Writing · Unit 2: Common mistakes
W18: Moreover, Furthermore, In addition... in every sentence
Target band 6 to 6.5
Many coaching centres teach a list of linking words and tell students to use as many as possible. The result is essays like this: "Firstly... Moreover... Furthermore... In addition... On the other hand... Lastly... In a nutshell..." Every sentence starts with a linker. It looks organised. But examiners call this mechanical, and it can actually keep you at band 6 for Coherence and Cohesion.
Why this matters
The band descriptors reward linking that is used naturally and flexibly, not linking that is overused or mechanical. Using a linker in every sentence doesn't show skill. It shows a memorised habit. And many students use them incorrectly, like On the other hand without any contrast.
What overuse looks like
"Firstly, social media helps people stay in touch. Moreover, it allows people to share news. Furthermore, it is free. In addition, it helps businesses. On the other hand, it can be addictive. Moreover, it spreads fake news."
Six sentences, six linkers. It feels like a list, not an argument.
What natural linking looks like
"Social media has made it much easier for people to stay in touch, especially with family members living abroad. It also allows businesses, even small ones, to reach customers for free. However, these benefits come with real risks. Many users find the platforms hard to put down, and false information can spread faster than the truth."
Linkers used: also, However, and. Plus referencing: these benefits, the platforms. The paragraph flows like a conversation.
Common misuse
| Linker | How it's misused | Correct use |
|---|---|---|
| On the other hand | to add a similar point | only to contrast two sides |
| Moreover / Furthermore | at the start of every sentence | occasionally, to add a stronger point |
| Besides | in formal essays | sounds informal; use In addition or also |
| In a nutshell | in conclusions | too informal; use In conclusion |
| Lastly | for the conclusion | for the last item in a list; use In conclusion for the end |
Better ways to connect ideas
1. Referencing: use this, these, such, it, they to point back.
- "Many people now work from home. This has reduced traffic."
2. Topic sentences: start each paragraph with its main idea. Then no linker is needed.
- "The main advantage of remote work is flexibility."
3. Linkers in the middle of sentences:
- "Remote work, however, can be lonely."
- "It is also cheaper."
4. Variety: if you need to add, contrast or give results, choose from a range:
- Adding: also, as well as, in addition, what is more
- Contrasting: however, although, while, yet
- Results: so, as a result, this means that
A simple rule
Aim for no more than one sentence-starting linker in every two or three sentences. Let topic sentences and referencing do the rest.
Try it yourself
Improve this:
"Firstly, cars are convenient. Moreover, they are fast. Furthermore, they are comfortable. On the other hand, they cause pollution."
Sample answer: "Cars are convenient, fast and comfortable, which is why so many people rely on them. However, this convenience comes at a cost, since they are a major source of pollution."
Honest note
Linkers aren't bad. You need some. The goal is to use them when they add meaning, not to decorate every sentence.
Your task today
Circle every linker in your last essay. Remove at least half. Replace some with referencing words.