Boost Your IELTS Writing Score: Master Linking Words in Task 2

Master linking words for IELTS Writing Task 2 to improve essay coherence and boost your band score effectively.

Boost Your IELTS Writing Score: Master Linking Words in Task 2

Introduction

Are you finding it challenging to connect ideas smoothly in IELTS Writing Task 2? You might have excellent arguments and vocabulary, but without proper connections between your ideas, your essay can feel disjointed and difficult to follow. Mastering linking words and phrases can significantly enhance essay coherence and elevate your band score by creating a seamless flow of ideas that guides your reader through your reasoning.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to use linking words effectively, ensuring your essay demonstrates the cohesion and coherence examiners are looking for.

ℹ️ Info

Did you know? According to IELTS examiners, inappropriate or absent linking words is one of the top reasons candidates score below band 7 in the Coherence and Cohesion criterion, even when their ideas are strong.

Understanding the Importance of Linking Words

What Are Linking Words?

Linking words, also known as transition words, connectors, or discourse markers, are essential tools that help connect ideas in your essay. They act as bridges between sentences and paragraphs, guiding readers through your thought process and showing the relationships between your ideas.

Examples include simple conjunctions like “and,” “but,” and “or,” as well as more sophisticated connectors such as “furthermore,” “nevertheless,” and “consequently.” These words ensure your essay flows logically and coherently rather than reading like a disconnected list of statements.

For a broader understanding of how linking words fit into the overall essay structure, check our guide on Writing Coherent and Cohesive Essays.

Why Linking Words Matter in IELTS

In IELTS Writing Task 2, linking words directly impact the “Coherence and Cohesion” criterion, which accounts for 25% of your writing score. Examiners specifically look for:

Logical organization of information and ideas
Clear progression throughout your response
Effective use of cohesive devices
Appropriate paragraphing to enhance overall coherence

Coherence & Cohesion Band Descriptors

Band 5: “Limited use of linking devices, with some repetition or under-/over-use”

Band 6: “Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical”

Band 7: “Uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately although there may be some under-/over-use”

Band 8+: “Manages all aspects of cohesion well; skillfully uses a full range of cohesive features”

Understanding these descriptors highlights how proper use of linking words can elevate your score. For more details on IELTS assessment criteria, see our guide on Understanding Band Descriptors and Scoring.

Common Types of Linking Words

Additive Linking Words

Additive linking words help you expand on your ideas by adding more information or providing additional examples and evidence to support your arguments.

Common additive linking words include:

Furthermore
Moreover
In addition
Additionally
Also
As well as
Not only… but also
Besides
What’s more

Basic sentence: “Regular exercise improves physical health. It also enhances mental wellbeing.”

Enhanced with additive linking: “Regular exercise improves physical health. Furthermore, it enhances mental wellbeing by reducing stress hormones and promoting the release of endorphins.”

Adversative Linking Words

Adversative linking words show contrast, contradiction, or unexpected outcomes between ideas. They help you present alternative viewpoints or limitations to arguments, demonstrating critical thinking and balanced analysis.

Common adversative linking words include:

However
Nevertheless
Nonetheless
On the other hand
In contrast
Alternatively
Despite/In spite of
Although/Even though
While
Whereas

💡 Tip

Advanced Tip: For nuanced contrast, consider using phrases like “At first glance… but on closer examination…” or “While it may appear that… a different perspective suggests…” to show sophisticated critical thinking.

Causal Linking Words

Causal linking words show cause-and-effect relationships between ideas, helping you explain reasoning, consequences, and conclusions logically.

Common causal linking words include:

Therefore
As a result
Consequently
Thus
Hence
For this reason
Because of this
This leads to
Due to
Owing to

Cause and Effect Example:

“Many developing countries lack adequate educational infrastructure. As a result, talented students often move abroad to pursue higher education. Consequently, these nations experience ‘brain drain,’ which further hampers their economic development. Because of this cycle, addressing educational infrastructure should be a priority for sustainable development.”

Sequential Linking Words

Sequential linking words help organize ideas chronologically or in order of importance, making your argument easier to follow.

Common sequential linking words include:

First(ly)/Second(ly)/Third(ly)
To begin with
Subsequently
Meanwhile
Following this
Later
Finally
Ultimately
In conclusion

Exemplification Linking Words

These connectors introduce examples that illustrate or support your arguments.

Common exemplification linking words include:

For example
For instance
Such as
To illustrate
In particular
Notably
Specifically
As demonstrated by
A case in point

Connection Type	Function	Examples	When to Use
Additive	Add information	Furthermore, moreover, in addition	When building on a point with more evidence
Adversative	Show contrast	However, nevertheless, despite this	When presenting an opposing view or limitation
Causal	Show cause-effect	Therefore, consequently, as a result	When explaining outcomes or reasoning
Sequential	Order information	Firstly, subsequently, finally	When presenting a process or ordered arguments
Exemplification	Provide examples	For instance, such as, in particular	When illustrating a point with specific cases

For more ways to strengthen your arguments beyond linking words, check our guide on Developing Ideas and Supporting Arguments.

