11 Linking Words to Nail Your IELTS Writing

Summary

This video explains the significance of cohesive devices, or linking words, in writing, particularly for IELTS exams. It covers various types of linking words, including those for contrast (e.g., 'although,' 'however'), cause and effect (e.g., 'because,' 'therefore'), and addition (e.g., 'furthermore,' 'moreover'). The speaker emphasizes the importance of using a range of these devices correctly to enhance coherence and clarity in writing. Advanced linking techniques are also discussed, alongside practical tips for punctuation and sentence structure, to help viewers achieve higher scores in their writing tasks.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cohesive devices, also known as linking words, help connect ideas in writing and are crucial for effective communication.
• 😀 Using cohesive devices correctly enhances the clarity of your writing; avoid overusing or underusing them.
• 😀 'Although' and 'however' are effective for showing contrasts in writing, but they serve different grammatical functions.
• 😀 A semicolon is needed before 'however' when used to link two independent clauses, while 'nevertheless' functions similarly.
• 😀 'Because' is a key linker for providing explanations, while synonyms like 'since' can be used in specific contexts.
• 😀 To improve writing quality, vary the linking words used throughout your essay to avoid redundancy.
• 😀 Conditional sentences, introduced by 'if', are essential in essays and show relationships between different ideas.
• 😀 When listing examples, remember to use commas correctly, especially before phrases like 'such as' or 'for example.'
• 😀 Advanced linkers like 'not only... but also' and 'despite' can elevate your writing and showcase complexity.
• 😀 Cohesive devices include not just linking words, but also referencing and substitution to maintain clarity and flow.

Q & A

What are cohesive devices, and why are they important in writing?

Cohesive devices, also known as linking words, are words and phrases that show how different points in writing fit together. They are important because they help create clear connections between ideas, enhancing the coherence of the text.

How should linking words be used in writing to avoid mistakes?

Linking words should be used in the right situations, with careful attention to punctuation. Writers should avoid overusing them or using too few, as both can negatively impact their writing score.

What is the difference between 'although' and 'however'?

'Although' introduces a dependent clause to show contrast within a single sentence, while 'however' is a conjunctive adverb used to connect two independent clauses, typically separated by a semicolon.

What punctuation rules should be followed when using 'because'?

When 'because' begins a sentence, it should be followed by a comma. However, if 'because' is in the middle of a sentence, no comma is needed.

What are some synonyms for 'because' mentioned in the script?

Some synonyms for 'because' mentioned in the script include 'since' and 'therefore'.

What types of linking words can be used to show comparisons?

To show comparisons, linking words such as 'whereas' and 'while' can be used, as they help compare data or simple facts.

What are some formal linking words that can connect complex ideas?

Formal linking words that connect complex ideas include 'furthermore', 'moreover', and 'in addition'.

What is the significance of using conditional sentences in writing?

Conditional sentences, introduced by 'if', help illustrate hypothetical situations and their potential outcomes, which can add depth to arguments and analyses.

How can advanced linking words improve the quality of writing?

Advanced linking words, such as 'not only... but also' and 'despite', can help create more complex sentence structures, showcasing a higher level of grammatical proficiency.

What should writers be cautious about when using linking words?

Writers should be cautious about overusing linking words, using them incorrectly, or failing to use a variety of them, as these issues can result in lower writing scores.