IELTS Writing Task 2: Coherence and Cohesion — Paragraph Flow
Quick answer: Coherence in IELTS Task 2 is about logical flow between sentences and paragraphs. Cohesion is about explicit linking devices (linking words, referencing words, repetition). Strong essays use a topic sentence at the start of each body paragraph plus 5–8 linking devices throughout.
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Coherence vs cohesion — what's the difference
Coherence is logical flow: does each sentence connect naturally to the next? Does each paragraph develop one idea fully?
Cohesion is linguistic glue: do you use linking words, pronouns, and synonyms to bind sentences together?
Both are graded under one criterion: "Coherence and Cohesion". A strong essay needs both.
Topic sentences — the coherence anchor
Every body paragraph starts with a topic sentence that states the paragraph's main idea.
Examples: "The most direct cause is economic." / "On the other hand, opponents argue that…" / "A second concern relates to social well-being."
Without topic sentences, examiners must work to identify your argument — a coherence penalty.
Linking words by function
Addition: furthermore, moreover, additionally, in addition.
Contrast: however, on the other hand, by contrast, conversely, nevertheless.
Cause: because, since, due to, owing to, as a result of.
Effect: therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, hence.
Example: for instance, for example, to illustrate, namely.
Conclusion: in summary, to conclude, overall, in conclusion.
- Use 1–2 linking words per paragraph, not one per sentence
- Vary your linking words — don't use "however" 4 times in one essay
- Place linking words at the start of sentences for clarity
Referencing words for cohesion
Pronouns: it, this, these, those, such. "Climate change is accelerating. This trend has triggered…"
Synonyms: avoid repeating the same noun 5 times. "Students" → "learners" → "young people" → "the cohort".
Definite article (the): refers back to a previously mentioned noun. "A new policy was introduced in 2020. The policy aimed to reduce…"
Common cohesion errors
Error 1: overusing "firstly, secondly, thirdly". Once per essay maximum.
Error 2: linking words mid-sentence without commas. "However, the impact has been mixed" needs the comma.
Error 3: pronoun without clear referent. "This" without a noun confuses the reader.
Error 4: random repetition of the same noun ("government" 7 times in one paragraph).
After writing, count your linking words. 6–10 across a 270-word essay is the band-8 sweet spot.
Worked example
Weak (band 6): "Many people use smartphones. Smartphones are bad for sleep. Schools should ban smartphones. Smartphones cause distraction."
Strong (band 8): "Many young people now use smartphones extensively. These devices have been linked to disrupted sleep patterns, particularly when used in the evening. Consequently, some schools have proposed banning them during school hours, citing concerns about both attention and well-being."
The strong version uses pronouns (these devices, them), linking words (consequently), and varied vocabulary (smartphones → these devices). Coherence and Cohesion: band 7.5 vs band 6.
Practice this with WitPrep
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are linking words enough for cohesion?
No. Linking words are one tool. Pronouns, synonyms, and the definite article are equally important.
Can I use the same linking word twice?
Yes, but vary across an essay. Using 'however' 4 times signals limited range.
Do topic sentences need to be the first sentence?
Almost always yes. Topic-sentence-second-position is acceptable but reduces coherence clarity.
How long should each body paragraph be?
100–130 words. Shorter paragraphs reduce idea development; longer ones reduce coherence.
What if my paragraph has two ideas?
Split it into two paragraphs. One idea per paragraph is a Coherence requirement.
Are 'firstly, secondly, thirdly' band 6 markers?
Used once per essay, fine. Used 3+ times signals limited range — switch to alternatives like 'the principal reason', 'a second factor', 'finally'.
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