IELTS Writing Test | The Magic of Cohesive Devices

What does ‘Cohesive Devices’ actually mean?

Cohesive devices, referred to as "Linking Words," are words or phrases that logically connect various thoughts in an essay and make it flow. By indicating additions, contrasts, cause and effect, and other linkages, they serve as connectors and aid in illustrating the relationship between concepts.

Cohesive techniques include, for instance, the use of words and phrases like "however," "therefore," "in addition," "for example," and "to conclude." When you use them correctly, your writing becomes simpler to read and more logical.

What are the different types of cohesive devices?

Cohesive devices come in several varieties:

• Synonyms: The use of distinct words that convey the same idea.
• Antonyms: Words and concepts that contrast by utilizing opposites.
• Conjunctions: Joining words for clauses, such as "and," "but," and "so."

• Repetition: Using the same words and concepts repeatedly in phrases and paragraphs.
• Collocation: Combining terms that are often used together.
• Conversation indicators: Text-organizing words and phrases like "on the other hand" and "in conclusion."
• Reference phrases: Pronouns that allude to previously specified information include "that," "them," " this," and "which."
• Substitution words: Nouns that are replaced with words like "do" and "one."

Techniques to use cohesive devices

Here are some suggestions for making efficient use of cohesive devices:

• Make the right device choices. For opposing concepts, use terms that contrast, and for related ideas, use words that link.
• Be mindful of placement and order. Place them correctly into a phrase or paragraph.
• Avoid using them excessively. Writing that uses an excessive amount of them may sound forced.
• Maintain consistency. Avoid haphazardly switching between multiple devices.
• Make use of variation. It is redundant to only use simple conjunctions like " or," "and," and "so."
• Check your grammar. Ensure that the device belongs in the sentence structure.

Why Coherence and Cohesion matter in IELTS Writing?

Getting a good band score (in terms of coherence and cohesion), which has a 25% weightage in the IELTS Writing test criteria, depends on using cohesive devices correctly. A high-scoring essay should employ "a range of cohesive devices appropriately," according to the band descriptions, but a low-scoring essay has "little or no cohesion." Thus, developing coherent devices can have a big influence on your writing grade.

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