How to Improve IELTS Writing Coherence and Cohesion?

When preparing for the IELTS Writing Task, achieving coherence and cohesion is crucial for scoring high. Why? Because coherence and cohesion ensure that your essay flows logically and that all parts are connected seamlessly. Without these elements, even a well-researched essay may seem disjointed and hard to follow. This guide will delve into what coherence and cohesion entail, provide practical examples, and offer strategies to help you excel in the IELTS Writing Task.

What is Coherence and Cohesion?

Coherence

Coherence refers to the logical arrangement of ideas in your essay. Your argument should be easily understandable, and your points should follow a clear progression. Making sure that your ideas flow logically will help the reader understand your point without confusion.

Cohesion

Cohesion involves the grammatical and lexical linking within your text, ensuring that sentences and paragraphs are connected and that relationships between ideas are clear. This often involves the use of cohesive devices such as conjunctions, pronouns, and lexical chains.

Examples of Coherence and Cohesion

Example 1: Linking words and phrases

Using linking words appropriately helps unify your essay. For instance:

• “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “Finally” for listing points.
• “However,” “On the other hand,” to show contrast.
• “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” to add information.
• “Therefore,” “Consequently,” to show cause and effect.

Example 2: Pronouns and Substitution

Using pronouns to refer back to previously mentioned ideas helps avoid repetition and maintains a smooth flow of information.

• Original: “Pollution affects marine life. Pollution also harms the health of humans.”
• Improved: “Pollution affects marine life. It also harms human health.”

Example 3: Consistent Verb Tenses

Ensuring consistency in verb tenses helps maintain the clarity and logical flow of time-related events or arguments.

• Inconsistent: “People study English for many reasons. They travel and needed to communicate.”
• Consistent: “People study English for many reasons. They travel and need to communicate.”

Example 4: Thematic progression

Maintain a clear thematic progression by ensuring every sentence in a paragraph relates to the main idea of that paragraph.

• Topic Sentence: “Online education offers flexibility.”
• Supporting Sentences: “Firstly, students can access materials at any time. Secondly, it caters to different learning paces.”

Applying these Techniques to IELTS Writing

IELTS Writing Task 1 Example

Task: Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features in a chart.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Chart

Cohesion and Coherence in Practice

1. Introduction: “The provided bar chart illustrates the different modes of transport used by travelers in a certain country over a year.”
2. Body Paragraph 1:
   • “Firstly, buses were the most frequently used mode, with 40% of people opting for this transport.”
   • Linking to the next idea: “In contrast, trains were used by only 20% of travelers.”
3. Body Paragraph 2:
   • “Interestingly, the use of bicycles saw a significant increase.”
   • “Moreover, cars remained a popular choice throughout the year.”

IELTS Writing Task 2 Example

Task: Discuss both views and give your own opinion regarding “Should schools teach practical skills or academic subjects?”

Cohesion and Coherence in Practice

1. Introduction:
   • Hook: “The debate on whether schools should teach practical skills or academic subjects is ongoing.”
   • Thesis: “This essay will discuss both views and provide a personal opinion.”
2. Body Paragraph 1:
   • Coherent point: “Proponents of practical skills argue that such education prepares students for real-life challenges.”
   • Example: “For instance, cooking and financial literacy are crucial for daily survival.”
   • Cohesive connection to next point: “However, others believe…”
3. Body Paragraph 2:
   • Coherent point: “On the other hand, academic subjects form the basis of higher education and cognitive development.”
   • Example: “Subjects like mathematics and science develop critical thinking skills.”
   • Cohesive concluding sentence: “Therefore, a balanced approach may be the best solution.”
4. Conclusion:
   • “Both practical skills and academic subjects have their importance. In my opinion, integrating both in the curriculum can offer well-rounded education.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Overusing Connectors

Using too many linking words can make your writing seem forced and unnatural.
Solution: Use connectors judiciously and focus on natural flow.

Mistake 2: Lack of Paragraphs

Failing to divide your writing into clear paragraphs makes it difficult to follow.
Solution: Start each new idea or argument in a new paragraph.

Mistake 3: Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Pronouns that do not clearly refer back to a specific noun can confuse the reader.
Solution: Ensure every pronoun clearly refers to a previously mentioned noun.

How to Practice Coherence and Cohesion

Technique 1: Practice Paragraphs

Write practice paragraphs focusing on one topic sentence and developing it clearly using cohesive devices.

Technique 2: Peer Review

Exchange essays with peers and review each other’s work for coherence and cohesion. Provide constructive feedback.

Technique 3: Timed Practice

Allocate times to write practice essays focusing specifically on using cohesive devices and maintaining logical flow.

Conclusion

Improving coherence and cohesion in your IELTS writing isn’t an overnight task, but with consistent practice and keen awareness of how to link your ideas effectively, you can significantly enhance the clarity and flow of your essays. By following the guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be able to write sophisticated, well-structured essays that impress IELTS examiners. If you have any questions or would like to explore more resources, feel free to leave a comment or explore additional content on our website.