Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing: Cohesive devices are essential tools used to connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs cohesively and logically in the IELTS test. These devices are used for various purposes, such as indicating a relationship between two ideas, adding information, showing contrast, providing examples, or signaling a conclusion. The primary function of Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing is to make your writing more coherent and ensure that the reader can follow the ideas you present without confusion.
In the IELTS Writing section, the use of cohesive devices is crucial for achieving a high IELTS band score. This criterion evaluates how well your ideas are organized and linked together. Read the complete guide to learn more about Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing.
How to improve IELTS Score in Writing from 6.5 to 9
Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing Overview
Using cohesive devices appropriately in your IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 essays can significantly enhance your score in the "Coherence and Cohesion" category. This criterion assesses how well your ideas are organized and connected within paragraphs and across the entire essay. Without proper use of cohesive devices, your essay may seem disjointed, and the examiner may find it difficult to follow your argument.
Types of Cohesive Devices with Examples
Below is a detailed breakdown of the most commonly used cohesive devices for IELTS writing.
1. Reference Words:
These link back to something previously mentioned, avoiding repetition.
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Pronouns: it, this, that, these, those, they, them, their, he, she, him, her, his, hers, himself, herself, itself, themselves
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Demonstratives: this, that, these, those
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Comparatives: such, same, similar
2. Substitution:
Replacing a word or phrase with a shorter one.
3. Conjunctions:
These connect words, phrases, or clauses.
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Coordinating: and, but, or, so, yet, for, nor
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Subordinating: because, although, while, since, if, unless, etc.
4. Lexical Cohesion:
Using related vocabulary to create connections.
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Repetition: Repeating keywords or phrases (use sparingly).
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Synonyms: Words with similar meanings.
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Collocations: Words that commonly appear together.
5. Discourse Markers:
These signal the relationship between ideas and guide the reader through the text. (Often overlaps with conjunctions and adverbial connectors, but focuses on the signaling function).
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Addition: furthermore, moreover, in addition, besides, also
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Contrast: however, nevertheless, on the other hand, despite, in contrast
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Cause and Effect: therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, so
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Sequence: firstly, secondly, finally, then, next, after that
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Exemplification: for example, for instance, such as
Reference Words
Words that point back to something previously mentioned, avoiding repetition.
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Reference Word
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Type
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Example Sentence
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These
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Demonstrative
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The recent advancements in AI are remarkable. These innovations are reshaping industries.
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It
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Pronoun
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The novel was engaging from start to finish. It kept me hooked.
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That
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Pronoun
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She shared an inspiring story. That motivated me to work harder.
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This
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Pronoun
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The decision to reduce pollution was crucial. This will help improve air quality.
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They
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Pronoun
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The volunteers worked tirelessly during the event. They ensured everything ran smoothly.
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Such
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Determiner
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Some habits can be harmful to health. Such practices should be avoided.
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One
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Pronoun (substitution)
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I tried many desserts, but the chocolate cake was the best one.
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The former
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Reference (comparison)
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Two strategies were proposed: online marketing and direct sales. The former proved more cost-effective.
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The latter
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Reference (comparison)
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We could take the train or drive to the destination. The latter might be faster.
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Those
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Demonstrative
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Many prefer organic foods. Those who do believe they are healthier.
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Substitution
Replacing a word or phrase with a shorter one.
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Substitution Word
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Type
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Example Sentence
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It
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Pronoun substitution
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The new law was passed. It will take effect next month.
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The same
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Noun phrase substitution
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She started learning Spanish last year, and now I want to do the same.
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Those
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Pronoun substitution
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I bought two jackets: a leather one and a denim one. I prefer those made of leather.
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Do
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Verb substitution
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She studies every night, and her brother does too.
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One
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Noun substitution
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I lost my pen, so I need to buy a new one.
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That
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Pronoun substitution
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Several books are available, but that is the most interesting.
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This
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Pronoun substitution
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The discovery was groundbreaking. This will change scientific research.
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Them
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Pronoun substitution
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The team worked hard to complete the project. I am proud of them.
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So
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Conjunction substitution
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The city was crowded, so we decided to take a quieter route.
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Such
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Noun substitution
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His innovative mindset is impressive, and such creativity is rare.
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Conjunctions
Words that connect words, phrases, or clauses.
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Conjunction
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Type
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Example Sentence
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Although
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Subordinating
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Although the journey was long, it was worth the effort.
