IELTS Linking Words and Cohesive Devices

Updated 2 July 2026 · 3 min read · ieltspractice.app

Linking words join your ideas so the reader can follow you easily. Examiners call this cohesion, and it is part of your Coherence and Cohesion score. But more is not better. Band 7 and above comes from using the right link in the right place, not from packing in long phrases. This guide shows you which links to use, how to use them naturally, and the mistakes that hold many learners back.

What cohesion really means

Cohesion is the way your sentences connect. When ideas flow, the reader never has to stop and re-read. That smooth flow is what earns marks.

Linking words are one tool for cohesion, but not the only one. Referencing words like it, this and they, and simply putting ideas in a logical order, also hold a text together.

The main groups of linking words

Adding an idea: in addition, furthermore, moreover, also. Use these to build on a point you have already made.

Contrasting: however, on the other hand, nevertheless, although. Use these to show a difference or a limit.

Giving reasons and results: because, since, therefore, as a result, consequently. Use these to link a cause to its effect.

Giving examples: for example, for instance, such as. Use these to make an idea concrete.

Sequencing: first, then, finally. Useful in Task 1 and in Speaking when you tell a short story.

Use links inside sentences, not just at the start

Many learners only put a linking word at the start of each sentence: Firstly... Secondly... Moreover... This feels heavy and mechanical.

Higher bands connect ideas inside sentences too. Compare: "Cars cause pollution. Therefore, cities should invest in buses." with "Because cars cause so much pollution, cities should invest in cleaner buses." The second version flows better and shows stronger control.

Do not overuse them

A common myth is that more linking words mean a higher score. The opposite is often true. When every sentence starts with a big connector, the writing sounds forced and the examiner notices.

Aim for natural flow. Sometimes the best link is no visible link at all, because the order of your ideas already makes the connection clear.

Referencing: the quiet cohesion tool

Words like this, these, such and it let you refer back without repeating yourself. "Governments raised taxes on sugar. This policy reduced sales." The word This links the two sentences smoothly.

Good referencing also helps you avoid repeating the same noun again and again, which supports your vocabulary score at the same time.

Linking words in Speaking

In Speaking, keep your links simple and spoken: and, but, so, because, the thing is, that said. These sound natural in conversation.

Avoid writing-style connectors like moreover or furthermore when you talk. They sound stiff. Save the formal links for your essays and use everyday links when you speak.

Quick check

Test yourself — tap an answer to see if you are right.

1. Which sentence shows the strongest cohesion?

2. What happens if you overuse linking words?

3. Which link is best for Speaking?

Frequently asked questions

Do more linking words mean a higher band?

No. Overusing them lowers your score because the writing sounds mechanical. Use the right link in the right place and let some ideas connect through order alone.

Can I start a sentence with because or and?

Yes, when it is done well. Starting with Because is fine if you finish the full sentence. In Speaking, starting with And or But is natural and normal.

What is the difference between however and although?

However usually starts a new sentence and is followed by a comma. Although joins two ideas inside one sentence, as in "Although it rained, we walked."

Should I use the same links in Speaking and Writing?

No. Writing allows formal links like furthermore and consequently. Speaking sounds better with simple links like so, but and because.