Writing Common Mistake: Lack of Coherence and Cohesion

Coherence and cohesion are essential elements of a well-structured IELTS essay. Coherence refers to the logical flow of ideas, while cohesion is the use of linking devices to connect sentences and paragraphs. Many test-takers lose marks by presenting disorganised ideas or failing to use appropriate linking words. Common issues include:

• Jumping from one idea to another without a clear connection.
• Writing paragraphs that lack a clear central topic.
• Overusing or misusing linking words, which can make writing awkward or repetitive.

Without coherence and cohesion, even well-developed arguments can become difficult to follow, reducing your score in these areas.

How to Avoid This Mistake

To improve coherence and cohesion, focus on organising your ideas logically and using linking words appropriately.

a. Plan Your Essay Structure
Before writing, spend a few minutes planning your response:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the task and outline your main points.
• Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, with supporting details and examples.
• Conclusion: Summarise your main points and restate your opinion.

b. Use Paragraphing Effectively
Each paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence, followed by supporting sentences. Ensure that ideas within each paragraph are logically connected.

c. Use a Variety of Linking Words
Appropriate use of linking words helps maintain flow and clarity:

• Adding information: furthermore, moreover, in addition.
• Contrasting ideas: however, on the other hand, although.
• Showing cause and effect: therefore, as a result, consequently.

d. Avoid Overusing Linking Words
While linking words are essential, overusing them can disrupt the natural flow. Use them sparingly and only where necessary.

Examples of This Mistake and How to Fix It

Poor Example
Technology has improved education. However, it is useful. However, some people find it hard to use. Therefore, they might not use it often. Therefore, they stick to traditional methods.

Problem: This paragraph overuses “however” and “therefore” without clear connections between ideas.

Improved Example
Technology has significantly improved education by providing access to online resources and interactive tools. However, some individuals find these tools challenging to use, particularly older generations. As a result, they may prefer traditional teaching methods, which they find more familiar and easier to navigate.
Why It Works: This version uses linking words appropriately and maintains a logical flow of ideas.

Poor Example (Paragraph Organisation)
People enjoy travelling for many reasons. Some people like visiting new places. Travelling can also be expensive. Moreover, it is time-consuming. Travelling teaches people about different cultures.
Problem: The paragraph lacks a clear focus, mixing advantages and disadvantages without organisation.

Improved Example (Organised Paragraphs)
People enjoy travelling for various reasons. One key advantage is the opportunity to explore new places and experience different cultures. For instance, visiting a foreign country allows travellers to learn about its traditions and history. However, travelling also has drawbacks, such as high costs and the time required for long journeys. These factors may deter some individuals from travelling frequently.

Why It Works: The improved version separates the advantages and disadvantages into distinct paragraphs, improving coherence.

Get your writing assessed by a trained examiner