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And
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Coordinating
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She enjoys painting and playing the piano.
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Since
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Subordinating
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Since he moved to the city, he has made many new friends.
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Because
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Subordinating
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The match was postponed because of heavy rain.
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Or
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Coordinating
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You can have tea or coffee with your breakfast.
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While
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Subordinating
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While I appreciate your help, I prefer to do it myself.
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So
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Coordinating
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The roads were icy, so we drove carefully.
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Whereas
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Subordinating
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I prefer online shopping, whereas my sister enjoys visiting stores.
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Unless
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Subordinating
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You won’t pass the test unless you prepare thoroughly.
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But
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Coordinating
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He was tired, but he continued working until midnight.
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Repetition
Repeating keywords or phrases.
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Repetition Word
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Type
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Example Sentence
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Community
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Noun
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A supportive community fosters growth and well-being. Community engagement is essential.
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Education
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Noun
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Education plays a crucial role in shaping a child's future. Without proper education, progress is difficult.
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Success
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Noun
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Hard work and persistence lead to success. Success requires determination.
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Diversity
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Noun
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Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation. Companies benefit from embracing diversity.
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Innovation
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Noun
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Innovation drives technological progress. Encouraging innovation is key to economic growth.
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Environment
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Noun
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Protecting the environment is crucial. The impact of pollution on the environment is alarming.
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Health
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Noun
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Maintaining good health is essential. Health is wealth, as the saying goes.
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Technology
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Noun
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Technology has transformed communication. The latest advancements in technology are remarkable.
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Challenges
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Noun
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Overcoming challenges makes us stronger. Facing challenges builds resilience.
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Skills
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Noun
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Developing new skills enhances career opportunities. Employers value practical skills.
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Collocation
Words that commonly appear together.
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Collocation
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Example Sentence
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Break the news
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The manager had to break the news about the company's restructuring.
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Take action
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The government must take action to reduce pollution levels.
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Catch someone’s attention
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The headline was designed to catch the reader’s attention.
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Do research
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Scientists need to do thorough research before publishing their findings.
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Face challenges
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Young entrepreneurs often face challenges when starting a business.
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Reach a conclusion
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After analyzing the data, the researchers were able to reach a conclusion.
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Make a decision
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It's important to make a decision after evaluating all options.
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Give advice
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Teachers should give advice to students on career choices.
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Take a break
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After hours of studying, it’s necessary to take a break.
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Pay attention
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Students must pay attention during lectures to understand the concepts.
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Discourse Markers
Words or phrases that signal the relationship between ideas and guide the reader.
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Discourse Marker
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Type
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Example Sentence
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However
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Contrast
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The plan seemed perfect; however, unexpected issues arose.
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Firstly
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Sequencing
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Firstly, we need to gather all the necessary resources.
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Moreover
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Addition
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The course was informative; moreover, it was engaging.
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For example
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Giving an Example
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Many animals are endangered; for example, the Bengal tiger.
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To illustrate
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Giving an Example
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The effects of climate change are severe; to illustrate, polar ice caps are melting rapidly.
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Consequently
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Cause/Effect
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The company adopted new policies; consequently, productivity improved.
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On the other hand
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Contrast
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Some students prefer studying alone; on the other hand, others thrive in group settings.
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In addition
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Addition
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The university offers scholarships; in addition, students receive career guidance.
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Therefore
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Cause/Effect
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He missed several deadlines; therefore, his promotion was delayed.
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In conclusion
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Summarizing
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In conclusion, a balanced diet and regular exercise are key to good health.
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Tips for Using Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing Effectively
Using cohesive devices effectively in IELTS Writing is crucial for ensuring clarity, logical flow, and coherence in your responses. These linking words and phrases help connect ideas smoothly, making your essay more structured and easier to follow. Here are some essential tips to use Cohesive Devices in IELTS Writing correctly to improve your IELTS Writing band score.
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Cohesive devices are crucial for well-structured writing, but overuse may impact readability.
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Demonstrate language proficiency by employing a variety of cohesive devices, avoiding repetition.
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Ensure cohesive devices seamlessly integrate with sentence structure and meaning.
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Analyze high-scoring IELTS essays to understand effective cohesive device usage.
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Regularly practice incorporating diverse cohesive devices in essays to enhance coherence and logical flow.
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Seek feedback from IELTS experts to refine writing and improve cohesive device application.
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