Learning Outcomes
After reading this article, you will be able to use linking devices and referencing effectively to give your writing and speech logical structure and clarity. You will learn how to join sentences using appropriate connectors, how to refer to ideas to avoid repetition, and how to maintain a consistent, formal style—skills essential for a high score in IELTS Writing and Speaking.
IELTS Academic, General & UKVI Syllabus
For IELTS, you are required to demonstrate control of coherence and logical flow through accurate referencing, suitable linking words, and a clear academic style. When revising, focus on these specific syllabus points:
- Use a range of linking devices (such as however, for example, consequently) to connect and structure sentences and paragraphs.
- Refer back to people, things, or ideas using pronouns and other referencing words to avoid unnecessary repetition.
- Maintain a consistent, appropriate, and formal writing style, avoiding informal or imprecise expressions.
- Organize information logically by using connectors to signal reasons, results, contrasts, examples, and sequences.
Test Your Knowledge
Attempt these questions before reading this article. If you find some difficult or cannot remember the answers, remember to look more closely at that area during your revision.
- Why is it important to use referencing in IELTS Writing and Speaking?
- Give two examples of linking devices used for contrast and result.
- What is wrong with using too many personal pronouns such as "I" or informal phrases in IELTS Academic Writing?
- How can linking phrases help the reader or examiner?
Introduction
Clear communication in IELTS is not just about accurate grammar or sophisticated vocabulary. You must structure your ideas clearly so your writing and speech are easy to follow. IELTS examiners assess your use of coherence (logical organization) and how you achieve it through referencing and linking devices. Using clear referencing and a variety of connectors helps the reader or listener understand relationships between your ideas.
Key Term: Coherence
The logical organization and progression of ideas so that the reader can follow your message easily.Key Term: Linking Device
A word or phrase (such as "because," "however," "for example") that connects sentences or parts of a text to show logical relationships.Key Term: Referencing
The use of pronouns and substitution words in writing or speech to avoid unnecessary repetition and to connect ideas clearly.Key Term: Style (in IELTS)
The degree of formality, tone, and precision you use in your academic writing or speaking, appropriate to the task and audience.
Why Coherence and Linking Matter in IELTS
Examiners expect to see ideas grouped sensibly, connected logically, and supported with suitable examples. Both Writing Task 1 and Task 2 (Academic and General) require you to make comparisons, show causes or results, and add or contrast information. The accurate use of referencing (pronouns and substitution) helps avoid repetition and confusion.
Linking Words and Phrases: Functions and Examples
Different connectors have specific functions. Here are some common types:
- Addition: and, as well as, furthermore, moreover, in addition
- Contrast: but, however, although, whereas, on the other hand, yet, in contrast
- Result: so, therefore, consequently, as a result, thus
- Reason: because, since, as, due to
- Example: for example, for instance, such as
- Sequence: first, then, after that, finally, next
Choosing the right linker improves flow and shows you understand how ideas are related.
Referencing: Avoiding Repetition and Confusion
Repeatedly stating the same noun makes your writing sound simple and clumsy. IELTS expects you to replace repeated nouns with pronouns or reference words where the meaning remains clear. Referencing also links your sentences together.
Key Term: Substitution
The practice of replacing a word, phrase, or clause with a simpler word such as "one," "do," or "so" to avoid unnecessary repetition.
Examples of Referencing
- Use pronouns: "The university is large. It has many students." ("It" = "The university")
- Use this/these/that/those to refer back to an idea: "The shops closed early. This made it difficult to buy food."
- Use substitution words: "I prefer the blue jacket, but my friend likes the red one."
Maintaining Formal and Appropriate Style
IELTS Academic Writing and formal Speaking require a tone and style that avoids slang, contractions, and excessive informality. Sentences should be complete, and word choice precise and suitable for an academic audience.
Worked Example 1.1
Passage:
Students in major cities face long travel times on public transport to reach their schools and universities. As a result, many choose to study at home rather than commute every day. However, working from home can lead to feelings of isolation, and not all students remain motivated without a structured classroom environment.
Question: Identify two linking devices in the passage and explain their function.
Answer:
"As a result" introduces a result or consequence. "However" signals a contrast with the previous idea.
Worked Example 1.2
Rewrite the following sentences using referencing to avoid repetition:
"Climate change is a major global challenge. Climate change causes sea levels to rise, and climate change affects weather patterns."
Answer:
"Climate change is a major global challenge. It causes sea levels to rise, and it affects weather patterns."
Worked Example 1.3
Read the model response to an IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt and answer the question below:
Model response excerpt:
Living in a large city offers many opportunities. For instance, people can find more jobs and experience cultural diversity. On the other hand, urban life can be stressful and expensive. Therefore, some families choose to move to smaller towns.
Question: What linkers are used? What is their purpose?
Answer:
"For instance" gives an example, "on the other hand" contrasts, and "therefore" introduces a result.
Exam Warning
A common problem is overusing simple connectors such as "and," "but," or "so." IELTS examiners award higher marks for a variety of precise linking words and referencing. Avoid repeating the same connectors or always starting sentences with "And" or "But."
Revision Tip
When you proofread your answer, underline all linking words and reference devices. Check you have not repeated the same linker too often, and that each reference (like "it," "they," "this") clearly points to a specific noun.
Summary
Accurate use of linking words and referencing is essential for communicating complex ideas clearly in IELTS. Linkers highlight relationships between ideas and improve flow, while referencing avoids repetition and tightens your writing style. Consistent, formal style is required for a high band score.
Key Point Checklist
This article has covered the following key knowledge points:
- Identify and use a range of linking devices for addition, contrast, result, example, and sequence in IELTS Writing and Speaking.
- Use referencing with pronouns and substitutes ("it," "they," "this," "one") to avoid repeating the same nouns.
- Maintain a formal and academic style, avoiding informal structures or vocabulary.
- Ensure coherence by logically connecting ideas across sentences and paragraphs.
Key Terms and Concepts
- Coherence
- Linking Device
- Referencing
- Style (in IELTS)
- Substitution