I can’t tell you the number of times I have come across essays that use words like ‘moreover’ and ‘furthermore,’ and I immediately knew that this person would not score as well as they hoped they would. The IELTS Writing exam tests a candidate’s ability to communicate in English just as well as a native speaker would and let me tell you, I hardly know any Native speaker who uses phrases like these.
Cohesion is essential in IELTS Writing Task 2, as it makes sure that ideas flow logically and naturally. However, many test-takers rely on mechanical cohesion, which can lower the quality of their essays. Let’s take a closer look at why mechanical cohesion will almost certainly lower your IELTS Writing Task 2 score and some alternatives to improve your essay’s coherence.
What is Mechanical Cohesion?
Mechanical cohesion means overusing basic linking words and phrases to connect sentences and paragraphs without considering the natural flow and logical progression of ideas. Some common examples that are often over used in IELTS essays include repetitive use of words like “firstly,” “secondly,” or “moreover” without any contextual relevance.
Examples of Mechanical Cohesion
Sentence: “Firstly, global warming is a serious issue. Secondly, it affects the environment. Thirdly, we need to take action.”
Better Version: “Global warming is a serious issue because it significantly affects the environment. Therefore, taking action is crucial.”
Problems with Mechanical Cohesion
1. Disrupts the Flow of Ideas
Mechanical cohesion disrupts the natural flow of ideas, and makes the essay sound robotic and monotonous. Overusing connectors like “moreover” and “also” can make sentences feel forced rather than naturally connected.
Example: “Pollution is a growing problem. Moreover, it impacts health. Also, it affects the economy.”
Better Version: “Pollution is a growing problem that impacts health and the economy.”
2. Makes Sentences Repetitive
Relying heavily on mechanical cohesion results in repetitive sentence structures, making the essay dull and limiting the demonstration of grammatical variety.
Example: “Firstly, technology improves efficiency. Secondly, it saves time. Thirdly, it enhances communication.”
Improved Version: “Technology improves efficiency by saving time and improving communication.”
3. Weakens Argument Development
Mechanical cohesion focuses on surface-level connections rather than deeper logical relationships between ideas, and this leads to unclear argument development.
Example: “Additionally, children should exercise more. Furthermore, schools should have better facilities.”
Better Version: “Children should exercise more, so schools need better facilities to support this.”
4. Limits Vocabulary Use
The overuse of these kinds of basic linking words limits vocabulary variety, and this can negatively affect your lexical resource score. It shows the examiner that you do not have that many words in your vocabulary bank of cohesive devices to articulate your ideas in a logical manner.
Example: “Moreover, pollution is bad. Additionally, it causes health issues.”
Better Version: “Pollution is detrimental to health, causing various respiratory and cardiovascular problems.”
Better Ways to Connect Ideas
Use a Range of Linking Words
Instead of sticking to a limited set of linking words, use a variety of cohesive devices tailored to the context. This includes synonyms, reference words, and conjunctions that accurately reflect the relationship between ideas.
Example: “The government introduced new policies. These measures aim to reduce pollution.”
This approach uses “These measures” instead of a repetitive connector like “moreover” or “additionally.”
Plan Your Essay for Logical Flow
Ensure logical progression of ideas by carefully planning the essay structure. Each paragraph should flow logically from the previous one.
Example: “Improving public transport can reduce pollution. Consequently, fewer cars on the road will lower emissions.”
Expand Your Vocabulary
Improve vocabulary by reading a variety of texts and practicing writing with new vocabulary. This helps express ideas more precisely and cohesively.
Example: “Fast food is popular because it is convenient. Additionally, it is often cheaper than cooking at home.”
Better Version: “The convenience and affordability of fast food make it popular among busy people.”
This avoids repetitive use of simple connectors by using “its convenience.”
Take the Next Step to Improve Your IELTS Writing Skills
By now you know that mechanical cohesion can really lower the quality of an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay and you need to practice better strategies to create a cohesive and well-written essay. To improve your IELTS essay writing skills, consider using our writing correction services to identify and address any issues related to mechanical cohesion.