Cohesive devices and how to avoid overuse

Cohesive devices are the linking words; that join different parts of the text to fit together clearly. In IELTS writing, cohesive devices play a huge role in making the content coherent. The three main types of cohesive devices are Pronouns, transition words, and synonyms. These devices are considerable for readers to draw attention to the text. Cohesive words examples are, However, In addition to, Furthermore, As such, For example, In conclusion, etc. The cohesion and coherence jointly contain 25% marks in both IELTS writing modules. These devices show the relationship between sentences and paragraphs. It also guides the reader throughout the IELTS writing. What do you think? Should we use more and more cohesive devices? No, this is the biggest mistake to use these words in almost every line. If you want to achieve a desired band score, then appropriately use cohesive devices while writing.

Overusing of Cohesive devices

It is essential to know how to use a good range of cohesive devices to get a high score in IELTS. Inaccurate and overuse of cohesive devices often leads to incorrect writing. In IELTS writing, students may think overuse of cohesive words will help to achieve good band scores. But this statement is not true! The use of cohesive devices effectively with correct grammar and meaning can help in achieving a high score. The main problem is that students will learn a long list of cohesive devices, but not learn how to use them appropriately. Don’t try to use complicated words, just learn simple meaning words like (and, but) and know exactly how, when, and where to use them. 

 

Tips to avoid overuse of Cohesive devices

 

1. Only learn the words you need : Overusing cohesive words may affect the reader negatively. There are a lot of words available online and offline, but don’t cram all of them. Use limited words by knowing their exact meanings. Only use the words when you know their 100% meaning. Learning more words and different ways to write in IELTS writing may confuse you and decrease your scorecard. Only use comfortable terms, don't use lengthy and complicated words.
2. Check the meaning of a sentence : While using these words you need to check whether the meaning of a sentence is getting clear or not. Good writers don’t rely on too much use of cohesive devices, they just use a perfect combination of the words. It is beneficial to keep the readers on track and make your focus clear. 
3. Practice and Practice : There are a lot of free exercises available online to practice cohesive devices. With the help of cohesive devices, writing can be organized efficiently. If you do this frequently, then you will gradually become a master of using cohesive devices. 
4. Get checked by the trainer : As you know coherence and cohesion are important parts of IELTS writing. To make yourself ensure, that you are right or wrong, please get checked by a certified trainer. 
5. Cohesive devices should not be modified : You can not modify these devices into your own language because these devices are the “set phrases”. For e.g. First of all is the set phrase and you can’t change it to first and most of all.
6. Avoid informal and outdated words : With the passage of time, we are witnessing great advancement in every subject. So, some words in English are outdated and informal. Please try to avoid using these words which makes your sentences unclear. 

Finally, we are sharing some important cohesive devices which are really useful unless you don’t overuse them. For more queries visit Western overseas for both academic and visa counseling.