Cohesion without linking words

In W18, you learned that overusing linkers like Moreover and Furthermore sounds mechanical. So how do strong writers connect their ideas? Mostly without linkers at all. They use referencing, substitution and clear sentence order. This lesson shows you these tools, which are what examiners mean by flexible cohesion at band 7 and above.

Why this matters

Coherence and Cohesion is a quarter of each task's score. At band 7, the descriptors talk about using cohesive devices flexibly and appropriately, with clear referencing. At band 8, cohesion is managed so well that it doesn't attract attention. You can't reach those bands with linkers alone.

Tool 1: Referencing

Use words that point back to something you've already said.

this, these, that, those
it, they, them
such, the former, the latter

"Many cities have introduced bicycle-sharing schemes. These schemes have reduced short car journeys."

"Governments can either raise taxes or cut spending. The latter is usually less popular."

Tip: This + noun is clearer than This alone. "This problem" is better than "This".

Tool 2: Substitution

Replace a word or phrase to avoid repeating it.

one, ones: "Old buildings are often replaced by new ones."
do so: "Many people want to study abroad, but few can afford to do so."
so: "Some people think the policy will fail. I don't think so."

Tool 3: Synonyms and word families

Repeat the idea, not the exact word.

"Pollution is a major issue in large cities. Reducing emissions from vehicles would improve air quality considerably."

The paragraph stays on topic, but each sentence uses a new expression.

Tool 4: Start with what the reader knows

This is a powerful technique. Begin each sentence with information from the previous one, then add something new.

"Many students now study online. This flexibility allows them to work part-time. Working part-time, in turn, helps them pay for their education."

Each sentence picks up the end of the one before. The paragraph flows like a chain.

Before and after

Mechanical:

"Firstly, tourism brings money. Moreover, tourism creates jobs. Furthermore, tourism can damage the environment. In addition, tourism can raise prices."

Cohesive:

"Tourism can bring significant income to a region, much of which is spent on local businesses. This spending creates jobs, particularly in hotels and restaurants. However, the same visitors who support the economy can also put pressure on the environment and push up prices for local residents."

Linkers used: just However. The rest is referencing (This spending, the same visitors), chaining and synonyms.

Try it yourself

Improve this using referencing and substitution:

"Many parents give children smartphones. Children use smartphones for many hours. Using smartphones for many hours can affect children's sleep."

Sample answer: "Many parents give their children smartphones, which they often use for many hours a day. Such heavy use can affect their sleep."

Honest note

Referencing can confuse the reader if it's unclear what it or this refers to. Always make sure the reference is obvious. When in doubt, add a noun: this policy, these students.

Your task today

Take a paragraph you've written. Remove all linkers except one. Reconnect the sentences using referencing and chaining.