IELTS Writing: Start Using Linking Words & Phrases NOW (connectors)
- Nov 29, 2015
- 2 min read
The linking words we have provided below are essential in IELTS task 2 writings for you to achieve higher bands. The examiner expects to see a range of linking words in your essay to award you a high band for the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion, which is 25% of your marks. You will be checked on your range, accuracy and your flexibility of linking words in IELTS writing task 2. These linking words are suitable for all types of essay writing as well as GT IELTS writing task 2
Listing
This is often used to either put your paragraphs in order or used inside the paragraph to list your supporting points.
firstly
secondly
thirdly
fourthly
lastly /last but not least / finally
Adding Information
You will need to support your main points in your IELTS essay. These linkers inform the read that extra information is about to be presented.
in addition
additionally
furthermore
moreover
also
not only … but also
as well as
and
Giving Examples
It is often useful to give examples to support your ideas in IELTS writing task 2. Make sure you use this range of linking words to do so.
for example
one clear example is
for instance
such as
namely
to illustrate
in other words
Results and Consequences
These linking devices can be used for solution essays or any essay when you need to explain the consequences of something.
as a result
consequently
therefore
thus
hence
so
for this reason
Highlighting and Stressing
It is important to be clear about what you mean in your essay. These linking words help you stress particular points.
particularly
in particular
specifically
especially
obviously
of course
clearly
Concessions and Contrasts
You often need to give opposite ideas, particularly for discussion essays so the linking words below will help you show the reader when you want to introduce an opposite point. Also you might want to give exceptions to a rule for a concession.
admittedly
however
nevertheless
even though
although
but
despite
in spite of
still
on the other hand
by contrast
in comparison
alternatively
another option could be
Reasons and Causes
These connecting words will help you explain reasons and causes for something which is very common in IELTS writing task 2, especially for cause / solution essays.
because
owing to
due to
since
as
Giving your Opinion
in my opinion
I think
I believe
I admit
in my view
I concur / agree
I disagree / I cannot accept
Concluding Linkers
in conclusion
to conclude
to sum up
Now have a Practice with Linking Words:
Now try improve your use of linking words by fill in the gaps below with linking words from the above list.
There are a number of drawbacks to people using Facebook as a way of communicating (1)………………… it is (2)…………….. one of the most common social networking platforms for both individuals and businesses.
(3)……………………….. the lack of exercise taken by average people, obesity and other weight related problems are on the rise.
Unemployment and poverty, (4) ………….. in urban areas, is often deemed to be the cause of rising crime rate.
(5) ……….. the rise in urban crime, more and more people continue to move to cities looking for a better life.
More children are becoming obese and (6)…………….. schools should be encouraged to provide more sports lessons and outdoor activities.
Answers
even though
admittedly
Due to / Owing to ( you can’t have “because of” because it is at the beginning of a sentence)
particularly / especially / specifically
despite
therefore / so / for this reason
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