Strategies for Effective Use of Linking Phrases

Avoid Overuse

While linking words are important, overusing them can clutter your essay and create an artificial, mechanical feel. Aim for balanced usage by:

Using a variety of linking devices rather than repeating the same ones
Ensuring each link serves a clear purpose rather than adding them unnecessarily
Allowing some connections to be implicit when the relationship between ideas is obvious
Considering sentence variety - not every sentence needs an explicit connector

⚠️ Warning

Common Mistake: Forcing a linking word at the beginning of every sentence creates unnatural writing. Band 7+ essays use linking devices strategically, not excessively.

Appropriate Contextual Use

Different linking words convey subtle differences in meaning. Using them correctly requires understanding their precise function:

“However” vs. “Nevertheless” - “However” introduces a contrasting idea while “Nevertheless” acknowledges the previous point but suggests it doesn’t affect the following conclusion
“Because of” vs. “Due to” - “Because of” typically introduces a clause while “Due to” is followed by a noun phrase
“Therefore” vs. “Thus” - “Therefore” indicates a direct logical consequence while “Thus” can also mean “in this way” or “like this”

For deeper understanding of precise language use, explore our guide on Using Advanced Vocabulary in IELTS Essays.

Practice with Examples

Engage in targeted practice exercises to hone your linking word skills:

Exercise 1: Sentence Joining Take pairs of related sentences and join them using appropriate linking words.

Exercise 2: Paragraph Analysis Study model essays and highlight all cohesive devices, noting their function.

Exercise 3: Gap-fill Activities Remove linking words from a paragraph and then reinsert the most appropriate ones.

Exercise 4: Rewriting with Alternatives Take a paragraph and rewrite it using different linking words while maintaining the same meaning.

"My IELTS Writing score was stuck at Band 6 for months. After focusing specifically on improving my use of cohesive devices and practicing with targeted exercises, my score jumped to 7.5 on my next attempt. The examiner specifically mentioned my 'skillful use of a range of linking words' in the feedback!" — Mei Lin, IELTS Success Story from Malaysia

Enhancing Your Essay Structure with Linking Words

Introduction and Conclusion Linking

Strategic use of linking words in introductions and conclusions creates a sense of cohesion across your entire essay.

Introduction connectors:

To begin with
In recent years
This essay will discuss
It is often argued that
The issue of… raises several questions

Conclusion connectors:

In conclusion
To sum up
In summary
Overall
Taking everything into account
On balance

Weak introduction: “This essay is about online education. I will talk about the advantages and disadvantages. I think it has more advantages.”

Strong introduction with effective linking: “In recent years, the widespread adoption of online education has sparked considerable debate regarding its effectiveness compared to traditional classroom learning. While some educators argue that digital platforms lack the personal interaction essential for effective learning, others maintain that the flexibility and accessibility of online courses outweigh these concerns. This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that, on balance, the advantages of online education predominate, particularly in expanding educational access to underserved communities.”

For more advanced introduction techniques, see our detailed guide on How to Write an Impressive IELTS Essay Introduction.

Body Paragraph Coherence

Ensure logical flow both within and between paragraphs by strategically placing linking words:

Between paragraphs:

Use connectors that show the relationship between major sections of your argument
Signal shifts in focus with phrases like “Turning to…” or “With regard to…”
Create explicit connections to previous points with “Building on this idea…” or “In contrast to the above…”

Within paragraphs:

Begin with clear topic sentences that may include linking words connecting to previous paragraphs
Use sequential markers (firstly, secondly) for related points
Connect examples to main ideas with exemplification markers
Conclude paragraphs with sentences that summarize or transition to the next topic

Body Paragraph Transitions Example:

End of Paragraph 1: “…These economic benefits demonstrate why many governments are keen to invest in renewable energy infrastructure.”

Beginning of Paragraph 2: “Despite these economic advantages, environmental considerations are equally important when assessing renewable energy policies. First and foremost, the carbon reduction potential of different renewable sources varies significantly…”

Beginning of Paragraph 3: “Beyond both economic and environmental factors, social implications must also be considered. In particular, the creation of green jobs has become a compelling argument for renewable energy adoption…”

For comprehensive guidance on paragraph development, refer to our guide on Effective Essay Planning Techniques.

Creating Logical Progression

Linking words should support the natural logical progression of your ideas, helping to create a coherent argument that builds toward your conclusion:

Use narrative flow - Let ideas develop naturally, with each building on the previous one
Signal transitions between different aspects of your argument
Indicate relationships between ideas (similarity, contrast, cause-effect)
Guide readers through more complex reasoning with explicit connectors

Introduction

10%

Background & Context

20%

Main Arguments

50%

Counterarguments & Rebuttals

15%

Conclusion

Advanced Linking Techniques

Varied Sentence Position

Most candidates only place linking words at the beginning of sentences, but advanced writers use them in different positions:

Beginning: “However, this approach has limitations.”
Middle: “This approach, however, has limitations.”
Between clauses: “The research is promising; nevertheless, more studies are needed.”

💡 Tip

Examiner’s Note: Varying the position of linking words demonstrates sophisticated writing skills and helps avoid the repetitive pattern that can make essays sound mechanical.

