Coherence and cohesion
Improve your Coherence and Cohesion score: logical paragraphing, a clear progression of ideas and natural — not mechanical — linking.
In this lesson you will
- Organise ideas logically in paragraphs
- Use a range of cohesive devices naturally
- Avoid over-using and misusing linkers
Learn
Coherence = the reader can follow your ideas: clear paragraphs, one central idea each, logical order, and a clear position.
Cohesion = the language links: linkers (however, as a result), reference (this, these, such), substitution and synonyms. Varied, accurate linking helps; mechanical linking at the start of every sentence (Firstly, Secondly, Moreover, Furthermore, In addition…) can sound unnatural.
Reference words are powerful: Many cities have introduced congestion charges. This policy* has reduced traffic…*
Common errors: On the other hand without a first hand (use However); Besides in formal contrast; Moreover for contrast (it adds); In conclusion mid-essay.
Examples
- Mechanical: Firstly, cars pollute. Secondly, cars are noisy. Moreover, cars are dangerous.
- Natural: Cars pollute the air and create noise. These problems are particularly serious in city centres, where…
- Reference: Some schools have banned phones. This decision has divided parents.
Vocabulary
coherence
logical organisation of ideas
cohesion
linking language between sentences
cohesive device
a word or phrase that links ideas
mechanical
automatic and unnatural
progression
logical development
Practice
Which is more natural?
Writing
Rewrite this paragraph (90–110 words) with natural cohesion: “Firstly, tourism brings money. Secondly, tourism creates jobs. Moreover, tourism causes pollution. Furthermore, tourism makes prices high. In conclusion, tourism has good and bad points.”
Lesson quiz
Coherence is mainly about…
Review
Key points
- Coherence: logical paragraphs and progression.
- Cohesion: varied linkers, reference, synonyms.
- Avoid mechanical linking.
- Use linkers accurately.
What you learned
- ✓ I organise ideas logically.
- ✓ I link naturally.
- ✓ I avoid common linking errors.