereas I enjoy romantic comedies. |
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4. Repetition
Repetition highlights key concepts by restating them.
| Repetition Word |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Education |
Noun |
Education is essential for personal growth. Education also opens doors to better job opportunities. |
| Technology |
Noun |
Technology has transformed our lives. The impact of technology on communication is profound. |
| Health |
Noun |
Maintaining good health is crucial. Health should be a priority for everyone. |
| Environment |
Noun |
The environment is facing many challenges. Protecting the environment is vital for future generations. |
| Skills |
Noun |
Developing new skills can enhance your career. These skills are increasingly important in today's job market. |
| Diversity |
Noun |
Cultural diversity enriches society. Embracing diversity leads to greater understanding among people. |
| Challenges |
Noun |
We face many challenges in our lives. Overcoming these challenges makes us stronger. |
| Innovation |
Noun |
Innovation drives progress in society. Encouraging innovation can lead to significant advancements. |
| Success |
Noun |
Success requires hard work and dedication. Achieving success often comes with many sacrifices. |
| Community |
Noun |
A strong community fosters support and growth. Engaging with your community can lead to meaningful connections. |
5. Collocation
Collocation refers to using words that commonly go together.
| Collocation |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Make a decision |
It is important to make a decision quickly in times of crisis. |
| Take a break |
After studying for hours, it’s essential to take a break to refresh your mind. |
| Do research |
Students are encouraged to do research before writing their essays. |
| Give advice |
Teachers should give advice to students on how to manage their time effectively. |
| Break the news |
The journalist was tasked to break the news about the upcoming election. |
| Catch someone’s attention |
The advertisement was designed to catch the audience's attention immediately. |
| Pay attention |
Students must pay attention during lectures to grasp the concepts being taught. |
| Take action |
Governments must take action against climate change. |
| Face challenges |
Many young entrepreneurs will inevitably face challenges as they start their businesses. |
| Reach a conclusion |
After analyzing the data, we can finally reach a conclusion about the experiment. |
6. Discourse Markers
Discourse markers guide readers through the text by signaling transitions or conclusions.
| Discourse Marker |
Type |
Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Firstly |
Sequencing |
Firstly, it is important to understand the basic principles of economics. |
| Moreover |
Addition |
The study was comprehensive; moreover, it included data from multiple sources. |
| However |
Contrast |
The results were promising; however, further research is needed. |
| For example |
Giving an Example |
Many countries are adopting renewable energy; for example, Germany has significantly increased its solar energy production. |
| In conclusion |
Summarizing |
In conclusion, the benefits of regular exercise cannot be overstated. |
| Therefore |
Cause/Effect |
The population is increasing rapidly; therefore, more resources are required. |
| On the other hand |
Contrast |
Some people prefer to work in teams; on the other hand, others thrive in silence. |
| In addition |
Addition |
In addition, improving public transport can reduce traffic congestion. |
| Consequently |
Cause/Effect |
The economy has improved significantly; consequently, unemployment rates have dropped. |
| To illustrate |
Giving an Example |
Many cities have implemented green spaces; to illustrate, New York's Central Park serves as a model for urban parks. |
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.
Yes. If you score 7.0 or above in the IELTS examination, your score is considered a good score. Scoring 7.0 or above puts you in a safe zone where you clear cut-offs of most of the Universities that require an IELTS score as proof of English-language proficiency. Getting a high score also helps you score well in the Canada Express Entry Pool, thereby increasing your chances of getting a PR.
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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: