TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
In the IELTS Writing section, coherence is one of the four key scoring criteria, alongside task response, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Coherence refers to how clearly and logically your ideas are organized and how smoothly they flow from one sentence to the next. If your writing is hard to follow or jumps between unrelated points, your score may drop—even if your grammar and vocabulary are strong.
Here are several practical tips to help you build coherence in both IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2:
1. Plan Before You Write
Spending 3–5 minutes planning your essay helps organize your thoughts. Use that time to:
– Decide your main ideas.
– Determine the order in which you will present them.
– Think of examples or explanations to support your points.
A clear plan prevents you from going off-topic or jumping randomly between ideas.
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
2. Use Paragraphs Effectively
Each paragraph should focus on one central idea. For a standard Task 2 essay, you should aim for:
– Introduction
– Two or three body paragraphs
– Conclusion
Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea, followed by explanation, evidence, or examples.
Example:
One reason why social media has become addictive is its reward-based system. When users receive likes and comments, it triggers a dopamine response, which reinforces the behavior.
This structure keeps your writing focused and logical.
3. Use Clear Topic Sentences
Topic sentences help the reader understand what each paragraph is about. They serve as a signpost for your argument and should link to your thesis statement.
Weak:
Social media affects people in many ways.
Better:
Social media negatively affects mental health by increasing anxiety and reducing face-to-face interactions.
A strong topic sentence improves coherence by guiding the reader through your ideas.
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
4. Use Cohesive Devices (Linking Words)
Linking words help connect ideas between and within paragraphs. However, overusing them or using them incorrectly can harm your writing. Use a variety and make sure they are appropriate.
Common Linking Words:
– Adding: furthermore, moreover, in addition
– Contrasting: however, on the other hand, although
– Giving examples: for instance, such as, to illustrate
– Sequencing: firstly, secondly, finally
– Cause and effect: as a result, therefore, because of this
Example:
The internet has improved access to information. However, it has also raised concerns about misinformation and privacy.
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
5. Maintain Logical Flow Within Paragraphs
Use referencing (this, these, such, it, they) to avoid repetition and keep ideas linked.
Example:
Mobile phones have changed communication. These devices allow instant messaging, video calls, and online collaboration.
Also, make sure each sentence in a paragraph develops the main idea of that paragraph.
6. Avoid Idea Overload
Don’t try to cram too many ideas into one paragraph. It confuses the reader and reduces clarity.
Poor example:
Pollution is a serious issue. So is deforestation. And also overpopulation. All of these need urgent attention.
Better:
One major environmental concern is deforestation. It leads to loss of biodiversity, disrupts water cycles, and contributes to climate change.
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
Stick to one main idea per paragraph and explore it fully.
7. Use Repetition and Paraphrasing for Emphasis
Repeating key ideas using paraphrased language helps reinforce your argument and improves coherence.
Example:
Education is vital for economic growth. In other words, a well-educated workforce drives innovation and productivity.
8. Write a Clear Introduction and Conclusion
– Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your opinion or main points.
– Conclusion: Summarize your main arguments and restate your opinion if asked.
These sections act like a frame for your writing, helping the reader follow your overall message.
Coherence is not just about using linking words—it’s about presenting your ideas in a way that flows naturally and logically. By planning carefully, using paragraphs correctly, and linking ideas clearly, you can boost your coherence and improve your overall IELTS Writing score.
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING
TIPS TO ACHIEVE COHERENCE IN IELTS WRITING