How to Use Transitions and Linking Words in IELTS Writing?
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Transitions and linking words are a must to make your IELTS Writing essays seem organized. So learn the usage of them in apt places with this blog.
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While you prepare for your IELTS Writing module, make sure to master the correct usage of transitions and linking words. As you must know, ‘Coherence and Cohesion’ is one of the most important evaluation criteria of the writing test. These are the words or phrases that hold a proper link from one idea of yours to the other. Resulting in a well-written and clear essay that holds proper and readable ideas.
In this article, let us learn all about them, their importance, and where and how to use linking and transition phrases effectively in IELTS Writing as you practice them.
Struggling to use the correct transitions and linking words in IELTS Writing?
What Are Linkers?
Also known as ‘Connectors,’ Linkers are just words or phrases that help you connect one view to the next while you write essays. They are of major help to the reader as they help you by giving a logical flow to your essay. Without any confusion, these words easily give a flow to organize your ideas and the criteria of ‘Coherence and Cohesion’ are fulfilled with these types of phrases or words.
Hence, if you want to aim for a higher IELTS band score in writing, it’s high time you develop your linking word skills.
Check out: Linking Words for IELTS Speaking
Why Are Linking and Transition Phrases Important in IELTS Writing?
In writing, the usage of transitions and linking words are important as stated before. But, do you know the particular reasons for its importance? Take a look at the following table to learn about it.
- Enhances Clarity: These linking words or phrases easily help your reader to understand the actual connections between the ideas in your writing without any confusion.
- Shows a Cohesion: They show coherence i.e. a flow in your essay. This will increase the readability of the examiner and help them understand what you intend to say directly.
- Gives a Proper Structure: They easily help you organize your essay logically. This is the most important aspect of IELTS writing as you are assessed based on your ability to organize your ideas effectively.
In the IELTS Speaking test, these linking words help you guide the listener towards the direction of your ideas giving you some time to think. Whereas, in writing, these words are in a formal context but have no specific function. As in, they are just a part of arranging ideas logically and do not hold any particular meanings individually.
For example, to craft a conclusion to your essay, you can use linkers like, “In conclusion,” “To sum up,” and “To conclude.”
When you try to discuss two contrasting sides, you can use “on the one hand,” and “on the other hand.” These would convey to the reader that you are about to begin discussing two contrasting ideas.
Learn some extra tips on how to use the linkers for IELTS Writing now!
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List of Linking and Transition Phrases in IELTS Writing
|
Addition |
Contrast |
Conclusion / Summary |
|
moreover, furthermore, in addition, further, next, first, second, etc., firstly, secondly, etc., in the first place, in the second place |
however, yet, in contrast, conversely, on the other hand, on the contrary, otherwise, nevertheless, notwithstanding, in spite of this, by contrast, whereas |
as a result, as has been noted, as I have said, as mentioned earlier, in conclusion, to conclude, in brief, finally, in other words, in short, on the whole, therefore, in summary, to summarize, to sum up |
|
Comparison |
Causes / Purpose / Result |
Example / Restatement |
|
Likewise, similarly, in the same way, in like manner |
therefore, thus, hence, consequently, after all, accordingly, knowing this, with this in mind |
for example, for instance, more specifically, in particular, indeed, namely, specifically, to illustrate, in other words, in fact, that is, in brief |
Tips for Using Linking and Transition Phrases
Take a look at some useful tips from our experts on how to use linking and transition phrases effectively to enhance your IELTS writing.
Avoid Repetition
Using the same linkers can make your essays sound monotonous. Instead, try to expand your vocabulary.
For example,
- Instead of saying: "Furthermore, schools have introduced many extracurriculars. Furthermore, they have also made students become more creative."
- Try saying: "Furthermore, schools have introduced many extracurriculars. Additionally, they have also made students become more creative."
Context Matters
Make sure that the linkers and phrases you use perfectly fit in the context. If used inappropriately, it can confuse the reader.
- Incorrect Usage: "Many enjoy outdoor sports. For instance, some people prefer to indoor ones."
- Correct Usage: "Many enjoy outdoor sports. On the other hand, some people prefer to indoor ones."
Incorporate into Your Writing
Whenever you practice for your IELTS Writing test, use these linking phrases that we have suggested above in your essays. This will help you find the apt context and use them perfectly.
All in all, using linkers and transition words effectively is the key to a higher band in the IELTS Writing module be it Academic or General Training! These words help in organizing your ideas, and give a proper flow, resulting in a perfectly structured essay. Make sure to choose the right linkers based on the context, try to use a variety of transitions, and last but not least, practice regularly!
Also check:
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