Using More Sophisticated Connectors

Move beyond basic linking words to demonstrate a broader lexical range:

Instead of “but”:

Nevertheless
Nonetheless
Having said that
That being said
Be that as it may
Notwithstanding

Instead of “because”:

Given that
Considering that
In view of the fact that
Owing to the fact that
On account of

Instead of “also”:

Moreover
Furthermore
In addition
Additionally
What’s more
As well as

For more advanced vocabulary suggestions, see our comprehensive guide on IELTS Vocabulary: Words and Phrases to Boost Your Score.

Using Referencing as Cohesive Devices

Beyond explicit linking words, cohesion can be created through:

Pronouns: Using he, she, it, they, this, these, etc. to refer to previously mentioned items
Demonstratives: Using this, that, these, those to point to specific ideas
Article use: Using “the” to refer back to previously introduced concepts
Synonyms: Using different words to refer to the same concept
Substitution: Using words like “one,” “ones,” “do so,” to avoid repetition

Example of Advanced Cohesion Techniques:

“Environmental pollution continues to threaten marine ecosystems. This issue is particularly evident in coastal regions, where industrial waste often contaminates shorelines. Such contamination not only harms local wildlife but also affects human communities dependent on these waters. The problem is compounded when governmental regulations are inadequate. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving stricter policies and community engagement.”

Notice how the highlighted phrases refer back to previous content without explicitly using traditional linking words.

For more guidance on addressing complex topics in your essays, check our resource on Common IELTS Essay Topics and How to Approach Them.

Common Mistakes with Linking Words

Misuse and Inappropriate Selection

Using linking words incorrectly can confuse readers and indicate to examiners that you don’t fully understand their function:

Incorrect relationships: Using “therefore” when there’s no cause-effect relationship
Contradictory connectors: Using “however” when ideas aren’t actually contrasting
Formal/informal mismatch: Using casual connectors like “anyway” or “plus” in formal writing
Redundancy: Using multiple linking words that serve the same function (e.g., “but however”)

Common Error	Example	Correction
Incorrect relationship	“I studied hard. Therefore, I failed the exam.”	“I studied hard. However, I failed the exam.”
Double connectors	“But however, the results were different.”	“However, the results were different.”
Formal/informal mismatch	“The economy is struggling, plus unemployment is rising.”	“The economy is struggling; moreover, unemployment is rising.”
Redundancy	“In addition, they also provide support.”	“In addition, they provide support.” OR “They also provide support.”

Overreliance on Basic Connectors

Repeatedly using the same few linking words suggests limited language proficiency:

Over-dependence on “and,” “but,” “so,” and “because”
Starting multiple sentences with “Also” or “However”
Using “Firstly/Secondly/Finally” for all essays regardless of context

For guidance on avoiding common errors, see Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Mechanical Use Without Natural Flow

Adding linking words without ensuring they fit naturally creates an artificial feel:

Forcing a connector at the start of every sentence
Using linking words when the connection is already clear
Following formulaic patterns rather than allowing ideas to flow naturally

⚠️ Warning

Band Score Impact: Using linking words mechanically or incorrectly can actually lower your score. IELTS examiners look for appropriate and natural use, not just quantity!

Time-Efficient Strategies for Test Day

Pre-Memorized Linking Phrases

Having a repertoire of versatile linking phrases ready can save valuable time during the exam:

For introducing topics: “A contentious issue in modern society is…”
For adding points: “Another significant factor to consider is…”
For examples: “A compelling illustration of this can be seen in…”
For contrasting: “While X has certain merits, it is important to acknowledge…”
For concluding: “Taking all factors into consideration, it is evident that…”

For more guidance on time management, refer to our guide on Time Management Tips for Writing Task 2.

Quick Self-Check Technique

Before submitting your essay, perform a rapid linking word check:

Scan the first word of each sentence - are too many the same?
Look for paragraphs without any cohesive devices
Check for overused favorites (often “however” and “therefore”)
Verify that each linking word accurately reflects the relationship between ideas

30-Second Cohesion Check Technique:

At the end of your essay, take 30 seconds to circle all linking words and evaluate:

Variety: Have I used a range of different connectors?
Accuracy: Do they correctly represent the relationships between my ideas?
Distribution: Are they spread throughout the essay rather than clustered?
Position: Have I varied their placement within sentences?

This quick check can identify major cohesion issues before submission.

Conclusion

Mastering linking words and phrases is a critical component of IELTS Writing Task 2 success. These linguistic tools enhance the flow and coherence of your essay, guiding readers logically through your arguments and demonstrating your ability to construct a well-organized response.

Remember that effective use of linking words involves more than simply inserting transitions between sentences. It requires understanding the precise function of different connectors, using them appropriately to reflect the relationships between ideas, and integrating them naturally into your writing.

By developing a rich repertoire of cohesive devices and practicing their use in various contexts, you can significantly improve the coherence and cohesion of your essays, directly enhancing your IELTS Writing score. The strategies and examples provided in this guide offer a comprehensive framework for mastering this essential aspect of written English.

ℹ️ Info

Key Takeaways: