Connectors & Linking Words

Connectors & Linking Words

Using a variety of connectors is essential for achieving a high band score in Coherence and Cohesion. Here are the main categories with Before/After examples:

Before vs After: Using Connectors

Incorrect (Weak): "The population increased. The resources remained limited."

Correct (Optimized): "The population increased significantly; however, the available resources remained limited."

Addition

• Furthermore - Moreover, the study showed...
• In addition - In addition, many companies have adopted...
• Additionally - Additionally, the cost has decreased...
• Besides - Besides the economic benefits, there are...
• Not only... but also - Not only does it save time, but also reduces costs.

Before vs After: Addition Connector

Incorrect (Weak): "Technology has improved productivity. It has also created new jobs."

Correct (Optimized): "Technology has significantly improved productivity. Furthermore, it has created numerous new employment opportunities."

Contrast

• However - The population increased; however, resources remained limited.
• Nevertheless - The challenges were significant. Nevertheless, the project succeeded.
• On the other hand - Some argue for technology. On the other hand, others prefer traditional methods.
• Although/Though - Although the initial cost was high, long-term savings were substantial.
• Despite/In spite of - Despite the weather, the event went ahead.
• Whereas/While - Some countries favor nuclear energy, whereas others prefer renewable sources.

Cause & Effect

• Therefore - The demand increased; therefore, prices rose.
• Consequently - Many factories closed. Consequently, unemployment rose.
• As a result - Temperatures rose globally. As a result, ice caps melted.
• Thus - The population grew rapidly, thus straining resources.
• Hence - The evidence is clear; hence, we must take action.

Examples

• For instance - Many countries, for instance, Japan and South Korea, have aging populations.
• Such as - Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are becoming popular.
• In particular - Digital services, in particular, online streaming, have grown significantly.
• To illustrate - To illustrate this point, consider the case of Sweden.

Sequencing & Time

• Initially - Initially, the program faced opposition.
• Subsequently - Subsequently, the policy was modified.
• Finally - Finally, after many years, the project was completed.
• Meanwhile - Meanwhile, other sectors continued to grow.
• At the same time - At the same time, we must consider environmental impacts.

Conclusion

• In conclusion - In conclusion, urbanization has both benefits and drawbacks.
• To sum up - To sum up, education is crucial for economic development.
• Overall - Overall, the results were positive.
• In summary - In summary, the findings support the hypothesis.

Key Principles for High Impact

• Don't overuse the same connectors. Use a variety to show range.
• Place connectors at the beginning of sentences or clauses for clarity.
• Never start a sentence with "And" or "But" in formal academic writing.
• Use connectors within paragraphs to connect ideas, not just between paragraphs.
• Practice using connectors naturally - forced use can sound awkward.